Neumann U47 fet Bon Scott Edition Condenser Microphone

Few microphones have earned a place in both recording history and rock history. The Neumann U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition celebrates one of those rare moments, honoring the microphone that helped define the unmistakable sound of Bon Scott, AC/DC's original frontman, on the band's early recordings. Created to commemorate what would have been Scott's 80th birthday, this strictly limited-edition mic combines the acclaimed performance of Neumann's current-production U 47 fet reissue with exclusive design elements inspired by one of rock's most influential voices. Limited to just 300 microphones worldwide, the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition is both a fully professional studio microphone and an extraordinary collector's piece that celebrates a defining chapter in recording history.

The Sound Behind an Iconic Voice

During the recording of AC/DC's landmark 1977 album Let There Be Rock, producers Harry Vanda and George Young selected the Neumann U 47 fet for its ability to capture Bon Scott's powerful vocal performances while allowing them to cut effortlessly through the band's famously loud guitar-driven mixes. Introduced in 1972 as the solid-state successor to the legendary U 47 tube microphone, the U 47 fet quickly became renowned for its exceptional headroom, authoritative midrange and ability to handle demanding sound sources without sacrificing clarity. That same sonic signature continues today in the current U 47 fet reissue, making this commemorative edition every bit as capable in modern recording sessions as it was during the golden age of rock.

Authentic Neumann Performance

The U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition is technically identical to the current-production U 47 fet reissue, delivering the same trusted sound engineers have relied on for decades. Its FET electronics provide exceptional headroom, allowing the microphone to handle sound pressure levels up to 137dB SPL—or 147dB with the integrated pad engaged—making it an outstanding choice for lead vocals, guitar and bass amplifiers, kick drums and other high-SPL sources. The result is the unmistakable combination of presence, punch and midrange authority that has made the U 47 fet one of the industry's most respected large-diaphragm condenser microphones.

A Collector's Edition Worthy of Rock History

While its performance remains unchanged, the Bon Scott Edition distinguishes itself through a series of exclusive cosmetic and presentation details created specifically for this release. A striking matte black finish is complemented by Bon Scott graphics, his printed name and signature, and a premium black wooden presentation box. Each microphone also includes a commemorative booklet featuring an exclusive interview with producer Harry Vanda, offering a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on the recordings that cemented Bon Scott's legacy. Individually serialized from 80001 through 80300, every microphone represents one of only 300 examples produced worldwide.

A Mic Built for Today's Recording Professionals

Beyond its historical significance, the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition remains a world-class studio microphone built to meet the demands of contemporary recording. Its ability to capture powerful vocals with exceptional detail while maintaining composure on high-SPL sources makes it equally valuable in commercial studios, project studios and professional production environments. Whether recording rock vocals, guitar cabinets, bass amplifiers or percussion, it delivers the same commanding sonic character that has made the U 47 fet a trusted studio standard for more than five decades.

Neumann U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition: Honoring a "High Voltage" Legacy

The Neumann U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition represents more than a limited-production microphone—it celebrates an artist, a sound and an era that helped shape modern rock music. Released in honor of Bon Scott's 80th birthday, this one-time commemorative edition will never be repeated, making it a distinctive offering for engineers, collectors and AC/DC fans alike. As an additional tribute, a portion of proceeds from each microphone will be donated to Support Act Australia, helping provide assistance to artists and music industry professionals in need while preserving the spirit of a musician whose voice continues to inspire generations.

Neumann U47 fet Bon Scott Edition Condenser Microphone: FAQ

What makes the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition different from the standard U 47 fet?

The U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition delivers the same performance and specifications as Neumann's current-production U 47 fet reissue but adds exclusive Bon Scott-inspired cosmetics, a commemorative presentation box, an exclusive booklet and individual serialization as part of a limited production run of 300 microphones worldwide.

What types of recording applications is the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition designed for?

The U 47 fet is widely used for lead vocals, guitar amplifiers, bass cabinets and kick drums. Its high SPL handling, extended headroom and authoritative midrange response make it well suited for demanding studio recording applications.

Why is Bon Scott associated with the U 47 fet microphone?

Bon Scott, AC/DC's original frontman, recorded some of his most celebrated performances using a Neumann U 47 fet. The microphone was selected by producers Harry Vanda and George Young during sessions for classic AC/DC recordings, including the band's 1977 album Let There Be Rock.

Is the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition intended for collectors or working engineers?

Both. While the microphone includes exclusive commemorative features and limited-edition presentation elements, it remains a fully professional U 47 fet reissue suitable for commercial studios, project studios and professional recording environments.