Neumann U87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone (Studio Set, Nickel)

Details

Key Features

• Studio Standard for Vocals & Instruments
• Cardioid, Omni & Figure-8 Polar Patterns
• Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule
• Low-Noise FET Circuit
• Transformer-Balanced Output
• -10 dB Pad
• Switchable Low-Cut Filter
• Shockmount Reduces Vibration Noise
• Includes Wooden Box
• 48V Phantom Powered

Overview

A definitive legend for decades, the nickelNeumann U 87 Ai Studio Setis a large-diaphragm condenser microphone offering the timeless and special sound that remains highly coveted for singers, voice-over artists, announcers, producers, and recording engineers to this day. By combining the same dual-diaphragm capsule design as the heralded U 67 with FET circuitry and a transformer-balanced output, the U 87 Ai retains the voicing that made the U 87 famous while ensuring low-noise performance and optimal signal purity.

The U 87 Ai’s dual-diaphragm capsule, which is elastically suspended, affords the selection of three polar patterns (omni, cardioid, and figure-8) to enhance versatility in the studio. Additionally, the mic provides a switchable -10 dB pad that allows it to capture SPLs up to 127 dB without distortion, and a low-cut filter for controlling buildup of low-frequency content. Whether it is used for broadcast, stage, or studio applications, the U 87 Ai presents the sought-after look, sound, and reputation of a true classic.

The Gold Standard
The Neumann U 87 Ai may be the best-known and most frequently used studio microphone the world over. Its smooth and refined sound is as iconic as its elegant exterior design. The U 87 Ai is the standard microphone for speech and vocals. Three polar patterns plus pad and low-cut options make it adaptable to a wide range of applications.
Omnipresent and Special
The Neumann U 87 Ai is a true legend. Introduced in 1967, it has shaped the sound of countless hit records for the past 50 years. And when those hits were announced on the radio, many a DJ sat before a U 87 Ai.

The U 87 Ai is the epitome of a large-diaphragm condenser microphone. Its tapered body and iconic design have become part of the collective consciousnessthis is what a studio microphone looks like. The same is true of its sound; the U 87 Ai represents studio quality and has become the gold standard by which other microphones are measured.

What sets the U 87 Ai apart is its special combination of linearity and character. Although its on-axis frequency response is remarkably flat, it does exert certain charisma, making the U 87 Ai both versatile and instantly recognizable.
Classic Neumann Engineering
Technically speaking, the U 87 Ai is a traditional design whose timeless formula has remained unchanged for decades. The U 87 Ai uses the same dual-diaphragm condenser capsule design as its predecessor, the no less legendary U 67 of the early 1960s. Its head amplifier, too, is based on the same design principles as its tube-driven predecessor, but the U 87 Ai realizes them by means of an FET circuit with a minimal signal path and a transformer-balanced output, ensuring maximum signal integrity and high common mode rejection.
Features at a Glance

• The worlds most famous studio microphone
• Classic sound, instantly recognizable and versatile
• Balanced frequency response
• Elastically suspended dual-diaphragm capsule
• Omni, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns
• Switchable low-cut filter and -10 dB pad
• Low self-noise
• XLR 3-pin output
• 48V phantom powered
• Includes color-matched shockmount and wooden box

Key Specs

Microphone

Performance

Connectivity

Power

Physical

What’s in the Box:

• Neumann U 87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone (Studio Set, Nickel)
• Neumann EA 87 Shockmount for U 87 Microphones (Nickel)
• Wooden Box
• Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty