Neumann

Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Microphone - Nickel

4.0 (21 reviews)

The Industry Standard for Studio Recording The Neumann U 87 Ai is a classic studio microphone renowned for its warm sound and well-balanced characteristics. Since 1967, the U 87 has been a staple in recording studios worldwide. This microphone offers exceptional signal-to-noise performance and ve...

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Overview

The Industry Standard for Studio Recording

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a classic studio microphone renowned for its warm sound and well-balanced characteristics. Since 1967, the U 87 has been a staple in recording studios worldwide. This microphone offers exceptional signal-to-noise performance and versatile directional patterns.

Key Features:

  • Large dual-diaphragm capsule
  • Three selectable directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8
  • Switchable low frequency roll-off
  • 10dB attenuation switch

Technical Specifications:

  • Brand: Neumann
  • Model: 7022
  • Frequency Range: 20Hz to 20kHz
  • Impedance: 200 ohms
  • Color: Nickel

Key Features

Switchable low frequency roll-off

The studio microphone classic

Pressure-gradient transducer with double membrane capsule

Specifications

Microphone Type
Condenser
Transducer Type
Pressure-gradient with double membrane capsule
Features
Switchable low frequency roll-off
Color
Nickel

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Recognized as "the studio microphone classic," indicating a high reputation and proven performance in professional audio.
  • Features a pressure-gradient transducer with a double membrane capsule, which is a design known for its sensitivity and accurate sound capture.
  • Includes a switchable low-frequency roll-off, allowing users to reduce unwanted bass rumble and proximity effect for clearer recordings.
  • The nickel finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing professional appearance for studio environments.
  • Neumann microphones are known for their exceptional sound quality, making this suitable for critical recording applications.

👎 Cons

  • As a classic studio microphone, it typically comes with a premium price point, making it a significant investment.
  • The "switchable low-frequency roll-off" is helpful, but the absence of other specific switchable patterns or pads might limit its versatility in some recording scenarios.
  • The pressure-gradient transducer design, while excellent, can be more susceptible to plosives without proper pop filter usage.
  • Requires an external power source (phantom power) for operation, which is not explicitly stated but standard for condenser microphones.
  • Being a dedicated studio microphone, its size and fragility might make it less suitable for rugged live performance or field recording.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a classic studio condenser microphone, renowned for its pressure-gradient transducer and double membrane capsule design, providing high sensitivity and accurate sound capture.
Yes, it includes a switchable low-frequency roll-off feature, which is useful for reducing unwanted bass frequencies or compensating for the proximity effect during recording.
The double membrane capsule design in the U 87 Ai allows for excellent transient response and precise sound reproduction, contributing to its status as a studio classic.
This specific Neumann U 87 Ai studio microphone comes in a nickel finish, offering a professional and classic aesthetic.
As a classic studio microphone with high-quality components and a switchable low-frequency roll-off, it is highly versatile for vocals, instruments, and speech in professional recording environments.