M-149 versus?

[DougP]

I know this topic has been discussed before however, has anyone got some input. Which mics if any compare to the M 149 cause I gotta say it is amazing. Any that come close for less dough? Living in a small market there just is not the selection to try out. Any input would be welcome. Thanks.

[Tweakhead]

The Neumann M147 uses the same capsule as the M149 but omits the ability to select patterns and filters. It only has cardioid.

It sounds VERY good and is less than half the price.

[Lee Blaske]

Not exactly true.

The M 147 uses a K 47 capsule. The M 149 uses a K 49 capsule which is a higher quality capsule selected from the cream of the crop of K 47 capsules (according to Neumann).

Lee Blaske

[Tweakhead]

Oh Good !

I actually own a M149 so that makes me happy !!!! It's nice to know the extra few thousand were worth it, even tho my ears already told me so.

The M147 is pretty good tho. I have recorded several vocals with it and it is definitely in the upper league of mics, so for someone whose budget is tight it would make for a good choice.

[Jonny Atack]

I started a long thread about this about 9 months back (Warmer vocals to ProTools).

The M149...amazing for what source? For some female vocals, yes, though I'd prefer a Sony 800G or a C12. For male vocals, no. As a luxury mic for spoken word, room ambiance, percussions, why not. Before buying the M149, I'd recommend looking into the Brauner VM-1 and the new Soundelux 251 re-issue.

A 147 sounds very little like a 149. Less hot, less highs, less detail. I'd take a U87 over a 147 anyday.

Jon

[Krubb]

I pretty like my 147 on many things, though it ain't THE ultimate mic for my taste.
I am awaiting delivery this week for the BLUE Bottle mic with both the C12 (B6)style capsule and the U47(B7) one. I might keep both.I will post impressions here compared to the TLM103 , AKG 414EB(silver) and the M147.

[MMazurek]

Has anyone done a side by side with a Lawson L47MP.
It's a variable pattern tube mic that's supposed to have a vintage Neuman feel.
Under $2k factory direct.
I'm waiting delivery, but do not have the other mics to compare it to...

[knewbee]

I got the Lawson L47 as a complement to my U87, to try and get the elusive U47 thing happening. It's a really beautiful mic for certain things. I haven't had a chance to completely put it through it's paces. The jury is still out on how well it handles loud, male, rock vocals, but for quieter stuff, and acoustic guitar etc. it's amazing. Needs almost no eq in the mix. I'd still certainly pick the U87 as my keeper mic if forced to make a choice.
And I've never actually used a U47, only heard 'em, so I don't know how the L47 would compare in an A/B. Anyone else...?

[microphone]

I own both a Lawson and a M149.
Both are top of the line mic's, different flavors. The Lawson is more mid-rangy, very like a u47. I would not sell either. If budget is a starting concern. Get a Lawson.

[Studio Dweller]

"The M149...amazing for what source? For some female vocals, yes, though I'd prefer a Sony 800G or a C12. For male vocals, no."

Funny, I've had the exact opposite experience. I own an M149 and I'm yet to use it on female vocals. I actually prefer the TLM 103 for females and I've had some incredible results with the 149 on males. Every voice is different and a mic that's magic on one is crap on another. Gotta have a few in the cabinet.

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Larry Bentley
Cellar Dweller Productions
www.cellardweller.com