The Neumann M 249 is a large diaphragm tube condenser microphone with remote pattern control on the power supply. Unlike the U 47, the M 249 maintains equal sensitivity and output level across all patterns thanks to a change in polarization voltage circuitry. Both sides of the capsule are always connected, and voltage between the two halves is altered depending on the position of the pattern control.

The M 249 used the PVC M7 capsule and later, the Mylar K47/K49. The tube is a subminiature Telefunken AC701k.

The M 249, released in 1961, is the "broadcast" version of the M49. It is identical to the M 49 in every way except for the output connector.