Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (29)
$699.00 $692.01 $6.99 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (9)
$699.00
Amazon
3.6 (36)
$699.00
Amazon Prime
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$699.00
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$699.00
B&H
5.0 (2)
$699.00 $692.01 $6.99 · All time low
Thomann
4.6 (25)
$585.00 $579.00 $6.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£439.00
Vintage King
5.0 (1)
$699.00

Average Price: $682

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 8 merchants for "U87 Clone". 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

The U87 Clone brings the legendary sound of high-end studio microphones to your fingertips without breaking the bank. This microphone is celebrated for its exceptional versatility, making it a go-to choice for both budding musicians and seasoned studio engineers. Whether you're recording vocals, strings, or even a full symphony orchestra, the U87 Clone performs with grace and precision.

What sets the U87 Clone apart is its premium all-discrete components, meticulously chosen to replicate the warm, inviting sound of vintage microphones. With a genuine USA-made CineMag output transformer and NOS Fairchild transistors, this mic captures every nuance of your performance. It doesn't just mimic vintage sound; it embodies it.

Equipped with three switchable polar patterns — cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 — the U87 Clone adapts seamlessly to various recording environments, offering flexibility for creative expression. The WA87-B-50V capsule, a faithful reproduction of the vintage K87, ensures your recordings are as rich and detailed as those from the revered originals.

Designed for reliability and excellence, the U87 Clone features an 80Hz highpass filter to eliminate unwanted low-end noise and a 10dB pad for handling high SPL sources, making it perfect for drums and louder instruments. Its robust build and sleek design guarantee it will be a cherished tool in your studio arsenal for years to come.

Key Features:

  • 3 switchable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8
  • Premium all-discrete components with NOS Fairchild transistors
  • Genuine USA-made CineMag output transformer
  • Faithful reproduction of the vintage dual-backplate K87 capsule
  • 80Hz highpass filter and 10dB pad for versatile recording scenarios
  • Includes shockmount, hard mount, and wooden storage box

Product specs

Microphone Type FET Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
Diaphragm Size 1" Diaphragm
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL 125dB SPL
Output Impedance 150 ohms
Low Cut Filter 80Hz
Pads -10dB
Connector XLR
Power Source 48V phantom power
Weight 1.6 lbs
Included Accessories Wooden Case, Clip, Shockmount

FAQs

What polar patterns are available on the U87 Clone microphone?

The U87 Clone offers three selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8, making it versatile for various recording applications.

Is the U87 Clone suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the U87 Clone is well-suited for recording vocals due to its large diaphragm and wide frequency response, capturing rich and detailed sound.

Does the U87 Clone require phantom power?

Yes, the U87 Clone requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for most condenser microphones.

What accessories are included with the U87 Clone microphone?

The U87 Clone comes with a wooden case, clip, and shockmount, providing essential accessories for protection and stable mounting during use.

What is the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) the U87 Clone can handle?

The U87 Clone can handle a maximum SPL of 125dB, making it capable of capturing loud sound sources without distortion.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about U87 Clone.

Features and functionality

  • Modded microphones often replace overly bright stock capsules with more balanced K47 designs to reduce sibilance and achieve a warmer tone.

    Source
  • The Advanced Audio U87 SE version offers a faster transient response, ideal for drum overheads and lead vocals, enhancing versatility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The WA87 was found to be more frequently used in omni and figure-8 settings, despite initially being bought for cardioid applications.

    Source
  • The TLM103, noted for its bright top end and aggressive lower mids, is recommended more for voice-over work than for singing vocals due to its harshness.

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  • The RE20's midrange emphasis benefits low baritone vocals by enhancing clarity and reducing sibilance, despite not being a condenser.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Temu U87 clone offers more "bang for buck" than many other purchases, excelling on vocals, acoustics, and room recordings for under $35.

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  • The MXL 990 mod with Oktavamod slightly exceeds a $500 budget but offers significant sound improvements, making it a popular choice for those seeking affordability over a U87 clone.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing a Chinese 67 capsule with a 47 style can convert a cheap mic into one comparable to a £500+ model, with minimal soldering skills required.

    Source
  • Switching 67 style capsules for 47 capsules in budget mics can significantly improve high-end response, making them sound more like high-end models.

    Source
  • The RA-23/RK-87 DIY kit from microphone-parts.com is praised for its easy assembly and superior sound quality, with detailed instructions and components rivaling professional microphones.

    Source

User experience

  • Users were impressed with the sound quality of a $35 U87 clone from Temu, highlighting ease of purchase and quick delivery for such a low-cost item.

    Source
  • Owners of inexpensive U87 clones found great value in their performance, especially when used with specific preamps like the 1073.

    Source
  • Some studio owners maintain U87s primarily for their prestige on mic lists, rather than preference for their tonal qualities, allowing easy persuasion towards alternative microphones.

    Source
  • The Warm Audio WA-87 is noted to sound similar to a vintage U87, but with a slightly darker tone compared to the brighter U87ai.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Advanced Audio's U87 clone uses a class-A transformer, closer to the U87's original design, unlike the Microphone-Parts clone which is transformerless.

    Source
  • The MXL 990 modded by Oktavamod is viewed as a good substitute for the U87, despite having a different circuit, capsule, body, and frequency response.

    Source
  • Stam Audio's 87 clone is reported to sound very close to the original, with some users preferring its depth over others.

    Source

Critic Reviews

THE KING OF THE CLONES - Nethervoice

nethervoice.com

The U87 Clone from GoToToolz offers an impressively affordable alternative to pricier competitors, capturing the essence of the classic microphone for a fraction of the cost. While it might not perfectly replicate the high-end components of an original Neumann U87, it stands out in the under-$500 market, especially for home studios on a budget. The creator, Ian Davidson, prides himself on his DIY approach and boasts a high satisfaction rate among customers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the legal gray area concerning branding and the risks of lower maximum SPL handling, which may limit some professional applications. Overall, this clone is a commendable choice for those seeking quality on a budget, but it's not without its limitations.

5 Best U87 Clones That Are Affordable (2025)

drumhelper.com

The U87 clones reviewed here shine as budget-friendly alternatives to the legendary Neumann U87, with the Warm Audio WA-87 and Studio Projects C1 Mk2 standing out for their clarity, warmth, and value. The Townsend Labs Sphere L22's innovative mic modeling is revolutionary, though it relies on software. The Lauten Audio LA-220 and Warm Audio WA-47 Jr offer impressive performance at lower price points, though they lack some premium features. Overall, these clones provide exceptional sound quality across various recording scenarios, making them great picks for musicians seeking quality without the hefty price.

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Best U87 Clone – Affordable Alternatives to the Classic Neumann

musicstrive.blog

For those seeking the revered Neumann U87 sound without breaking the bank, this review praises the best clones available. The Warm Audio WA87 excels with its nearly perfect mimicry of vintage U87 warmth, although some might find it slightly bright. Meanwhile, the sE Electronics SE2200 offers a neutral, flat response that shines across various instruments, but lacks color out of the box. Lauten Audio's Atlantis FC-387 stands out for its adaptability and rich, natural sound, albeit at a higher price point. Townsend Labs Sphere L22 offers unmatched versatility with its mic emulation capabilities, despite reliance on proprietary software. Lastly, the Soundelux U195 impresses with its close resemblance to the U87's sound, though it could use better accessories. Overall, this review highlights excellent alternatives for budget-conscious musicians, noting their unique strengths and few drawbacks.

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Genre Usage

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