AudioBanter.com - View Single Post - Why does one Neumann M49 has less high end than the other? Can I fix it?

(Mike Rivers) wrote in message news:znr1059249325k@trad...
In article writes:

We are talking about 8db in level less than the other.

That's a significant level difference. I don't know if there are any
jumpers to select the output level/impedance (I'd expect them to be in
the power supply) in the M49, but if there are, that could explain a
difference on that order. Have you tried comparing the mics when
connected to the same power supply (not at the same time, of course)?
That might tell you whether the difference is in the microphone
assembly or the power supply.

And I found that if I boost 15kHz (bell) by 3-4db on an G SSL EQ (HMF x3) I
get a similar sound.

That's a substantial boost, but out where the mic's response starts to
drop off. Still, I'd be concerned.

Have you mentioned this to your dealer? What does he have to say?

The output impeadance links are on the op transformer in the mic.
The option is 50 or 200 ohms. The 200 ohm option will give a higher
output into most modern preamps. The 50 ohm link is intended for use
with long mic cables. The responce difference could be due to the
capsule ageing . I believe the early capsules were made with pvc
diaphagms that will dry out with age causing the HF resonance to rise.
This is partly what gives vintage mics their sound. It is rare to find
two vintage mics that sound the same. It is not uncommon for rental
users to specify a particular vintage mic.
Steve Lane