Microtech Gefell MT 71S is an active large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a switchable polar pattern, built around Georg Neumann's original M7 capsule with a PVC membrane — technologically identical to the capsules used in the Neumann U47, U48, and M49. The MT 71S is a direct extension of the UMT 70S: it retains the same M7 capsule, transformerless discrete FET amplifier, and historical body design, adding a three-position polar pattern switch (cardioid, figure-eight, omnidirectional) on the rear of the housing. Sensitivity is 22 mV/Pa, self-noise is 12 dBA, and maximum SPL is 140 dB. Hand-built in Gefell, Germany. The satin nickel finish matches the Gefell accessory line in this color, including compatibility with the Rycote INV 7HG MK III suspension and P110 INV 7 pop screen.
M7 capsule and three patterns — range of applications without changing the microphone
The PVC membrane of the M7 capsule is technically demanding to manufacture and represents one of the primary justifications for the MT 71S's price: the material delivers the historically proven openness, natural high-frequency character, and three-dimensional spatial quality that defined the classic Neumann microphone sound for decades. The pattern switch enables cardioid operation (close vocals, solo instruments, rejection of surroundings), figure-eight (M/S recording as the Mid or Side element, stereo dialogue recording, bidirectional interview work), and omni (ambient, choral, and orchestral recording with natural room acoustics). The transformerless FET output delivers low self-noise while preserving the capsule's character without requiring a dedicated tube power supply. The cylindrical steel body with a steel mesh grille maintains the historical Gefell aesthetic with modern manufacturing precision.
MT 71S vs UMT 70S and applications
The only technical difference between the MT 71S and UMT 70S is the addition of the three-position polar pattern switch — the M7 capsule, electronics, body, and all measured parameters are identical. The MT 71S is preferred wherever polar pattern flexibility is a priority: single-microphone sessions covering different sources throughout a day, M/S configurations using one MT 71S as the Side element (figure-eight), choral and orchestral recording in omni with the option to switch to cardioid for close-miking soloists. Matched pairs in Blumlein configuration (two figure-eights at 90 degrees) produce coherent, natural stereo imaging for chamber recording. Primary applications: studio vocals, acoustic instruments, piano, classical guitar, chamber recording, broadcasting. Includes microphone, MH 93.1 clip, and wooden case.
KEY FEATURES
- Active large-diaphragm condenser microphone with M7 capsule and 3 switchable polar patterns
- M7 capsule: single-sided gold-sputtered PVC membrane — same technology as U47, U48, M49
- Pattern switch: cardioid / figure-eight / omni (rear of housing)
- Transformerless discrete FET amplifier — low noise, 48V phantom operation
- Sensitivity: 22 mV/Pa
- Self-noise: 12 dBA
- Maximum SPL: 140 dB at THD below 0.5%
- Frequency response: 40 Hz – 18 kHz
- Cylindrical steel body with steel mesh grille — historical Gefell aesthetic
- Compatible with Rycote INV 7HG MK III and P110 INV 7 pop screen
- Available in factory-matched stereo pairs
- Finish: satin nickel (alternative: dark bronze)
- Hand-built and individually measured in Germany
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Acoustic operating principle: condenser, transformerless, FET
- Polar patterns: cardioid / figure-eight / omni (rear panel switch)
- Capsule: M7, single-sided gold-sputtered PVC membrane
- Frequency response: 40 Hz – 18 kHz
- Sensitivity: 22 mV/Pa (-33 dB re. 1V/Pa)
- Self-noise: 12 dBA (IEC 651)
- Maximum SPL: 140 dB at THD below 0.5%
- Output impedance: 50 ohms
- Recommended load impedance: 1,000 ohms minimum
- Power: 48V phantom (IEC 268-15)
- Dimensions: approximately 160 mm (L) x 50 mm (diameter)
- Weight: approximately 330 g
- Finish: satin nickel (alternative: dark bronze)
