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Studio Microphone

The U 87 Ai switchable microphone is the successor model to the U 87 i, probably the best known and most widely used microphone in the fet 80 series. The changes affect the increased output voltage and the reduced equivalent noise level. Both measures contribute to a remarkable improvement in recording quality. The microphone is used as the main microphone in studios for orchestral recordings and as a spot microphone for individual instruments. The U 87 Ai and its many features are used for broadcasting big bands and for recording instrumental and vocal soloists, as well as for such difficult tasks as producing a radio play.

Three switches on the capsule head can be used to set the three directional characteristics omnidirectional, cardioid and bi-directional, a low-frequency roll-off and a 10 dB pre-attenuation.

  • Colour: Black
  • Polar pattern: omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-8
  • Switchable 10 dB attenuation
  • Acoustical operating principle: pressure gradient transducer
  • Frequency range: 20 - 20000 Hz
  • Field operating transmission factor: 22/28/20 mV/Pa
  • Nominal impedance: 200 Ohm
  • Equivalent noise level DIN 45 405 dB 26/23/25
  • Signal-to-noise ratio referred to 1 Pa CCIR 68/71/69dB
  • Max. SPL (sound pressure level) for 0.5% harmonic distortion 117 dB (with preattenuation 127dB)
  • Dynamic range of the microphone amplifier: 115 dB
  • Power consumption: 0.8 mA
  • Weight: 500 g
  • Diameter: 56 mm, length: 200 mm
  • Universally applicable: vocals, speakers, overhead, wind instruments
  • Note: no tripod mount or elastic suspension included (optional accessories available under Art. 189268 and 218556)
  • Available since July 2006
  • Item number 189270
  • Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
  • Tube No
  • Switchable Polar Pattern Yes
  • Omnidirectional Yes
  • Cardioid Yes
  • Figure-8 Yes
  • Low Cut No
  • Pad Yes
  • shockmount included No
  • USB Microphone No
40.090 kr
All prices incl. VAT
In stock
1

A true classic

Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone, black finish, front view

The Neumann U87, one of the first FET microphones, has been in continuous production since 1967, making it the world's oldest condenser mic still on sale today. From the very start, it ran on a 48V phantom power supply – which would go on to become the industry standard. Some models, such as the U87 i, could also be powered by two batteries, while the U87 Ai (introduced in 1986, back without the battery compartment this time) 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 – although its versatility makes this microphone a valuable asset for virtually any recording scenario. The letters MT in this variant's name refer simply to its matte black finish – it's otherwise identical to the classic nickel finish.

Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone, black finish, in wooden case

All the 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 enables the U87 to function as a side mic for mid/side stereo recording: It's also an appealing alternative for vocal recordings, delivering a subtle vintage character with less proximity bass rumble than traditional ribbon microphones with figure-8 polar patterns.

Black Neumann U87 Ai large-membrane condenser 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 boast an impressive 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.

Manufacturer's logo on the matte black Neumann U87 Ai MT

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 reliability, reliable flexibility

Of course, the Neumann U87 Ai will deliver outstanding results when recording instruments, as well as voices, and thanks to its switchable 10dB pad, this superbly crafted microphone can also handle the intensity of guitar and bass amps with ease. When it comes to acoustic guitar accompaniment, on the other hand, a subtle and unobtrusive tone is needed; the Neumann U87 Ai is equally suited to this task, too. It's also a popular choice as an overhead microphone for drums – though users need to be aware of potential distortion, due to its relatively low maximum sound pressure level of 127dB (with pad): That said, however, a touch of crunch can sometimes add exactly the right character to a track.

5 Customer ratings

4.6 / 5

features

sound

quality

2 Reviews

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d
Incomparable !
dewpill 04.08.2011
Micro d'une grande finesse.
Utilsé en studio pour des voix, des guitares acoustiques, un piano, des ambiances batterie.
Toujours un résultat impeccable. Le diagramme est très précis, très contrôlé, ce qui permet d'obtenir une grande séparation des sources.
Rien d'étonnant à ce qu'on le trouve dans nombre de studios.
Impossible de ne pas réussir une prise avec un tel bijou!
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C
Un classico... evoluto
CDNz 13.07.2019
Rispetto alle vecchie versioni che ho sempre usato (pre Ai), questi nuovi hanno più guadagno e il suono è perfetto! Tante basse (tutte quelle che riesce a produrre il microfono e...integre, in virtù del fatto che i microfoni sono nuovi di pacca) e il resto del colore classico dell'U87. Utilizzando di continuo vecchi U87 mi stavo disaffezionando a questo mic. Ma nuovo è tutto un altro suono! L'unica pecca è che arriva senza supporto, peccato.
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