Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set

$2,866.22 to $3,995.00 Price Tier: High-end

2 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Neumann U 87 Ai

1 wishlisted

1 saved

Page last updated Jun 25, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated June 25, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (34)

$3,995.00

View Deal

5.0 (6)

$3,995.00

View Deal

5.0 (2)

$2,866.22 4 available New

$2,270.95 17 available Used

View Deal

$3,421.95

View Deal

4.9 (151)

$3,099.00 $3,080.00 $19.00 · All time low

View Deal

£2,349.00

View Deal

Average Price: $3,272

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set". 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

Edit description

The Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set is a testament to the timeless art of microphone design, offering unmatched clarity and versatility for professional studio applications. Since its debut in 1967, the U 87 has become a staple in world-class studios, and the modern Ai version continues to carry this legacy forward. With a dual-diaphragm K87 capsule, it captures audio with breathtaking accuracy, making it the go-to choice for vocals, instruments, and ambient recordings alike. Its three selectable polar patterns—cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8—offer engineers the flexibility to adapt to any recording scenario.

The U 87 Ai's transformer-balanced output ensures an ultra-clean signal path, delivering pristine audio reproduction with minimal self-noise. This advanced circuitry provides an improved signal-to-noise ratio, making it ideal for capturing delicate sonic nuances with precision. Moreover, the microphone is equipped with a switchable 10dB pre-attenuation pad and a low-frequency roll-off switch, allowing it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

Neumann's commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous construction of the U 87 Ai. Each microphone is handcrafted in Germany, ensuring consistent quality and performance. The robust metal housing and premium components are built to withstand the rigors of professional studio use, while the included EA87 shockmount and protective wooden box offer additional security and convenience.

Key Features:

Large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone
Pressure-gradient transducer with double-membrane capsule
Three directional patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-8
Switchable low-frequency roll-off and 10dB pre-attenuation pad
Transformer-balanced output for pristine signal path
Requires +48-volt phantom power
Includes shockmount, pop filter, mic cable, and wooden storage box

Product specs

Microphone Type	Condenser
Polar Pattern	Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional
Diaphragm Size	1" (25.4mm)
Frequency Range	20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL	127dB SPL
Output Impedance	200 ohms
Sensitivity	28 mV/Pa (±1dB)
Signal to Noise Ratio	82dB (A-weighted)
Self Noise	15/12/14 dB A-weighted (omni/cardioid/8)
Low Cut Filter	Yes
Pads	-10dB
Connector	XLR
Power Source	48V Phantom Power
Dimensions	7.87" x 2.2"
Weight	1.1 lbs
Included Accessories	Shockmount, Windscreen, Wood Box

FAQs

What polar patterns does the Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set offer?: The Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set features three polar patterns: cardioid, figure-8, and omnidirectional, allowing flexibility for various recording scenarios.
Is the Neumann U 87 Ai suitable for vocal recordings?: Yes, the Neumann U 87 Ai is highly regarded for vocal recordings due to its classic Neumann sound, capturing rich detail and providing studio-grade performance.
What type of power does the Neumann U 87 Ai require?: The Neumann U 87 Ai requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for professional condenser microphones.
Does the Neumann U 87 Ai come with any accessories?: The Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set includes a shockmount, windscreen, and a wood box, providing essential accessories for optimal recording and storage.
How does the Neumann U 87 Ai handle high sound pressure levels?: The Neumann U 87 Ai can handle sound pressure levels up to 127dB SPL, making it suitable for capturing loud sound sources without distortion.

Videos

Add video

Sweetwater

Neumann U 87 Ai: The Industry Standard for World-class Sound

Sweetwater

My Epic Vocal Chain 2023: Neumann U87 Ai, Neve 5211 & UA 6176

Archie Beatz

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Delivers stunning clarity and detail for vocals and instruments
Highly versatile, suitable for a wide range of recording applications
Transparent sound that accurately captures the source
Low noise floor for a cleaner recording experience
Offers a legendary and professional studio sound quality
Exceptional low-end response, ideal for bass-heavy instruments
Consistent performance across different preamps and interfaces
Highly regarded for voice-over work and professional recording studios

CONS

Stock shock mount is reportedly unreliable and poorly designed
Not ideal for muffled or boxy voices due to prominent low-mids
May require additional EQ adjustments for desired sound balance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann U 87 Ai Studio Set.

Comparisons

0 0

The Stam 87 clone is noted for its sound quality, costing less than a third of the Neumann U 87, with some users preferring its upper mid evenness.
Source
0 0

The TLM 103 is preferred for its Neumann quality and consistency, minus the U87's additional polar patterns, making it ideal for voice acting with a cardioid focus.
Source
0 0

The Sennheiser MKH 416 is recommended for its versatility and portability, excelling in commercial voiceover and remote work due to its compact size.
Source
0 0

Some users prefer the Aston Spirit over the U87, citing it as a more cost-effective alternative with a sound quality that suits their needs at a fraction of the price.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The U87 is appreciated for its multiple polar patterns, making it versatile for various applications like guitars, vocals, and drum overheads.
Source
0 0

The U87ai's noise floor is 12 dB-A, while the Rode NT1 boasts a lower noise floor of 4.5 dB-A, offering quieter operation at a fraction of the cost.
Source
0 0

The Neumann U87 is often chosen for studio rentals to impress clients due to its iconic status and wide recognition as a professional-grade microphone.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Professional studios prefer the U87 for standardization, especially in animation voice work, requesting two units for consistency and reliability during recordings.
Source
0 0

The U87 excels in well-treated rooms and for nuanced performances, but in less ideal settings, cheaper mics might suffice for close-micing situations.
Source
0 0

The U87ai reportedly complements dark, smoky voices well, capturing richness and depth, while the MKH 416 may not be suitable for such voice types.
Source
0 0

The U87 is noted for its excellent bass/mid response, even when recording from a distance of 10 feet, making it suitable for capturing expansive soundscapes.
Source

User experience

0 0

The U87 is described as a reliable professional tool, known for its response and ease in achieving high-quality recordings when paired with good room acoustics and engineering skills.
Source
0 0

Some users report that the U87ai is frequently requested by animation and video game studios, though many successful voiceover professionals don't own one.
Source
0 0

One user expressed a strong dislike for the U87's mid-range bump, describing it as sounding "boxy," and preferred the Gefell UM70 for a clearer sound.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

It's noted that the U87 is a valuable investment for studios due to its high resale value, often selling used for nearly the original purchase price.
Source
0 0

The U87 is often considered a collector's item, but some suggest newer models like the Lewitt 1040 offer better value with modern features.
Source

Critic Reviews

The Definitive Neumann U87 AI Review | 2025 Edition

soundref.com

Despite its hefty price tag, the Neumann U 87 Ai is a titan in the realm of studio microphones. Revered for its classic, clear sound and exceptional build quality, this mic has graced recordings from iconic artists like Stevie Wonder and Beyoncé. Its versatility is unmatched, with switchable polar patterns catering to a variety of recording needs, from vocals to acoustic instruments. However, this sensitivity is a double-edged sword—it picks up ambient noise and demands a pristine studio environment. Accessories and additional necessities, like a shock mount and pop filter, add to the cost, making it a pricey investment. Still, for the discerning audiophile, the U 87 Ai delivers a sonic richness and nuanced detail that justifies its legendary status in professional studios worldwide.

positive

Full Review

Neumann U87 Ai Review | 2025's Top Studio Condenser Mic

mixingmonster.com

The Neumann U 87 Ai remains a titan in the world of studio microphones with its rich legacy and impeccable performance. Its warm sound and versatility across recording patterns—omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8—make it a powerhouse for capturing vocal and instrumental nuances. The mic's robust design and high SPL handling ensure reliability in professional settings. However, its premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers, and its fidelity can expose flaws in acoustics or performance. Despite these caveats, the U 87 Ai's iconic status and sound quality make it a worthy investment for those committed to top-tier audio excellence.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star