You are looking at a classic 1960's era Shure Brothers 556S model dynamic cardioid microphone based on the more common 55S. This 2nd generation 556S series model came with the black foam screens and black Shure badge. Shure Brothers changed the design of the 556S in 1961. Previously the 556S had royal blue silk screens and a royal blue badge. This 556S was the last of the series. This example was made in Evanston Illinois sometime between 1963 and 1969.

 Pic # 2 shows both the 55S and 556S models. The two mics utilized the same dynamic cardioid element but the 556S had some nice upgrades making the 556S quite a bit more expensive.

 The 556S models came with the beefier lower built in shock mounts to reduce unwanted feedback while live and the 556S had the revolutionary XLR cable attachment where the 55S still used the older 3 pin screw on type cable. I personally think the 556S is much more aggressive and masculine design while retaining that classic 55S look. This is a high quality studio mic.

 Because of the extra expense of buying a 556S back in the day you don't see too many around and this model was considered to be a quality studio mic. This legendary microphone was used by many famous artists and politicians over the years.

 It should be noted that this mic sounds great with 100% output and the original element is still present. The mic has a nice, warm tone that's a bit more mid range. Not bass heavy like an SM58 but the 556S does have the adjustable impedance switch to control the overall sound of the mic and the switch works perfectly.

 As seen in the pictures provided this mic shows typical lite cosmetic wear. The satin chrome has a beautiful luster on both the head of the mic as well as the lower shock mount. The only wear is on the head of the mic in the form of spots of bubbling in the chrome. The lower shock mount is virtually perfect. The head has no scratches or pitting. No broken or bent ribs either.   The black foam screens are new and were installed by myself. show no discoloration, rips or holes which is always a bonus. 

 You need to replace the original foam on these older mics as it becomes brittle and falls apart. The foam acts as a pop filter to reduce unwanted feedback when live. Any 556S of this era will need new foam.

 Mic is solid...no loose parts inside or out. I take the time to secure the element inside as they always come loose with age. Critical at keeping unwanted feedback when the mic is live.

 The threads for the stand are excellent and the joint mechanism holds strong. The Shure label looks very nice as well. Overall this mic is a conservative 7 + on a scale of 1 - 10 physically speaking. 

 The mic comes with a long 20 foot cable that's in excellent shape. Soft, pliable and has the quality male and female Switchcraft end connectors. The XLR pins on both the mic and cable have been cleaned as well for a flawless signal. The cable will fit nicely inside the mic case provided.

 The vintage period case is also part of this package deal. A larger durable aluminum case with foam inner padding. A Great place to keep the mic while not in actual mic as it keeps dust, dirt and scratches away. This case shows virtually no wear and has a beautiful brown vinyl exterior with a practical handle for carrying it around. The case is appx 17 inches across X 7 inches deep X 6 1/2 inches tall. It has a nice locking mechanism to keep the lid securely closed. Case is an easy 9 + on a scale of 1 - 10.

 This would make a very special gift for anyone and these mics hold up very well when taken care of. No reason it won't still work excellent in 50 years. A high quality Shure product.

         As with all my vintage microphones...