The first remote-switchable mic — and the first to betray omnidirectional mode with proximity effect.
The Neumann M 49 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone developed at the NWDR’s Central Laboratory in Hamburg. It entered German broadcasting studios in 1952. It was the world’s first microphone with a remotely switchable polar pattern. Its pressure-gradient capsule causes proximity effect even in omnidirectional mode.
It was the world’s first microphone with remote polar pattern switching.
4:13
When did it go live?
It entered German broadcasting studios in 1952.
5:54
What does its capsule force you to accept?
It exhibits proximity effect even in omnidirectional mode.
Worth your time?
Yes. Use the whole thing.
3.5/ 5
What works
audio/microphones-and-preamps
audio/studio-and-recording
audio/studio
What does not
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audio/dj-gear
audio/effects-and-pedals
audio/guitars-and-amps
Use it if
audio/microphones-and-preaps
Skip it if
audio/headphones-and-hi-fi
audio/keyboards-and-organs
audio/synths-and-drum-machines
The written brief1 min read
What it is and what it was built for
The Neumann M 49 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone built for German broadcasting studios. It was developed to give engineers real-time control over pickup pattern without touching the mic.
How it works, in terms a player would use
It uses a pressure-gradient capsule. A remote control switches polar patterns. Proximity effect occurs even in omnidirectional mode.
What it does better than anything else
It does better than any predecessor at letting engineers switch polar patterns remotely during a session.
What it does badly
It does badly at delivering true omnidirectional response. Its pressure-gradient design forces proximity effect regardless of pattern setting.
What people made with it
German broadcasting studios used it from 1952 onward. No other use or user is documented.
Who should use it, and who should not
Broadcast engineers working with vintage signal chains should consider it. Modern users seeking neutral omnidirectional capture should not.
Is it worth your time
It is worth your time only if you need a historically significant large-diaphragm condenser with remote pattern switching and can accept its atypical omnidirectional behaviour.
