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Neumann U 47 fet i Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

SKU
006427
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Product Highlights:

  • For Studio Vocal and Instrument Capture
  • Cardioid Polar Pattern
  • Same K 47 Capsule as U 47 Tube Mic
  • FET Design with Large Output Transformer
  • Exact Reproduction of Classic U 47 fet
  • -10 dB Pad
  • Low-Cut Filter at 140 Hz
  • Integrated Swivel Mount
  • Switchable -6 dB Output Gain
  • 48V Phantom Powered

Built according to the original production documents and schematics of the classic design, the Neumann U 47 fet i Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a precise reproduction of this often-copied microphone that helped define the smooth sound of the '70s. A transistorized version of their legendary U 47 tube mic, the U 47 fet i features the same classic K 47 dual-diaphragm capsule as the U 47 and boasts high SPL handling, commonly finding itself at home outside of a kick drum and in front of loud guitar and bass amps. Like the original, there is a slight boost in frequency response around 2 kHz.

The mic features the same 140 Hz low-cut filter as the original as well as the selectable -10 dB pad to raise the maximum SPL from 137 to 147 dB. For additional attenuation, there is a -6 dB output switch, allowing you to hit your mic preamps at a lower level in case you want to use more gain and coloration via the preamp. Thanks to the integrated swivel mount and included thread adapter, the U 47 fet i can easily be positioned on any mic stand. Unlike the U 47 tube mic, the U 47 fet i requires 48V phantom power.

The Sound of the Seventies
"Smooth" is the word that best describes the sonic ideal of the '70s. The then-new U 47 fet was very much part of that sound. Introduced in 1972, it soon became a studio favorite combining the refined sound balance of its tube predecessor with a new clarity and greater ease of use. In the '80s, as records became increasingly more strident, the smooth U 47 fet fell out of favor as a vocal microphone and was discontinued. Yet over the years, top engineers discovered new applications for the U 47 fet in front of guitar cabinets and kick drums. Eventually, famous vocalists from boy group pop to heavy metal reestablished the U 47 fet as a versatile vocal microphone. So now, by popular demand, it's back in production.
 
Far from Outdated
The U 47 fet uses the same K 47 large-diaphragm condenser capsule and the same headgrille design as its tube-operated predecessor, the legendary U 47, which revolutionized the recording and broadcast industries from 1949 to 1960. For sonic continuity, the U 47 fet also uses a similarly oversized output transformer. Otherwise, its transistorized head amplifier is an amazingly advanced design and a testament to Neumann's state-of-the-art engineering. This "vintage" microphone has a dynamic range of 119 dB.
 
Versatile Applications
The U 47 fet can handle extreme SPLs of up to 137 dB, and even 147 dB with the -10 dB pad switch engaged. This, along with its smooth top end and lush midrange, makes the U 47 fet an excellent microphone for bright and loud instruments such as brass and electric guitar. Due to its exceptionally clear and uncluttered low end, it is a great choice for upright bass and bass cabinets. Numerous top engineers consider U 47 fet the ultimate microphone to place in front of the kick drum. At the same time, it is an excellent vocal mic for crooners and screamers alike, due to its beautifully balanced response with just a slight, unobtrusive boost in the upper mids for added presence in the mix.
 
No Shockmount Needed
The U 47 fet comes with a special one-sided swivel mount, which makes it easy to position. Pad and low-cut switches are accessible on the rear of the microphone. An additional switch next to the XLR socket allows for attenuating the output signal by 6 dB, which is a handy feature in conjunction with low-headroom vintage preamplifiers.
 
Features at a Glance
  • Exact reproduction of the classic U 47 fet (1972 to 1986)
  • Solid-state successor of the legendary U 47 tube microphone
  • Balanced sound with superb presence
  • K 47 large-diaphragm condenser capsule
  • Cardioid polar pattern
  • Large output transformer
  • Low self-noise and high SPL capability
  • Integrated swivel mount with 5/8"-27 thread
  • Includes thread adapter for 1/2 and 3/8" stands
  • XLR 3-pin output connector
  • 48V phantom power
  • Includes wooden box
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Items Included:

  • Neumann U 47 fet i Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
  • Wooden Box
  • Certificate of Authenticity
  • Thread Adapter for 1/2 and 3/8" Stands
  • Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
More Information
SPECS
Key Specs
Element Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Controls
Gain/Sensitivity, Pad, Low Cut/HPF
Frequency Response
40 Hz to 16 kHz
Maximum SPL
137 dB (.5% THD)
147 dB (.5% THD, with Pad)
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Microphone
Sound Field
Mono
Element Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Orientation
Side Address
Circuitry
Solid-State (FET)
Pad
-10 dB
High-Pass Filter
140 Hz
Filter & EQ
Low-Cut Filter: 140 Hz
Gain Adjustment
-6 to 0 dB
Controls
Gain/Sensitivity, Pad, Low Cut/HPF
Performance
Frequency Response
40 Hz to 16 kHz
Maximum SPL
137 dB (.5% THD)
147 dB (.5% THD, with Pad)
Off-Axis Rejection
3 dB at 60°
15 dB at 120°
12 dB at 180°
Sensitivity
8 mV/Pa / -42 dBV (at 1 kHz into 1 Kilohm)
Dynamic Range
119 dB
Equivalent Noise Level
18 dB (A-Weighted)
25 dB (CCIR)
Connectivity
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
44 to 52 V
Physical
Color
Nickel
Mounting Thread Size
5/8"-27 Female (3/8"-16 Female with Included Adapter)
Dimensions
ø: 2.5 x L: 6.3" / ø: 6.3 x L: 16 cm
Weight
1.6 lb / 710 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
3.155 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.236 x 4.882 x 3.937"