Neumann U87 Review
Intro
The Neumann U87 is a pretty big deal in the audio production world. Ask any film sound or music producer what their favorite microphone is, and most will tell you it’s the U87.
That said, not many people actually own one. And that’s because the price is as high as some people’s cars—about £1,750 or $3,100!
That’s a serious investment for anyone. But let’s say you finally saved up your hard-earned cash and managed to get your hands on one. Surely your recordings would sound amazing, right? Let’s take a look.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Amazon Store | For US Customers | For EU Customers |
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Neumann U87 |
Neumann U87 Design
The legendary Neumann U87 is widely considered one of the best condenser microphones of the 1960s, and perhaps the world’s most beloved large-diaphragm condenser. It features a big dual-diaphragm capsule with three selectable directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8. You can switch between these patterns using a control located beneath the head grille. Having the option to choose from several patterns makes this microphone great for almost any application.
A 10 dB attenuation switch is located on the rear. This allows the microphone to handle sound pressure levels up to 127 dB without distortion. Additionally, the low-frequency response can be reduced to compensate for the proximity effect.
All of these features make the U87 ideal for use close to the sound source, which is why it’s so popular in studios. However, be aware that it also picks up unwanted noise, so a pop filter is essential for good vocal recording. For the best results, pair this mic with a high-quality preamp and analog-to-digital converter.
Like many professional microphones, the U87 runs on 48-volt phantom power via an XLR connector. Neumann includes a cable in the box. The microphone has a low impedance of 200 ohms, and the maximum cable length is limited to 980 feet to prevent signal loss.
Thanks to its balanced response in all three directional patterns, the U87 is also a versatile microphone, suitable for anything from acoustic guitars to drum overheads. With its strong bass response and excellent midrange detail, it’s often seen in front of bass and guitar cabinets.
For classical recordings, the U87 Ai is frequently used as a spot mic for soloists, such as cellists. A stereo pair of U87 Ais is the preferred choice for many engineers when recording piano in nearly any genre, from pop and jazz to classical music.
Options:
- Variable large-diaphragm microphone
- Pressure-gradient transducer with dual-membrane capsule
- Three selectable polar patterns: Omni, Cardioid, and Figure-8
- Low-frequency roll-off switch
- 10 dB pre-attenuation switch
- Package includes case, shock mount, windscreen, and cable
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | Amazon Store | For US Customers | For EU Customers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Neumann U87 |
Usage
This classic large-diaphragm condenser microphone is a staple for a reason! You’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again for voiceover work, vocals, acoustic instruments, and amps. It’s an unbelievably good microphone—absolutely worthy of its price and reputation. However, you should have a truly excellent reason and ideal recording conditions before treating yourself to one.
Over the years, Neumann continually refined his designs until the U87 made its debut in the late 1960s. Thanks to its legendary status, it has become known by many as the company’s flagship microphone.
If legends like Lennon and McCartney used the Neumann U87, doesn’t that make you curious to hear how incredible it is for yourself? Whether your answer is yes or no, this flagship microphone will maintain its legendary status for many years to come. If I can encourage you to do anything, it would be to add this microphone to your collection—you won’t regret it.
Conclusion
If you’re producing a polished audio drama and plan to do multiple voice appearances or voice-overs, there may be a good reason to include it in your birthday wish list. However, if you’re making a speech-based podcast and won’t be recording in a professionally managed studio, then the Neumann U87 isn’t the right microphone for you.
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