Telefunken / Neumann M49b 1962-1963 with original Power Supply

A genuine piece of studio history: this is an original early-1960s Neumann M49b, badged and distributed under the Telefunken name. The M49 is one of the most legendary multi-pattern tube microphones ever made — Neumann only produced around 2,500 units across its entire 20-year run, and it’s the mic behind vocal and instrument recordings by artists like Miles Davis, Barbra Streisand, and Simon & Garfunkel. Finding a well-preserved example with its original matching power supply is increasingly rare.

Condition

This microphone is in very good condition for its age, with no signs of abuse or amateur modification. It presents as an honest, well-cared-for original — exactly what you want in a 60+ year old tube mic.

The Microphone was recently tested by Eckehard Dux at the legendary Voxorama Microphone workshop in Hohen Neuendorf near Berlin, Germany (basically the best vintage Neumann workshop in the world).

Specs & Originality

• Model: Neumann M49b (Telefunken badge)

• Capsule: K49 (Mylar/polyester diaphragm — acoustically near-identical to the K47 used in the U47)

• Tube: Telefunken AC701 subminiature triode, purpose-built for microphone use

• Output transformer: Neumann BV11 — introduced with the “b” revision for lower distortion and increased sensitivity

• Polar pattern: continuously variable from omni through cardioid to figure-8, remote-controlled via the power supply

• b-revision features: internal switch for fixed-cardioid operation (improves signal-to-noise by ~3dB), built-in low-cut circuit

• Connector: original large 8-pin bayonet type

• Power supply: included, and is the original Telefunken-branded PSU — not a modern reproduction or substitute

Why It Matters

Original M49/M49b units in honest condition, especially with their correct period power supply, are becoming harder to find. This isn’t a reissue or a modern tribute — it’s the real, vintage circuit: the AC701 tube, K49 capsule, and BV11 transformer combination that gave the M49 its reputation as one of the most musical and versatile tube mics ever built.

Included

• Neumann M49b microphone (Telefunken badge)

• Original Telefunken power supply

• Original Stand mount with cable to power supply

• Original Cable from power supply to XLR