Neumann TLM103 Condenser Microphone

Description

Neumann TLM103 condenser microphone.

Studio microphone

TLM 103 studio set

A modern studio standard

Capsule design derived from the legendary U 87 A

Consistent cardioid pattern

Broad presence boost for enhanced sound definition

Extremely low self-noise

A MODERN CLASSIC

The TLM 103 has quickly become one of the greatest successes in Neumann’s history. Its pristine, clear sound is a modern update on the classic U87. The TLM 103 is a transformerless cardioid condenser microphone with a slight presence boost for a stunningly direct sound with breathtaking definition and ultra-low noise.

THE NEW STANDARD INTRODUCED

in 1997 as a more affordable alternative to the venerable U 87, the TLM 103 has since become a modern classic in its own right. Today, the TLM 103 defines the standard by which contemporary studio microphones are measured. Its classic tapered grille design lends the TLM 103 a distinct Neumann appearance.

The TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87. However, the TLM 103 has a somewhat more modern voicing with a broad presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz. Its very direct yet refined sound is perfect for vocals and solo instruments that effortlessly cut through the mix. Of course, the TLM 103 also has the famous authoritative midrange that has become the hallmark of Neumann microphones and made them the number one choice in studios around the world. A unique feature of the TLM 103 is its incredibly deep yet controlled low end, perfect for sonorous voices and powerful bass instruments.

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE

The TLM 103 set new standards in terms of technical performance too. With an incredibly low self-noise of only 7 dB-A, it is among the quietest microphones available. And its high sensitivity of 23 mV/Pa, ensures extremely low noise even with affordable preamps and audio interfaces or vintage tube equipment. At the same time, the TLM 103 can handle enormous sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB without the need for preattenuation. Its vast dynamic range of 131 dB makes the TLM 103 a very easy to use studio microphone as it will capture anything from a soft whisper to a thunderous kick drum without adding noise or distortion.

As a member of Neumann’s TLM series, the TLM 103 operates with a transformerless output stage, which minimizes transmission losses and ensures a very direct, uncolored sound true to the original, as well as a clear, powerful bass response, even at the highest signal levels.

APPLICATIONS

The TLM 103 was primarily designed for project studios and broadcast use, but due to its outstanding performance it was soon adopted by renowned studios as a more modern-sounding alternative to the U87, for instance for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps, and piano. The TLM 103 is also often used as a spot mic in classical recordings, e.g. for cello and double bass.

Large diaphragm capsule derived from the classic U 87 microphone

Balanced sound with enhanced presence

Cardioid pattern

Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability

Extremely low self-noise: only 7 dB-A

Specifications

Acoustical operating principle Pressure gradient transducer

Directional pattern Cardioid

Frequency range 20 Hz ... 20 kHz

Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm 23 mV/Pa = –32.5 dBV ± 1 dB

Rated impedance 50 ohms

Rated load impedance 1 kohm

Equivalent noise level, CCIR¹⁾ 17.5 dB

Equivalent noise level, A-weighted¹⁾ 7 dB-A

Max. SPL for THD 0.5%²⁾ 138 dB

Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾ 76.5 dB

Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL)¹⁾ 87 dB

Max. output voltage 13 dBu

Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938) 48 V ± 4 V

Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938) 3 mA

Matching connector XLR 3 F

Weight approx. 450 g

Diameter 60 mm

Length 132 mm