For over five decades, the Neumann U 87 Ai has defined what a professional studio microphone should sound like, earning its place as the most recognised and widely used studio mic across the globe. Since its introduction in 1967, this legendary microphone has captured the vocals and speech on countless hit records, while also serving as the trusted voice of radio DJs announcing those very same hits. Today, no serious recording studio considers itself complete without at least one U 87 Ai in its microphone locker.
The U 87 Ai stands as the quintessential large diaphragm condenser microphone, with its distinctive tapered body and iconic headgrille design becoming synonymous with professional recording equipment. This microphone has established itself as the gold standard against which all other studio mics are measured, representing the very essence of studio quality sound reproduction.
What makes the U 87 Ai truly special is its remarkable ability to combine technical linearity with distinctive character. Despite featuring an exceptionally flat on-axis frequency response, it possesses an unmistakable charisma that simply sounds right. This unique balance makes it both incredibly versatile for various recording applications and instantly recognisable to audio professionals. The microphone’s three selectable polar patterns, combined with pad and low cut options, provide the flexibility needed for a comprehensive range of recording situations, from intimate vocal sessions to complex instrumental arrangements.
- The world’s most famous studio microphone
- Classic sound, instantly recognizable yet versatile
- Balanced frequency response
- Three polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-8
- Switchable low cut and pad
- Very low self-noise
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm: 20/28/22 mV/Pa ± 1 dB (Omni/cardioid/8)
- Rated Impedance: 200 ohms



