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Neumann TLM 103 Overview

Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the heralded U 87 microphone for project studios, producers, and vocalists, the nickel Neumann TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm condenser mic offering the classic Neumann sound with elevated presence to impart a crisp, clean, and full tone. It boasts a capsule based on the U 87 married to pristine transformerless circuitry, allowing it to handle high SPLs up to 138 dB without distortion while maintaining superbly quiet self-noise of just 7 dBA.

The combination of the transformerless output stage and heightened treble response makes the TLM 103 a great choice when the sound source needs to clearly cut through the mix. The mic's compact body is ideal for positioning it in tight spots such as over a snare, inside a kick drum, or in front of a small guitar amp. By utilizing a cardioid polar pattern, the mic can effectively reduce ambient noise or instrument bleed behind the mic. The TLM 103 comes with a secure, space-saving swivel mount and a wooden box.

Affordable Alternative to the U 87

Introduced in 1997 as an affordable alternative to the venerable U 87, the TLM 103 has since become a classic in its own right. Today, the TLM 103 defines the standard by which contemporary studio microphones are measured. Its classic, tapered headgrille design gives the TLM 103 a distinct Neumann look.

Large-Diaphragm Capsule

The TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87. However, the TLM 103 has a slightly more modern voicing with a wide presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz.

Refined and Full Sound

Its very direct yet refined sound is perfect for vocals and solo instruments that pop out of the mix without effort. Of course, the TLM 103 also has the famous authoritative midrange that has become the hallmark of Neumann microphones and made them a top choice in studios around the world. A special feature of the TLM 103 is its impressively deep yet controlled low end, perfect for sonorous voices and powerful bass instruments.

Technical Excellence

With an incredibly low self-noise of only 7 dBA, the TLM 103 is among the quietest microphones available. And its high sensitivity of -32.5 dBV ensures ultralow noise, even with budget preamps and audio interfaces or vintage tube equipment. At the same time, the TLM 103 can handle enormous sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB without the need for pre attenuation. Its vast dynamic range of 131 dB makes the TLM 103 a very easy-to-use studio microphone as it will capture anything from a soft whisper to a thunderous bass drum without adding noise or distortion.

Transformerless Output

As a member of Neumann's TLM series, the TLM 103 works with a transformerless output stage, which minimizes transmission losses and ensures a very immediate, uncolored sound, true to the original as well as a clear, powerful bass response, even at highest signal levels.

Applications

The TLM 103 was primarily designed for project studios and broadcast use, but due to its outstanding performance was soon embraced by renowned studios as a more modern sounding alternative to the U 87 for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps, and piano. The TLM 103 is also often used as a spot mic in classical recordings for cello and double bass.

Features at a Glance

Large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic U 87 microphone
Balanced sound with enhanced presence
Cardioid pattern reduces background noise
Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability
Extremely low self-noise of only 7 dBA
XLR 3-pin output
48V phantom powered
Includes swivel mount and wooden box

Neumann TLM 103 Specs

Microphone

Primary Applications	Studio Recording
Form Factor	Large Diaphragm Mic / Stand/Boom Mount
Intended Sound Sources	Vocals, Instrument
Sound Field	Mono
Operating Principle	Pressure Gradient
Capsule	Condenser
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Orientation	Side Address
Circuitry	Solid-State
Pad	None
High-Pass Filter	None
Tone Adjustment	None
Gain Adjustment	None
Indicators	None
On-Board Controls	None
Windscreen	None

Performance

Frequency Range	20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL	138 dB SPL (.5% THD)
Off-Axis Rejection	>2 dB at 60° >10 dB at 120° >25 dB at 180°
Impedance	50 Ohms
Load Impedance	1000 Ohms
Sensitivity	-32.5 dBV at 1 kHz into 1 Kilohms
Output Level	13 dBu (Max)
Dynamic Range	131 dB A-Weighted
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	76.5 dB CCIR 87 dB A-Weighted
Equivalent Noise Level	7 dB A-Weighted 17.5 dB CCIR

Connectivity

Output Connectors (Analog)	1 x XLR 3-Pin Male (on Mic)
Headphone Connector	None

Power

Bus Power	None
Operating Voltage	48 V ± 4 V (Phantom Power)
Operating Current Consumption	3 mA

Physical

Color	Nickel
Mounting	Mic Clip/Stand Adapter (Included)
Included Case	Hard Case
Included Filters	None
Dimensions	ø: 2.4 x L: 5.2" / ø: 6 x L: 13.2 cm
Weight	15.87 oz / 450 g

Packaging Info

Package Weight	2.615 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	19.3 x 7.35 x 3.95"

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