/ Multi Pattern

Neumann U87 Studio Microphone

The Neumann U87 is one of the most recognisable and widely used studio microphones in professional recording history, established as a reference standard for vocals, speech, and general studio recording since its introduction in the late 1960s.

Neumann U87 Studio Microphone Details

The Neumann U87 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone featuring three selectable polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure eight. It is designed around a pressure gradient transducer principle and incorporates a dual diaphragm capsule derived from earlier Neumann designs.

The microphone includes switchable pad and low cut options, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of recording conditions and sound pressure levels. Its head amplifier employs a solid state FET circuit with a minimal signal path and a transformer balanced output, ensuring stable performance and high common mode rejection.

The Neumann U87 is powered via standard 48V phantom power and remains a central fixture in professional recording studios worldwide.

Neumann U87 Studio Microphone Heritage

Introduced 1967

designated as Neumann U87

Solid state large diaphragm condenser microphone using a FET head amplifier with a minimal signal path and transformer balanced output, employing a dual diaphragm condenser capsule design derived from the Neumann U67.

Introduced in 1967, the Neumann U87 became a long term studio reference microphone for vocals, speech, and general studio recording. Its three polar patterns and studio oriented feature set established it as a widely adopted standard in professional recording environments.
Current production

designated as Neumann U87 Ai

Large diaphragm condenser microphone retaining a dual diaphragm capsule design and solid state FET head amplifier principles with transformer balanced output, with three selectable polar patterns plus pad and low cut options.

The Neumann U87 Ai is the current production model of the U87 line and remains one of the most frequently used studio microphones worldwide. It continues the U87’s role as a standard microphone for speech and vocals, with adaptability provided by three polar patterns alongside pad and low cut switching.

Specifications

Released in: 1967

Made in: Germany

Operating Principle: Pressure gradient transducer
Polar Patterns: Omnidirectional, cardioid, figure eight
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20000Hz
Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa omni, 28 mV/Pa cardioid, 22 mV/Pa figure eight
Rated Impedance: 200 Ohms
Rated Load Impedance: 1000 Ohms
Equivalent Noise Level CCIR: 26 dB omni, 23 dB cardioid, 25 dB figure eight
Equivalent Noise Level A Weighted: 15 dB-A omni, 12 dB-A cardioid, 14 dB-A figure eight
Maximum SPL: 117 dB cardioid, 127 dB with preattenuation
Signal To Noise Ratio CCIR: 68 dB omni, 71 dB cardioid, 69 dB figure eight
Signal To Noise Ratio A Weighted: 79 dB omni, 82 dB cardioid, 80 dB figure eight
Maximum Output Voltage: -6 dBu
Power Requirements: 48V phantom power, IEC 61938
Current Consumption: 0.8 mA
Output Connector: XLR 3 pin female
Dimensions: 200mm x 56mm x 56mm
Weight: 500 g