Neumann TLM 49 Studio Set Condenser Microphone
The TLM 49 microphone from Neumann is designed to recreate the iconic sound of their post-war classics with trouble-free operation. It features the same K 47 capsule and large headgrill design found in the iconic M 49, but utilizes FET circuitry instead of electron tubes. The result is a smooth and timeless sound, perfect for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments with elegance.
Key features:
- Same capsule as legendary Neumann U 47 and M 49 microphones
- Cardioid pattern
- Classic sound for silky vocals
- Large, acoustically open headgrille
- Transformerless solid state circuit with tube sound characteristics
- Very low self-noise
The desire for the classic, smooth sound of tube microphones from the 1950s is common among many engineers today. However, original vintage models are often costly and require frequent maintenance. Neumann has created an elegant solution for those seeking a recording tool rather than a collector’s item: the TLM 49. This microphone combines the exceptional sound quality of Neumann’s renowned U 47 and M 49 microphones with the reliability and convenience of modern phantom powered microphones.
The TLM 49 microphone features the same acoustically open headgrill and large diaphragm condenser capsule design as its predecessor. This classic K 47 capsule is known for its exceptional sound quality and was utilized in the Neumann U 47 microphone, favoured by iconic artists such as Frank Sinatra and the Beatles, as well as many others to this day.
The TLM 49 microphone differs from its renowned predecessors primarily in its electronic circuitry. Unlike its predecessors, which utilized electron tubes, the TLM 49 features a solid state head amplifier with transformerless technology. However, this microphone has been designed to closely replicate the sound quality of tube circuits, intentionally producing soft saturation at higher sound pressure levels. The maximum SPL figure for the TLM 49 is 110 dB for 0.5% THD, gradually increasing to 5% at 129 dB SPL. This allows the TLM 49 to capture the sound and dynamic behavior of its legendary precursors, without the need for an external PSU or costly tube replacements. Additionally, the TLM 49 boasts a significantly improved self-noise figure of only 12 dB-A.
While the TLM 49 microphone is primarily intended for vocal recordings with its fixed cardioid pattern, its exceptional midrange and clear bass make it a versatile option for capturing various instruments as well. The microphone’s gentle presence boost above 2 kHz further enhances its performance with instruments such as acoustic guitar and upright bass.
Specifications:
- Acoustical operating principle: Pressure gradient transducer
- Directional pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 Hz … 20 kHz
- Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm: 13 mV/Pa = –38 dBV ± 1 dB
- Rated impedance: 50 ohms
- Rated load impedance: 1 kohms
- Equivalent noise level, CCIR¹⁾: 23 dB
- Equivalent noise level, A-weighted¹⁾: 12 dB-A
- Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%²⁾: 110 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾: 71 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾: 82 dB
- Maximum output voltage: -1 dBu
- Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938): 48 V ± 4 V
- Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938): 3.2 mA
- Matching connector: XLR 3 F
- Weight: 825 g
- Diameter: 78 mm
- Length: 165 mm