Neumann M 150 TUBE

Titanium capsule and innovative tube circuitry

The Neumann M 150 Tube is a unique small diaphragm condenser microphone designed specifically for orchestral recordings. It is based on the legendary Neumann M 50, which is often referred to as the ultimate microphone for orchestral recordings. Like its predecessor, the M 150 Tube uses a 12 mm small diaphragm capsule flush-mounted in a small sphere to create an omnidirectional pattern that becomes directional at higher frequencies. The ultra-thin diaphragm of the M 150's condenser capsule is made of titanium, a light but rigid metal, and is only 10 micrometers away from the counter electrode, which is also made of titanium. The result is a sound transducer with unparalleled impulse fidelity.

The exquisite capsule is protected by an acoustically open microphone basket, the same as the venerable M 50. The capsule signal is amplified by a tube circuit built around a subminiature triode selected for optimum transfer characteristics to ensure a low self-noise of only 15 dB-A and a lively sound. The M 150 does not use an output transformer, which could potentially distort the sound. Instead, the M 150 uses an ultra-transparent electronically balanced output stage that guarantees a dynamic range of 119 dB and ensures powerful, clear bass transmission even at the highest levels. Furthermore, this state-of-the-art output stage allows long cable runs of up to 300 m without transmission losses.

The M 150 is primarily designed for orchestral recordings, offering unparalleled realism and detail. Thanks to its unique "directional omnidirectional" polar pattern, outstanding impulse response and gradually increasing sensitivity from 1 kHz, the M 150 is the perfect microphone for DECCA tree recording techniques, including extended surround setups.