Static Microphone

The classic model Neumann U 87 AI STEREO SET in double box, common applications in studio, broadcast, cinema, television ...

ARTICLE N° 13188
  • The classic model Neumann U 87 AI MT STEREO SET black finish
  • Principle of acoustic operation Pressure gradient transducer
  • Directivity Omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional (figure 8)
  • Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Sensitivity at 1 kHz, load 1 kOhm 20/28/22 mV / Pa *
  • 200 Ohms nominal output impedance
  • Recommended load impedance 1 kOhm
  • Noise level at input, according to CCIR 468-3 26 / 23/25 dB *
  • Noise level at input, according to DIN / IEC 651 15/12/14 dB-A *
  • Signal / Noise ratio, according to CCIR 468-3 68/71/69 dB *
  • Signal / Noise ratio, according to DIN / IEC 651 79/82/80 dB *
  • Maximum SPL level, for THD = 0.5% 117 dB (cardioid)
  • Maximum SPL level, for THD = 0.5%, pre-attenuator activated 127 dB
  • Maximum output voltage 390 mV
  • Dynamic range of integrated microphone preamp (cardioid position), according to DIN / IEC 651 105 dB
  • Phantom power supply voltage 48 V ± 4 V
  • Current consumption 0.8 mA
  • XLR output connector 3M
  • Weight 500 g
  • Diameter 56 mm
  • Length 200 mm
  • * Omnidirectional / Cardioid / Bidirectional
The U 87 Ai is also used as a main microphone for orchestra recordings, extra on isolated instruments, and most common way, as micro voice on all types of music (vocals) and Spoken voice.
Acoustic features The U 87 Ai is a side-effect model - the Neumann logo is placed facing the sound source. For cardioid and bidirectional, the frequency response is very flat for frontal sound incidence, even in the treble. The microphone can be placed very close to a sound source, without becoming aggressive. His high pass filter attenuates with remarkable efficiency, subsonic interference in the matter.
Directional
The double diaphragm capsule is elastically mounted and protected by a grid of large dimensions. The selector placed under the grid allows to choose between the three directional patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid and biddirectionnelle (Figure 8). The directivity corresponding to the selected icon is displayed in a small window above the dial.
Electrical Characteristics
The letter A from the reference indicates a newer generation compared to the U 87 i models manufactured from 1967 to 1986. The changes concern only the electronic components of the microphone: the capsule itself remained unchanged.

The current system increases the operational headroom of the U 87 Ai by passing the capsule bias voltages by a lower resistance value. The result: increased sensitivity of 10 dB for the same level of sound pressure and a report signal / noise by 3 dB higher.
Filter and attenuation
A selector located on the rear of the microphone reduces sensitivity of 10 dB. When activated, the microphone accepts sound pressure levels up to 127 dB (equivalent figure to a sound pressure of 45 Pa) without distortion.

Another switch at the rear allows to change the microphone's cutoff frequency. It reduces harmful interference directly at the input of the integrated microphone preamplifier.

This switch also compensates the inevitable boost in the bass, common to all pressure gradient transducers when used in small distance from the sound source (proximity effect).

The cardioid frequency response remains flat up to a distance of 30-40 cm - 15 to 20 cm for bidirectional directivity
Capsule type
 Capacitor
Application
 Singing, Acoustic guitar, Drum / percussions, Speaking voice, Guitar / bass amplifier
Directivity
 Cardioid, Bidirectional (Figure-8), Omnidirectional
Switchable pad
 Yes
Switchable Bass-Cut filter
 Yes
Vintage look
 Yes
Shockmount included
 Yes
Complete set
 Yes
Power supply
 Via +48 V phantom power supply
Connectors
 XLR male 3 pins
Packaging
 Pair

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