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.

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

"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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Do you need mixer to plug in computer?

A: This studio condenser microphone requires an audio interface, with an XLR mic preamp that provides 48 volt phantom power, that would then convert the analog signal to a digital signal to go into the computer. The Audient iD14 10x4 USB Audio Interface, BH #AUID14 is an example of an audio interface with high-quality mic preamp's and superior analog to digital conversion.

Q: 2. Does the kit include the XLR cable for the mic?

A: Unfortunately, XLR cable is not included with the Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Mono Set, Black).

Q: 3. What other mics did you compare before purchasing? Looking for voiceovers primarily.

A: The 103 is an excellent choice of microphones, depending on the person using it (voice characteristics) and how it will be used, specfically, the room acoustics and level of quiet, as this mic is very sensitive and will "hear" everything. Great suggestion, esp if purchased with shock mount: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/302934-REG/Neumann_TLM_103_ANNIVERSARY_TLM103_Condenser_Microphone_Package.html OTHER considerations: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/676495-REG/AKG_3059Z00060_C_414_XL_II.html For a more challenging acoustic environment: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1182891-REG/shure_shure_sm_7b_brodcaster_package.html

Q: 4. IS this mic good for live sound applications? Specifically drum over heads? Or would pencil condensers be a better option?

A: Yes, the Avantone Pro CK-6+ Large Capsule Cardioid FET Condenser Microphone is a very good microphone for recording drum overheads. I has a maximum sound pressure level rating of 136 dB. Small diaphragm condenser microphones (pencil style mics) with similar specs are also suitable. Neither style is better than the other. It's a matter of personal preference, as well as whether you would want to be able to use the same mic for other applications, which many people often do. The CK-6+ is a versatile mic that can be used for numerous recording applications.

Q: 5. Does the kit include the mic mount?

A: Yes, the shock mount for this microphone includes the mic holder.

Q: 6. How does this mic handle "popping p's"?

A: The Neumann TLM-102 does include an integrated pop filter, which may address the popping p's, depending on the individual and proper use. A choice of additional Pop Filters may be viewed/ chosen here: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/656902-REG/Neumann_TLM_102_NICKEL_TLM_102_Large_Diaphragm_Studio.html/accessories These are favorites: B&H #: KM23956B B&H #: RYIVUPF

Q: 7. Can you use it with out the shock mount

A: Yes, you can use the Neumann U 87 Ai MT Microphone without a shock mount. The shock mount is an optional accessory.

Q: 8. What is the difference between mono and standard set ?

A: The "Standard" configuration of the Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone includes the Neumann SG 2 Stand Mount and a wooded box, while the "Mono Set" includes a more robust Neumann EA-1 Elastic Suspension mounting option and an aluminum case. The "Stereo Set" includes two microphones and two EA-1 Elastic Suspension mounts.

Q: 9. No headphone jack? If recording with a modern iPhone, no way to monitor except maybe high latency bluetooth headphones.

A: The MK4 is a large diaphragm condenser mic which requires 48V phantom power. It can not be connected directly to an iPhone. However, you can connect it to an audio interface that is compatible with the iPhone and one that supplies phantom power such as the IK Multimedia iRig Pro I/O Audio and MIDI Interface for Mac, Windows & iOS (B&H # IKIPIRIGPROI). The MK4 will connect to the input on the interface and then the interface will connect to your iPhone's Lightning port. The interface has a built-in 3.5mm stereo headphone jack with its own level control to monitor the audio.

Q: 10. Where was this microphone made?

A: The Neumann TLM-102 is made in Germany.