Neumann U87 Overview

In honor of its 50th anniversary, the Neumann U 87 Rhodium Edition takes all the features and specifications of the classic large-diaphragm condenser microphone and places them within a Rhodium encasement. It is suitable for capturing vocals, acoustic guitars, overheads, orchestras, or nearly any studio source, so long as it doesn’t exceed sound pressure levels of 117 dB (127 dB with the pad engaged). You’ll note its flat yet sweet character, which is flattering even in the often-harsh upper frequency range.

Equipped with a dual-diaphragm capsule, the Neumann U 87 Rhodium Edition offers selectable polar patterns including omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8. In cardioid mode, the microphone maintains a smooth frequency response at distances between 11.8 to 15.7”; in figure-8, you’ll experience a smooth frequency response anywhere from 5.9 to 7.9” away. You’ll also find a -10 dB pad on the rear of the mic, as well as a high-pass switch, which reduces low-frequency interference at the input of the microphone amplifier itself. You can use this switch to compensate for the proximity effect.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of this venerable microphone, it is presented here in the aforementioned Rhodium coating. But that’s not all: An EA 87 shockmount (also housed in Rhodium) is provided, as is the U 87 Stereo Set Aluminum Case, a certificate of authenticity signed by Wolfgang Fraissinet, and—to top it off—a pair of black gloves. This is a limited run; only 500 of these models have been issued.

• World-respected studio microphone encased in a Rhodium housing


• Variable large-diaphragm microphone


• Pressure-gradient transducer with double-membrane capsule


• Omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns


• Switchable low-frequency roll-off


• Switchable -10 dB pre-attenuation


• Includes shockmount, aluminum case, certificate of authenticity signed by Wolfgang


• Fraissinet, and a pair of black gloves