Neumann U87 AI Studio Microphone Set, Nickel - Secondhand

Full Description

New and improved

Although the latest edition of the U87 features improved circuitry for an optimised performance, the capsule remains the same. This means you'll receive the exact same capsule used to record many legendary artists and performances. The all-new circuitry provides even more headroom than ever before, this is achieved by minimising the resistance which is supplied by the capsule bias voltage. Thanks to this, the microphone offers an improved signal to noise ratio of up to 3dB.

Get the sound right at source

The on-board controls enable you to get the sound right at source. If you're recording instruments with high SPLs such as drums and amplifiers you'll appreciate the help of the attenuation pad. Engaging this reduces the capsule's sensitivity by 10dB. This minimises the risk of clipping and capsule distortion. If you're struggling with proximity effect take advantage of the on-board filter, thanks to this you'll be able to achieve up-close and intimate recordings without compromising the quality of your signal.

Which polar pattern should I use?

Boasting three polar patterns, the U87 AI is a real work-horse;

Cardioid is excellent for delivering a tight-focused sound, whilst providing excellent off-axis rejection of around -6dB of unwanted noise and ambience. This is a great polar pattern to rely on when recording live performances, either on-stage, or, in-the-studio.

Fig. 8 picks up sound from the front and the back of the capsule whilst rejecting all sound coming from the side. This pattern has been a go-to trick for many producers recording two background vocals. When paired with another fig.8 microphone and carefully positioned it can also work wonders on capturing vocals and guitar from a single performer simultaneously. However, beware. Utilising this positioning enhances close proximity effect which can lead to an unnatural amount of low-end being reproduced by the microphone. There's good reason why many radio broadcasters opt for this pattern!

When you want to capture natural recordings it doesn't get much better than omni. Omnidirectional means that sound is picked up by the capsule within a 360 degree radius. Selecting this pattern allows you to get up-close on sources without the risk of proximity effect being introduced. This is a favoured pattern for many Grammy award winning engineers and producers when recording multiple string and brass players. It can also make the "Levee Break" when used for drum room microphones!

Reviews

"[The U87] will reliably give you very good recordings every time." - Sound on Sound, Voted Best Microphone 2012

"Giving you an exceptional level of clarity, the U87 has its own distinct sonic signature, providing a deep, rich, pleasant tone to anything you record." - Voice Council

Features

• Iconic large diaphragm condenser microphone capable of recording any source
• Pressure-gradient transducer with double membrane capsule
• Characterful and balanced frequency response gives an album-ready sound with a professional sheen
• Three directional characteristics: omni, cardioid, figure-8 for adaptable recording
• Low frequency roll-off switch for eliminating unwanted rumble
• Switchable 10 dB pre-attenuation perfect for high-pressure sources like snares or guitar amps
• Extremely low self-noise delivers crystal clear recordings

Specifications

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8
• Diaphragm Size: 1" (25.4mm)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Max SPL: 117dB (Cardioid) (127dB w/10dB Pre-attenuation)
• Output Impedance: 200 ohms
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 82dB (Cardioid); 79dB (Omni), 80dB (Figure-8)
• Self Noise: 12dB (Cardioid), 15dB (Omni), 14dB (Figure-8)
• Low Cut Filter: Yes
• Pads: -10dB
• Colour: Nickel
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 2.2 kg
• Included Accessories: Wooden Box, Shock mount
• Product Code: 008660