The black Neumann TLM 170 R Condenser Microphone Blackfrom Neumann TLM 170 R Condenser Microphone Blackis a large-diaphragm, multipattern condenser microphone and features FET 100 technology, a balanced, transformerless output stage, low self-noise, and an impressive dynamic range.

Five directional characteristics are selectable by means of a rotary switch. In the sixth position, marked "R," the directional patterns can be controlled remotely with the included N 248 power supply. There is no special cable necessary for this purpose. The microphone has at its rear a 10 dB attenuation switch for extremely high sound-pressure levels, and a high-pass filter to suppress structure-borne noise. A second switch at the rear enables the mic to attenuate the frequency response below 100 Hz to suppress undesired structure-borne noise.

The TLM 170 R can be used for many diverse applications in professional recording studios, in broadcasting, film and television, and for semi-professional productions.

The large-diaphragm capsule inside the head grille has a very smooth frequency response for all polar patterns over a wide acceptance angle. The curves are flat and parallel to the 0° frequency curve up to 10 kHz within an angle of ± 100°. As a result, the TLM 170 R has a very even diffuse-field response for all polar patterns. This is important in a reverberant environment, as more reflections arrive at the microphone from different directions. The acoustic information is not affected in its tonal quality when recorded by the microphone. This characteristic is achieved without resorting to corrective-resonance effects.

The microphone maintains an great impulse response reproducing transient music and speech without any coloration. The capsule is elastically mounted to avoid any structure-borne noise that could interfere with its operation.

When compared to the standard cardioid pattern, the hypercardioid characteristic suppresses sound from the side more efficiently. The wide-angle polar pattern is especially useful to record large sound sources. The N 248 controls the polar pattern remotely by varying the phantom voltage. The range is ± 3V of the nominal 48V value. The rotary switch on the microphone must be in the position R, remote control. In this switch position the TLM 170 R microphone analyzes the absolute value of the phantom power and selects the corresponding polar pattern. A standard 3-pin microphone cable is used, similar to the microphone's conventional operation. Cable lengths may be up to 1000'.

With TLM technology, the usual output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. As with traditional transformers, it ensures good common-mode rejection, and prevents RF interference, that may influence the balanced audio signal.

A tilting side bracket to attach the microphone to booms or stands is included. The bracket is equipped with rubber elements that effectively protect the microphone from mechanical shock. If necessary, it can be mounted on the other side of the microphone as well. When using the IC 4 cable, the bracket and its holder need to be removed. The microphone can then be connected to the swivel-mount connector of the cable.

All exposed surfaces of the capsule, including the diaphragms, are at ground potential. This technology makes them highly immune to electrical and atmospheric interference and contamination through dust particles.

Local and remote-controlled large-diaphragm microphone

Pressure-gradient transducer with double-membrane capsule

omnidirectional, wide-angle cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns

Switchable low-frequency roll-off and 10 dB pre-attenuation

Tiltable, elastically suspended bracket mount

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. 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: 2. Wat type of audio jack

A: This microphone requires a standard XLR to XLR Microphone Cable: For example: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/867273-REG/kopul_m5020_quad_pro_cable_xlr_m.html

Q: 3. Does the microphone come with the SG2 mounting ring?

A: No, the Neumann SG2 Stand Mount does not fit the Neumann U 89 i Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone. The microphone comes with a wooden storage box and the mounting accessories are available separately. The Neumann SG 289 Stand Mount for U 89 i Studio Microphone (B&H # NESG289) and the Neumann EA89I - Elastic Suspension Shock Mount for use with Neumann U89 Microphones - Nickel (B&H # NEEA89I) are the two options that Neumann offers for mounting the U 89 i Microphone.

Q: 4. 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.

Q: 5. 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: 6. 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: 7. Product Highlights mentions that there Includes Elastic Suspension Shockmount However, in In The Box it is absent. Might be an error. Does it or does it not come with the shockmount?

A: The Auray suspension shockmount came with the kit order for me.

Q: 8. Can it be powered by the go xlr?

A: Yes, the Neumann U 87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone can be powered by the TC Helicon GoXLR mixer. The mixer can supply 48V phantom power through its XLR mic input.

Q: 9. What other mics did you compare before purchasing? Looking for voiceovers primarily.

A: The 103 is an excellent choice of microphones, depending on the person using it (voice characteristics) and how it will be used, specfically, the room acoustics and level of quiet, as this mic is very sensitive and will "hear" everything. Great suggestion, esp if purchased with shock mount: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/302934-REG/Neumann_TLM_103_ANNIVERSARY_TLM103_Condenser_Microphone_Package.html OTHER considerations: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/676495-REG/AKG_3059Z00060_C_414_XL_II.html For a more challenging acoustic environment: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1182891-REG/shure_shure_sm_7b_brodcaster_package.html

Q: 10. 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).