Microtech Gefell UM900 "Phantom" Microphone

The Tec Award nominated Microtech Gefell UM900 "Phantom" is a low-noise large diaphragm vacuum tube microphone with five selectable polar patterns that only requires 48V phantom for its operation. The distinctive appearance incorporates form and function, combined with a state-of-the art internal preamplifier for exceptional dynamics and detail. The result is a wonderful studio mic that is both easy to use and extremely flexible in operation, while retaining the warmth and smoothness that is associated with a vintage tube mic.

The Microtech Gefell UM900 is a masterpiece of form and function. It is the only studio tube microphone to employ 48V phantom power as its power source. This unique combination of large diaphragm tube sound and phantom powering provide unmatched placement flexibility for recording, broadcast and live sound.

The eye of the UM900 is the M7 dual membrane 1-inch, 24-karat gold evaporated capsule. Hand made using a PVC substrate, the Microtech Gefell M7 continues to set the standard for clarity, detail and reach that is still unrivaled. The capsule is mounted on a triangulated pedestal behind a large 75mm head-grill. The side address grill differs from the usual cylinder or wedge-shaped design, which results in less field disruption while allowing the user to take full advantage of the proximity effect to enhance the voice. The UM900's distinctive bottle-top look is augmented with a carefully sculpted body that deflects unwanted refraction's away from the capsule. This reduces phase cancellation and comb-filtering, which yields greater detail at the capsule. Internal dampening reduces vibration borne noise further optimizes performance.

The heart of this microphone is a miniature hearing-aid audio tube and its unique phantom powering system. Using proprietary circuitry, an internal switching power supply generates voltages for the tube's plate and filament as well as the capsule polarizing voltage. Unlike traditional tube microphones, the UM900 Phantom does not require an external power supply box or multi-pair cable. At less than 4-milliamp draw, all that is required is the typical 48V phantom from any console or preamp.

The Microtech Gefell UM900 features three onboard control switches. At the front, a pattern selector switch offers choice of omnidirectional, wide-cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-8. Two additional control switches located at 120º off each side are used to control gain (-10dB, 0db and +4dB) and low-frequency roll-off (-10dB @70Hz). The unique +4dB gain setting works with the cardioid pattern to provide additional reach in studio or live environments.

At better than 114dB dynamic range, and 140dB sound pressure handling, the UM900 is equally suitable for voice or soloing. Set back, the UM900 will astound the user for orchestral works and with the UM900's exceptionally low self-noise, it is truly ready for the greater demands imposed in the world of 24bit-96kHz recording.

Hookup is easy! Because the Phantom does not require a special power supply, the UM900 offers greater freedom in the studio or on stages. In fact, the transformer coupled balanced output allows the mic to be placed at distances of 450 feet without affecting the sound quality.

The UM900 may be factory ordered with choice of side mounted half-moon 130º swivel adapter, deluxe elastic suspension or with a compact swivel mount. The half-moon incorporates isolation mounting while providing the user with the advantage of angling the mic towards the source. This factory-installed option provides maximum placement flexibility. The EA92 elastic suspension provides additional damping of external noise caused by vibration and is affixed via the machined base in the usual Microtech Gefell fashion. A swivel mount option is also provide for those that already have a compatible shock-mount or for mounting on stereo bar, Decca-tree, and so on.

The Microtech Gefell M900 is available in an elegant satin nickel finish and may be special ordered in a dark bronze for reduced visibility requirements of television broadcast. A beautifully crafted limited edition custom 14-karat bright gold finish is also available. All mics come shipped in a beautifully crafted wood storage case.

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