If you’ve ever been in a professional studio of any kind, then you’ll have seen a Neumann U87. There isn’t really a more popular studio mic out there. But why is it so popular? Today we will break it down, discuss the pros and cons, and see what makes the Neumann U87 such an iconic microphone.
Contents
- Variable large diaphragm microphone
- Pressure-gradient transducer with double membrane capsule
- Omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 characteristics
- Switchable low frequency roll-off
- Switchable 10 dB pre-attenuation
All About the Neumann U 87 Ai
Neumann is a well-known German manufacturer of high-quality microphones that has been in operation since 1928. The company was founded by Georg Neumann, a talented engineer who was passionate about creating superior microphones.
Neumann’s early microphones were widely acclaimed for their high level of performance, and the company quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the best microphones in the world. In the 1930s, Neumann introduced the M7 capsule, which became the basis for many of the company’s most iconic microphone designs.
One of Neumann’s most famous microphones is the U 87, which was introduced in 1967. The U 87 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that is prized for its versatility and ability to capture a wide range of sources with exceptional clarity and detail.
The Neumann U87 is a classic large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been used on countless recordings over the years. It is known for its smooth, warm sound and excellent transient response, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications. The U87 Ai version is an updated version of the original U87, with improved electronics and a switchable polar pattern (omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8). It also includes a high-pass filter and a -10 dB pad to help accommodate a variety of recording situations.
• 3 Polar Patterns, Cardiod/Omni/Figure 8
• Has -10 pad and low filter cut options
• Impressive signal to noise ratio of 82db in cardioid
• Comes w shock mount, windscreen and case
Who is the Neumann U 87 Ai for?
The U 87 ai is an amazing choice for professional recording engineers, producers, or studio owners who want to add a versatile and high quality microphone to their collection. Whether you primarily record singer songwriters, bands, or rappers, the U 87 Ai is a great choice for your main vocal mic. It’s also great for someone looking to record acoustic instruments like guitars, piano, or stringed instruments like cello and violin.
It offers a well rounded character without overly coloring the sound, which makes it applicable for a wide variety of uses. This is why many people consider it to be a workhorse of a microphone, and what makes it a staple in every professional recording studio.
How does it sound?
In terms of sound quality, the U87 ai delivers on its reputation as a high quality microphone. Its smooth, warm sound works well on a variety of sources, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and drum overheads. The switchable polar patterns are also a useful feature, allowing you to choose the best pattern for the recording situation. The high-pass filter and pad are also handy additions, giving you more control over the sound of the microphone. Overall, the Neumann U87 Ai is a high-quality microphone that is well-suited for a wide range of recording applications. It is a bit on the pricey side, but it is a reliable choice that is likely to last for many years.
Another pro of this mic is that it takes EQ very well. You don’t have to be super careful in boosting high end on the U 87, It’s almost as if its meant for it.
Neumann U 87 Ai Build Quality
One of the standout features of the U 87 Ai is its build quality. It is a well-made microphone that feels solid and durable, and it comes with a shock-mount to help reduce handling noise. The included carrying case is also a nice touch, making it easy to transport the microphone to different recording locations.
Overall, the fit and finish of this microphone is of a high quality, which is what you’d expect from a microphone with such a high price tag. With proper care, the Neumann U 87 ai should work for you for years to come.
Other considerations
There are some things to consider about this mic. These are not necessarily downsides, but factors that are worth thinking about when making a purchase of this caliber. First, it has a fairly low max SPL level of 117db. Because of this, its capsule is very sensitive. This makes it fantastic for recording natural things like strings, acoustic guitars, room sounds and vocals. It can sound good when pushed like on guitar amps, or as drum over heads, but that kind of thing will result in a more compressed sound that isn’t always ideal for standard applications.
This also makes it not the most ideal for loud vocalists like metal singers or belters. In fact, some singers don’t find it to be their most ideal choice because of this. Sometimes there are even more affordable mics that will work on louder vocalists because of the increased SPL level and sensitivity. This is not a question of quality, but of using the right tool for the job. We’ll get into those cheaper options later.
Lastly, it has a bit of a build up in the 5-9k range which can end up sounding very harsh when not properly accounted for. This can also an issue for people with specific voices, or for certain instruments like acoustic guitars that may have undesirable attributes that you’d rather have not highlight.
However, for smoother/crooner and quieter vocalists, this mic really shines. There is something about the proximity effect of the U87 that is very pleasing and cuts nicely, especially paired with a great tube preamp like a UA610.
Is the Neumann U 87 ai worth it?
The U87 is super worth it if the investment is within your personal range. If you are a professional engineer, studio or someone who wants to attract a large variety of clientele, then this will be an important microphone for you to own. If you are a newer producer or artist, you may want to consider other options before pulling the trigger on the U 87, as it is quite an expensive piece of kit. However, it is a high quality mic that will retain its value over time, so if it’s in your budget, you won’t regret purchasing it. Either way, it is a beautiful sounding, high quality microphone that everyone artist and engineer should have the pleasure of using!
- Variable large diaphragm microphone
- Pressure-gradient transducer with double membrane capsule
- Omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 characteristics
- Switchable low frequency roll-off
- Switchable 10 dB pre-attenuation
Condenser Mic Buyers Guide
While the Neumann U 87 Ai is a fantastic microphone for most applications, there are lots of other options to look at in various price points!
Below are some great options, most of which are more affordable than the U 87 ai. In fact, the Manley Reference is the only mic that costs more. Below the chart, we’ll get into some of the differences and why you may opt for one of these mics over the U 87 Ai.
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The Rode NT-1a, Aston Spirit, and Audio-Technica AT 2020 are great choices for someone looking to purchase their first real studio mic. If you’re just dipping your toes into the recording waters, these are great picks for you.
The Neumann TLM 103 is a great choice for someone who wants the fantastic build quality and sound that Neumann offers, but on a reduced budget. You lose a few options that the U 87 offers, such as selectable polar patterns, but at the end of the day, the TLM 103 is still a great sounding and super versitile mic, just like the U 87. You can read our full review HERE!
Like the U 87, Slate VMS ML-1 is a Swiss Army Knife of microphones, but for very different reasons. While the U 87 is versatile due to its relatively un-colored sound, the ML-1 is versatile due to its microphone emulation software.
At first, I was skeptical, but the ML-1 won me over, and I actually have two in my microphone collection.
The Manley Reference and WA-47 are both tube microphones, offering a bit more character and color than the U 87. If you already own a FET condenser mic, and want something a little more unique, adding a tube mic to your collection might do more to diversify your setup than adding another FET mic like the U 87.
Whether you choose to go with the U 87, or one of these other options, you really can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for more gear to add to your collection to go with your new mic, check out our other reviews here!
