Neumann M-50 V Omnidirectional Condenser Tube Microphone Set M50 Reissue

Background
Released in 1951, the M 50 was the counterpart to the M 49. While the latter was a high-quality all-purpose studio microphone with unheard-of flexibility, the M 50 was conceived as the ultimate pressure transducer microphone for critical applications in dedicated recording rooms. As a result, the M 50 was to shape classical recording like no other microphone.

To this day, it is the prime choice for Decca Tree recording techniques, which for most recording engineers has remained the go-to main microphone setup. Back in the 1950s, Decca conducted groundbreaking experiments to find the ideal technique for stereo recording – and ultimately settled on three Neumann M 50 microphones, arranged in a triangle. Today, the Decca Tree is often complemented with additional outriggers – again, preferably M 50 microphones. For immersive recordings, even more microphones are required.

So, there is quite some demand for Neumann M 50 microphones. Instead of becoming outdated, improvements in recording technology have progressively unveiled the breathtaking sound quality of the Neumann M 50. Yet originals have not been produced for more than 50 years. Neumann did release two successors, the (now discontinued) TLM 50 with solid state electronics and the M 150 with a newly developed transformerless tube circuit. Nonetheless, discerning recording engineers and studio owners kept looking for original M 50 microphones on the used market, with well-maintained specimens commanding astronomical prices.

The Product
The wait is over! At last, Neumann has resumed production of the original. Its groundbreaking concept remains unchanged: A small diaphragm sits flush mounted in a 40 mm acrylic sphere. The result is an even response in the diffuse field as well as a gradually increasing directivity at higher frequencies. The K 33 Ti capsule used in the M 50 V combines the acoustical design of the original K 53 capsule with improved build quality. Instead of nickel or aluminum, the delicate metal diaphragm of the K 33 Ti is made of titanium, a light and durable material, ideal for this purpose.

The electronics stay true to the original design as well. The M 50 V uses the same circuit as the last historical version, including the large BV11 output transformer. To combat electromagnetic interference from modern day Wi-Fi and mobile phones, the M 50 V comes with the RF-proof connector of the historical broadcast version M 250. The subminiature tube used is the same type that has already proven its sonic excellence in the M 49 V. The M 50 V also comes with the same NM V power supply which automatically adapts to the local mains voltage. Its polar pattern selector, of course, is of no consequence for the M 50 V with its fixed omni capsule.

For easy positioning, the M 50 V comes with the iconic yoke mount which now includes elastic elements for rumble protection. The M 50 V Set is completed by a 10 m (33 ft) cable and a high-quality case.

Applications
Like its historical ancestors, the M 50 V will mostly be used in the main microphone array for orchestral recordings, be it classical music or film scores. Standard setups will be two or more M 50 V microphones as spaced omnis or Decca Tree setup with three M 50 V microphones mounted in a triangle with the left and right microphones at an outward angle. For large ensembles there will often be additional outriggers. Of course, the M 50 V can also be used in many other applications, e.g. piano recording or as a spot mic for string and brass sections or on percussion. In pop/rock contexts, the M 50 V may be used as a room mic. In addition, the M 50 V may also attract microphone collectors.

The M 50 V Compared to the M 150
The M 50 V uses the same titanium capsule as the acclaimed M 150 in a very similar housing, but electronics are completely different. While the M 50 V uses a classic tube circuit with an output transformer, the M 150 has a more modern tube circuit with a transformerless solid state output stage. In other words, the M 50 V is for customers who want the original. The M 150 is a slightly less expensive alternative with a similar sound. Both offer excellent specs.

• Reissue of the legendary M 50 with detail improvements
• Unique omnidirectional capsule mounted in a 40 mm sphere
• Perfect for spaced omni and Decca Tree technique
• Prime choice for orchestral recordings, especially Decca Tree
• Classic tube circuit with output transformer
• Made to original specifications using archived documentation
• New power supply automatically adapts to mains voltage
• Handmade and hand soldered in Germany
• Matching included for orders of two or more M 50 V microphones

In the box:
• 1x M 50 V
• 1x NM V Pattern Control Unit
• 1x KC 5 Cable
• 1x MZ 49 A Shock Mount
• 1x M 50 V Case
• 1x Safety Guide
• 1x Quick Guide