Neumann U87 Ai B-Stock

B-Stock with Full Warranty
Return that may have slight traces of use.

Condenser Studio Microphone

Pressure gradient transducer
Polar patterns: Cardioid, omni and figure-8
Switchable 10 dB attenuation
Nominal impedance: 200 Ohm
Frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz
Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kOhm: 20/28/22 mV/Pa ± 1 dB (omni/cardioid/figure-8)
Max. sound pressure level for k < 0.5%: 117 dB (cardioid)
Max. SPL (sound pressure level) for k < 0.5% with pre-attenuation: 127 dB
48 V phantom power required
Dimensions (Ø x L): 56 x 200 mm
Weight: 500 g
Colour: Nickel
Suitable shock mount: Art. 125520 (not included)
Suitable stand adapter: Art. 218556 (not included)

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Item number 298320
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Tube No
Switchable Polar Pattern Yes
Omnidirectional Yes
Cardioid Yes
Figure-8 Yes
Low Cut Yes
Pad Yes
shockmount included No
USB Microphone No

Also available as brand new product £2,699

£2,490

All prices incl. VAT

Sales Rank

in Large Diaphragm Microphones

A true classic

The Neumann U87, one of the first FET microphones, has been in continuous production since 1967, making it the world's oldest condenser mic still in production today. From the very start, it ran on a 48V phantom power supply – which would go on to become the industry standard. Some models, such as the U87 i, could also be powered by two batteries, while the U87 Ai (introduced in 1986, without the battery compartment this time) offers a significantly higher output level and lower self-noise compared to its predecessors. If any microphone deserves the title of a studio standard, it's this classic, with the U87 Ai being especially favoured by broadcasters and vocalists – although its versatility makes this microphone a valuable asset for virtually any recording scenario.

Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone in wooden case

All the options

Although the Neumann U87 Ai is optimised for the cardioid polar pattern and offers an impressively linear frequency response, its omnidirectional and figure-8 patterns are far more than just added extras. The omnidirectional mode excels at room miking, while the figure-8 pattern will prove useful as a side mic for mid/side stereo recording: It's also an appealing alternative for vocal recordings, delivering a subtle vintage character with less proximity bass rumble than traditional ribbon microphones with figure-8 polar patterns.

Large-diaphragm condenser capsule of the Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone

The sound of Neumann

Speech and vocals particularly stand to benefit from the Neumann U87 Ai's signature midrange character and rich, full-bodied Neumann sound. While other microphones may boast an impressive deep bass response or a shimmering high end, the U87 Ai focuses on what truly matters – a balanced sound where the vital midrange remains clear and unmasked by extreme frequencies. Its forgiving nature and wide sweet spot ensure a consistent bass response, even if the speaker or singer moves during recording, allowing a more natural and expressive performance.

XLR connector on the nickel-plated Neumann U87 Ai

About Neumann

Georg Neumann GmbH was founded in Berlin in 1928 - and is certainly one of the most famous brands of microphones in the world. However, this is not the company's only sphere of activity. For many years, the versatile inventor and pioneer Georg Neumann was also involved with vinyl record cutting machines and the development of rechargeable batteries. The technology he developed is still the basis for this now crucial and rapidly expanding market. What is more, for many years the company built highly personalised sound control systems for broadcast studios/theatres and concert halls, and for several years also studio monitors. In 1991, Neumann became part of the Sennheiser group of companies, and in 1999 was the first German company to receive the Technical Grammy for their overall technical achievements.

Flexible reliability, reliable flexibility

Of course, this superbly crafted microphone will deliver outstanding results when recording instruments as well, and thanks to its switchable 10dB pad, this microphone can handle guitar and bass amps with ease. When it comes to acoustic guitar accompaniment, on the other hand, a subtle and unobtrusive tone is needed; the Neumann U87 Ai is equally suited to this task, too. It's also a popular choice as an overhead microphone for drums – though users need to be aware of potential distortion, due to its relatively low maximum sound pressure level of 127dB (with pad): That said, however, a touch of crunch can sometimes add exactly the right character to a track.

2 Customer ratings

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5 / 5

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Einfach ein gutes Mikro

Bjoern L. 27.03.2012

Ich hab lange rumprobiert mit Mikros unter 1000 €, mich immer geärgert, dann versucht über Preamp, Kompressor und Plug ins was Fettes draus zu machen und mich dann doch für das U87 ai entschieden. Ich hätte gleich das Geld investieren sollen, statt Jahre zu verschwenden und mich zu lange zu ärgern.

Wenn man das U87 erstmal hat, kann man sich nicht mehr vorstellen, ohne zu leben. Nach oben gibt es sicherlich noch mehr High End und Nuancen. Nach unten für mich keinerlei Alternative in Sachen Sound. Ich nehme nur Vocals auf und habe mehrere Preamps (Avalon und UA).

Der Sound des U87 lässt sich schwer versauen und es ist in meinen Augen die beste Investition, die ich bis jetzt getätigt habe.

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NEUMANN U87: Alltrounder für den harten (Recording)Studioaltag.

Alexander M. L. 28.10.2009

Das NEUMANN U87 AI hat sich als echter Allrounder bewährt. Ursprüglich war es meine Absicht ein gute Mittelklassemikrofon anzuschaffen, aber das U87 brilliert nicht nur in einer sehr guten Übertagsungsqualität in Bezug auf Gesangsstimmen (Solo & Chöre, Pop/Rock/Jazz in Verbindung mit dem Universal Audio 2-610), sondern wird seit einiger Zeit in unserern Produktionen auch als Room-Micro. für Drums-, E-Gitarren,- und Orchesteraufnahmen verwendet. Daher: Spitzen Preis-Leistungsverhältnis. Daumen Hoch! :)

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Neumann U87 Ai B-Stock

Condenser Studio Microphone