Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (49)
$1,695.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (7)
$1,995.00
Amazon
4.0 (23)
$1,586.32
Reverb
5.0 (15)
$1,475.41 New
$879.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (11)
$1,995.00
B&H
5.0 (5)
$1,695.00 $1,586.32 $108.68 · All time low
Thomann
4.9 (92)
$1,555.00
Gear4Music
£1,456.37
Vintage King
$1,995.00

Average Price: $1,640

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Neumann TLM 49". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone is a nod to the classic vintage mics of the 1950s, engineered with modern technology for the 21st-century musician. This large-diaphragm condenser microphone is a tribute to Neumann's iconic M 49 and M 50 mics, combining a distinctive retro design with state-of-the-art transformerless technology. It's perfect for professionals and hobbyists alike, and it's especially suitable for vocal and instrumental recording in both professional studios and home setups.

The TLM 49 is powered by the same K 47 capsule used in the legendary M 49 and U 47 mics, providing a warm, natural sound with a gentle presence boost above 2 kHz. This gives your vocal recordings added clarity and nuance. With its large diaphragm and cardioid polar pattern, this microphone is built to capture every detail of your performance with stunning realism.

This microphone isn't just about delivering excellent sound quality. It's also built to withstand the demanding environments of a recording studio. The TLM 49's internal elastic suspension prevents the transmission of vibration noise, ensuring that your recordings are as clear and clean as possible. Plus, its transformerless circuitry offers pristine signal integrity and a dynamic range of 102 dB, letting you capture every nuance of your performance.

Key Features:

  • Large-diaphragm condenser studio microphone
  • Inspired by Neumann's iconic M 49 and M 50 mics from the 1950s
  • Features the same K 47 capsule used in the M 49 and U 47 mics
  • Provides a warm, natural sound with a gentle presence boost above 2 kHz
  • Tailored for vocal performances
  • Internal elastic suspension for preventing transmission of vibration noise
  • Transformerless circuitry for pristine signal integrity
  • Dynamic range of 102 dB
  • Comes with an EA 3 elastic suspension mount for isolation from structure-borne noise
  • Maximum SPL of 129 dB for handling high sound pressure levels
  • Requires +48V phantom power

Owner's manual

Neumann TLM 49 User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL 114dB
Output Impedance 50 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio 71dB, 82dB (A weighted)
Self Noise 23dB, 12dB (A weighted)
Connector XLR
Weight 1.82 lbs.
Included Accessories Shock Mount

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone?

The Neumann TLM 49 is primarily designed for vocal recording, offering a smooth, warm sound that's ideal for capturing the nuances of a singer's voice. It's also versatile enough for use with acoustic instruments like guitars and basses due to its clear bass and midrange response.

What kind of polar pattern does the Neumann TLM 49 have?

The Neumann TLM 49 features a cardioid polar pattern, which is excellent for isolating the sound source and minimizing background noise, making it ideal for studio environments where precise vocal capture is necessary.

Does the Neumann TLM 49 require a specific type of connection?

Yes, the Neumann TLM 49 uses an XLR connector, which is standard for professional studio microphones, ensuring a secure and high-quality audio connection.

How does the Neumann TLM 49 handle high sound pressure levels?

The Neumann TLM 49 can handle a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 114dB, making it suitable for capturing loud vocal performances and dynamic instruments without distortion.

What accessories are included with the Neumann TLM 49?

The Neumann TLM 49 comes with a shock mount, which helps reduce mechanical noise and vibrations during recording, ensuring clean and focused audio capture.

Vintage King

Vintage King

Neumann Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Shootout | Vintage King

Video thumbnail for Neumann Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Shootout | Vintage King by Vintage King

Neumann Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Shootout | Vintage King

Vintage King

Vintage King

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM49 Mic Review / Test (vs. AT2020, LCT240, NT1, TLM102, TLM103, U87 Ai) by Podcastage

Neumann TLM49 Mic Review / Test (vs. AT2020, LCT240, NT1, TLM102, TLM103, U87 Ai)

Podcastage

Podcastage

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM 49 vs TLM 103 rap vocal by CLEAN MUD VIDEOS

Neumann TLM 49 vs TLM 103 rap vocal

CLEAN MUD VIDEOS

CLEAN MUD VIDEOS

Video thumbnail for Testing Neumann TLM 49 Mic: Rap, Sing, Guitar Sound Review by Kelli

Testing Neumann TLM 49 Mic: Rap, Sing, Guitar Sound Review

Kelli

Kelli

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone Review by Guitar Center

Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone Review

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM 49 Vocal Condenser Microphone - Neumann TLM49 by American Musical Supply

Neumann TLM 49 Vocal Condenser Microphone - Neumann TLM49

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Neumann TLM 49 - Vocal Demo by Anthemic Recordings

Neumann TLM 49 - Vocal Demo

Anthemic Recordings

Anthemic Recordings

Video thumbnail for The Neumann TLM 49 Microphone by Georg Neumann GmbH

The Neumann TLM 49 Microphone

Georg Neumann GmbH

Georg Neumann GmbH

Video thumbnail for zZounds.com: Neumann TLM49 Cardioid Condenser Microphone by zZounds

zZounds.com: Neumann TLM49 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

zZounds

zZounds

Reviews

PROS

  • Adds depth and warmth to recordings

  • Excels with a variety of instruments and vocals

  • Creates harmonic distortion at higher SPLs for a vintage sound

  • Complements hip hop and spoken word vocals exceptionally

  • Pairs well with high-quality preamps for superior sound

  • Rich, detailed sound with minimal EQ needed

  • Controls sibilance effectively

  • Noticeably better than lower-priced microphones

  • Silky and smooth high-end sound

  • Slightly finished sound on vocals, cuts through mix

CONS

  • Expensive investment

  • Shock mount may not hold the microphone well

  • Output level lower than some other condenser mics

  • Lacks some low-end response

  • Limited to cardioid pattern, lacks versatility

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann TLM 49.

Setup and maintenance

  • Use an XLR to XLR cable for the TLM 49 to ensure phantom power transmission; XLR to TRS won't work.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Adding a Cloudlifter can enhance headroom, though it's not essential for the TLM 49.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Focusrite interfaces may mistakenly plug into line inputs; ensure correct input selection for optimal performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The TLM 49 is described as smoother and less brittle than the TLM 103, making it more suitable for singer-songwriter applications.

    Source
  • The TLM 49 is favored over the TLM 103, with the latter being criticized for its overly bright sound profile.

    Source
  • Some users suggest an AKG 414 B ULS, known for its built-in transformer, as a strong alternative, especially for vocal recording.

    Source
  • The WA47f is recommended for its wide use case applicability and strong bass response, providing an alternative to the TLM 49 for varied recording needs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The TLM 49 is recommended for singer-songwriter genres, whereas Mojave mics like the MA-201/301 are suggested for rap due to their tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • The Neumann TLM 49 may highlight room deficiencies due to its high sensitivity, making it less ideal for untreated spaces.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The TLM 49 excels in capturing nuance, detail, warmth, and resonance, qualities that dynamic mics like the SM7B may lack.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that condenser mics like the TLM 49 provide clearer recordings compared to dynamics, crucial for capturing intricate vocal performances.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
rcachina

A quality made microphone with a finished sounding output

I've owned this TLM49 since 2007. I've used it mostly on my voice and it works very well. I tend to get a slightly finished sound with this mic. A slight mid EQ adjustment and some dialed in HF and it cuts through my mix. I mainly use this mic on voice which is what is designed for. Opinions are subjective so you need to try it yourself. At the same time, I suggest that you ignore all the abrasive complaints against this microphone. I've heard crazy complaints about this and several other mics (especially Neumann's). It makes me wonder if people know what they are talking about... what signal chain did they use? What kind of vocal? What were they looking for? I've used the TLM 49 going through several analog pre-amps as well as directly into my Apogee and it has worked flawlessly for me. So give it try as you would any other microphone. You may see that it's rather underrated as I do.

jimmarchi1

not good, not bad... wish it had a figure 8 or omni mode for the money

not my favorite neumann… makes a good mono room mic for softer music though... needs an omni or figure 8 to be truly useful

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Homme uses Neumann TLM 49

Josh Homme

Guitarist

Kyuss

...
Verified via Soundonsound

"One of the most successful vocal combinations for the Joshua Tree sessions was a Neumann TLM149 close up," mentions Josh Homme in regards to the Neuman TLM149 Tube Mic, part of his studio equipment setup.

See how Paul McCartney uses Neumann TLM 49

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

Paul McCartney uses the Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone, as detailed in the Hog Hill Mill Blog's post titled "Consoles & Preamps."

See how Jon Bellion uses Neumann TLM 49

Jon Bellion

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via YouTube

This can be seen throughout the video but most prominently at 6:17.

See how Alex Aiono uses Neumann TLM 49

Alex Aiono

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Attention by Charlie Puth | Alex Aiono and Sabrina Carpenter Cover," Alex Aiono appears to be using a Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone, identifiable by its distinctive size and shape.

See how Juice WRLD uses Neumann TLM 49

Juice WRLD

Rapper

...
Verified via YouTube

Juice WRLD Recording "Scared Of Love" in the Studio with the TLM 49

See how Lil Wayne uses Neumann TLM 49

Lil Wayne

Rapper

Young Money

...
Verified

Lil Wayne is depicted using the Neumann TLM 49 microphone while recording a song, as evidenced by the image provided.

See how Jonathan Davis uses Neumann TLM 49

Jonathan Davis

Singer, Guitarist

Korn

...
Verified via EMusician

In an article by EMusician titled "Frank Talk from Filipetti," it is mentioned that Jonathan Davis used a Neumann M 49 microphone on a previous record.

See how Till Lindemann uses Neumann TLM 49

Till Lindemann

Singer

Rammstein

...
Verified via Rammsteinworld

Till Lindemann uses the Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone during studio recordings, as detailed on Rammstein World.

See how Lil Uzi Vert uses Neumann TLM 49

Lil Uzi Vert

Rapper

Rich Gang

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo Lil Uzi Vert can be seen using the TLM 49

See how NF uses Neumann TLM 49

NF

Rapper

...
Verified via Photo

Nate posted a picture on Instagram of a Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone.

See how T.I. uses Neumann TLM 49

T.I.

Rapper, Music Producer

Hustle Gang

...
Verified via YouTube

In the studio session video "Juelz Santana & T.I. - Crown Me (Life In Studio)" by SaddyDaddy on YouTube, T.I. is seen using the Neumann TLM 49 Condenser Studio Microphone.

See how Alanis Morissette uses Neumann TLM 49

Alanis Morissette

Singer, Guitarist

ArtistsCAN

...
Verified via EMusician

"But [songwriter and producer Glen] Ballard’s latest project, an acoustic re-recording of Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill required techniques a bit more delicate. Ballard’s collaboration with Ms. Ironic on the original was both artists’ biggest commercial success, and they commemorated the albums’ 10th anniversary by revisiting the songs unplugged.

The acoustic instruments were captured at Westlake Audio Studios (where Ballard once jammed on the synth of Michael Jackson’s Bad) with his cherished standbys — a vintage [AKG] D12, and a trio of Neumann mics — a 49, 47, and 67. These went through outboard Neve 1073 preamp, a classic Neve BCM-10 'sidecar' console."

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Neumann TLM 49, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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2
Avid Pro Tools
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2
AMS Neve 1073
AMS Neve 1073 Preamps & Channel Strips
2

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