The Neumann U87Ai Condenser Studio Mic Klaus Heyne Modified

Neumann U87 Cariiod Condenser multi pattern

The Neumann U87, a great vocal mic, colored, with a distinctive mid-tone. My goto microphone - an 87 is always mounted on my (triple) mic stand, but I do run it into different pre-amps depending on the sound/punch I'm after. I have two versions, The U87Ai (Klaus Heyne Modified for Voice Talent) and a U87-Innertube Retrofit (A tubed version similar to the U67) This one, the Ai, is mounted in an M-600 Mic mount. One of my favorite mics, low self-noise, and a great clean sound. I usually pair this one with the DW Fearn VT-1 Preamp.

 

 

The Neumann classic (From the Neumann Spec sheet)

Three directional characteristics and switchable pre-attenuation ensure suitability for a wide range of applications. Arguably the best known and most widely used studio microphone in the world, the easy-to-recognize U 87 is a classic with a distinctive design and legendary Neumann sound. The U 87 is known for its unique frequency and transient response characteristics which deliver a smooth natural sound with a variety of source material.

It 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.

Users recognize the microphone immediately by its distinctive design. It is a good choice for most general purpose applications in studios, for broadcasting, film and television.

The U 87 Ai is used as a main microphone for orchestra recordings, as a spot mic for single instruments, and extensively as a vocal microphone for all types of music and speech.The letter A in the name indicates a more recent generation, as compared to the U 87 i microphones that were built from 1967 to 1986. Modifications apply to the electronic components of the microphone only; the capsule remained unchanged.

The present-day circuitry increases the operational headroom of the U 87 Ai by supplying the bias voltages for the capsule through a reduced resistance. The result is a higher sensitivity of 10 dB for identical sound pressure levels, and an improved S/N ratio of 3 dB.

Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%3) 117 dB (cardioid)
Acoustical operating principle Pressure gradient transducer
Directional pattern Omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8 plus
Frequency range 20 Hz ... 20 kHz