NEUMANN is a long-established manufacturer that has reigned as the top brand of studio recording microphones for over 80 years. The K49 capsule, which is also used in the legendary U47 and M49 microphones, considered to be their greatest masterpieces, is used in this microphone. The stable, latest-generation vacuum tube (triode) and traditional transformerless output circuitry deliver exceptional transmission characteristics and low distortion (THD 0.002% or less). Nine different polar patterns and a seven-stage high-pass filter with extremely natural and smooth characteristics are designed without compromise to meet a wide range of on-site requirements. Of course, stable quality, durability, and a service system to maintain the best condition for the long term are also provided. These are the hallmarks of the reliability that Neumann has built since 1928. The density of the sound. The sense of realism. The resolution. And there's something about this microphone that speaks to the heart. Now is the time to experience the pinnacle of Neumann. ----- State of the Art Tube Microphone The M 149 Tube is a modern version of Neumann's famous M 49 microphone. Like its predecessor, it uses the classic K47/49 large-diaphragm capsule in an acoustically open headgrille. The M 149 is a universal studio microphone with nine selectable polar patterns. An innovative transformerless vacuum tube circuit ensures optimal sound with minimal self-noise. Classic Neumann sound with 21st century performance The M 149 is a universal studio microphone with tube electronics in the tradition of the legendary M 49, which raised the standard of audio recording in the 1950s and has shaped the sound of countless jazz and pop albums since. The M 149 uses the same sound transducer as its renowned predecessor: the classic K 47/49 large-diaphragm capsule, renowned for its supreme balance and unparalleled presence. This delicate dual-diaphragm capsule is housed in an acoustically wide-open headgrille, minimizing internal reflections. The capsule signal is amplified by an ultra-miniature triode tube, specially selected for its minimal noise and optimal transmission characteristics. The final stage is a high-precision, ultra-low-distortion transformerless output stage, preserving the full dynamics of the preceding tube circuitry and optimized for 21st-century signal chains. The M 149 offers higher sensitivity and much lower noise than vintage tube microphones. And thanks to current-sensing technology and low output impedance, which ensure optimal tube operating conditions, the M 149 can drive long cables of up to 300 meters without transmission loss. This innovative combination of classic tube technology and cutting-edge Neumann engineering earned the M 149 the prestigious TEC Award in 1997. The M 149 offers nine polar patterns—omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-of-eight, and four intermediate positions—and a seven-position low cut (20 to 160 Hz in half-octave steps). This flexibility, combined with an exceptionally low self-noise figure of just 13 dB-A (cardioid mode), makes the M 149 a truly universal studio microphone for all applications. Unlike many other modern tube microphones, the M 149 is also incredibly versatile, working with a wide range of instruments, including piano, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, upright bass, percussion, drum overheads, solo strings, brass, and woodwinds. The M 149 is a premium microphone sure to please even the most demanding users. ■Power supply, dedicated case, shock mount included Acoustical operating principle Pressure gradient transducer Directional pattern Omnidirectional, wide angle cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-8 plus one intermediate position each Frequency range 20Hz...20kHz Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm 34/47/62 mV/Pa* Rated impedance 50 ohms Rated load impedance 1000 ohms Equivalent SPL CCIR 468-3 28/25/23 dB* Equivalent SPL DIN/IEC 651 16/13/11 dB-A* S/N ratio CCIR 468-3 66/69/71 dB* S/N ratio DIN/IEC 651 78/81/83 dB* Typical SPL (tube characteristic) K < 0, 5 %: 120 dB, K < 5 %: 136 dB Maximum output voltage 18 dBu Dynamic range of the microphone amplifier cardioid DIN/IEC 651 for < 0,5% THD (for < 5% THD) 101 (121) dB Powering Power supply N 149 Matching connectors Microphone DIN 8F, Power supply XLR 3F Weight 730g Diameter 70 mm Length 201 mm * Omnidirectional / cardioid / figure-8
