Neumann U 87 Ai Set

The Neumann U 87 Ai is one of the most recognized studio microphones in the world, heard on countless hit records, film scores, and broadcasts. This set pairs the large-diaphragm, multi-pattern condenser with the EA 87 elastic shock mount. Selectable omni, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns, a 10 dB pad, and a low-cut filter make it a versatile choice for vocals, voice-over, acoustic instruments, orchestras, and drums.

Highlights

• Large-diaphragm condenser with omni, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns
• Classic, balanced Neumann sound with authoritative midrange
• 10 dB pre-attenuation pad and low-cut filter
• Max SPL 117 dB, or 127 dB with pad
• Low self-noise: 12 dB-A in cardioid
• Set includes EA 87 elastic shock mount

Neumann U 87 Ai: The Studio Standard

The U 87 Ai delivers the smooth, natural sound that has made the U 87 a legend for decades. Its slightly forward midrange helps vocals and speech cut through, while its balanced low end and detailed highs flatter instruments, from acoustic guitar and piano to brass and strings.

Three Polar Patterns

Flip a switch to choose omnidirectional for room sound and ensembles, cardioid for focused vocals and instruments, or figure-8 for duets, Blumlein, and mid-side stereo. Whatever pattern you choose, the U 87 Ai keeps its balanced character.

Setting Up the U 87 Ai

Mount the microphone in the EA 87 shock mount on a sturdy stand, add a pop filter for vocals, and connect it with a balanced XLR cable. Turn on 48V phantom power, choose the polar pattern, and engage the pad for loud sources or the low-cut to reduce rumble and proximity effect.

What to Pair With the U 87 Ai

Pair the U 87 Ai with a premium mic preamp or audio interface, a pop filter, a heavy-duty boom stand, quality XLR cables, and acoustic treatment for your recording space.

Pad and Low-Cut

The 10 dB pad raises maximum SPL to 127 dB for loud vocals, guitar amps, and drums, while the low-cut filter controls rumble and proximity bass when singing up close.

Handcrafted Quality

Like all Neumann microphones, the U 87 Ai is built to exacting standards, with a durable metal body and headgrille designed to deliver pristine sound for decades with proper care.

Voice-Over and Broadcast

The U 87 Ai is a long-time standard for voice-over, announcing, and broadcast, delivering the warm, present, authoritative voice that clients expect.

Recording Tips

In cardioid, start about eight to twelve inches from a vocalist with a pop filter between them. Use omni for a natural room sound on acoustic ensembles, and figure-8 for two singers facing each other or for mid-side stereo with a second microphone.

An Investment That Lasts

The U 87 Ai holds its value and remains a reference in studios worldwide, so it’s a microphone you’ll keep for decades and that clients recognize when they walk into your room.

Neumann U 87 Ai FAQ

Does it need phantom power? Yes. It requires 48V phantom power.

Which polar patterns does it have? Omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8.

Neumann U 87 Ai Specifications at a Glance

• Type: large-diaphragm condenser
• Polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-8
• Frequency range: 20 Hz-20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 20/28/22 mV/Pa (omni/cardioid/8)
• Self-noise: 15/12/14 dB-A (omni/cardioid/8)
• Max SPL: 117 dB (127 dB with pad)
• Weight: 500 g
• Included: EA 87 shock mount

Who Buys the Neumann U 87 Ai

• Professional recording studios
• Voice-over and broadcast
• Producers and vocalists
• Film and post-production

Why Buy the Neumann U 87 Ai From Metro Sound & Lighting

Metro Sound & Lighting isn’t a catalog-only retailer. We design, install, and service audio and recording systems in-house, so our team can help you build a world-class vocal chain and support it after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for studios, churches, and schools.

Browse more options in our Studio Microphones category, or see the full specifications on the official Neumann U 87 Ai product page.