Vintage MGM Studio, legendary Neumann U47 tube microphone and power supply. ...

Description

Vintage MGM Studio, legendary Neumann U47 tube microphone and power supply. The Neumann U47 is considered the "holy grail" of microphones. Introduced by George Neumann in 1949, this microphone satisfied Neumann's ambition to create a mic giving studio engineers the high quality sound they insisted on. The 8 KHz Neumann U47 had a warm, bright, detailed sound that bested then standard RCA ribbon mics in use and enabled the engineers of the day to insert vocals into string arrangements without burying them. As a result, singers also loved the mic. In fact, Frank Sinatra insisted on a Telefunken branded U47 for all his sessions. The multi-pattern technology that has become a standard feature in studio microphones of today, first appeared in the Neumann U47. This was made possible with the use of the dual diaphragm M7 capsule. By altering the polarizing voltage, the two back-to-back cardioid capsules could be combined to create an "Omni pattern" or be used singly for a cardioid pickup. But perhaps the single most important element in producing the distinctive U47 sound was the Telefunken VF-14M pentode vacuum tube; a steel tube originally built for the German army and used in field radios during World War II. The U47 has made its mark on some of the most significant recordings in history. On The Beatle's Rubber Soul, virtually every track was recorded with a Neumann U47. Iconic Beatles producer George Martin has been quoted as saying it is his favorite mic. Frank Sinatra refused to record without his "Telly," and his record label Mercury Records promoted the U47 as its Living Presence microphone, featuring the mic on its record covers. Sound engineer Bill Porter used it exclusively on recordings by Elvis Presley, the Everly Brothers and most of Roy Orbison's hits. Purchased from the legendary MGM 1970 auction, this vintage Neumann U47 microphone SR#4877 comes from the scoring stages of MGM Studios. Includes a wooden mic case, type NG2u power supply SR#104 and cable. The microphone and power supply were completely serviced by David O. Brown, guru of vintage Neumann mics. The mic was upgraded with the Nuvistor tube in the early 1960s. In studio-used, vintage, good working condition. From the collection of Debbie Reynolds.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.