Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone

Description

Basic Information
Microphone Type	Condenser
Noise/Signal	Equivalent noise level, CCIR⁾: 17.5 dB Equivalent noise level, A-weighted⁾: 7 dB-A
Main Specs
Frequency Range	20 Hz … 20 kHz
Sensitivity	23 mV/Pa = –32.5 dBV ± 1 dB
Output Impedance	Rated Impedance: 50 ohms Rated load impedance: 1 kohms
Dimension	ø: 2.4 x L: 5.2″ / ø: 6 x L: 13.2 cm
Weight	15.87 oz / 450 g
Polar pattern	Cardioid
Connector	XLR 3 F
Compatibility
Audio recorders	Yes
Warranty
Warranty	01-year Warranty

The Neumann TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers the signature Neumann sound with enhanced presence to deliver a clear, clean, and full tone. It has a U 87-based capsule coupled with faultless transformerless circuitry, enabling it to tolerate high SPLs of up to 138 dB without distortion while keeping very low self-noise of about 7 dBA. The combination of the transformerless output stage and heightened treble response makes the TLM 103 a great choice when the sound source needs to clearly cut through the mix. The mic’s compact body is ideal for positioning it in tight spots such as over a snare, inside a kick drum, or in front of a small guitar amp. By utilizing a cardioid polar pattern, the mic can effectively reduce ambient noise or instrument bleed behind the mic. The TLM 103 comes with a secure, space-saving swivel mount and a wooden box.

Affordable Alternative to the U 87

The TLM 103, which was first offered in 1997 as a less expensive replacement for the renowned U 87, has subsequently earned a place in the annals of design history. Today, the TLM 103 serves as the benchmark for evaluating modern studio microphones. The TLM 103 has a distinctly Neumann appearance because to its conventional, tapered head grille design.

Large-Diaphragm Capsule

The Neumann TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87. However, the TLM 103 has a slightly more modern voicing with a wide presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz.

Refined and Full Sound

Its highly direct yet polished tone is ideal for singers and solo instruments that effortlessly stand out in the mix. The TLM 103, of course, also features the renowned authoritative midrange that has become the distinguishing feature of Neumann microphones and elevated them to a top option in studios all over the world. The TLM 103’s remarkably deep yet controlled bottom end is one of its unique features; it is ideal for sonorous vocals and strong bass instruments.

Technical Excellence

The TLM 103 is one of the quietest microphones on the market with an extraordinarily low self-noise of only 7 dBA. Additionally, even with low-cost preamps, audio interfaces, or old tube equipment, its exceptional sensitivity of -32.5 dBV guarantees extremely low noise. The TLM 103 can manage extremely high sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB simultaneously without the need for pre attenuation. The TLM 103 is a highly simple-to-use studio microphone because of its wide dynamic range of 131 dB, which can catch anything from a gentle whisper to a thunderous bass drum without introducing noise or distortion.

Transformerless Output

The TLM 103 is a part of Neumann’s TLM series and utilizes a transformerless output stage, minimizing transmission losses and guaranteeing a highly immediate, uncolored sound that is faithful to the original as well as a clear, strong bass response, even at the highest signal levels.

Applications

The Neumann TLM 103 was initially intended for project studios and broadcast use, but because of its exceptional performance, it was quickly adopted by prestigious studios as a more contemporary-sounding substitute for the U 87 for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps, and piano. When recording cello and double bass in classical music, the TLM 103 is frequently utilized as a spot mic.