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> Gates "diplomat" broadcast mix console
Gates "diplomat" broadcast mix console
This all transistor Gates (994 6377 001) "Diplomat" mixer was commonly found in radio stations around the world in the 1960s & 1970s (some are still in use because they don't make 'em like they used to). While it is considered a mono mixer, it does incorporate two channel design with a "Program Output" and "Audition Output", meaning you can produce spots while you're on the air, or even feed two transmitters simultaneously. The many who collect and restore these can attest to their solid construction and sonic integrity. You may well have an AM facility or broadcast school that would greatly benefit from this legendary technology.
As famous as the Gates name in broadcasting, are the people who used it. This specific console was the mainstay of an historic station in Orange County, CA (the "green room" of the L.A. market) and, so I was told, proudly displayed at their studios in the Disneyland Hotel. Just as sure as a young Steve Martin sold magic tricks at the park next door, many big names in show business today came through this station. I am the only other owner of this mixer. Everything was working well on my last show before we replaced this mixer with a newer one, and management replaced the "AM Only" format with those dreaded brokered shows.
The photos reveal the untouched state of the mixer; still wearing the badges of long use (and those bored "Board Ops" who just couldn't resist decorating). All the engineers who came along had their go at modifications, but all appears to be pretty basic.
There are many, many pages on-line about this legendary console. In case you never had the chance to work with one, try this site: http:// /content/armycomsystems/ss05245/ss052450028.htm
What's included: In addition to the "built like a tank" chassis and cabling, the console includes two line amps (pgm and aud out), one pre-amp card (mic), one cue/intercom amp card, the power supply transformer and the original manual. The power supply leads were cut so will need some simple splices. Should be everything you need to get on the air quickly, or begin a very handsome restoration.
This unit has been in my storage since 1995 and was just photographed this week. Upon my inspection, the pots seem to move freely and (all but ch 1) click into cue as they should (Ch 1 was the control room mic channel anyway so no need for cue access). As you'll see in the photos, some of the bat handles on the switches are missing. Some of the paint on the sides and top has eroded from use, but the faceplate is basically in good shape, including meter windows (nice and clean with no cracks or hazing). All in all, with a little effort, a very predictable and reliable piece of broadcast history with lots of life left. The included original manual will guide you through the installation or service of this unit. Yes, the cover is beat up but all the inside pages appear to be original and intact. The manual is dated 9/13/63.
