Neumann U87 Review: Giant Among Microphones!

Neumann U87 Review

Intro

The Neumann U87 is a reasonably large deal in audio manufacturing circles. Ask any movie sound or music producer what their favorite microphone is, and most will let you know it is the U87.

Having mentioned that, not many people have one. And that is as a result of the price as low as some folks’ automobiles, at £1750/$3100!

That is a reasonably large investment for anybody to make. However supposing you saved up your hard-earned pennies to ultimately get your fingers on one, absolutely your recordings would sound wonderful. Let’s have a look.

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Neumann U87
neumann u87 in studio

Neumann U87 Design

The legendary Neumann U87 is broadly considered one of the best condenser microphones of the 1960s, and maybe the world’s most beloved massive diaphragm condenser. It’s outfitted with a big dual-diaphragm capsule with three directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8. These are selectable with a switch beneath the head grill. Having the option to choose from several patterns, make this microphone good for any use.

A 10 dB attenuation switch is positioned on the rear. It permits the microphone to deal with sound pressure ranges of as much as 127 dB without distortion. Moreover, the low-frequency response may be decreased to compensate for proximity impact.

All of those options make it so the mic can be utilized near the supply of the sound, therefore its reputation in studios. However, watch out because it additionally picks up noises, and a pop filter is crucial for good vocal recording. For the finest outcomes, this mic deserves a high-quality preamp and analog-to-digital converter.

Like many microphones, the U87 runs on 48-volt phantom energy provided by an XLR connector. Neumann features a cable within the box. The mic has a low impedance of 200 ohms and the utmost cable size is restricted to 980 ft to keep away from signal loss.

Because of its balanced response in each of its three directional patterns, the U 87 can also be a flexible microphone for something from acoustic guitars to drums overheads. Because of its strong bass response and wonderful midrange element, it’s usually seen in front of the bass and guitar cabinets.

For classical recordings, the U 87 Ai is regularly used as a spot mic for soloists, e.g. cello. A stereo pair of U 87 Ais is the popular selection of many engineers for recording piano in just about any style from pop and jazz to classical music.

Options:

  • Variable large-diaphragm microphone
  • Pressure-gradient transducer with double membrane capsule
  • Three direction patterns: Omni, cardioid, figure-8
  • Low-frequency roll-off switch
  • 10 dB pre-attenuation switch
  • Case, shock mount, windscreen, and cable included with this package deal
neumann u87 wallpaper
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Neumann U87

Usage

This venerable large-diaphragm condenser is traditional for a purpose! You will flip to it time and time once more for voiceover, vocals, acoustic devices, and amps. That is an unbelievably good microphone, worthy of its price and status. However, you must have a really superb cause, and wonderful recording situations, before treating yourself to one.

As the years passed, Neumann frequently modified his designs till the U87 made its first look in the late 1960s. By fame alone, it has since developed into recognized by many as the corporate’s flagship microphone.

If legends like Lennon and McCartney used the Neumann U87. Doesn’t that tempt you to see how superior it’s for yourself? Either way sure or no this flagship microphone is one that may keep at legendary standing for lots longer than it already has and if I can urge you to do something it might be so as to add this microphone to your assortment, you won’t remorse it.

neumann u87 color variations

Conclusion

When you’re producing a refined audio drama and plan on doing a number of voice appearances or voice-overs then there could also be a case for placing it in your birthday listing. However for those who’re making a speech podcast where you will not be recorded in a professionally handled studio, then the Neumann U87 is not the microphone for you.

If you wish to take a look at a video on Neumann U87 Review, try the one below.

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Nikoloski
Nikoloski

Nikoloski is the founder and main content writer and editor of Mixing Tips. With his experience in audio engineering, mixing, and mastering for over 15 years, will provide hands-on experience and expertise in all the matters covered on this website.

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