Neumann M 149 Multi-Pattern Tube Condenser Microphone System

The M 149 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone that raised the standard of audio recording in the 1950s and has shaped the sound of countless jazz and pop albums ever since. The M 149 augments the timeless fidelity of its predecessor with updated technology and improved performance specs.

The M 149 uses the same sound transducer as its famous predecessor, the classic K 47/49 large diaphragm capsule, renowned for its supreme balance and unmatched presence. This delicate dual diaphragm capsule is housed in a large, acoustically open headgrille, which minimizes internal reflections. The capsule signal is then amplified by a subminiature triode tube, specially selected for lowest noise and optimal transmission characteristics. The final stage is a high-precision, ultra-low distortion transformerless output stage, which preserves the full dynamics of the preceding tube circuit and is optimized for 21st century signal chains. The M 149 offers higher sensitivity and much lower noise than vintage tube microphones. And thanks its current sensing technology, which ensures optimal operating conditions for the tube, and its low output impedance, the M 149 can drive long cable runs of up to 300 m without transmission losses.

The M 149 offers nine directional characteristics – omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-8, plus four intermediate positions – as well as a 7-position low cut (20 to 160 Hz in half-octave steps). This flexibility along with an exceptionally low self-noise figure of only 13 dB-A (cardioid mode) makes the M 149 a truly universal studio microphone for all applications. Not only is the M 149 a superb microphone for vocalists in any genre; unlike many other modern tube microphones, it is also an amazingly versatile microphone for a wide range of instruments, such as piano, acoustic and electric guitar, upright bass, percussion, drums overheads, as well as solo strings, brass and woodwind instruments. The M 149 is a premium microphone which will satisfy even the most demanding users.

Neumann M 149 Features

• 117V
• Same capsule as the legendary Neumann U 47 and M 49 microphones
• Classic sound in nine directional patterns
• Seven-position low cut switch
• Tube circuit with extremely low self-noise
• Transformerless output stage

• M 149 tube microphone1
• N 149 A power supply and power cable1
• KT 8 connecting cable1
• EA 170 shock mount1
• Dust cover1
• Aluminum case1

• Transducer TypeCondenser
• Polar Patterns (selectable)Cardioid, Wide Angle Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional
• Frequency Range20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Rated Output Impedance50 ohms
• Sensitivity at 1kHz into 1 kΩ34/47/62 mV/Pa (Omni/cardioid/8)
• Equivalent Noise Level, CCIR28/25/23 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
• Equivalent Noise Level, A-Weighted16/13/11 dB-A (Omni/cardioid/8)
• Typical SPL (tube characteristic) for K <0.5%120 dB
• Typical SPL (tube characteristic) for K <5%136 dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL)66/69/71 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio, A-Weighted (re. 94 dB SPL)78/81/83 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
• Max. Output Voltage18 dBu
• Dynamic Range of the Amplifier, DIN/IEC 651, for THD < 0.5% 7101 dB
• Dynamic Range of the Amplifier, DIN/IEC 651, for THD < 5%121 dB
• Power SupplyN 149 A
• Matching Connector
  • Microphone: DIN 8 F
  • Power Supply: XLR 3 F
• Weightapprox. 1.61 pounds
• Dimensions2.76" diameter x 7.91" length