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Average Price: $6,950
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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair is a staple in professional recording studios worldwide, revered for its iconic sound quality and adaptability. This matched set of large-diaphragm condenser microphones offers superior audio fidelity, making it the go-to choice for capturing everything from vocals and pianos to orchestras and guitar amps. The U 87 Ai's versatile polar patterns—omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8—provide you with the flexibility to explore a variety of stereo recording techniques, including spaced pair, XY, Blumlein, ORTF, and mid-side.
Equipped with modern FET electronics, these microphones boast a higher sensitivity and improved signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring pristine audio capture even at high sound pressure levels. With a switchable 10dB pre-attenuation pad and low-frequency roll-off, the U 87 Ai is designed to handle loud sources without distortion, while mitigating unwanted bass rumble. Each mic is precision-engineered in Germany, maintaining Neumann's legendary quality standards, and comes with a shockmount, a dust cover, and a protective wooden box, all neatly housed in a robust aluminum case.
Whether you're recording a full orchestra or a solo vocal performance, the U 87 Ai Stereo Pair delivers an unmatched clarity and presence that elevates any recording to a professional standard.
Key Features:
- Matched stereo pair of large-diaphragm FET condenser microphones
- Polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8
- Switchable 10dB pre-attenuation pad and low-frequency roll-off
- Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Requires +48V phantom power
- Includes 2 shockmounts, 2 wooden boxes, 2 dust covers, and an aluminum travel case
- Made in Germany
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Mono/Stereo | Stereo Pair |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Figure-8 (switchable) |
| Frequency Range | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 127dB SPL |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 22/28/22mV/Pa (+1dB) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 79/82/80dBA |
| Self Noise | 15/12/14dBA [equivalent noise level] |
| Connector | XLR |
| Power Source | 48V phantom power |
| Dimensions | 7.87" x 2.2" |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs. |
FAQs
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What are the main polar patterns available on the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair?
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The Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair offers three switchable polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8. This versatility allows it to be used in various recording scenarios, from vocals to orchestral recordings.
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Is the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair suitable for vocal recording?
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Yes, the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair is highly regarded for vocal recording due to its warm sound and balanced frequency response, making it a popular choice in professional studios.
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What type of power source does the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair require?
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The Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair requires 48V phantom power, which is commonly provided by professional audio interfaces and mixers.
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How does the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair handle high sound pressure levels?
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The Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair can handle sound pressure levels up to 127dB SPL, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources without distortion.
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What is the self-noise level of the Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair?
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The Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair has a very low self-noise, with equivalent noise levels of 15/12/14dBA, ensuring clean recordings with minimal background noise.
Videos
Milan Recording Studios
Recording a Piano Neumann U87 Ai Stereo Pair "Blumlein Microphone Technique" Review Clair De Lune
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality with minimal EQ required
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Unsurpassed resolution and clarity in audio capture
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Versatile for vocals, instruments, and drum overhead applications
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Switchable polar patterns enhance recording flexibility
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Recognized as a studio standard for diverse applications
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Robust build quality with no compromises
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Considered a valuable investment in audio equipment
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Outstanding transient response for vivid recordings
CONS
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Vocal performance can be singer-dependent
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann U 87 Ai Stereo Pair.
Use cases and applications
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The U87 is commonly used in animation for consistent voice recordings, with a primary mic and a backup set further away for reliability.
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The U87 excels in well-treated rooms and for nuanced vocal performances, but might not be necessary for home studios focusing on simpler recordings.
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The U87 handles sibilance and plosives effectively, saving time in post-production editing.
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Comparisons
User experience
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A modern U87i is described as more bright and brittle compared to a vintage U87, which may influence purchasing decisions.
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Value and pricing
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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