Neumann u87 mic

The Neumann U87 microphone is a classic in professional recording, renowned for its versatility and exceptional sound quality in studios worldwide.

About this subject

The Neumann U87 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone manufactured by the German company Georg Neumann GmbH, founded in 1928. First released in 1967, the U87 quickly became an industry standard due to its robust construction and balanced frequency response. It uses a dual backplate capsule with two diaphragms, offering three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight. This flexibility makes it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, voice-overs, and even ambient capture.

The U87 features an output transformer that contributes to its characteristic sound, with a slight presence boost in the high frequencies for clarity. The current version, U87 Ai, introduced in 2004, replaced discrete electronics with integrated circuits but retains the same sonic personality. The microphone requires 48V phantom power and includes a -10 dB pad and a high-pass filter to reduce low-frequency noise.

Over decades, the U87 has been used on countless iconic recordings, from Frank Sinatra's vocals to Jimi Hendrix's guitars. It is one of the most copied microphones in the world, with many manufacturers producing designs inspired by it. Its reputation for reliability and natural sound keeps it in professional studios, radio stations, and broadcast facilities, often being the first recommendation for voice recording.

Beyond music, the U87 is widely used in dubbing, podcasts, and live concert instrument capture. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion makes it versatile across genres, from classical to heavy metal. The model's longevity reflects Neumann's commitment to quality and innovation in acoustic engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the original Neumann U87 and the U87 Ai?

The U87 Ai is the updated version released in 2004, replacing discrete components with integrated circuits (SMD), resulting in lower noise and better unit consistency. The sound is very close to the original, though some purists prefer the older model's character.

Does the Neumann U87 require phantom power?

Yes, the U87 is a condenser microphone that requires 48V phantom power to operate. Without it, the microphone will not produce any sound.

How much does a Neumann U87 microphone cost?

The price of a Neumann U87 Ai is around $3,000 to $3,500 USD, varying by retailer. It is a significant investment but considered one of the best studio microphones on the market.