Neumann U87 Ai Studio Set mt

Condenser Studio Microphone

Pressure gradient transducer
Polar patterns: Cardioid, omni, figure-8
Switchable 10 dB attenuation (pad)
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
Finish: Matte black
Set includes Neumann EA87 shock mount and wooden case

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since January 2012
Item number 276801
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 Yes
USB Microphone No

$2,999

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Sales Rank

in Large Diaphragm Microphones

A true classic

Neumann U87 Ai studio microphone, front view

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 on sale 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, back 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. This Neumann Studio Set also includes the manufacturer's proprietary EA 87 shock mount, to reduce handling noise to a professional level, as well as a very high-end wooden case. The letters MT in this variant's name refer simply to its matte black finish – it's otherwise identical to the classic nickel finish.

Neumann U87 Ai MT studio microphone in bespoke 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 enables the U87 to function 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. The elastic cords on Neumann's pro-grade shock mount allow the mic to almost hover in the air, massively attenuating external vibrations that might otherwise be picked up as handling noise.

Black Neumann EA 87 shock mount with Neumann U87 Ai large-membrane condenser 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.

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, the Neumann U87 Ai will deliver outstanding results when recording instruments, as well as voices, and thanks to its switchable 10dB pad, this superbly crafted microphone can also handle the intensity of 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.

23 Customer ratings

5 23 Customers 4 0 Customers 3 0 Customers 2 0 Customers 1 0 Customers

5 / 5

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16 Reviews

Neumann U87 the legend lives on...

Duncan I. 01.09.2015

The all star great microphone, reliable, trusted, well built, capturing the best sounding vocals in my studio to date. Highly recommended.

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It's the U87

???? Bread ???? 13.08.2023

It's exactly as good as everyone says! I use it for video game voice acting 😁

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İs

5 yıldız 🌟 🌟 🌟🌟🌟

İlhan saran 24.08.2025

ÇOk güzel ürün kesinlikle tavsiye ederim …

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Ein Stück Geschichte

Giovanni G 21.12.2017

In meinen Augen das beste Mic das man für Geld kaufen kann. Hab viel hin und her experimentiert doch das Neumann U87 hat einen unvergleichbaren Sound und ist mir so ans Herz gewachsen, dass ich es niemehr hergeben werde. Im Gegenteil ich werd es eher mit Diamanten bestücken lassen, weil es für mich einen unbezahlbaren Wert hat.

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Neumann U87 Ai Studio Set mt

Condenser Studio Microphone