I purchased this AEA R84 ribbon microphone directly from AEA about 2 years ago. I used it one weekend indoors, smoke-free as a drum overhead. All the rest of the time, it has been carefully stored hanging vertically in its protective bag, in a closet in an air conditioned home. So it's as close to brand new as a pre-owned mic can get. I have been the sole owner. I start the auction at the very low price of $499. Happy bidding!