Neumann TLM 103 Nickel Studio Set Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The TLM 103 has proven to be one of Neumann’s most successful products to date. This modern microphone offers a crystal-clear sound that’s reminiscent of the classic U87. It’s a transformerless cardioid condenser mic that features a subtle presence boost, resulting in a direct and highly defined sound with minimal noise.
Key features:
- Large diaphragm capsule derived from the classic U 87 microphone
- Balanced sound with enhanced presence
- Cardioid pattern
- Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability
- Extremely low self-noise: only 7 dB-A
Initially introduced in 1997 as a more budget-friendly option to the renowned U 87, the TLM 103 has now established itself as a contemporary classic. It has set the benchmark for modern studio microphones, with its signature tapered headgrill design that’s uniquely Neumann.
The TLM 103 is a large diaphragm cardioid microphone that uses a condenser capsule based on the classic K67/87 capsule found in the legendary Neumann U 87. While it retains some of the U 87’s characteristics, the TLM 103 has a more contemporary sound with an authoritative mid-range and a pronounced presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz, resulting in a direct yet refined sound that’s ideal for vocals and solo instruments that need to stand out in a mix. A standout feature of the TLM 103 is its impressive low end, which is both deep and controlled, making it perfect for capturing rich voices and powerful bass instruments.
The TLM 103 has raised the bar for technical performance, boasting an incredibly low self-noise of only 7 dB-A, making it one of the quietest microphones on the market. Its high sensitivity of 23 mV/Pa also ensures minimal noise, even when used with budget preamps, audio interfaces, or vintage tube equipment. Additionally, the TLM 103 can handle sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB without preattenuation, thanks to its vast dynamic range of 131 dB. This makes it an incredibly versatile studio microphone that can capture anything from a soft whisper to a thunderous bass drum without adding noise or distortion.
As part of Neumann’s TLM series, the TLM 103 features a transformerless output stage that minimizes transmission losses, resulting in an uncoloured, true-to-original sound with a clear and powerful bass response, even at high signal levels.
What’s in the box
- Neumann TLM103
- EA-1 Shockmount
Specifications
- Acoustical operating principle : Pressure gradient transducer
- Directional Pattern : Cardioid
- Frequency Range : 20 Hz … 20 kHz
- Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm : 23 mV/Pa = –32.5 dBV ± 1 dB
- Rated Impedance : 50 ohms
- Rated load impedance : 1 kohms
- Equivalent noise level, CCIR 1 : 17.5 dB
- Equivalent noise level, A-weighted 2 : 7 dB-A
- Maximum SPL for THD 0.5% 3 : 138 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL) 4 : 76.5 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL) 5 : 87 dB
- Maximum output voltage : 13 dBu
- Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938) : 48 V ± 4 V
- Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938) : 3 mA
- Matching connector : XLR 3 F
- Weight approx. : 450 g
- Diameter : 60 mm
- Length : 132 mm