Neumann U 87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone (Studio Set)

Product details

The Neumann U87 is a legendary condenser microphone that has become a staple in professional recording studios around the world. Here are the key features and specifications of the Neumann U87:

1. Three Polar Patterns: The U87 offers three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This versatility allows for a wide range of recording techniques and applications, whether you need to focus on a single sound source, capture ambient room sound, or record in a stereo configuration.

2. Large Diaphragm Condenser: The U87 features a large-diaphragm condenser capsule, which contributes to its excellent sensitivity and ability to capture sound with precise detail and clarity. The large diaphragm also helps in achieving a smooth frequency response across the entire audible spectrum.

3. Transformer-Coupled Output: The microphone employs a transformer-coupled output stage, which adds a unique character to the sound by imparting warmth and depth. The transformer helps to enhance the low-frequency response and provide a desirable coloration to the audio.

4. Switchable Low-Cut Filter and Pad: The U87 includes a switchable low-cut filter that reduces the impact of low-frequency rumble and handling noise. It also features a switchable pad that attenuates the microphone's sensitivity, allowing it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

5. Wide Frequency Response: The U87 has a frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, capturing a broad spectrum of frequencies with accuracy and detail.

6. Phantom Power: The microphone requires +48V phantom power, which is a standard feature available on most audio interfaces, mixers, and preamps.

7. Build Quality and Design: The U87 has a robust and durable construction, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. Its distinctive large grille and sleek body design are instantly recognizable and have become iconic in the recording industry.

8. Accessories: The U87 typically comes with a shock mount for isolating the microphone from vibrations and a protective carrying case. Optional accessories, such as pop filters and different shock mounts, are also available.

The Neumann U87 is highly regarded for its exceptional audio quality, versatility, and reliability. It has been a go-to choice for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, voice-overs, podcasts, and various other applications where capturing pristine sound is crucial

THE GOLD STANDARD

The Neumann U 87 Ai is probably the best-known and most frequently used studio microphone the world over. Its smooth and refined sound is as iconic as its elegant exterior design. The U 87 Ai is the standard microphone for speech and vocals. Three polar patterns plus pad and low cut options make it adaptable to a wide range of applications.

OMNIPRESENT YET UNIQUE

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a true legend. Introduced in 1967, it has shaped the sound of countless hit records for the past 50 years. And when those hits were announced on the radio, many a DJ sat before a U 87 Ai. The legend continues: To this day, no professional recording studio is complete without a Neumann U 87 Ai.

The U 87 Ai is the epitome of a large diaphragm condenser microphone. Its tapered body and iconic headgrille design have become part of the collective consciousness: This is what a studio microphone looks like. The same is true of its sound: The U 87 Ai represents studio quality; it has become the gold standard by which other microphones are measured.

What sets the U 87 Ai apart is its unique combination of linearity and character. Although its on-axis frequency response is remarkably flat, it does exert certain charisma. It just sounds right! This makes the U 87 Ai both versatile and instantly recognizable.

CLASSIC NEUMANN ENGINEERING

Technically speaking, the U 87 Ai is a traditional design whose timeless formula has remained unchanged for decades. The U 87 Ai uses the same dual diaphragm condenser capsule design as its predecessor, the no less legendary U 67 of the early 1960s. Its head amplifier, too, is based on the same design principles as its tube driven predecessor, but the U 87 Ai realizes them by means of a unique FET circuit with a minimal signal path and a transformer balanced output, ensuring maximum signal integrity and high common mode rejection.

The result is a studio microphone of unmatched clarity. Its natural sound and unique midrange presence make the U 87 Ai the ultimate vocal microphone, praised by singers and engineers alike, as well the prime choice for speech applications, such as voice over, dubbing, and audio books. Due to its balanced response in each of its three directional patterns, the U 87 Ai is also a versatile microphone for anything from acoustic guitar to drums overheads. Due to its solid bass response and excellent midrange detail, it is often seen in front of bass and guitar cabinets. For classical recordings, the U 87 Ai is frequently used as a spot mic for soloists, e.g. cello. A stereo pair of U 87 Ais is the preferred choice of many engineers for recording piano in virtually any genre from pop and jazz to classical music.

• The world’s most famous studio microphone
• Classic sound, instantly recognizable yet versatile
• Balanced frequency response
• Three polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-8
• Switchable low cut and pad
• Very low self-noise