The 1104c was the best mic Astatic made. I currently have six of them.I have one. I was not overly impressed with it. I prefer an old school 1104c myself.
H&Y is still around? Thought they closed up shop a while backcopper and there twin h&y
Have you considered the DELTA M2? It has an AC adapter to eliminate the 9V battery.Anyone used this mic. I have one and it squeals like a pig if you turn it to were the mod needs to be. Found out they are having a recall on this mic for this reason. I sent mine in and should get another in a week or so. They told me the new ones work fine. The company I work for makes the plastic used to make it. Its called Cycolac. If you have one of these mics call BarJan. They look nice for a newer style mic. Hoping it works even better. Will give a update on the replacement when I get it in.
I can say from Personal experience that the Delta M2 is a much better mic than the astatic 878,better built and better sounding imo,I have one hooked up to my Ranger and I get nothing but great reports from other operators,plus the ac adaptor is a Plus also( I use a 9 volt and got a month out it before I had to replace it!!Have you considered the DELTA M2? It has an AC adapter to eliminate the 9V battery.