Astatic 77A

n the year of 1930 according to research information, two amateur radio operators
C. M. Chorpening of W8WR and F. H. Woodworth W8AHW began to experiment with different types of microphones for their "ham" stations. A mutual friend of the two, Charles Semple had been experimenting it is said with Rochelle Salt crystals.
The three recognized that a crystal microphone would provide an excellent service
in their transmitters. Chorpening and Woodworth then founded the Astatic Microphone Laboratory, Incorporated in Youngstown, Ohio according to information obtained.

Mr. Semple it is said was brought on eventually as the general manager to manufacturer and market the company's model D-104 crystal microphone. The Astatic company soon decided to branch out according to research information with a line of crystal microphones, crystal phonograph pick-ups and radio jobbers. In 1944 the Astatic Laboratory packed up and moved its operations to Conneaut, Ohio. The company was a main supplier of microphones, pick-ups and crystal cartridges to the Armed Forces during World War II based on research. After World War II Astatic changed its name to The Astatic Corporation.

Currently The Astatic company is located in Solon, Ohio and offers microphones and audio accessories to the professional, commercial and installation audio industries based on information acquired. The company still has a presence in the industry.

During the time period somewhere between 1945 to 1955, the Astatic Corporation manufactured a microphone which they named the Astatic 77A Microphone. This microphone was according to research very stylish in its design. It was used as a vocal microphone for stage performers. It has been reported that the great Elvis Presley liked and used the microphone, others who did the same it is said including Little Richard, Eddie Cochran, Bo Diddley, Gene Vincent and other famous rock and roll singers who were fond of the Astatic 77A Microphone.

Bluesmic.com features a Astatic 77A Microphone, stated to be a very rare model, with according to the advertisement the original screen in great shape, the chrome has some wear, there are no broken ribs according to the ad, or cracks. The Astatic 77A mic is said to have been tested and it is in working condition. The price of the Astatic 77A microphone is listed at $350.00, there is a flat shipping rate.

Kijiji out of Toronto, Canada features an Astatic 77A Microphone advertised as a rare microphone that all blues greats and rocking rollers liked to use, including Elvis Presley said to be the King of Rock and Roll in his day. The microphone is advertised as well as a Vintage Astatic 77A Microphone-The Classic 77A Pro Microphone. The microphone has according to the information given three Impedence levels for all occasions. It is said to be a dynamic microphone and does not need phantom power, It is also said to be a true classic. The Astatic 77A microphone does not have any dents, the chrome and the ribs are perfect as stated in the ad and the microphone is said to be in mint condition. The Astatic 77A Microphone is priced at around $375.00.