A definitive legend for decades, the Neumann U 87 Ai Condenser Microphone 50th Anniversary Editionis a large-diaphragm condenser microphone offering the timeless and special sound that remains highly coveted for singers, voice-over artists, announcers, producers, and recording engineers to this day. By combining the same dual-diaphragm capsule design as the heralded U 67 with FET circuitry and a transformer-balanced output, the U 87 Ai retains the voicing that made the U 87 famous while ensuring low-noise performance and optimal signal purity.

The U 87 Ai's dual-diaphragm capsule, which is elastically suspended, affords the selection of three polar patterns (omni, cardioid, and figure-8) to enhance versatility in the studio. Additionally, the mic provides a switchable -10 dB pad that allows it to capture SPLs up to 127 dB without distortion, and a low-cut filter for controlling buildup of low-frequency content. Whether it is used for broadcast, stage, or studio applications, the U 87 Ai presents the sought-after look, sound, and reputation of a true classic.

In honor of B&H's 50th anniversary, Neumann presents this limited-edition run, specially designed to celebrate five decades of creative partnership. This exclusive Special 50th Anniversary Edition embodies the commitment to excellence that B&H stands for. Get your hands on a piece of history with this distinctive edition.

Official B&H 50th Anniversary Edition    Studio Standard for Vocals & Instruments    Cardioid, Omni & Figure-8 Polar Patterns    Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule    Low-Noise FET Circuit    Transformer-Balanced Output    -10 dB Pad    Switchable Low-Cut Filter    Shockmount Reduces Vibration Noise    Includes Wooden Box

• U 87 Ai microphone with titanium-colored finish
• Mic is engraved with: B&H logo, "50-Year Anniversary", and X of 25 (only 25 will be made)
• EA 87 MT Shockmount
• Booklet of authenticity signed by the Neumann CEO, Engineer who handmade the microphone, and B&H's CEO
• Black velvet gloves for handling
• Wooden box laser-etched with the B&H logo and special serial number

The Neumann U 87 Ai may be the best-known and most frequently used studio microphone the world over. Its smooth and refined sound is as iconic as its elegant exterior design. The U 87 Ai is the standard microphone for speech and vocals. Three polar patterns plus pad and low-cut options make it adaptable to a wide range of applications.

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a true legend. Introduced in 1967, it has shaped the sound of countless hit records for the past 50 years. And when those hits were announced on the radio, many DJs sat before a U 87 Ai.

The U 87 Ai is the epitome of a large-diaphragm condenser microphone. Its tapered body and iconic design have become part of the collective consciousness—this is what a studio microphone looks like. The same is true of its sound; the U 87 Ai represents studio quality and has become the gold standard by which other microphones are measured.

What sets the U 87 Ai apart is its special combination of linearity and character. Although its on-axis frequency response is remarkably flat, it does exert certain charisma, making the U 87 Ai both versatile and instantly recognizable.

Technically speaking, the U 87 Ai is a traditional design whose timeless formula has remained unchanged for decades. The U 87 Ai uses the same dual-diaphragm condenser capsule design as its predecessor, the no less legendary U 67 of the early 1960s. Its head amplifier, too, is based on the same design principles as its tube-driven predecessor, but the U 87 Ai realizes them by means of an FET circuit with a minimal signal path and a transformer-balanced output, ensuring maximum signal integrity and high common mode rejection.

The result is a studio microphone of unmatched clarity. Its natural sound and midrange presence make the U 87 Ai the ultimate vocal microphone, praised by singers and engineers alike as well as the prime choice for speech applications, such as voice-over, dubbing, and audio books. Due to its balanced response in each of its three directional patterns, the U 87 Ai is also a versatile microphone for anything from acoustic guitar to drums overheads. Due to its solid bass response and excellent midrange detail, it is often seen in front of bass and guitar cabinets. For classical recordings, the U 87 Ai is frequently used as a spot mic for soloists, e.g. cello. A stereo pair of U 87 Ai mics is the preferred choice of many engineers for recording piano in virtually any genre from pop and jazz to classical music.

• The world’s most famous studio microphone
• Classic sound, instantly recognizable and versatile
• Balanced frequency response
• Elastically suspended dual-diaphragm capsule
• Omni, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns
• Switchable low-cut filter and -10 dB pad
• Low self-noise
• XLR 3-pin output
• 48V phantom powered
• Includes color-matched shockmount and wooden box

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does the curve breathe come with the BlackRapid Camera Safety TetheR kit?

A: The Camera Safety TetheR Kit is no longer made by Black Rapid.

Q: 2. what is the difference between the sport breathe and curve breathe straps? They look so similar, is the slight difference in shape at the top of the strap the only difference and how much does that impact the use?

A: I have purchase this strap and love it. The difference is just the curve, presumably marketed to women, as the shame does help to sit better around the chest area. However I soon found out, that is only true in shirt, but once I wear thick jacket or even backpack, it simply does not fit that well...so...I goes this is great for summer use...in winter I stopped paying attention where the thick strap actually sits, as it was all over the place.

Q: 3. Can this be comfortably worn with a backpack?

A: I do it all the time and never think twice about it! The only complaint I have is that I have a pretty small frame and because Ive adjusted the strap the way I have, the strap tends to stick out a bit in the back/come off the hook (where its been adjusted/has a clip to hold it, but the adjustable clip on the back doesnt always hold the strap as securely when putting backpacks on and off. I just have to check to make sure it isnt sticking out funny regularly.) No photographers I know with this strap have had this complaint, but theyre mostly bulky dudes who dont have to adjustment the strap as much as I do as a slim woman.

Q: 4. I need to be able to quickly disengage the camera from the strap, and quickly mount it on my tripod using the ArcaSwiss hardware. How? What pieces are needed? Answers to a similar question did not include a solution I could find at B&H

A: You will need an ArcaSwiss compatible tripod plate (BlacRapid offers 2) and also an L-bracket. (Really Right Stuff (a href= http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/plates-brackets target= _blank http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/plates-brackets/a) -or- 3 Legged Thing (a href= https://www.3leggedthing.com/qr11.html target= _blank https://www.3leggedthing.com/qr11.html/a)

Q: 5. Can this also be used over the left shoulder or only over the right shoulder?

A: This version is left should for a right hand user but you can buy a left hand / right shoulder version.

Q: 6. is 48v pre amp box? included for this item..thank you

A: No

Q: 7. I am five foot in height, cancer as a kid shortened my torso, hence, straps often seem too long for me at their shortest. Having trouble using the specs listed to know if this would be too long for me. Any advice or experience from shorter folk?

A: Being similar in height, I have the same problem and do own this strap. I would honestly say that at max height (the point in which adjusted strap in the back comes back down and reaches the camera) is pocket level. Just slightly below my hip. I am OK with my mirrorless and D750. But a camera with a grip or my D850, is too long. As the other answer mentioned, it can continue to be adjusted but you would have to do some creative stitching to hide all of the extra strap that comes down to avoid it from wrapping back up in the front and preventing the camera from laying flat.

Q: 8. Can you screw this strap into the tripod collar so the camera can be horizontal to the ground instead of hanging down?

A: The BlackRapid Curve Breathe Bundle (B&H # BLCBRTHBFR5) comes with the BlackRapid FR-5 FastenR Breathe (B&H # BL363001) that can mount on to a 1/4"-20 thread on the collar.

Q: 9. Could you take off the square C shaped strap holder and put on a large split ring to keep the square C from coming off ???

A: Are you referring to the Brad underarm stabilizer? If so, please contact us at customerrelations@blackrapid.com so we can better assist you. Thanks!

Q: 10. Will this strap hold a NikonD500 with a Sigma 150-600 lens? Total weight is just over 6 lbs. Should the strap be attached to the tripod collar on the lens or the camera base?

A: It works quite well. and you willl have no trouble with the strap. The strap will be attached to the base of the camera (the screw mounting is included).