Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,965
High-end/Boutique
$100
$401+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Neumann TLM 170". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Experience recording like never before with the Neumann TLM 170, a microphone that stands out for its transparent sound and unmatched versatility. Unlike other microphones that color your audio, the TLM 170 delivers a pure, unadulterated sound profile, making it an ideal choice for professional studios, broadcasting, and film production.
This large-diaphragm condenser microphone is equipped with five switchable polar patterns—omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8—allowing you to tailor its pickup patterns to suit any recording environment. Whether you need to capture the nuance of a solo vocal performance or the complexity of a full orchestra, the TLM 170 has you covered. The microphone's unique transformerless design ensures a clean signal path, free from unwanted interference and distortion, providing you with the best possible audio fidelity.
In addition to its remarkable sound quality, the TLM 170 offers practical features like a remote-controlled polar pattern selection via the N 248 power supply and a convenient 10dB attenuation switch to handle high SPLs with ease. Its elastically mounted capsule minimizes mechanical noise, ensuring nothing detracts from your audio masterpiece. The microphone also includes a low-frequency roll-off to combat structure-borne noise, making it as functional as it is precise.
The Neumann TLM 170 isn't just a piece of equipment; it's a partner in creating unparalleled sound.
Key Features:
- Large diaphragm condenser microphone
- Five switchable polar patterns: omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-8
- Transformerless design for clear, transparent sound
- Remote-controlled polar pattern selection
- Low-frequency roll-off and 10dB preattenuation switch
- Elastically mounted capsule to reduce mechanical noise
- Requires +48V phantom power
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Wide Angle, Omni, Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 144dB (154dB w/10dB Pre-attenuation) |
| Output Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 80dB (A weighted) |
| Self Noise | 14dB (A weighted) |
| Low Cut Filter | 30Hz, 100Hz |
| Pads | -10dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1.38 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Dust Cover, Wood Box |
FAQs
-
What are the polar pattern options available on the Neumann TLM 170?
-
The Neumann TLM 170 offers five polar pattern options: omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8. These patterns can be selected via a rotary switch, providing versatility for different recording scenarios.
-
Is the Neumann TLM 170 suitable for high SPL sources like drums?
-
Yes, the Neumann TLM 170 is suitable for high SPL sources, handling up to 144dB SPL, or 154dB with the -10dB pre-attenuation pad engaged. This makes it ideal for recording loud instruments such as drums.
-
Does the Neumann TLM 170 include a low-cut filter?
-
Yes, the Neumann TLM 170 features a low-cut filter with two settings at 30Hz and 100Hz. This helps reduce unwanted low-frequency noise and rumble during recording.
-
What type of applications is the Neumann TLM 170 best suited for?
-
The Neumann TLM 170 is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of applications, including vocal recording, orchestral setups, and broadcast use, thanks to its multiple polar patterns and high sound quality.
-
How does the Neumann TLM 170 connect to audio equipment?
-
The Neumann TLM 170 connects to audio equipment via an XLR connector, ensuring a reliable and professional audio connection compatible with most recording setups.
Videos
Manuel Expósito Maire
AKG Tube, Neumann u-87, AKG C- 414, Neumann TLM 170
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptional clarity and detail, capturing subtle nuances without coloration
-
Five versatile pickup patterns for varied recording needs
-
Neutral and natural sound, suitable for multiple instruments and vocals
-
Excellent off-axis response, less phasey compared to other large diaphragm condensers
-
Transformerless design provides extended open highs and lows
-
Performs well in both small and large studio settings
-
Works remarkably for both live instrument recording and voice-over tasks
-
Highly praised for its performance on woodwinds, brass, and vocals
-
Takes EQ beautifully, allowing for tailored sound shaping
CONS
-
Some may find the sound too flat or lifeless without additional processing
-
Not suitable for those seeking vintage microphone coloration
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann TLM 170.
Comparisons
-
The TLM 170/193 have few true alternatives, with AKG C414 and U87Ai considered too bright for classical music.
Source -
The U89i is described as having a thicker sound than the TLM series due to its transformer, offering a smoother experience than the AKG C414.
Source -
The TLM 193 is frequently compared to the U89 for orchestral roles, but is single pattern and transformerless, contrasting with the U89's multi-pattern capabilities.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
LDCs like TLM 170 work well on cellos due to the instrument's dispersion pattern, particularly in spaces that allow for extra bleed.
Source -
Clarinet miking is less critical in choice; positioning is key. Avoid aiming at the bell to minimize key noise and multipath issues.
Source -
For cello, wide cardioids are preferred, with SDCs like Schoeps MK21 or MK41 offering excellent isolation and control over low-end capture.
Source -
The U89i is noted for its suitability as a room mic or overhead where less sizzle is desired, making it ideal for sources that benefit from a darker tone.
Source -
The TLM 193 is highly effective for stereo mic setups in orchestral environments and room recordings, offering a natural capture of space.
Source
User experience
-
TLM 193 is favored for clarinet due to its darker tone, ideal for capturing the instrument's nuances.
Source -
Some users find the U89i's flat frequency response less immediately captivating, but it balances well when paired with dynamic mics like the SM57.
Source -
Owners often describe the TLM 193 as a "sleeper" in Neumann's lineup, appreciating its flat frequency response which offers a natural sound for trained vocalists.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Owners appreciate the U89i's versatility as a multi-pattern condenser, especially for those who frequently use figure-eight and omni patterns.
Source -
The TLM 193 is noted for its neutrality, capturing vocal nuances well, making it a go-to mic for certain difficult male vocalists who struggle with other microphones.
Source
Value and pricing
-
The U89i is considered a "sleeper" mic, especially valuable if found for under $2,000, offering a good balance for bright or strident sources.
Source -
Some users feel the TLM 193 offers less tonal character compared to cheaper alternatives like the Warm Audio WA14 or Avantone CV12, which are praised for their smooth top-end.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
Used for Albarn's vocals on Gorillaz's "Clint Eastwood", as mentioned by producer Tom Girling in the September 2001 Sound on Sound article "Recording 'Clint Eastwood'".
''We used the Neumann TLM170 for Damon's vocal, and we hired some gear when we went to Jamaica, so I think he probably went through an 1176 as well, or perhaps a Distressor," explains Tom. "We used a Neve 1073, which is an EQ with a mic amp on as well, so the mic was plugged straight into that, and then after that I think it was the 1176 and straight into Logic."
Used for Lil Uzi Vert's "The Way Life Goes", as stated by mix engineer Kesha Lee in this December 2017 Sound on Sound article.
The standard for Atlanta seems to be to use Yamaha NS10s or Augspurger monitors,” Lee explains, “and the recording signal chain consists of an Avalon VT-737sp mic pre and a Tube-Tech CL 1B compressor." (...) An almost obligatory addition to any rap album these days appears to be the involvement of a few celebrity singers, with Pharrell Williams and the Weeknd particularly popular. Both feature on Luv Is Rage 2; the Weeknd sent in his vocal contribution, while Williams’ vocals were recorded during the lay-over in LA. Lee had expected to just be watching Williams’ regular engineer record him, but instead she ended up behind the controls at Conway. “I imported my template for the song ‘Neon Gets’ into his track-out session, and Pharrell was down to use whatever Uzi was comfortable with, so as I mentioned, we used the [Neumann] TLM 170, and the Avalon. So that was very easy.”
Used for Smith's vocals on "Everybody Wants to Rule the World", as mentioned by producer David Bascombe in this August 1, 2007 Mix Online article.
Bascombe recorded Smith and Orzabal's vocals with a then-new Neumann TLM 170 microphone at Union Studios in Munich, where they also mixed.
According to engineer David Jacob in an interview about "West End Girls" published in International Musician & Recording World March 1986, he'd normally use a Sony 48 or AKG 414 or the Neumann TLM-170 for Neil's voice.
This article on the recording of the "Barking" album describes the band's then-current studio setup. "[Rick] Smith supplies microphone and preamp details: 'We used a Neumann TLM170 for Karl, quite an old one. In terms of a mic pre, Karl used an Apogee Mini Me at his home studio.'"
Franco Battiato used the Neumann TLM 170 microphone during the recording of his song "Povera patria" at Abbey Road Studios in 1990. The microphone, released in 1983, was positioned upside down for heat protection and to enhance the open sound quality, as seen in the music video available on FrancoBattiatoVEVO's YouTube channel.
Album Usage
The Neumann TLM 170 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Neumann TLM 170, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Similar
Add recommendation1 alternative for Neumann TLM 170, curated by the Equipboard community.
$287.07 - $3,500.00
More Neumann Condenser Microphones
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Gear Guides
Most Popular Condenser Microphones
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
eyeseeofficialGear IQ 161130
-