Neumann U 87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone (Nickel)

A definitive legend for decades, the nickel Neumann U 87 Ai is 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.

Versatile Applications

The result is a studio microphone of unmatched clarity. Its natural sound and midrange presence make the U 87 Ai the ultimate vocal microphone, praised by singers and engineers alike as well as the prime choice for speech applications, such as voice-over, dubbing, and audio books. Due to its balanced response in each of its three directional patterns, the U 87 Ai is also a versatile microphone for anything from acoustic guitar to drums overheads. Due to its solid bass response and excellent midrange detail, it is often seen in front of bass and guitar cabinets. For classical recordings, the U 87 Ai is frequently used as a spot mic for soloists, e.g. cello. A stereo pair of U 87 Ai mics is the preferred choice of many engineers for recording piano in virtually any genre from pop and jazz to classical music.

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 wooden box (shockmount available separately)