The Neumann U 87 AI Review: A Legendary Microphone for Professional Audio Recording
As a music enthusiast, you know that having the right equipment is essential for producing quality audio. If you’re looking to upgrade your microphone arsenal, the Neumann U 87 AI should definitely be on your list of options. The U 87 AI is a legendary microphone that has been a go-to for professional audio recording for decades. In this blog post, we will review the Neumann U 87 AI, discussing its pros and cons and why it still deserves its place among the greats.
Design and Build Quality
The Neumann U 87 AI is one of the most iconic microphone designs that features a large diaphragm condenser capsule mounted in the head basket. The nickel finish gives it a classic look that is truly attractive and hard to miss out. The design of the U 87 AI is very sturdy and has a robust build that will ensure durability and longevity. The U 87 AI features a switchable polar pattern, so you can easily switch between cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional modes, depending on your recording needs.
Sound Quality
The most critical aspect of any microphone is its sound quality, and the Neumann U 87 AI doesn’t disappoint. The U 87 AI has exceptional clarity and a smooth mid-range that captures every detail of the source material. The microphone has a transparent sound-quality, which always reproduces the audio signal with minimal colouration. The high-end reproduction of the U 87 AI is crystal clear, while the low-end frequencies have a controlled and balanced sound, which makes it perfect for recording vocals, guitars, drums, and other instruments.
Pros:
One of the biggest pros of the Neumann U 87 AI is its versatility. With its switchable polar pattern, it adapts to different recording situations, making it suitable for various recording tasks. Additionally, the microphone has a low self-noise, which makes it ideal for recording in a quiet studio environment. The U 87 AI is also a very practical mic. It has minimal handling noise and comes with an exceptional suspension to avoid vibrations resonating through the microphone body. Moreover, The U 87 AI has been a go-to microphone for many generations of audio engineers which makes it always remembered in the hearts of many.
Cons:
The Neumann U 87 AI is an expensive microphone, which is a downside for some people. However, it’s widely accepted that you get what you pay for, and the U 87 AI is no exception. Also, Neumann has released a plethora of U 87’s over the years, so people seeking a vintage version may need to research further before making a purchase. Finally, some people argue that the U 87 AI may require an extra sensitive preamp headroom to fully reach its potential, but that should not discourage anyone from its outstanding features.
Conclusion:
The Neumann U 87 AI is a legendary microphone that has stood the test of time. Its crystal-clear sound, switchable polar pattern and durable build make it a top choice for recording professionals. The U 87 AI performs exceptionally well with vocals, guitars, and drums, making it suitable for many genres of music production. Although the price may be a bit steep, the U 87 AI is an excellent long-term investment for any studio owner who wants the best sound quality possible. Despite the cons, the Neumann U 87 AI remains an evergreen microphone that every recording enthusiast should have in their collection.
