Neumann TLM 103-MT Large Diaphragm Cardioid Microphone, Black, XLR

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As with most condenser microphones, the TLM 103 is certainly a microphone you’ll want to take great care of and be extra cautious of, avoiding any potential drops. Inside the TLM 103 Since purchasing my tlm 103, my recordings have reached a hole new level. The search for the all around best home studio mic and a classic sound to an affordable price is finally over. It has extremely low self noise and it's sensitivity is perfect for recording acoustic guitars and vocals, however the sensitivity of the Neumann 103, can be quite a challenge, when used in a humble home studio setup set in a difficult environment, it really takes in a lot of noise from adjacent rooms, computer buzzing etc.* There are a few factors at play between the TLM 102 vs 103. They’re identical in terms of features (i.e., they have none); as far as size goes, the 103 is the bigger and heavier of the two. Really, though, sound quality should be more of a concern than size. In some sense many Neumann modern mics get slammed because sennheiser is not making boutique mics but mass produced ones. The letter TLM stands for “transformerless microphone.” An electronic structure has swapped the common transformer with the help of TLM Technology.

The chunky wedge shape makes it more versatile in the studio and less mic-saggy than the traditional long cylinder shape. Self-noise and Max SPL Michael Watson, Sound Engineer Frequently Asked Questions How does this compare with the Neumann TLM 102? CELLO: Post Sound Mixer/Composer & Cellist (for Moby amongst others) Wayne Urquhart, on my1890s German cello. Recorded in my large volume (tall vaulted ceiling) & stone tiled kitchen.Most people agree that the 102 has a tighter low end than the 103. The 103 has a deeper and richer low-end, which might be because it's bigger or has a new capsule. The Neumann TLM 103 sounded great on both male and female vocals ... smooth, full, tight warm in the mids and accurate - but with a characteristically bright. Neumann ´sheen´ on the high end ...""This is a premium microphone characterized by an open, articulate, very natural sound ..." Our only criticism in terms of its build is that the mesh grille seems a bit fragile. Other owners of the TLM 103, have reported that the grille is especially prone to dents. This should come as no surprise as the grilles are usually very sensitive on most microphones. In terms of the sound character, the TLM 103 sounds similar to the U87 for the most part. A main difference, is that it has some boosted high-end frequencies creating a more modern sound. Although this results in a brighter sound, this microphone still manages to have a buttery smooth sound with little harshness. It sounds very alive with recordings that seem to cut through the mix with great presence. As a vocal mic it can, as many other mics, be the perfect match for the voice, but it tend to be very bright, however, compared to the vast majority of budget mics, it compares favourably! The TLM 103 has VERY good transient response and sounds very good on the right source. The build quality is, as all other Neumann mics, great.

The Neumann TLM 102 is the most accessible large diaphragm condenser that the company makes. Considered an entry-level mic, it’s the perfect way to introduce Neumann quality to your home or project studio. Even at a fraction of the cost of a U87, for example, the TLM 102 screams quality, and is manufactured in Germany like all Neumann microphones.The letters TLM stand for "transformerless microphone". With TLM technology the usual output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. As with traditional transformers, it ensures good common mode rejection, and prevents RF interference that may influence the balanced audio signal. In my opinion, the difference in cost between the TLM 103 and its older, more expensive family members, more than justifies the work required to get results that can come pretty dang close.

The U87 has always been seen as the "desert island" mic for a reason - it just sounds amazing on everything. Even if it's not immediately mind-blowing like a tube mic such as the Neumann M149 or AKG C12, there's something magical that happens when you start adding EQ to a U87. U87s, especially those that have lived a bit, all have their own unique subtleties. Questions or Comments?The self noise (ie. that of the internal circuitry) of the new mic is stunningly low compared with similar models; presumably this is another benefit of the 103's TLM circuitry (see the 'More On TLM' box for more on this). The equivalent SPL is quoted at just 7dB A‑weighted (according to the DIN/IEC 651 measurement specification) whereas the current U87Ai (which is already about 6dB quieter than previous versions) is specified as having a self noise of 12dB (A‑weighted) in cardioid mode. The polar response is relevant here because, as the U87 is a multi‑polar design, it has higher noise figures in the other two patterns (omni and figure‑of‑eight) due to the contribution of the rear half of the capsule. Applications for the 103 vary, with most engineers reaching for it on vocals, or on any solo instrument that demands a direct sound to cut through a mix. Large diaphragm condensers get a ton of mileage, so it’s safe to say you can run the 103 on anything.

The TLM 103 has some magic too. In general, it's a richer mic, so it's perfect for lead vocals and acoustic guitars. Its high SPL tolerance also makes it ideal for recording guitar cabinets since you can really crank those amps and hit them hard. Plus, it's probably great for anything percussive because it has a good crisp transient response. Bought this mic in 1998 and it came in a nice wooden box with the Neuman Logo and a adapter for the stands. I love these nice details, nothing like a wooden box to impale a sense of greatness to a mic Nonetheless, what the base edition does include, is a nice solid wooden jeweler’s box for storage with foam lining. Inside the box, a basic microphone mount and microphone stand adapter is included along with documentation. The TLM 103 is also available in a stereo set as desired. Interestingly enough, there is also a digital version, the TLM 103 D, which features built-in A/D conversion. Conclusion: TLM 103 ReviewAt first sight, the Neumann TLM 103 is a gorgeous microphone. Unlike cheaper microphones that may have very slight alterations in their production, this microphone is pristine and you can tell that Neumann’s meticulousness in their design isn’t just limited to the inner-workings of their microphones. Okay, so here's my take on it - these two mics are totally worth the price! They give you a nice clean signal and a crisp top end. In this article, we review the Neumann TLM 103 (see current price). The TLM 103 was designed to be an affordable modern update on Neumann’s legendary U87 microphone. It is far cheaper than Neumann’s elite microphones. But, does it still share the pizzazz of Neumann’s signature sound? The TLM 103 Design If I Could Keep Just One Microphone Which One Would I Keep? Neumann TLM 103" Production Expert (read the full review here) Features