in the 50’s, nhk (japan broadcasting corporation) set out to make a u47-like tube condenser microphone that could be manufactured domestically. the c37a is the result. though decidedly not a u47 in character, it has become ubiquitous as a go-to vintage microphone option for vocals, guitar, drum overheads, brass, and so on. documentation of a concert recording done by wally heider in the late 60’s shows many c-37’s used, and the more you look the more you notice them in photographs from columbia nyc to radio recorders in hollywood. the c37-a uses a mylar capsule and a 6au6 tube, and is adjustable between cardioid and omni pickup patterns via an accessible screw adjustment on the rear grille.