NEUMANN USA TLM 49

Apr 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By Myles Boisen

Easy Listening

During the review period, I used the TLM 49 on a wide variety of sources and never once felt compelled to change it. Overall, Neumann's new model sounded remarkably natural, conveying exceptionally smooth high-end clarity and plenty of tone.

Normally I wouldn't compare tube and solid-state transducers in a review, except to illustrate a point. And in the case of the TLM 49, the point is that regardless of whatever electronic magic Neumann has concocted, this mic can indeed hold its own alongside top-dollar tube mics on revealing sources such as vocals and saxes.

That's not to suggest that the TLM 49 is capable of replicating the quirks or coloration of an old tube mic. Rather, the TLM 49's major strength — though it is undeniably warm and easy on the ears — is a realism that makes it as versatile as it is sweet sounding. Contributing factors in this mic's stellar performance include ultraclean electronics, excellent specs, good off-axis rejection, and neutral off-axis pickup.

My only gripe with the TLM 49 package is that a wooden case is not included. For those like me who are hooked on the old-fashioned Neumann touches, an M 149 case is a perfect fit and still available as an optional accessory for $195. Of course, the included shockmount is an attractive bonus and arguably more useful than a fancy box for those who have to keep an eye on the bottom line.

Despite (or perhaps because of) all the quality-oriented small microphone companies nipping at its heels, Neumann is still finding new and exciting ways to improve microphone technology. Its TLM 49 is a winner, and I expect to be raving about it for a long time.

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Myles Boisen transduces frequently at Guerrilla Recording and the Headless Buddha Mastering Lab in Oakland, California.

GUIDE TO EM METERS

5 = Amazing; as good as it gets with current technology

4 = Clearly above average; very desirable

3 = Good; meets expectations

2 = Somewhat disappointing but usable

1 = Unacceptably flawed

Specifications tables for EM reviews can be found at www.emusician.com/specs.

PRODUCT SUMMARY

NEUMANN USA
TLM 49
large-diaphragm microphone
$1,699

AUDIO QUALITY	5
VALUE	4

RATING PRODUCTS FROM 1 TO 5

PROS: Warm sound without exaggerated presence. Excellent specs. Suspension shockmount included. Vintage styling. Consistency of the unmatched pair was sufficient to allow for critical stereo recording.

CONS: Comes in a cardboard box instead of a wooden case.

MANUFACTURER

Neumann USA/Sennheiser
Electronic Corp. (distributor)
www.neumannusa.com