Neumann pays tribute to Bon Scott with a special edition of the legendary U 47 fet

Neumann introduces the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition, a strictly limited special edition of one of the most iconic studio microphones in recording history.

Created in partnership with the Bon Scott Estate, this exclusive release pays tribute to Bon Scott, the electrifying frontman of AC/DC, and to the microphone that captured the raw energy and unmistakable character of his voice on some of rock’s most influential recordings.

Based on the current U 47 fet reissue, the Bon Scott Edition combines the unmistakable sound of a true studio classic with striking aesthetics and a premium presentation designed for collectors. Limited to just 300 units worldwide, it is both a world-class recording tool and a tribute to one of the defining eras of rock music.

Where rock history found its voice

In the 1970s, producers Harry Vanda and George Young needed a microphone capable of keeping up with Bon Scott’s explosive vocal style: powerful, gritty, and full of attitude. Their choice was the Neumann U 47 fet.

Thanks to its extraordinary headroom and signature midrange presence, the U 47 fet became the cornerstone of Scott’s vocal sound on AC/DC’s early albums, including Let There Be Rock. It captured not only the power of his performances but also his personality, allowing his voice to cut through thunderous guitars without losing any of its edge.

As Harry Vanda recalls, the microphone allowed Bon’s voice to "sit best with the guitars", delivering the sound that would help define an entire genre.

A studio legend turned modern classic

Introduced in 1972 as the solid-state successor to the legendary tube-based U 47, the U 47 fet quickly earned a reputation as the microphone of choice for loud and demanding sound sources. Its FET design provided remarkable headroom while preserving the tonal authority that made the U 47 family legendary.

Since returning to production in 2014, the U 47 fet has remained a trusted choice for engineers around the world, equally at home on vocals, amplifiers, and drums.

The Bon Scott Edition fully preserves this legacy, offering exactly the same sound and performance as the current U 47 fet reissue, with the punch, clarity, and character that have made it an indispensable studio microphone.

A collector’s piece with attitude

The Bon Scott Edition gives this legendary microphone a distinctive visual identity that celebrates its connection to rock history:

• - Matte black finish with striking Bon Scott-inspired graphics.
• - Bon Scott’s name and signature engraved on the microphone body.
• - Exclusive black wooden presentation box.
• - Collector’s booklet featuring an interview with producer Harry Vanda.

Each unit is individually numbered, underscoring its exclusivity and collectible value.

Built for power and presence

Designed for the most demanding recording environments, the U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition handles sound pressure levels of up to 137 dB SPL (147 dB with the pad engaged), making it ideal for:

• - Powerful, high-energy vocals.
• - Guitar and bass amplifiers.
• - Kick drums and other high-impact sound sources.

Its unmistakable midrange authority and enormous headroom make it the perfect choice whenever sound needs to hit hard and cut through the mix.

Supporting the music community

As part of its commitment to supporting the music community, Neumann and Bon Scott’s family will donate a portion of the proceeds from this edition to Support Act Australia, an organization that helps artists and music industry professionals in need.

Availability

• - The U 47 fet Bon Scott Edition will be released on July 9, 2026, marking what would have been Bon Scott’s 80th birthday.
• - In Europe and Asia, it will be available through selected dealers.
• - In North and South America, it will be sold exclusively through Sweetwater and Guitar Center.

With only 300 units available worldwide, this special edition is set to become an instant classic.