Neumann U 47 FET Microphone

The Neumann U 47 FET condenser studio microphone is a successor to the legendary U 47 tube microphone. This ‘vintage’ microphone was first introduced in 1972 and has now brought back the same sound quality. It is a great vocal microphone, with a cardioid directional characteristic and a large-diaphragm capsule, featuring an extensive dynamic range and clear sound transmission.

Neumann U 47 FET Microphone Key Features:

• Inspired by the legendary U 47 tube microphone
• Has brought back the defined sound quality of the ’70s
• Features the K 89 large-diaphragm capsule with cardioid pattern
• Ideally used a soloist/vocal microphone
• Uses an oversized output transformer for sonic continuity
• The transistorised head amplifier offers a dynamic range of 119 dB
• Capable of withstanding extreme sound pressure levels of up to 137 dB
• Engaging the -10 dB pad switch increase the SPL capability to 147 dB
• Can be used for loud instruments such as an electric guitar or kick drum
• A slight, unobtrusive boost in the upper mids adds presence to the sound mix
• Consists of the pad and low cut switches at the rear side
• Produces a beautifully balanced sound with superb presence
• Additional attenuation of 6 dB is also available
• Integrated swivel mount and thread adapter makes it easy to position
• Can be phantom powered at 48 V

Expanded Neumann U 47 FET Microphone Key Features:

Sound of the Seventies

The U 47 FET microphone was first introduced in 1972, as a successor to the legendary U 47 tube microphone. It defined the smooth sound quality of the ’70s and has brought back the same classic sound after a long hiatus. It was a studio favourite, thanks to the balanced sound quality, but fell out of favour somewhere in the mid-80s. Many famous vocalists and top engineers reestablished the use of this versatile vocal microphone. It uses the recently perfected Field-Effect Transistor (FET) technology to provide a high-impedance capsule.

Wide Applications

The high SPL capability and low self-noise add to the range of applications of the microphone. It already is known to be a versatile vocal microphone for the refined sound balance. It is an excellent microphone for bright and loud instruments such as bass and electric guitar. The clear and uncluttered low end enables it to be used for upright bass and bass cabinets. Delivering a balanced sound, the microphone offers a slight, unobtrusive boost in the upper mid-range for a superb presence in the sound mix.

Neumann Engineering

The large-diaphragm condenser capsule of the microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern and FET 80 circuit technology. It provides a dynamic range of 119 dB, a clean sound transmission, and a balanced response without any colouration. The diaphragm capsule has a mild presence boost above 2 kHz and a switchable high-pass filter to increase the lower cutoff frequency from 40 Hz to 140 Hz. It can handle high SPLs of up to 137 dB, and up to 147 dB with the 10 dB pre-attenuation switch. The back of the microphone has the pad and low-cut switches, with an additional switch for attenuating the output signal by 6 dB. It helps avoid the saturation of the subsequent pre-amplifier.

Easy Positioning

The included swivel mount ensures the stable positioning of the microphone. The side bracket has a 5/8”-27 female thread and a thread adapter to connect to 1/2" and 3/8” stands. No shock mount is needed and it expands the positioning flexibility of the U 47 FET microphone. When using a microphone cable, the side bracket makes it easy for the cable to be clamped to the slot, using the knurled nut (maximum cable diameter can be 5 mm).

What's in the box?

• 1 x Neumann U 47 FET Microphone
• 1 x Wooden Box
• 1 x Certificate of Authenticity
• Limited 2-Year Warranty

FAQs:

Which power supply can be used for the microphone?

The U 47 FET microphone requires the 48 V phantom power (P48) following the IEC 61938. Any P48 power supply equipment can be used that supplies at least 0.5 mA per channel.

What is the high-pass filter used for?

The high-pass filter at the back of the microphone can be used to suppress low-frequency interference caused by wind or impact noise. It also compensates for the proximity effect and plosive sounds. An additional windshield or a pop shield can also be used to suppress noise interference.

What is the microphone’s frequency range?

It supports a frequency range of 40 Hz to 16 kHz.

What is the ideal cable length to be used with the microphone?

It is recommended that the cable length should not exceed 300 metres as the capacitance of greater cable lengths could affect the frequency response.