In the world of music and sound engineering, there are few microphones as recognizable or widely used as the Neumann U87. Introduced in 1967, this condenser microphone has become an industry standard, sought after by top artists, producers, and engineers for its unique tone, versatility, and reliability. But who uses the Neumann U87, and what makes it so special? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the U87, its features, and some of the notable artists, producers, and studios that rely on it.
A Brief History Of The Neumann U87
The Neumann U87 was first introduced in the late 1960s as a replacement for the U67, which had been widely used in recording studios since the 1950s. The U87 was designed by Neumann’s then-technical director, Dr. Siegfried Linkwitz, and quickly gained popularity for its unique sound and versatility. Over the years, the U87 has undergone some changes, including the introduction of a new phantom power version in the 1980s, but its basic design has remained the same.
Features Of The Neumann U87
So, what makes the Neumann U87 so special? Here are some of its key features:
- Multiple polar patterns: The U87 can be set to omnidirectional, cardioid, or figure-eight polar patterns, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications.
- Vacuum tube and FET options: The U87 is available in two versions: the original vacuum tube version, and a solid-state FET version.
- High-quality capsule: The U87’s capsule is known for its clarity, detail, and warmth, making it ideal for capturing a wide range of instruments and vocals.
- Durable design: The U87’s metal body is built to last, and its simple design makes it easy to maintain and repair.
Artists Who Use The Neumann U87
The Neumann U87 has been used by countless artists over the years, from rock to pop to classical. Here are a few notable examples:
- The Beatles: The U87 was used to record many of the Beatles’ vocals, including John Lennon’s vocals on the song “Hey Jude”.
- Michael Jackson: Michael Jackson was known to be a fan of the U87, and used it to record many of his vocals, including the song “Thriller”.
- Adele: Adele has used the U87 to record many of her vocals, including her hit song “Someone Like You”.
- John Mayer: John Mayer is known to be a fan of the U87, and has used it to record many of his vocals and guitar parts.
Producers And Engineers Who Use The Neumann U87
The Neumann U87 is also widely used by producers and engineers in the recording industry. Here are a few notable examples:
- George Martin: George Martin, the legendary Beatles producer, was a big fan of the U87, and used it to record many of the Beatles’ vocals.
- Chris Lord-Alge: Chris Lord-Alge, known for his work with Prince, Madonna, and other top artists, is a huge fan of the U87, and uses it to record many of his vocals.
- Tony Maserati: Tony Maserati, known for his work with Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and other top artists, is also a fan of the U87, and uses it to record many of his vocals.
Studios That Use The Neumann U87
The Neumann U87 is widely used in many top recording studios around the world. Here are a few notable examples:
- Abbey Road Studios: Abbey Road Studios, one of the most famous recording studios in the world, has a collection of U87s that have been used on countless recordings.
- Ocean Way Recording: Ocean Way Recording, a top recording studio in Los Angeles, has a collection of U87s that are used on many of their recordings.
- Air Studios: Air Studios, a top recording studio in London, has a collection of U87s that are used on many of their recordings.
Alternative Uses For The Neumann U87
While the Neumann U87 is often used for recording vocals, it’s also widely used for other applications, such as:
- Recording acoustic instruments: The U87 is often used to record acoustic instruments, such as pianos, guitars, and strings.
- Recording orchestras: The U87 is often used to record orchestras, and is known for its ability to capture the full range of frequencies and dynamics.
- Recording choirs: The U87 is often used to record choirs, and is known for its ability to capture the full range of frequencies and dynamics.
Why Choose The Neumann U87?
So, why do so many artists, producers, and engineers choose the Neumann U87? Here are a few reasons:
- Unique sound: The U87 has a unique sound that is known for its warmth, clarity, and detail.
- Versatility: The U87 is versatile, and can be used for a wide range of recording applications.
- Reliability: The U87 is built to last, and is known for its reliability and durability.
Conclusion
The Neumann U87 is a legendary microphone that has been widely used in the recording industry for decades. Its unique sound, versatility, and reliability have made it a favorite among artists, producers, and engineers. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or orchestras, the U87 is a great choice.
| Microphone | Polar Pattern | Frequency Response |
|---|---|---|
| Neumann U87 | Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Figure-Eight | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Neumann U67 | Omnidirectional, Cardioid | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Shure SM57 | Cardioid | 40Hz – 15kHz |
What Is The Neumann U87 Microphone?
The Neumann U87 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been widely used in the music industry for decades. It is known for its warm and detailed sound, making it a popular choice for recording vocals, instruments, and live performances. The microphone’s design is based on the earlier Neumann U67 model, but with several key improvements that have made it a staple in the music industry.
The Neumann U87 features three polar patterns – omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-eight – which makes it versatile for a variety of applications. It also has a switchable high-pass filter and a -10dB pad for handling high sound pressure levels. The microphone’s flat frequency response and low self-noise make it ideal for capturing a wide range of sounds, from the subtleties of a jazz singer’s voice to the power of a rock band.
Who Uses The Neumann U87 Microphone?
The Neumann U87 has been used by a wide range of artists and engineers across various genres of music. Some notable users of the microphone include Michael Jackson, who used it to record his vocals on the album “Thriller,” and George Martin, who used it to record the vocals for many of the Beatles’ recordings. Other notable users of the microphone include Frank Zappa, who used it to record many of his albums, and pop stars such as Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift.
The Neumann U87 has also been used on many famous recordings, including the soundtrack for the film “The Bodyguard” and the iconic Christmas album “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” The microphone’s versatility and sound quality have made it a popular choice among engineers and artists, and it continues to be used in studios and on live performances around the world.
What Makes The Neumann U87 So Legendary?
The Neumann U87 has earned its legendary status through a combination of its sound quality, versatility, and widespread use in the music industry. The microphone’s unique sound is characterized by its warmth and detail, making it ideal for capturing the subtleties of a vocalist’s performance. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels and its low self-noise also make it a popular choice for recording loud instruments and live performances.
The Neumann U87 has also been a staple in many famous recording studios, including Abbey Road Studios in London and Capitol Studios in Los Angeles. Many notable engineers and producers have used the microphone to record some of the most iconic albums and songs in music history, further cementing its legendary status.
Is The Neumann U87 Still Widely Used Today?
Yes, the Neumann U87 is still widely used in the music industry today. Its popularity has endured despite the rise of digital technology and the development of new microphone models. Many engineers and artists continue to swear by the microphone’s sound quality and versatility, and it remains a staple in many recording studios around the world.
The Neumann U87 has also been used in many modern recordings, including albums by artists such as Adele, Kendrick Lamar, and Radiohead. The microphone’s timeless sound and its ability to capture the nuances of a performance make it a popular choice for artists and engineers who are looking to create a classic sound.
What Alternatives Are There To The Neumann U87?
There are several alternatives to the Neumann U87 microphone, including the AKG C414, the Shure SM81, and the Rode NT-1A. These microphones offer similar sound quality and versatility to the Neumann U87, but at a lower price point. However, they may not have the same level of prestige or legendary status as the Neumann U87.
For those who are looking for a more affordable option, there are also many Chinese-made microphone models that are inspired by the Neumann U87. These microphones often feature a similar design and components to the Neumann U87, but at a significantly lower price point. However, their sound quality and durability may not be as good as the original Neumann U87.
Can I Use The Neumann U87 For Live Performances?
Yes, the Neumann U87 can be used for live performances, but it may require some special care and handling. The microphone is not as rugged as some other live performance microphones, and it requires a shock mount and a windscreen to protect it from the rigors of live use.
The Neumann U87’s sensitivity and low self-noise make it ideal for capturing the subtleties of a vocalist’s performance, even in a live setting. However, it may not be the best choice for very loud or aggressive performances, as it can be prone to distortion and feedback.
How Much Does The Neumann U87 Cost?
The price of the Neumann U87 microphone can vary depending on the model year, condition, and where you buy it. A brand-new Neumann U87 microphone can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $4,000. However, you can also find used and vintage models for sale at a lower price point.
It’s worth noting that the Neumann U87 is a significant investment for any studio or artist, but its sound quality and durability make it a worthwhile investment for many. If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that will last for many years, the Neumann U87 is definitely worth considering.