Neumann U87 Ai

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Studio Condenser Microphone

The U 87 is probably the best known and most common Neumann studio microphone.

The U 87 is equipped with a large dual-diaphragm capsule with three directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-8. These are selectable with a switch below the headgrille. A 10 dB attenuation switch is located on the rear. It enables the microphone to handle sound pressure levels up to 127 dB without distortion. Furthermore, the low-frequency response can be reduced to compensate for proximity effect.

Pressure gradient receiver
Polar pattern: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-of-eight
Switchable 10 dB attenuation
Nominal impedance 200 Ohm
Frequency response 20 - 20,000 Hz
Sound pressure level for k < 0.5%: 117 dB (cardioid)
Sound pressure level for k < 0.5% with pre-attenuation: 127 dB
48 V phantom powering required
Dimensions (diameter x length): 56 x 200 mm
Weight: 500 g
Colour: Nickel
Suitable elastic suspension: art. 125520 (not included)
Suitable tripod mount: art. 218556 (not included)

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Item number 105825
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Tube No
Switchable Polar Pattern Yes
Omnidirectional Yes
Cardioid Yes
Figure-8 Yes
Low Cut Yes
Pad Yes
shockmount included No
USB Microphone No

$2,777

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in Large Diaphragm Microphones

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Neumann U87 AI Bundle

$2,845

The classic

The Neumann U87, one of the first FET microphones and the world's longest-produced condenser mic, has been in continuous production since 1967, originally featuring what would become the standard 48V phantom power supply. Earlier models, such as the U87 i, could also be powered by two batteries, while the U87 Ai - introduced in 1986 without the battery compartment - offers a significantly higher output level and lower self-noise compared to its predecessors. If any microphone deserves the title of a studio standard, it’s this classic, with the U87 Ai being especially favoured by broadcasters and vocalists, though its versatility makes this microphone a valuable asset for virtually any recording scenario.

Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone in wooden case

All options

Although the Neumann U87 Ai is optimised for the cardioid polar pattern and offers an impressively linear frequency response, its omnidirectional and figure-8 patterns are far more than just added extras. The omnidirectional mode excels at room miking, while the figure-8 pattern will prove useful as a side mic in M/S stereo recording, and offers an appealing alternative for vocal recordings, delivering a subtle vintage character with less proximity bass boost than traditional ribbon microphones.

Large-diaphragm condenser capsule of the Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone

The sound of Neumann

Speech and vocals particularly stand to benefit from the Neumann U87 Ai's signature midrange character and rich, full-bodied Neumann sound. While other microphones may impress with a deep bass response or a shimmering high end, the U87 Ai focuses on what truly matters - a balanced sound where the vital midrange remains clear and unmasked by extreme frequencies. Its forgiving nature and wide sweet spot ensure a consistent bass response, even if the speaker or singer moves during recording, allowing a more natural and expressive performance.

XLR connector on the nickel-plated Neumann U87 Ai

About Neumann

Georg Neumann GmbH was founded in Berlin in 1928 - and is certainly one of the most famous brands of microphones in the world. However, this is not the company's only sphere of activity. For many years, the versatile inventor and pioneer Georg Neumann was also involved with vinyl record cutting machines and the development of rechargeable batteries. The technology he developed is still the basis for this now crucial and rapidly expanding market. What is more, for many years the company built highly personalised sound control systems for broadcast studios/theatres and concert halls, and for several years also studio monitors. In 1991, Neumann became part of the Sennheiser group of companies, and in 1999 was the first German company to receive the Technical Grammy for their overall technical achievements.

Flexible to use

Of course, this superbly crafted microphone will deliver outstanding results when recording instruments as well, and thanks to its switchable 10dB pad, this microphone will handle guitar and bass amps with ease. When it comes to acoustic guitar accompaniment, on the other hand, a subtle and unobtrusive tone is needed, and the Neumann U87 Ai will prove equally ideal here. It is also a popular choice as an overhead microphone for drums - though some caution is required due to its relatively low maximum sound pressure level of 127dB (with pad). That said, however, a touch of distortion can sometimes add exactly the right character.

58 Customer ratings

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5 / 5

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27 Reviews

Industry-standard mike with excellent sound and reliability

Anonymous 04.02.2017

This is a famous model of condenser microphone which has been in production for many years. I own a number of reasonable quality large-diaphragm microphones and, of these, this is the one which I use most often in my project studio. My main uses are for male vocals and acoustic guitar, and for these applications it performs very well. The sound is clear with, to my ears, no obvious loudness or quietness in any frequency range. I have also used this to record electric guitar amplifier (I'm always a little nervous about this as the U87 is rather expensive so I tend not to subject it to too loud a signal close up). This has worked ok although for this use I would often prefer a dynamic microphone, or perhaps a combination of each type. In summary this is a classic high-quality all-rounder. If I had to pick just one mike from my collection to use on everything this would be it.

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It's the mic you need!

Ognjen Mihovili? - Oggy 07.03.2021

Simply put Neumann U87 Ai has upgraded my recordings to a Pro level. I record my music, voice overs and youtube videos with it exclusively. Guitars, vocals, percussions all shine when you use it. If you are serious about your recording gear this is a must have!

Pros:
Sound quality is outstanding.

Cons:
Pricy - but totally worth it.

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perfect

chanxinwuxin 13.05.2020

The microphone is very good. It is a veritable classic microphone.And I must praise thomann's service quality and work efficiency, especially when I urgently need a microphone.

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closet210 01.03.2021

No need to say. There are reasons that this microphone is studio standard.

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Neumann U87 Ai

Studio Condenser Microphone