Neumann
Neumann U 87 Ai
Best professional microphone for capturing pristine studio quality audio.
The Neumann U 87 Ai is the gold standard of microphones in modern audio recording. For over 50 years, the U 87 Ai has been used in recording studios all over the world to capture award-winning performances. Adored for its smooth, refined sound, this classic large diaphragm condenser mic will instantly bring any instrument to life. The U 87 Ai is the quintessential large diaphragm condenser microphone. The iconic design and musical sonic character have become the gold standard by which other microphones are measured. Featuring a balanced frequency response with a unique midrange presence, the U 87 Ai offers a unique, yet instantly recognizable tone. Equipped with selectable omni, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns, the U 87 Ai is a versatile studio workhorse that will shine in any situation: from acoustic guitar to drum overheads. The U 87 Ai combines the same K67 dual diaphragm condenser capsule as its tube-based predecessor with innovative FET 80 technology to deliver unparalleled clarity. The built-in switchable low cut filter makes it easy to combat low frequency build up caused by the proximity effect. The on-board pad and remarkably low self-noise mean you can record even louder performances without any unwanted distortion.
$3750.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
11
/ 3337
#11 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+638%
Above average
Package Contents
87
/ U Ai Microphone and wooden box
Who it's for
- Professional vocalists and engineers demanding world-class sonic performance
- Studio professionals and producers requiring a flexible, high-performance microphone
- Established studios and audio professionals making a long-term equipment investment
Who should skip it
- Aspiring musicians and home studio enthusiasts with limited budgets
- Beginners and those without professional-grade recording environments
- Mobile recordists and users prioritizing rugged, low-maintenance equipment
Performance breakdown
Sonic Versatility
Three selectable polar patterns handle everything from vocals to complex drum setups.
Midrange Character
The signature midrange presence provides an instantly recognizable, professional studio sound.
Self-Noise Floor
Remarkably low noise floor ensures pristine captures for even the quietest sources.
SPL Handling
Switchable pad allows for clean recording of high-volume instruments without unwanted distortion.
Build Integrity
Legendary German engineering ensures this microphone remains a studio staple for decades.
Proximity Control
Integrated low-cut filter effectively manages bass buildup during close-mic applications.
Key Specs
Package Contents
U 87 Ai Microphone and wooden box
Length
200 mm
Diameter
56 mm
Unit Weight
500 g
Tube or Solid State
Solid State
Transducer Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Bi-Directional / Figure-Eight, Cardioid, Omni-Directional
Number of Microphones
Single Microphone
Features
- World's most famous studio microphone
- Classic, recognizable, and versatile sound
- Balanced frequency response with midrange presence
- Three selectable polar patterns
- Switchable low cut filter
- Switchable pad for high SPL sources
- Very low self-noise
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Neumann U 87 Ai for its exceptional sound quality and unwavering reliability. It is celebrated as an industry standard, delivering pristine, detailed audio reproduction across vocals and instruments. Users frequently highlight its robust construction and enduring performance, considering it a cornerstone investment for professional studios. The microphone's versatility and consistent high fidelity output solidify its reputation as a top tier, dependable tool for critical recording applications.
Know before you buy
Yes, the U 87 Ai is a solid-state condenser microphone and requires +48V phantom power from your audio interface or preamp to function.
The cardioid pattern is ideal for focused, front-facing recording like vocals; the omni-directional pattern captures sound from all directions, which is great for room ambience; and the figure-8 pattern picks up sound from the front and back while rejecting the sides, making it perfect for duets or mid-side stereo techniques.
The -10 dB pad reduces the microphone's output level before it hits your preamp, allowing you to record high-SPL sources like loud guitar cabinets or drums without clipping or distorting the signal.
The low cut filter is designed to combat the proximity effect, which is the unnatural bass boost that occurs when a sound source is very close to the microphone. Engaging it helps clean up muddy low-end frequencies in vocal recordings or acoustic instruments.
While it is legendary for vocals, the U 87 Ai is an incredibly versatile studio workhorse. Its balanced frequency response makes it an excellent choice for everything from acoustic guitars and piano to drum overheads.
The U 87 Ai comes with the microphone itself housed in a protective wooden box. Please note that a shock mount or stand adapter is typically sold separately.
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