⭕ Vintage Neumann U497 multi-pattern condenser microphone

Custom built in low quantities during the early 1970s for ORTF, the French broadcasting corporation.
They wanted something smoother sounding than the U87.

Technically this mic is like a cross of a U47 fet (with which it shares the K47 capsule), and a U77 because of the fet amplifier and the housing.
Switchable response patterns: cardioid, omni, figure 8.
Switchable -10dB pad.

This mic can be thrown at virtually anything and will shine: Vocals, Bass, Drums, Piano, stringed instruments, you name it.
Full & fat sounding, no issues with sibilance or harsh top end.



This U497 has been thoroughly gone over by Peter Drefahl, one of Germanys most renowned mic techs.
It has been converted to XLR and 48V phantom power and Peter has reskinned the K47 capsule, so its ready to rock for another 20 years.

Neumann U497 serial # 265XX