[jjblair]

Two radically different mics. However, the M149 is not really what you would consider a tube mic, where the Manley is. The M149 has a tube, but its function is as a flavorizer in a transformerless circuit that uses an IC! The Manley uses a real plate loaded tube circuit and a transformer.

The Manley is very much in the style of the C12, and like a C12, is not right for everything. But if you have a sources that wants open highs and brightness, it's freaking gorgeous.

The M149 sorta lives in the world of things that a U47 works on, but without sounding anywhere as good as a vintage Neumann. They are an OK mic for around $2,500, but are otherwise a complete rip off, if you look under the hood and see what's there. As sad example of Neumann trying to save as much money as possible on build costs, then getting people to spend more money than the product is worth, because of the look and the badge.