UM 57

Common name: Microtech Gefell UM 57

Production Status: Discontinued / Vintage

The UM 57 is a large diaphragm multi pattern tube condenser microphone equipped with a EC92 vacuum tube and output transformer. It was first shown at the Leipzig spring fair in February 1958. It uses a classic M 7 capsule with a single brass back-plate and dual gold plated PVC diaphragms. The omnidirectional, cardioid and figure of eight polar patterns can be selected via the power supply. The microphone is ideal for recording solo vocals, background vocals, acoustic guitars, percussion, strings and upright basses as well as an ambience microphone. It is usually powered by a UN 57 power supply unit with polar pattern switching control. It can also be powered by the UN 61 (cardioid only no pattern selection), UN 61 V with built in transistor preamplifier (Verstarker, not the best choice) or UN 64 (with polar pattern selection in cassette rack format). Uses C 57 cable. MH 53 and TS 58 microphone holders were available.

Electrical Characteristics

Frequency Response
40Hz - 18 kHz
Output Sensitivity
15 mV/Pa
Max SPL
120
Max SPL, THD:
0.5
Self Noise (CCIR)
25 dB
Self Noise (DIN/IEC)
17 dB-A
Output Impedance
200Ω
Recommended Load
1kΩ
Powering
Proprietary unit
Supply Current
mA
Alternative Powering
Tube Model
EC 92
Tube Brand
Nehaus

Switchable Options

Pad
Filter/EQ

Physical Characteristics

Connector
Neumann Gefell NS 87 6-pin male
Connector notes
Available Colours
Hammered Grey
Weight
430 g
Length
190 mm
Min diameter width
Max diameter
42 mm
Depth

Accessories

Included
UM 57 power supply. C 57 microphone cable.
Optional
MH 43 or TS 58 microphone holder.