Neumann M 49 V Large-Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone

Made to original specifications using archived documentation, the Neumann M 49 V is the reincarnation of the iconic M 49 multi-pattern tube condenser microphone that transformed the art of studio recording throughout the 1950s and 60s. The definition of a classic, the M 49 has graced recordings by legends ranging from Miles Davis to Adele. Now, after years of engineering, trials and sourcing original components, Neumann has recreated that magic with a modern version of the M 49 that sounds identical to the original in direct A/B comparisons by the world’s top engineers.

Words like "rich," "warm" and "silky" only get close to the sound of the M 49 V. This is the mic that countless others strive to emulate, with a depth and character all its own. Being a large-diaphragm tube microphone, the M 49 V excels at capturing dynamic vocalists, but it’s also extremely flattering on acoustic instruments and provides an incredibly lush, open sound as a room mic. With a factory modification, the M 49 V is available with the classic 30 Hz high-pass filter or a 12 Hz filter for a more modern low-end sound.

The microphone connects to the Pattern Control Unit via a special seven-pin cable, providing power and allowing you to blend between omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-eight patterns with a continuously variable knob. With a factory modification, the M 49 V is available in a cardioid-only configuration with 2 dB greater sensitivity and 3 dB lower equivalent noise. A standard 3-pin XLR jack serves as the output of the unit. Additionally, the Pattern Control Unit automatically adapts to different mains voltages.

The original M 49 went through several iterations, each with subtle changes to improve the signal-to-noise ratio, dynamic range and interference rejection. While the M 49 V’s circuit is based on the latest revision, the M 49 c, Neumann has used a new subminiature tube for even lower noise. Finally, because radio-frequency interference is much more common today, the mic includes an RF-proof connector originally found on the M 249 broadcast variant. These updates bring a truly historic microphone into the modern age, ready to unlock the hidden detail and depth in your recordings.