Studio condenser microphone, Neumann TLM 103 mt studio set, Sennheiser 008544, suspension

008544 Neumann TLM 103 mt studio set Condenser studio microphone, suspension, Sennheiser

A modern classic

The TLM 103 has quickly become one of the most successful models in Neumann's history. Its pure sound is a modern update of the classic U87. The TLM 103 is a transformerless cardioid condenser microphone with soft presence amplification for stunningly direct sound with breathtaking resolution and ultra-low noise.

The new standard

Introduced in 1997 as an 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 modern studio microphones are measured. Its classic tapered grille design gives the TLM 103 a unique Neumann look.

The TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large-diaphragm condenser capsule borrowed from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87. However, the TLM 103 has a slightly more modern sound with a wide presence boost for frequencies above 5kHz. Its very direct but refined sound is perfect for vocals and solo instruments that come out of the mix with ease.

Of course, the TLM 103 also features the famous 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 impressively deep but controlled bass, ideal for sonorous voices and powerful bass instruments.

Technical excellence

The TLM 103 has set new standards in technical performance. With an incredibly low self-noise level of just 7 dB-A, it is one of the quietest microphones on the market. And its high sensitivity of 23 mV/Pa ensures ultra-low noise, even with budget preamps and audio interfaces or vintage tube equipment.

At the same time, the TLM 103 can handle huge sound pressure levels of up to 138dB without the need for preamplification. Its extensive 131dB dynamic range makes the TLM 103 a very easy-to-use studio microphone, as it picks up everything from a quiet whisper to a thunderous bass drum without adding noise or distortion.

As a member of Neumann's TLM Series, the TLM 103 works with a transformerless output stage that minimizes transmission loss and delivers a direct, uncolored sound that matches the original, as well as clear and powerful bass even at the highest signal levels.

Application

The TLM 103 was primarily designed for use in studios and for radio broadcasting, but due to its outstanding performance it was soon adopted as a more modern alternative to the U87 for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps and piano.

The TLM 103 is also often used as a spot microphone in the creation of classical recordings, such as for cello and double bass.

Features of the Neumann TLM 103 mt mono set
Large diaphragm capsule borrowed from the classic U 87 microphone.
Balanced sound with improved presence.
Cardioid directional pattern.
Extremely low self-noise: only 7 dB-A.
Technical data
Transducer principle: pressure gradient transducer.
Directional pattern: cardioid.
Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Sensitivity at 1 kHz at 1 kOhm: 23 mV / Pa = -32.5 dBV ± 1 dB.
Nominal impedance: 50 ohms.
Nominal load impedance: 1 kOhm.
Equivalent noise level, CCIR: 17.5 dB.
Equivalent noise level, A-weighted: 7 dB-A.
Sound pressure level at THD 0.5%: 138 dB.
Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (relative to 94 dB SPL): 76.5 dB.
Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (relative to 94 dB SPL): 87 dB.
Maximum output voltage: 13 dBn.
Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938): 48 V ± 4 V.
Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938): 3 mA.
Connector: XLR 3 F.
Weight: 450 g.
Diameter: 60 mm.
Length: 132 mm.
Color: black.