What is included in the Neumann U87 AI Studio Set?

The Studio Set typically includes the U87 AI large-diaphragm condenser microphone, a matching EA 87 elastic shock mount, and a protective wooden box. This ensures the microphone is safely stored and decoupled from floor vibrations during use.

How does the U87 AI differ from the vintage U87?

The 'AI' version, introduced in the mid-1980s, features updated electronic circuitry that provides higher sensitivity and a better signal-to-noise ratio. It also has a slightly different internal battery compartment compared to the original 1967 model.

Which polar patterns are available on the U87 AI?

The microphone features a three-way switch located below the headgrille. This allows the user to select between Omnidirectional, Cardioid, and Figure-8 patterns depending on the recording environment and source.

Is the Neumann U87 AI good for recording vocals?

Yes, it is considered one of the premier vocal microphones in the world. Its mid-range clarity and smooth high-end response have made it the choice for artists like Paul McCartney and Nina Simone.

Can the U87 AI handle loud sound sources like drums?

Yes, the microphone includes a switchable -10dB pre-attenuation pad. This allows it to handle higher sound pressure levels without internal clipping, making it excellent for overheads or brass.

Does the U87 AI require phantom power?

Yes, as a solid-state condenser microphone, it requires standard +48V phantom power provided by a dedicated preamp, mixer, or audio interface. Unlike its predecessor the U67, it does not require a bulky external power supply unit.

What is the typical price for a new U87 AI Studio Set?

The typical price range in the UK market is approximately £2,499. This reflects its status as a premium, professional-grade tool manufactured in Germany.

How does the U87 AI compare to the Neumann TLM 103?

The TLM 103 is a transformerless microphone with a fixed cardioid pattern, making it more affordable and compact. The U87 AI provides multiple polar patterns and a transformer-balanced output, which many engineers feel offers a more 'classic' weight to the sound.

Is the U87 AI suitable for home recording?

While it is a professional studio staple, it is excellent for home recording if the user has a treated room and a high-quality preamp. Its sensitivity means it will pick up room acoustics, so proper placement is essential.

Why is the U87 considered an 'industry standard'?

It earned this title due to its presence in world-class studios like Abbey Road and its ability to deliver usable, high-quality results on almost any instrument. Its reliability and consistent sonic character have made it a benchmark for decades.

What finish does the U87 AI Studio Set come in?

This specific set is finished in traditional Neumann Nickel. It is also commonly available in a matte black finish for different aesthetic preferences.

Are there many emulations of the U87 available?

Yes, there are many hardware clones and software emulations on the market due to its popularity. However, many professional engineers still prefer the 'real thing' for its specific electronic response and build quality.

Gear article

Neumann U87 AI Studio Microphone Set

The Neumann U87 AI is a professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone widely regarded as an industry standard in recording studios worldwide. First introduced in 1967, it is celebrated for its versatility across various sound sources and its status as a mainstay in premier facilities such as Abbey Road and Sunset Sound.

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History and Background

The Neumann U87 was first introduced in 1967, succeeding the legendary U67 tube microphone. It was designed to provide a similar sonic profile while utilising solid-state FET (Field Effect Transistor) technology, which offered greater reliability and required no external power supply. Over the decades, the 'AI' version was introduced, featuring updated circuitry that improved sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratios.

The microphone has been utilised by a vast array of seminal artists, including Paul McCartney, David Gilmour, Kevin Parker, and Nina Simone. Its ubiquity in high-end studios like Blackbird and Ocean Way has cemented its reputation as one of the most recorded microphones in history.

Design and Functionality

The U87 AI is a multi-pattern condenser microphone, allowing users to switch between three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This flexibility makes it suitable for various recording techniques, from isolated vocal tracking to capturing room ambience or mid-side stereo arrays.

Technical features include: * Switchable Low-Cut: A 10dB pad is available to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL). * High Sensitivity: The AI version provides increased output compared to the vintage models. * Robust Build: The 'Studio Set' includes a high-quality shock mount and is finished in classic Neumann nickel.

Sonic Character

The U87 AI is known for its 'record-ready' sound, characterised by a mid-forward presence that helps sources sit well in a mix without extensive equalisation. While often described as neutral and authoritative, it possesses a slight lift in the upper-mid frequencies that provides clarity for vocals and acoustic instruments.

It is remarkably versatile, excelling on drums, bass guitars, vocals, piano, strings, and brass. The microphone is designed to capture the natural nuance of a source while adding a professional 'sheen' associated with high-end commercial productions.

User Suitability and Comparisons

This microphone is aimed at professional engineers, commercial studios, and high-end home recording setups. Due to its price point of approximately £2,499, it is an investment piece for those seeking the 'industry standard' sound.

Compared to alternatives like the Neumann TLM 103, which uses a similar capsule design but lacks multiple polar patterns and transformer-coupled output, the U87 AI offers greater versatility. For those requiring a dynamic alternative for aggressive vocals or broadcast, the Shure SM7B is often cited, though it lacks the high-frequency detail and sensitivity of the U87's condenser design.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Neumann U87 AI Studio Set?: The Studio Set typically includes the U87 AI large-diaphragm condenser microphone, a matching EA 87 elastic shock mount, and a protective wooden box. This ensures the microphone is safely stored and decoupled from floor vibrations during use.
How does the U87 AI differ from the vintage U87?: The 'AI' version, introduced in the mid-1980s, features updated electronic circuitry that provides higher sensitivity and a better signal-to-noise ratio. It also has a slightly different internal battery compartment compared to the original 1967 model.
Which polar patterns are available on the U87 AI?: The microphone features a three-way switch located below the headgrille. This allows the user to select between Omnidirectional, Cardioid, and Figure-8 patterns depending on the recording environment and source.
Is the Neumann U87 AI good for recording vocals?: Yes, it is considered one of the premier vocal microphones in the world. Its mid-range clarity and smooth high-end response have made it the choice for artists like Paul McCartney and Nina Simone.
Can the U87 AI handle loud sound sources like drums?: Yes, the microphone includes a switchable -10dB pre-attenuation pad. This allows it to handle higher sound pressure levels without internal clipping, making it excellent for overheads or brass.
Does the U87 AI require phantom power?: Yes, as a solid-state condenser microphone, it requires standard +48V phantom power provided by a dedicated preamp, mixer, or audio interface. Unlike its predecessor the U67, it does not require a bulky external power supply unit.
What is the typical price for a new U87 AI Studio Set?: The typical price range in the UK market is approximately £2,499. This reflects its status as a premium, professional-grade tool manufactured in Germany.
How does the U87 AI compare to the Neumann TLM 103?: The TLM 103 is a transformerless microphone with a fixed cardioid pattern, making it more affordable and compact. The U87 AI provides multiple polar patterns and a transformer-balanced output, which many engineers feel offers a more 'classic' weight to the sound.
Is the U87 AI suitable for home recording?: While it is a professional studio staple, it is excellent for home recording if the user has a treated room and a high-quality preamp. Its sensitivity means it will pick up room acoustics, so proper placement is essential.
Why is the U87 considered an 'industry standard'?: It earned this title due to its presence in world-class studios like Abbey Road and its ability to deliver usable, high-quality results on almost any instrument. Its reliability and consistent sonic character have made it a benchmark for decades.
What finish does the U87 AI Studio Set come in?: This specific set is finished in traditional Neumann Nickel. It is also commonly available in a matte black finish for different aesthetic preferences.
Are there many emulations of the U87 available?: Yes, there are many hardware clones and software emulations on the market due to its popularity. However, many professional engineers still prefer the 'real thing' for its specific electronic response and build quality.