Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the heralded U 87 microphone for project studios, producers, and vocalists, the nickel Neumann TLM 103 Cardioid Condenser Microphoneis 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.

For Speech, Vocals, and Instruments    Cardioid Pattern Reduces Ambient Noise    Large-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule    Capsule Derived from U 87 Microphone    Transformerless for Fast and Clear Sound    138 dB Max SPL, 7 dBA of Self-Noise    Wide Presence Boost above 5 kHz    Includes Swiveling Stand Mount    Includes Wooden Box    48V Phantom Powered

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does the kit include the mic mount?

A: Yes, the shock mount for this microphone includes the mic holder.

Q: 2. Does this need 48V phantom power?

A: Yes, since its a condenser mic, so it requires 48V phantom power, which is normally available with every pre-amp.

Q: 3. Do you need mixer to plug in computer?

A: This studio condenser microphone requires an audio interface, with an XLR mic preamp that provides 48 volt phantom power, that would then convert the analog signal to a digital signal to go into the computer. The Audient iD14 10x4 USB Audio Interface, BH #AUID14 is an example of an audio interface with high-quality mic preamp's and superior analog to digital conversion.

Q: 4. Is it suitable for stringed instruments like sitar.

A: This large diaphragm mic would work recording a sitar, or other stringed-instrument, providing a bright and lively sound. But I would strongly consider looking at a small diaphragm microphone for recording a sitar. Consider the Neumann KM 184 MT Microphone (Matte Black), BH #NEKM184MT, which can placed 4 to 8 feet from the instrument and gives a very realistic recreation of the sitar’s droning and twangy sound.

Q: 5. Hi, I m a radio announcer, is this microphone the right one to use at a home studio ?

A: Yes, its one of the best yet cheapest mic from Neumann. The Neumann are industry leaders in mics and you'll love this mic for any sort of home recording. Will be perfect for your radio announcements.

Q: 6. Does the kit include the XLR cable for the mic?

A: Unfortunately, XLR cable is not included with the Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Mono Set, Black).

Q: 7. Where was this microphone made?

A: The Neumann TLM-102 is made in Germany.

Q: 8. When I click in the box it says the set has limited warranties on the items already is this true?

A: The items in this vocal studio kit do have manufacturer's warranties included.

Q: 9. What is the self noise of the Blue Ember? I have been looking at tech specs on the Blue website and other sources and can't seem to find the stated self noise.

A: The manufacturer has not provided any specifications for self noise on the Blue Ember microphone. You can contact Blue Microphones directly to ask if they can provide this information to you. You can reach them by phone at 866-989-2583.

Q: 10. Is there a third party shock mount for this mic that is more affordable than the $300 one they sell?

A: We offer BH #AUSSMNMN as a more inexpensive compatible shockmount for the Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone.