Studio Microphones

The TLM 103 is the ideal large diaphragm microphone for all those who do not want to do without uncompromisingly professional technology despite tight budget limits. It works with the transformerless circuit technology already proven in numerous Neumann microphones, offers an unrivalled low self-noise level and maximum dynamic range. The cardioid capsule used is particularly well-balanced acoustically and has excellent cancellation for rear sound incidence.

Austrian Audio's OC818 is the result of decades of experience and unique innovation and the world's first dual output microphone with switchable polar pattern.Based on the legendary CK12 microphone capsule, the Viennese audio engineers designed their own, further developed CKR12 capsule by tracking down various originals of the famous vintage capsule worldwide and meticulously testing, measuring and evaluating them according to their best characteristics in order to develop much more than just a copy from the data and experience gained.As a special feature, the lovingly handcrafted microphone has a second output that allows the producer, engineer, musician and forward-thinking artist to record the rear-facing capsule independently of the front-facing capsule. When both capsules are recorded on a stereo or dual mono track in the DAW, the free and open source PolarDesigner plugin (MAC/PC: VST, AU & AAX) allows unprecedented control and adjustment of the polar pattern between 1 and 5 bands with selectable crossover points.To configure the OC818 flexibly in real time in complex live situations or during sound checks, the optional OCR8 Bluetooth dongle can be attached to the rear of the housing. The PolarPilot app for Android and iOS can then be used to access the behaviour of both capsules, as well as the high-pass filter and pad switch. This unique tool enables an unprecedented 255 discrete polar patterns between figure of eight, all cardioid versions and omnidirectional.The OC 818 Dual Set Plus includes:2x OC818 microphones, 2x OCS8 elastic mounts, 2x OCC8 mini XLR adapters, 2x OCH8 microphone clamps, 2x OCW8 windscreens, OCDC1 case and the new SB1 adjustable stereo bar.

The KSM141 is a permanently polarised condenser microphone with two mechanically switchable polar patterns (cardioid and omnidirectional). Designed for studio use, the microphone is also suitable for live use thanks to its robust construction and can handle extremely high sound pressure levels. Its low self-noise and wide transmission range make it the ideal microphone for miking instruments.

At just 10 cm long, the M5 is one of the shortest small membrane pencils on the market - ideal for placement in critical areas and extremely inconspicuous thanks to the black ceramic coating. The aluminium housing is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion, after which enamel powder is applied extremely evenly using an electrostatic process and then fired. The result: a very high-quality and scratch-resistant finish that still looks good even after years of use.

With the CC8, Austrian Audio has developed a microphone that is suitable for modern recording applications and yet has a timeless sound character that is appreciated by everyone. The CC8 is a small diaphragm condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern and true condenser, handmade in Vienna and aimed at professional users.Inside every CC8 small diaphragm microphone beats the heart of an OCC7 condenser capsule from Austrian Audio. Inspired by the legendary CK1, the newly developed capsule takes over the heritage with the advantages of the classic and the requirements of today. Shaped by the past, built for the future.The CC8 with true condenser technology was created for the professional sector. The gold-vapourised membrane inside the capsule is made of 3 micrometre thick polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and is much more robust than conventional Mylar alternatives. The filter fabric used guarantees constant and very broadband cancellation. This results in an outstandingly precise cardioid characteristic with excellent attenuation of sound coming from the sides and rear.The OCC7 capsule and the transformerless design of the feed section give the CC8 a remarkably linear frequency response. The microphone can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels of up to 156 dB SPL. In combination with a very low self-noise of just 16 dB(A), this results in an impressive dynamic range. The CC8 always sounds naturally open and is neither harsh nor sharp, even at extreme volumes. The mids and highs are always silky smooth and are not overemphasised.The CC8 is ideal for recordings where fast transients need to be reproduced and spatial information needs to be captured as accurately as possible. Small diaphragm microphones are particularly popular for the detailed recording of various acoustic instruments found in classical ensembles and jazz formations. These include, for example, string instruments, woodwinds and brass, orchestral percussion, classical singers, but also instruments that can be found in all genres, such as acoustic guitar, piano, snares, hi-hat and overheads.Thanks to the built-in switchable attenuation of 0 dB, -10 dB and -20 dB, the microphone can be positioned very close to loud sound sources such as trumpets without having to worry about distortion. Rumbling noises and impact sound are effectively eliminated with the switchable high-pass filter (60 Hz 2nd order, 120 Hz 2nd order).Even extremely quiet signals such as fine violin sounds, delicate voices or the quietest atmospheric sounds can be recorded without any problems thanks to the low inherent noise.The small dimensions allow targeted positioning even in tight and difficult places, both in the studio and on stage.Every CC8 is built by hand in Vienna. A special feature is Austrian Audio's in-house anechoic chamber. Before leaving the production line, each microphone is measured and tuned to a maximum tolerance of +/- 0.5 dB sensitivity at 1 kHz. This means that all CC8s can be used as a matched pair, regardless of the production date.Features:

The P420 is an excellent studio microphone for recording vocals and instruments. It delivers a natural, warm and detailed sound. Stringed instruments and singers with thin voices in particular benefit from the warm sound of the P420 - the recordings sound fuller.A special feature of the P420 is the ability to set different directional characteristics. This means the microphone can be used flexibly: Cardioid for vocal and instrument miking, omnidirectional for room miking and figure of eight when recording two singers at the same time.Even very loud instruments such as wind instruments, drums and percussion can be recorded with the P420. The microphone has a switchable level reduction and can also handle very loud sound sources up to 155 dB. A switchable bass-cut filter effectively suppresses mechanical vibrations such as impact sound.Thanks to the metal housing, the P-420 is particularly robust and can also be used live as a stage microphone.

The M3 can be operated either via phantom power or with a 9 V block that can be inserted into the battery compartment. This makes it independent of any external power supply, especially when used outdoors. Other features include a switchable high-pass filter for suppressing low-frequency noise and attenuating the proximity effect, a two-stage switchable pre-attenuation (-10 dB/-20 dB), the on/off switch and the battery control LED. The scope of delivery includes a windscreen and a stand clamp.

With the Halo, British microphone specialist Sontronics presents a stylish microphone specially designed for miking guitar amps. Based on the multi-award-winning STC-80 dynamic handheld microphone, the Halo gives distorted guitars a concise, powerful sound. For the perfect amp sound "Out Of The Box", Sontronics relies on a special tonal tuning that makes it unnecessary for the user to reach for the EQ. The elaborate capsule suspension with its four springs guarantees excellent impact sound insulation and also ensures a spectacular look.After Sontronics developed the Saturn large-diaphragm condenser model, a studio microphone with excellent sound and appearance especially for vocal recordings, the British microphone specialist is now introducing the Halo, a microphone for recording guitar amps. However, the elaborate capsule suspension is not just for a spectacular appearance: it ensures excellent recordings free from impact sound, even when rocking out in the immediate vicinity of the amp. The all-metal housing with its high-quality finish is also designed for rough everyday recording conditions, while the metal ring around the capsule protects the sensitive components from excessive strain.The Halo is a dynamic microphone with a fixed cardioid characteristic. With a frequency range of 50 Hz to 15 kHz, it can transmit the full range of the amp sound. In terms of sound, the Halo is based on the award-winning STC-80 dynamic handheld microphone, although the sound tuning has been clearly trimmed for use on guitar amps. Sontronics mastermind Trevor Coley paid particular attention to achieving a perfect "out of the box" sound. "I'm a guitarist myself and wanted to create a microphone that works immediately in front of an amp." This saves many guitarists from having to reach for the EQ. "Since we developed the STC-80 and launched it on the market, many guitarists have told us how much they like using this microphone to pick up guitar amps," continues Sontronics boss Coley. "So we've retuned the sound based on this capsule and chosen an extravagant housing design to give guitarists a spectacular amp microphone that won't break the bank."

The M 147 Tube is a tube condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It has inherited the centrepiece - the K 47/49 double-diaphragm capsule - from its famous and now legendary predecessors, the U 47 and M 49. It is supplied as a complete set in a high-quality aluminium case. In addition to the microphone, this includes the connection cable, the metal stand joint and the compact universal power supply unit with IEC connection.

With the STC-2 PACK, Sontronics presents a bundle for high-quality vocal and instrument recordings in studio quality. The package includes the STC-2 large diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone and an accessory pack consisting of a spider, pop shield, cable and bag. The STC-2 offers clear, open transmission with soft highs and crisp bass. Thanks to the pad circuit, the microphone can also be used with loud signal sources such as drums. With the metal spider and the pop protection that can be mounted on the spider, the STC-2 PACK offers the best conditions for perfect studio-quality recordings straight from the factory. A 3 m XLR cable and a robust storage bag to protect the microphone when not in use round off the package.

The KSM137 is a permanently polarised cardioid condenser microphone. Designed for studio use, the microphone is also suitable for live use thanks to its robust construction and can handle extremely high sound levels. Its low self-noise and wide transmission range make it the ideal microphone for miking instruments.

The TLM 49* is a large diaphragm studio microphone with a cardioid characteristic and a warm sound tuning that is optimised for vocals in particular. It is supplied as a set together with an elastic suspension.The design is based on the legendary M 49 and M 50 microphones from the 1950s. Naturally, the TLM 49 has the typical, elegant Neumann nickel-matt finish. Its sound design is based on the M 49 and the U 47.This microphone with a retro look utilises Neumann's proven transformerless circuit technology - with very low noise and high dynamic range.Field of application:During the development phase, extensive practical tests were carried out to fine-tune the sound, making the TLM 49 ideal for vocal and speech recordings in particular. However, it is also suitable for instrumental applications in professional production studios and sophisticated home recording.Polar pattern:The large diaphragm capsule of the TLM 49 has a cardioid polar pattern with a tendency towards supercardioid due to the special capsule design. High frequencies are focussed more strongly, just like the original M 49. The diameter of the capsule is 34 mm.The red Neumann logo on the body of the microphone indicates the front of the capsule and thus the direction of pickup.Acoustic properties:The TLM 49 works with the famous K 47 capsule, which was already used in the M 49 and U 47. It has a linear frequency response up to the high mid-range and offers a gentle presence increase of up to 3 dB above 2 kHz.The capsule is surrounded by a generously dimensioned microphone basket, which is acoustically very open and therefore has a neutral sound behaviour.Electrical properties:The letters TLM stand for transformerless microphone. The output transformer normally used in the TLM 49 has been replaced by an electronic circuit which - like a transformer - ensures good unbalance attenuation.As a result, interference signals that affect the balanced modulation line are effectively suppressed. The microphone can transmit sound pressure levels of up to 129 dB without distortion and provides a dynamic range of 117 dB (A-weighted).Operational safety:The entire internal structure is elastically mounted to protect against structure-borne sound transmission. In addition, the capsule is mounted on a rubber mount.Due to the wide transmission range, the TLM 49 can also reproduce extremely low-frequency signals without distortion. As a result, the microphone is naturally also sensitive to interference signals such as structure-borne sound or wind noise in this frequency range. For this reason, the TLM 49 is supplied with the EA 3 elastic suspension, which effectively protects the microphone from structure-borne noise. For extremely close pickup, the PS 15 or PS 20 a pop screen can be used in front of the microphone to protect against plosive sounds.

Das 1973 ist ein hochwertiges LDC-Mikrofon mit einer handgefertigten Kapsel und erstklassiger Verarbeitungsqualität. Es verfügt über einen speziell angefertigten Resonator, der unerwünschte Resonanzen vermindert und einen Popschutz bietet. Dadurch eignet es sich hervorragend für die Aufnahme von Gesang, Voiceovers und Podcasts. Das 1973 verfügt über ein stromlinienförmiges Gehäuse und enthält die gleiche S23-Kapsel wie das 023 Bomblet. Diese raumsparende Gestaltung ermöglicht die Mikrofonierung auch an schwer zugänglichen Stellen.Das 1973 ist übertragerlos aufgebaut und weist ein extrem geringes Eigenrauschen auf, ohne dabei Abstriche in seiner Klangcharakteristik zu machen. Es verfügt sowohl über ein -10 als auch ein -20 dB-Pad, wodurch es sich gut für Quellen mit hoher Lautstärke wie Kick Drums und Verstärker eignet.

The TF51 is a new interpretation of the Austrian microphone sound of the TELEFUNKEN ELA M 251E and C12. The TF51 continues this heritage with a smooth midrange and an airy top end that captures every nuance in pleasing detail. This makes it the first choice for outstanding vocals, acoustic instruments and drums.The lifelike reproduction is created with high-quality components. The 6072A vacuum tube (also included in our ELA M 251E and C12) is connected to an edge terminated capsule similar to the historic CK12. The output transformer is a German Haufe transformer, from the original manufacturer for TELEFUNKEN. This attention to detail gives the TF51 a beautifully open and smooth sound profile.

The NUVO N22 is a modern, active nearfield ribbon microphone with a robust, lightweight design, extended treble clarity and reduced proximity effect, making it perfect for close miking of instruments.

The very wide transmission range of the TG I53c opens up a multitude of possible applications. From hi-hat and overheads to percussion, side and wind instruments and choir miking - the condenser microphone stands out everywhere with its slight treble boost and excellent detail reproduction. Thanks to its high sensitivity, it is also suitable for larger microphone distances, for example for large sound bodies with complex dispersion behaviour. Another advantage: the carbon fibre-reinforced housing makes it lightweight and robust at the same time.

The TF29 Copperhead is a further development of the CU-29 Copperhead.It has a new 5654W vacuum tube, a brass K67 capsule and a high-quality Lundahl output transformer. These components produce a balanced frequency response and natural tonality. The TF29 is a reliable choice for vocals and all instruments, from electric guitar to drums, wind instruments and piano.

Neumann engineering:The newly developed transducer, which has been specially tuned for this microphone, impresses with its fantastic impulse fidelity. Unusual for a large diaphragm capsule is also the high consistency of the five patterns, omnidirectional, cardioid, figure of eight, with the intermediate stages wide cardioid and hypercardioid. The TLM 107 not only delivers optimum sound results in the cardioid position, but also maximum precision across the entire frequency range for all other polar patterns. The sound image always remains balanced with an almost linear reproduction up to 8 kHz and a soft boost of the highest frequencies, which gives voices presence and freshness. Particular emphasis was placed on the natural reproduction of speech sounds, especially the critical S-sounds. The speaker basket has been acoustically optimised to reduce susceptibility to pops. In addition, the transducer is edge-contacted, with both diaphragms at ground level. In concrete terms, this means significantly less susceptibility to dust and moisture.Uncompromising sound design:The transformerless circuit offers high linearity and great dynamics. The self-noise of just 10 dB-A is practically inaudible, while the TLM 107 is also very level-resistant. The maximum sound pressure level is 141 dB SPL and can be increased up to 153 dB SPL by means of pre-attenuation (pad). This means that the TLM 107 transmits even the loudest instruments without distortion. The bass roll-off with linear, 40 Hz and 100 Hz settings is precisely tuned to recording practice. The 40 Hz setting cuts the noise below the fundamental range (the open E string of the double bass is at 41 Hz) without any side effects, while the 100 Hz setting has been optimised for speech/vocals (100 Hz corresponds to the lowest notes of a baritone).Innovative operating concept:For the first time in a microphone, all switching functions are intuitively controlled by a navigation switch. The illuminated pattern display in the chrome ring is a visual highlight, while the switching states of the pad and low cut are indicated by LEDs to the left and right of the switch. The switch and display have been positioned at the rear so as not to irritate singers. The displays switch off automatically after 15 seconds.

The TLM 103 is the ideal large diaphragm microphone for anyone who does not want to do without uncompromisingly professional technology despite tight budget constraints. It works with the transformerless circuit technology already proven in numerous Neumann microphones, offers an unrivalled low self-noise level and maximum dynamic range. The cardioid capsule used is particularly well-balanced acoustically and has excellent cancellation for rear sound incidence.

The M 149 Tube is a modern version of the famous Neumann M 49. Like its predecessor, the classic K 47/49 large diaphragm capsule sits in an acoustically open microphone basket. The M 149 is a universal studio microphone with 9 polar patterns. Its innovative transformerless tube circuit guarantees optimum sound with the lowest inherent noise.The M 149 is a universal studio microphone with tube electronics in the tradition of the legendary M 49, the large-diaphragm condenser microphone that set a new standard in the 1950s and has provided good sound on countless jazz and pop recordings ever since. The M 149 continues this tradition by upgrading the timeless fidelity of its predecessor with even better performance data thanks to advanced technology.The M 149 uses the same transducer as its legendary predecessor, the classic K 47/49 large diaphragm capsule, which is famous for its unrivalled presence and balance. An acoustically open microphone basket minimises internal reflections. The capsule signal is amplified by a subminiature triode tube, which is selected for lowest noise and optimum transmission characteristics. The output stage is a high-precision transformerless circuit that preserves the entire dynamic range of the tube input stage and makes it fully usable for today's recording technology. The M 149 offers higher sensitivity and significantly lower self-noise than older tube microphones. In addition, the operating points of the tube are optimised internally; voltage drops in the microphone cable are automatically compensated. Thanks to its low output impedance, the M 149 can handle long cable runs of up to 300 metres without transmission losses. For this innovative combination of classic tube technology and advanced Neumann engineering, the M 149 Tube was honoured with the TEC Award in 1997.The M 149 offers nine polar patterns - omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-of-eight and four intermediate positions - as well as a seven-stage bass roll-off (20 to 160 Hz in half-octave steps). This flexibility and an exceptionally low self-noise of only 13 dB-A (in cardioid position) make it a truly universal studio microphone for all applications. The M 149 is not only an outstanding vocal microphone for all musical genres. Unlike many other recent tube microphones, it is equally suitable for instruments of all kinds such as piano, acoustic and electric guitar, double bass, percussion and drums (overheads) as well as solo strings and wind instruments. The M 149 is a premium microphone that fulfils even the highest demands.

beyerdynamic is one of the few manufacturers in the world that still produces ribbon microphones. The classic among them is the dynamic double ribbon microphone M 160. The outstanding transmission quality of the M 160 and its hypercardioid characteristic with a noise cancellation of 25 dB at 110°, which effectively suppresses lateral sound reflections and interfering extraneous sound, make the M 160 an ideal microphone wherever the highest demands are placed on the recording or transmission technology.The M 160 is ideal for miking stringed instruments such as violin, viola, cello and guitar as well as for guitar amplifiers. The M 160 impresses with its warm, natural sound. This microphone is not an ordinary ribbon microphone, but a double ribbon microphone. Two superimposed, wafer-thin ribbons ensure a higher output level.