NEUMANN U87 AI

3 units available

The Neumann U87 AI is a legendary large-diaphragm condenser microphone renowned for its versatility, high-quality sound, and widespread use in professional audio recording. Here’s a breakdown of the key technical details:

General Overview

• Type: Large-diaphragm condenser microphone

• Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Omni-directional, Figure-8 (switchable)

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz

• Impedance: 200 ohms (balanced)

• Power Supply: 48V Phantom Power (standard for condenser mics)

Detailed Specifications

• Capsule Type: Dual diaphragm (backplate) design

• Transducer Principle: Condenser (electrostatic)

• Directional Characteristics:

  • Cardioid: Focused pickup from the front with some rejection at the sides and rear

  • Omni: Uniform pickup in all directions

  • Figure-8: Pickup from the front and rear, rejecting the sides

• Frequency Response:

  • Smooth and natural across the full frequency range, with a gentle presence boost in the mid to high range (around 3–5 kHz), giving it a clear and open sound.

  • Low-frequency roll-off below 100 Hz (depending on switch settings) to reduce unwanted rumble and handling noise.

• Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa (milliVolts per Pascal)

• Maximum SPL: 127 dB SPL (with 1% THD), which is capable of handling loud sound sources like guitar amplifiers or drums.

• Self-Noise: 12 dB-A (extremely low self-noise, suitable for quiet recordings and high-quality sound capture)

• THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): < 0.5% at 125 dB SPL

• Output Connector: 3-pin XLR

• Dimensions: Approx. 200 mm x 50 mm (7.9 inches x 2 inches)

• Weight: Approx. 500 g (1.1 lbs)

Unique Features of the U87 AI

• Switchable Polar Patterns: Allows flexibility in capturing sound from different sources and environments.

• Low-Cut Filter (High-Pass Filter): A built-in 10 dB cut-off at 80 Hz to eliminate low-frequency rumble and handling noise.

• Pad Switch: A -10 dB pad is available to prevent distortion when recording very loud sound sources.

• Transformerless Design: This helps reduce distortion and improve signal integrity.

Applications

• The U87 AI is used in many professional settings, including studio vocals, voiceover work, instrument recording, and broadcasting. Its versatility in switching between polar patterns makes it adaptable to various recording environments, whether you’re capturing a single voice or recording an ensemble.

History and Legacy

• The original Neumann U87 was first introduced in 1967, with the U87 AI being the updated version released in the 1990s. While the original had a slightly different capsule design and circuitry, the U87 AI has become a standard in high-end recording studios worldwide due to its detailed, natural, and transparent sound.

The U87 AI is highly regarded for its clarity, warmth, and accuracy, making it a staple in both studio recording and live sound applications.