Neumann U 87 Ai Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£2,730
  • Avg. price in US: ~$3,750
  • Connection type: XLR
  • Transducer type: condenser
  • Max SPL: 117 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
  • Output connector type: XLR

Neumann U 87 Ai review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

6.9

Technical Score

25.0%

?

User score

Good
6.9

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.0

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.3

Recording

16.0%

8.6

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

7.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

6.0

Design

3.0%

6.2

Accessories

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 4.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 8.1
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    ?

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    ?

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 7.4
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    3.5

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 5.1
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 7.6
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.4

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    6.4

    Height

    10.0%

    9.1

    Width

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £2,730

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Neumann U87 Ai is an industry-standard large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone featuring a pressure-gradient transducer and three selectable polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8. It offers a broad 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response with a signature midrange presence and a gentle high-end boost, capable of handling a maximum SPL of 117 dB (extendable to 127 dB via a switchable -10 dB pad). Main characteristics include its exceptional clarity, consistent performance across units, and the inclusion of a low-cut filter to manage proximity effect. Pros include its extreme versatility for vocals and instruments, a robust handcrafted German build, and a high signal-to-noise ratio of up to 82 dB. Cons involve its premium price point, high sensitivity that reveals room acoustic flaws, and a slightly brighter, more 'modern' top end compared to vintage models that some users find less forgiving.

Technical Specifications of Neumann U 87 Ai

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

?

Audio Performance

20.0%

?

Recording

16.0%

?

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

?

Controls & Features

10.0%

?

Power

7.0%

?

Compatibility

5.0%

?

Connectivity

3.0%

?

Design

3.0%

?

Accessories

6.9
Neumann U 87 Ai has a technical score of 6.87 points, which is lower than 50.8% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
1.0
Neumann U 87 Ai has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 68.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.9

Overall score

40.0%

1.0

Price

5.1
Neumann U 87 Ai has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.1 points, which is lower than 100% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

25.4 inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

dual
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-31.1 dBV/Pa
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Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a headphone output. 63.5% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
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N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

3
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Neumann U 87 Ai is 3, which is higher than that of 82.9% of microphones and equal to that of 4.5% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai supports an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 25.6% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai supports a bidirectional pickup pattern. 16.6% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

0
Neumann U 87 Ai offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
Neumann U 87 Ai offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
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Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai does not require phantom power. 9.1% of microphones also operate without phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

48 V
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not support USB bus power. 86.4% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

200 mm
Neumann U 87 Ai is 200 mm tall, which is taller than 61% of microphones and equal in height to 0.5% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

56 mm
Neumann U 87 Ai is 56 mm wide, which is narrower than 47.5% of microphones and equal in width to 4.1% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

56 mm
Neumann U 87 Ai is 56 mm thick, which is thinner than 49% of microphones and equal in thickness to 2.6% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

500 g
Neumann U 87 Ai weighs 500 g, which is lighter than 62.2% of microphones and equal in weight to 1.9% of microphones.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

brass
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Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

shock mount; windscreen; cable; carrying case
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a pop filter. 61.4% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with Android. 66.3% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

no
Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
Requires audio interface.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Neumann U 87 Ai is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Requires audio interface.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

?
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Neumann U 87 Ai vs the average microphone

  • 2 more polar patterns
    Neumann U 87 Ai has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.
    What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
    When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.3 vs 1
  • Supports omnidirectional pickup
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
    When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports bidirectional pickup
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
    When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
    When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a pad switch for lowering input sensitivity.
    When it matters: When loud singers, drums, or guitar amps would otherwise overload the input stage.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports balanced output
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
    When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes shock mount
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
    When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • 8.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Neumann U 87 Ai has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (105 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    Cardioid A-weighted; 115 mic amplifier.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (105 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.105 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • 8.5 dB wider dynamic range
    Neumann U 87 Ai has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (105 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • Supports balanced output
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 2 more polar patterns
    Neumann U 87 Ai has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.
  • Supports omnidirectional pickup
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports bidirectional pickup
    Neumann U 87 Ai supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes shock mount
    Neumann U 87 Ai includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • 5 dB SPL lower limit
    Neumann U 87 Ai has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (117 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    With 10 dB pad: 127.
  • No headphone output
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    Neumann U 87 Ai requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • 34 older release date
    Neumann U 87 Ai is older than the average microphone (1,986 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • 15 mm taller body
    Neumann U 87 Ai is taller than the average microphone (200 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • No pop filter
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • No gain control
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
    When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
    When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    Neumann U 87 Ai requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
    When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with Android
    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
    When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • 5 dB SPL lower limit
    Neumann U 87 Ai has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (117 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    With 10 dB pad: 127.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Neumann U 87 Ai has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (117 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.117 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • No headphone output
    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
    When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

    Importance: LOW

    Neumann U 87 Ai does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.

Graphic comparison of Neumann U 87 Ai and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Neumann U 87 Ai?

  • Industry-standard audio quality with iconic, classic musical character
  • Impeccable, handmade German build quality
  • Excellent versatility with highly usable multi-polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8)
  • Takes EQ incredibly well and captures stunning detail
  • Low self-noise and great off-axis rejection
  • Exceptional performance for acoustic/electric instruments, voiceovers, and as a room mic

What customers dislike about Neumann U 87 Ai?

  • Very high price point makes it a major investment
  • Exposes room imperfections and can sound thin in untreated spaces
  • Can sound muddy, 'honky', or overly sibilant on the wrong voice types
  • Can be prone to clipping on loud sources
  • Expensive essential accessories, like the shock mount, are often sold separately

Expert reviews

S
soundguys.com
18/10/2025

The SoundGuys review of the Neumann U 87 Ai highlights the condenser microphone's transition from commercial studios to high-end home settings, praising its immaculately clean, balanced sound and versatile, switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8). It excels in capturing rich vocal and acoustic details with minimal noise, providing a professional, mix-ready...Read more

M
macprovideo.com
14/07/2020

The Neumann U87ai is deemed a legendary, industry-standard microphone that offers elite audio fidelity and immediate professional authority, serving as a worthwhile investment for professional voiceovers and music production. It represents a significant leap forward in quality, acting as a "juggernaut" that provides immense value for serious studio setups. However, the review cites...Read more

P
podcastage.com
16/06/2025

The Neumann U87 Ai is a highly precise, three-polar-pattern large diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers an exceptionally controlled low-end, forward mid-section, and a detailed yet smooth top-end. In terms of performance, the microphone is incredibly unforgiving, meaning it transparently captures the exact tone of whatever source is placed in front of it without altering or...Read more

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bonedo.de
08/09/2017

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a highly flexible, large-diaphragm true condenser microphone widely regarded as an industry-standard studio workhorse. Featuring a classic dual-diaphragm design based on the vintage U 67, it allows users to switch between three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight. In terms of technical specifications, the microphone operates across a 20...Read more

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tobitech.de
15/02/2014

The Tobitech review highlights the Neumann U87 Ai as a highly sensitive, neutral, and robust multi-pattern transistor microphone that carries an iconic status in the recording world. Pros include its linear frequency response and a distinct mid-range presence that makes post-processing incredibly easy. It captures transients with a remarkable lightness, pushing vocals forward...Read more

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delamar.de
03/02/2022

Overview The delamar 2026 mega test provides a highly comprehensive comparison of over 100 studio microphones, spanning a vast price range from €29 to €6,099. The evaluation splits microphones into large-diaphragm condensers, small-diaphragm condensers, tube microphones, and ribbon microphones to help buyers find the ideal option for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, or...Read more

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studio-microphone.com
Non daté

The Neumann U87 Ai is a legendary, large-diaphragm condenser microphone widely regarded as an industry standard for professional recording studios, broadcasting, and voice-over work. Known for its exceptional build quality and versatility, this multi-pattern microphone features three selectable polar patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional) to adapt to diverse...Read more

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fr.audiofanzine.com
31/01/2024

The Audiofanzine user reviews celebrate the Neumann U 87 Ai as an absolute industry-standard workhorse, particularly praised for vocal tracking. Reviewers consistently highlight its incredible dynamic range, high output levels, and low self-noise compared to budget studio microphones. It is highly valued for delivering a polished, radio-ready vocal representation that sits...Read more

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audioproduccion.com
19/10/2023

The Neumann U87 review published on Audio Producción highlights the exceptional historical prestige of this large-diaphragm condenser microphone, noting its extensive use by iconic artists ranging from Paul McCartney and David Bowie to Ed Sheeran. In his detailed assessment, reviewer Pepe Moctezuma expresses absolute surprise regarding the microphone's performance after acquiring a...Read more

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soundref.com
15/12/2023

The Neumann U87 AI is a highly regarded, hand-built German large-diaphragm condenser microphone known for its balanced tone, clear high-end presence boost, and overall versatility across various studio applications. Its standout features include a dual-membrane capsule providing three switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight), a low-cut filter, and a...Read more

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paolobalestri.com
09/05/2016

The Paolo Balestri review evaluates the Neumann TLM 103 as a prominent investment for home and voice-over studios, directly comparing it to the flagship Neumann U87Ai. The TLM 103 derives from the U87 capsule design but utilizes only half of the capsule structure, running on completely different, transformerless electronics (hence Transformer Less Microphone). This design alteration...Read more

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funky-junk.com
18/11/2024

The Funky Junk mic shootout evaluates the Neumann U87 Ai, U67 Vintage, U67 Modern, and Flea M251 as drum overheads, using an Apollo X8 interface and API 212L preamps for raw, unprocessed recordings. The U87 Ai offers a punchy, bright sound that cuts through mixes but can feel brittle, while the U67 Vintage provides a warm, cohesive sound that lacks top-end air. YouTube · The U67...Read more

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paolobalestri.com
31/01/2021

The reviewer explores a budget-friendly Chinese replica of the iconic Neumann U87Ai microphone, originally identified as the Yossic YS-U87 (manufactured by Shenzhen Yuxing Sci-Technology Co Ltd) and later appearing as the Dragone C87S. Costing around €200 to acquire—plus an additional €45 in customs duties—the microphone mimics the external design of the legendary German original...Read more

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audiocentralmagazine.com
26/10/2012

The article reviews and compares a 1980s vintage Neumann U87 microphone with a modern U87 model using a Focusrite ISA One Analog preamplifier to test male vocals, acoustic guitar, and electric guitar. The comparison shows that the visual design remains identical, but the vintage model features a simpler internal circuit with a built-in battery compartment and a 7-pin Amphenol...Read more

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soundref.com
15/12/2023

The Neumann U87 AI is a highly regarded, side-address solid-state condenser microphone hand-built in Germany that has set the studio standard for over five decades. It is celebrated for its incredibly clear, detailed, and balanced vintage tone, featuring a flat midrange and a gentle presence boost that effortlessly places vocals and acoustic instruments perfectly in a mix. A major...Read more

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bax-shop.nl
26/04/2026

The Neumann U 87 Ai Nickel is celebrated as an industry-standard large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers exceptional, professional-grade sound quality right out of the box. A modern iteration of the classic 1967 model, this version provides a higher sensitivity and an improved signal-to-noise ratio while preserving its iconic, highly sought-after linear sound profile. Its...Read more

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