Neumann U87Ai Studio Set Condenser Microphone – Nickel
The Neumann U87Ai is possibly the most famous and widely used vocal mic in the world, and for good reason. Not merely does it deliver a solid, well-defined (accurate?) sound with an enhanced lower mid (perfect for many voices) but the U87Ai inspires confidence in vocalists, who feel comfortable performing in front of a microphone they know, either from past use or from the countless photos and videos they’ve seen. And this makes it the number one choice for any commercial facility. Irrespective of application, visiting engineers, artists and producers will always be happy if a Neumann U87Ai is on hand for vocals. Indeed, we often say it’s everyone’s second favourite vocal mic – everyone has their own first choice, but if that’s not available for a session, nine out of ten cats will happily settle for the Neumann U87Ai.
Key Features:
- 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
The Neumann U 87 Ai is a world-renowned and highly popular studio microphone, known for its smooth and refined sound and elegant exterior design. It is widely considered the standard microphone for speech and vocals, and its versatility is enhanced by the availability of three polar patterns, as well as pad and low cut options. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or any other type of audio, the Neumann U 87 Ai is an excellent choice that will deliver outstanding results. For over 50 years, the Neumann U 87 Ai has been a true legend in the world of professional recording. Since its introduction in 1967, it has played a significant role in shaping the sound of countless hit records. Its iconic design and exceptional sound quality have made it a favourite among DJs and producers alike, and it remains an essential tool in any professional recording studio.
The U 87 Ai is the quintessential large diaphragm condenser microphone, instantly recognizable by its tapered body and iconic headgrille design. Its sound quality is equally iconic, representing the gold standard of studio recording. The U 87 Ai’s unique combination of linearity and character sets it apart from other microphones, delivering a remarkably flat on-axis frequency response with a touch of charisma that just sounds right.
The U 87 Ai features a dual diaphragm condenser capsule design that is similar to its predecessor, the legendary U 67 from the early 1960s. Its head amplifier is also based on the same design principles as its tube-driven predecessor, but the U 87 Ai uses a unique FET circuit with a minimal signal path and a transformer-balanced output to ensure maximum signal integrity and high common mode rejection.
Despite its traditional design, the U 87 Ai is a highly advanced microphone that delivers exceptional sound quality. Its timeless formula has been refined over the years to meet the demands of modern recording, and it remains a top choice for recording vocals, instruments, and other types of audio. Whether you’re a seasoned recording professional or just starting out, the Neumann U 87 Ai is a microphone that you can rely on to deliver outstanding results.
Specifications:
- Acoustical operating principle: Pressure gradient transducer
- Directional pattern: Omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8
- Frequency range: 20 Hz … 20 kHz
- Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm: 20/28/22 mV/Pa ± 1 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Rated impedance: 200 ohms
- Rated load impedance: 1 kohms
- Equivalent noise level, CCIR¹⁾: 26/23/25 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Equivalent noise level, A-weighted¹⁾: 15/12/14 dB-A (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%²⁾: 117 dB (cardioid)
- Maximum SPL for THD 0.5% with preattenuation²⁾: 127 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾: 68/71/69 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾: 79/82/80 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Maximum output voltage: -6 dBu
- Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938): 48 V ± 4 V
- Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938): 0.8 mA
- Matching connector: XLR 3 F
- Weight: 500 g
- Diameter: 56 mm
- Length: 200 mm