Last week I covered a brief history of the Neumann M49 microphone. I introduced the modern Flea 49, and spoke on some of the similarities and differences between the two microphones physical attributes. If you have not read that review, go back and read it before continuing on.

This week we have the priveledge of checking out the sonic characteristics of a vintage M49 vs the modern Flea 49.  Before I begin, I should mention that these mics were part of a much larger shootout. Each mic was recorded individually, which means the position of the performer, the position of the capsule, and the actual performance will differ slightly on each take. The purpose of this article is to gain an understanding of how a clone compares to an original, but in no way is this a proper A/B test.

The Microphones were recorded through a Chandler Limited LTD-1 preamp into a Burl B2 Bomber ADC into Pro Tools 10HD through an HD I/O interface. The original recordings are 24 bit/ 192 kHz. I am using the original recordings for my listening test, but you will be using an export at 24bit/ 48kHz (soundcloud would not upload 192). On this particular test, I was not part of the recording, I was nearly a curious bystander; therefore, I did not make any decisions on what gear to use, or where the mics should be placed.

Disclaimers aside, let’s take a listen! Nuemann M49 vs. Flea 49

Flea 49

I found there to be a distinct low/mid character to the M49, that seems to be lacking in the Flea. In particular, this ‘character’ lies somewhere in the 100- 300Hz range. Listen to the vocal sample and pay close attention to the words “high” and the first instance of “feel”. The low/mid character really adds to the overall tone of the microphone, it gives the M49 a big full sound. On the other end of the spectrum, I hear a beautiful airiness in the top end. However; the M49 is not a bright microphone, it is smooth with a wonderful sounding mid range. When I listen to the M49 I think of singers like Nora Jones, and say to myself Ah ha! this is that sound! The sound of a vintage M49 truly is a familiar sound, a sound and tone we have heard on countless classic records.

My first impression of the Flea was, “Wow! This is a modern microphone that captures the essence of a vintage M49 and sounds fantastic!”. That being said there are a few distinct differences between the two microphones. First, as mentioned above, the M49 captures a magical low/mid character the Flea just cannot recreate. Second, the Flea sounds much more open than the M49. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but it is a difference. Third, and finally, in my opinion the M49 has a smoother mid range. From past experience using the Flea 49, I have found that driving the microphone hard with a high SPL with cause a small amount of internal distortion. The distortion gives a cool harmonic tone to the instrument or voice- but sometimes, when not desired, this can be a bad thing.

In conclusion, both of these microphones sound fantastic. Each contain slight differences which may be desired for certain musical styles.

Listen to the samples and form your own opinion. Tell me what you think! What is your favorite?

Until next week,

Jordan Silva