Gefell UM 92.1 S Vintage Microphone  From Gefell

The Gefell UM92.1S is a 'vintage' large-diaphragm multi-pattern tube microphone. It is equipped with the original M7 capsule. This pressure gradient transducer features a dual-membrane, gold evaporated PVC capsule that is still hand-made in the Gefell factory following the 75-year tradition. The Gefell UM92.1S is the choice for those that want the true sound and character of the original Neumann-Gefell UM57 with the added benefit of improved reliability and lower noise. The UM92 exhibits high sensitivity, excellent signal-to-noise ratio and it has the full sound, tube warmth, and character that are favored by singers and soloists.

Design Features

The Gefell UM92.1S is a multi-pattern microphone with switchable back-diaphragm voltage on the power supply for choice of figure-8, cardioid and omni-directional patterns. It is also available in a cardioid-only version called the M92.1S.

As with all Gefell microphones, mechanical and electrical attributes have been optimized for performance. Careful attention to reducing 'vortex' around the mic and capsule is achieved by mounting the M7 capsule on triangulated pedestal. This has the benefit of directing unwanted reflections away from the capsule, reducing comb-filtering and phase disturbance. The smaller housing advantages the user with greater freedom to place the mic in tighter spots while also reducing particle pressure refraction or what is also known as the vortex around the mic.

Following tradition, a natural presence rise provides added clarity and detail 'on-axis', while the 'off-axis' transition is both smooth and musical. The habitual low-frequency proximity effect provides a warm bottom end that is enhanced as the source is brought closer to the diaphragm.

The UM92's internal low-noise vacuum-tube amplifier features a 'time proven' design that employs a high-mu triode valve that has been selected for its warm sonic characteristics and the natural even-order overtones that are only possible from a tube. For long cable runs, a filament voltage stabilizer is built into the microphone that allows distances of up to 100 meters (328feet) without fluctuation.

Using the UM92

The Gefell UM92 comes equipped with the EA92 deluxe elastic suspension to reduce vibration-borne noise from affecting the microphone. The suspension is secured to the base of the microphone by way of the screw-on, machined housing. This allows the UM92 to be positioned at any angle without worry.

The UM92 comes with its own power supply called the UN920. The UN 920 power supply provides the polarization voltage for the capsule as well as DC voltage for the microphone amplifier. The UN920 features a selectable fuse housing that allows both 110V and 220V operation. A front-panel pattern switch allows the user to remotely select the pattern for figure-8, cardioid, or omnidirectional polar response. All connections are made on the rear panel. A 6-pin Tuchel connector and cable, which powers the microphone, is supplied. Output is balanced 3-pin XLR with pin-2 hot as per the AES standard.

The 92.1S microphone is available in choice of multi-pattern (UM92.1S) or cardioid only (M92). May be custom ordered in a dark bronze finish. The complete system includes the UM92.1S or M92.1S mic, UN920.1 power supply, EA92 elastic suspension, C92.1 cable and W92 windscreen. Comes in it's own hand-crafted wood box.

Interpretation

The Gefell UM92 is a hand-made vacuum tube microphone that is ideally suited for voice, instrument and orchestral work for studio, live recording and broadcast. The design has been optimized for minimal disturbance while yielding excellent sensitivity and low noise.

The result is a wonderful mic that retains the unique hand-made character of its predecessors with all the warmth, smoothness and detail that has made the UM92 a 'living' legend. The UM92 is truly a remarkable microphone!