Neumann Introduces M 150 Tube Microphone

Taking advantage of modern materials and technology to recreate the ineffable beauty of their vintage M 50, Neumann proudly introduces the M 150 Tube condenser microphone. Since its birth some fifty years ago, the M 50 has enjoyed a reputation for capturing unparalleled realism in the demanding field of orchestral and string recording. Today's M 150 delivers the same unique omni-directional characteristic that earned its forerunner such a dedicated cadre of fans.

But that's where the similarity ends. The all-new M 150 improves on its elder's performance with lower self noise (15 dB-A), a titanium membrane and capsule providing unparalleled transient response, a transformerless tube amplifier based on the award-winning M 145 Tube microphone, and a sophisticated power supply. The result merges the very best vintage sound with all that modern technology has to offer.

Much lauded for its desirable acoustical characteristics, titanium was, until recently, difficult to machine as well as to obtain the quality necessary for use in microphones. Now with the necessary materials at hand, Neumann is using this lightweight element for the M 150's thin, 12mm capsule to deliver low self noise, a smooth, extended frequency response, and unprecedented transient response. Per audio engineer's requests, the headgrill is formed just like the original M 50, and the capsule mounting employs the same 40mm sphere that rendered the M 50's famous pick-up pattern: circular at low frequencies and increasingly narrow up the spectrum. Engineers will also appreciate the M 150's 119dB of dynamic range, 20mV/Pa sensitivity, and 134dB maximum SPL.

"It's exciting to bring out a new version of the much-lauded M50 microphone. While this is not a re-issue, what we have here is a modern microphone retaining most important characteristics from the original" states Neumann brand manager, Karl Winkler. Destined to become a classic in its own right, the Neumann M 150 is ideal for DECCA tree recording, surround miking, or stereo recording techniques. The M 150 Tube delivers the world-renowned "Neumann Sound", a visceral clarity and presence, with phenomenal specifications actualized via Neumann's superior technology and precision manufacturing.