Overview

The Neumann U 87 Ai is a multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser microphone (omni/cardioid/figure-8) covering 20 Hz–20 kHz. It remains a studio staple for vocals and spoken word thanks to consistent polar patterns, a selectable low-cut, and a 10 dB pad [1].

Scientific Validity

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Equivalent noise is 12 dB-A (cardioid), 15 dB-A (omni), 14 dB-A (figure-8) with signal-to-noise of 79–82 dB-A; THD stays below 0.5% up to 117 dB SPL (127 dB SPL with the pad). Frequency response is broadly flat with a mild presence rise, supporting transparent capture without harshness [1].

Technology Level

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This is polished, time-tested engineering rather than bleeding-edge innovation. The U 87 Ai uses a pressure-gradient, dual-diaphragm capsule, three switchable patterns, low-cut, and a pad. Its head amplifier uses a minimal-path FET circuit with a transformer-balanced output and 200-ohm rated impedance—solid, industry-standard choices [1].

Cost-Performance

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Cheapest equivalent-or-better: sE Electronics sE2300—a multi-pattern LDC with low-cut and pads; catalog specs show lower self-noise (9 dB-A cardioid) and higher SPL handling (up to 146 dB with pad), meeting or exceeding key metrics [2].
Calculation (USA market): 399 USD ÷ 3,595 USD = 0.111 → 0.1.

Reliability & Support

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Robust construction and decades of professional use indicate high durability. Neumann offers a global service network and supports repairs for microphones produced since 1947, which is far beyond typical support horizons and strongly benefits long-term uptime [1][4].

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The product philosophy is measurement-driven and free of non-scientific claims, and the integrated patterns/filters are practical. However, the approach is intentionally conservative rather than innovative, and pricing is not optimized for measurable performance gains versus cheaper equals; therefore the score is moderated.

Advice

If you specifically need the U 87 Ai’s familiar tonality or client-driven brand requirements, it remains a safe studio standard. Otherwise, for transparent multi-pattern work, sE2300 delivers equivalent core functionality and objectively competitive specs at a fraction of the price [2]. If you prefer a well-known alternative still below the Neumann’s price, AKG C414 XLS offers nine patterns and comprehensive utilities [3].

References

[1] Neumann, “U 87 Ai – Data & Diagrams,” https://www.neumann.com/en-us/products/microphones/u-87-ai (accessed 2025-08-27). Key values: equivalent noise per pattern, S/N, max SPL (0.5% THD), transformer-balanced output.
[2] sE Electronics, “sE2300 User Manual / Specifications (v1.7),” https://seelectronics.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/sE2300UserManualv1-7.pdf (accessed 2025-08-27). Key values: 9 dB-A self-noise (cardioid), pads/filters, max SPL with pad.
[3] AKG, “C414 XLS – Reference Multipattern Condenser Microphone,” https://www.akg.com/microphones/condenser-microphones/C414XLS.html (accessed 2025-08-27).
[4] Neumann, “The Neumann Service Philosophy,” https://www.neumann.com/en-us/serviceundsupport/service (accessed 2025-08-27).

(2025.8.28)