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Average Price: $6,299

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$100

$401+

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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Neumann USM 69 i". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

The Neumann USM 69 i is a marvel of modern audio engineering, designed to bring versatility and crystal-clear precision to your studio setup. This stereo microphone is equipped with two independent large diaphragm systems, allowing musicians and producers to capture sound with remarkable flexibility. Its unique ability to switch between five directional characteristics—Omnidirectional, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, and Figure-8—makes it an ideal choice for those who want to tailor their sound capturing approach to different recording environments.

With a frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, this microphone ensures you won't miss any nuance of your performance. The innovative design includes a rotating upper capsule that can pivot 270 degrees, providing optimal configurations for both XY and MS stereophony. The microphone's low self-noise of just 13 dB-A and a robust max SPL of 132 dB make it perfect for capturing everything from subtle nuances to powerful crescendos without distortion.

The USM 69 i's transformer-balanced circuit contributes to its rich, warm sound quality, while its independent amplifier stages enable the capsules to function separately, if needed, for mono operation. Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or ambient soundscapes, this microphone is engineered to deliver the pristine audio quality that Neumann is renowned for.

Key Features:

  • Two independent large diaphragm systems
  • Five switchable polar patterns: Omnidirectional, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8
  • Rotating upper capsule (270 degrees) for flexible stereo capturing
  • Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
  • Max SPL: 132 dB
  • Low self-noise: 13 dB-A
  • Transformer-balanced circuit
  • Requires +48 V phantom power

Product specs

Available since December 2000
Battery Powered No
Condenser Microphone 1
Switchable Polar Pattern 1
Polar Pattern Multi Pattern
Omnidirectional 1
inkl. Clamp 1
Cardioid 1
Figure-8 1

FAQs

What polar patterns does the Neumann USM 69 i offer?

The Neumann USM 69 i features multiple polar patterns, including omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8, allowing for versatile recording options in various studio environments.

Is the Neumann USM 69 i suitable for stereo recording?

Yes, the Neumann USM 69 i is a variable pattern stereo microphone, making it ideal for capturing detailed stereo recordings with precise spatial imaging.

Does the Neumann USM 69 i require a battery for operation?

No, the Neumann USM 69 i does not require a battery, as it is a condenser microphone that typically operates with phantom power supplied by an audio interface or mixer.

What applications is the Neumann USM 69 i best suited for?

The Neumann USM 69 i is well-suited for studio recording applications that demand high-quality stereo imaging, such as orchestral recordings, choirs, and ambient soundscapes.

Does the Neumann USM 69 i come with a microphone clamp?

Yes, the Neumann USM 69 i includes a microphone clamp, providing secure mounting for precise positioning during recording sessions.

The Soundphile

The Soundphile

Koinzidenzstereophonie am Beispiel Neumann USM 69 - Tutorial/Workshop (The Soundphile)

Video thumbnail for Koinzidenzstereophonie am Beispiel Neumann USM 69 - Tutorial/Workshop (The Soundphile) by The Soundphile

Koinzidenzstereophonie am Beispiel Neumann USM 69 - Tutorial/Workshop (The Soundphile)

The Soundphile

The Soundphile

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent for recording ensembles with natural, three-dimensional sound

  • Bold, bright sound ideal for dull acoustical environments

  • Handles percussion instruments with exceptional clarity

  • Effective in distance recording with maintained sound quality

  • Versatile double system allows for easy positioning and localization

CONS

  • Requires careful alignment for optimal stereo imaging

  • Stereo separation may need enhancement in post-production

  • Edgy sound on string instruments like violins

  • Build quality issues with switch alignment and wood case

  • Heavier design requires secure mounting

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann USM 69 i.

Features and functionality

  • Neumann USM 69 i offers adjustable cardioids and movable diaphragms, making it versatile for different recording setups, including room or close micing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal as an XY room mic in small practice spaces to capture a balanced stereo image, especially useful in untreated environments to manage room sound.

    Source
  • Combining Neumann USM 69 i as a room mic with close mics on instruments helps reinforce missing elements, especially in smaller, acoustically challenging rooms.

    Source

User experience

  • There's a notable concern about handling and safety when using borrowed high-end equipment like the Neumann USM 69 i, indicating its perceived fragility or value.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Norah Jones uses Neumann USM 69 i

Norah Jones

Singer, Guitarist

Puss N Boots

...
Verified via EMusician

Used on Jones' piano for The Fall, as stated by assistant engineer Brad Bivens in this February 1, 2010 Electronic Musician interview with Jones, producer Jacques King and Bivens.

When tracking vocals live with the band, how do you adapt?

We knew what Norah was singing at any given time would potentially be on the record. We made sure she was isolated from the group. At The Magic Shop she was in the live room with half the musicians, but their amps were isolated. When she played piano [recorded with Neumann U 69 and U 67, Soundelux E49, and Neumann M 582 mics], we covered it with packing blankets to isolate her mic piano mic. Getting levels set beforehand was important, and Norah works very quickly. We were ready if anything went wrong, and we had backup scenarios.

Album Usage

The Neumann USM 69 i 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 USM 69 i, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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