Been engineering for 10 years: the 49 is fuller, a lot more body, it's obvious, and more of a balanced tone for a mix without the extra sibilance... (not trying to rhyme lol)...the 103 is more present in the 500hz and up range so it cuts thru a mix but there is a boost of air that produces more sibilance....both great mics, and compared to the 49 it can seem 'thinner'....btw I own both. Great Mixing is about Great Mixing, not equipment, Cheers!
what would you suggest if i have budget and making rnb and pop music. my voice is more baritone but i can hit high notes too! Should I buy an u87 or is the difference to a tlm 49 not worth the extra money?
Something to really take into account is that mics aren’t perfect until they are paired with their right pre. It’s typically like a lock and key and when it fits it fits perfectly. The TLM 103 shines at the right impedance typically around 1200, so if you have a outboard pre with an option to change impedance you will experience a drastically different sound with the 103. Honestly close to the 87 when paired right, the sibilants go away. It’s all about impedance
This was a really good comparison, excellent format and excellent performance! The TLM49 has a tiny boost at ~3.1khz. Putting a gentle 1.5db attenuation there, and comparing the two, it's clear by my ears that the 49 is the winner. Just has more detail, more natural smoothness and accuracy. The 103 has that a sort of crispness that cheaper microphones have. Thank you!
By the way, I like they way that 49 sounds on your voice better than the 103..it’s smoother and handles the deep tones better on your voice IMO (less harsh)
Mista Rags lol thanks bruh! The music has been a bit slow for me currently. It’s been crazy at the barbershop lately but I’m still trying to bang songs out as well. Just haven’t had much time. Thanks for the encouragement!
Man. You put a lot of work and thought into this. Thanks a lot. Guess I have expensive taste. The clarity of the 49 is very apparent from this video. That's far and away my pick.
103 made it sound like a record right off the bat. the 49 was a bit harsh and midrangy for some reason... wasnt expecting that! thanks for posting this
The devil is in the midrange 49 is superior and u87 is even better, tlm103 is designed to cut through a mix right away with v shaped somehow frequency response which might be good but not preferred. if you want a great microphone and let’s cut the nonsense u87 is midrange king if you know what you’re doing.
Mic A immediately sounded "like a record". I don't know what the hell all these people in the comments are listening to this video on, because Mic A (49) sounds noticeably better on my studio monitors.
I've downloaded your files and mixed them and for me the TLM 103 wins! I prefer the smooth and fuller overall sound of the TLM 103, even though the TLM 49 is slightly more airy and open sounding. Also, You did a great job with this comparison video! One of the best!!!
The difference is clear. I was able to guess the sound sample A and B correctly because the TLM 103 is very sharp and harsh, while the TLM 49 sound was fuller and warmer. I own a TLM 103 and soon I will be purchasing a TLM 49
I have listened to quite a few samples between these mics and have always noticed that the 103 is brighter. Having a pop shield helps so much with this mic. The 49, to me, sounds limited in the top end. a warmer sound, yes, but I'd go for the 103 every time. It sounds so much more natural - just need to control the breath with a dampened room and use a pop shield.
Jumping between the solo’d passages, the 49 has more body than the 103. You can get that body with the right pre-amp, but in this particular test, the 49 wins for me. That being said, I own a 103 and am very happy with it.
@@adriatic123think that's true, though you can and often do that in post too (with EQ or even saturation). But I still think the 49 is a better natural sound to begin with. Though a Neve pre and LA-2A does get the 103 there, so it's a pretty versatile mic too. The 102 is the one that's just too thin, and a C-414 is often better than a 102.
*I've been **do7.pl/NMicrophone2** a performance/recording musician for over 40 yrs. and recorded on really expensive studio mics, but never in my home studio...musicians can't afford those things. The best sounding vocal/all around mic I've owned up to this point is a Sennheiser MD 421. It always puts everything else under $700 to shame, especially for vocals and snare...dynamic or condenser...so that's what I compared the Neumann 102 to yesterday when it arrived.I kinda expected it to sound a lot like the 421, maybe more airy and bright because it's a condenser mic (especially after reading the snippety comment about not being any better than a $200 mic; although I do agree about Sam Ash being horrible to deal with)...anyway, I was not expecting such a huge difference in sound quality. I think I've finally found the open/airy/pin-drop-yet ballsy/reasonably priced mic I've been looking for all these years.I tested both mics with vocals and acoustic guitar and according to my ears, the Nueman just blew the Sennheiser out of the water on both accounts. I don't really expect it to outdo the 421 on snare drum, but I bet the 102 would be great along with it for double miking.I'm sure some may disagree and say I shouldn't have used the Sennheiser for comparison...but then again lots of people still think they can get away with a Shure 58 for vocals and 57 for snare...or that a Porsche is the best car. Please don't even think about using a Shure under $2,000 or Rode (at any price) for comparison....maybe one of AKG's $1,500+ mics.Just based on quick ear tests, which is what matters to me, the Neumann 102 is by far the best microphone I've ever used under $1,000. Just make sure it's sold and fulfilled by Amazon so you can return it if it shows up pre-opened/used/box beat to hell; which has become so common with all online music stores*
Mia Black it’s possible. Are you rapping or singing? My rapping vocal is somewhat sibilant before hitting the mic normally. Also, the preamp can play a part on your signal going in as well
CLEANMUD VIDEOS hi ya, Mia’s dad here , she’s singing , a home studio (the room is treated just recently tho & she has a good SE isolation shield now too) she’s age 12. We Currently use Protools 10 or 12 with an Apogee Quartet & an AT4033 Mic...today ive just tried her live Mic to Experiment.. it’s a Neumann KMS105... side by side with the 4033 the Neumann’s rich! Lovely, much sweeter to my ears.. only thing is there’s a bit of high end sibilance. Does Interfaces have more sibilance than out board gear?
Mia Black you may want to try a tube preamp. They are good for rounding out the top end of the mic output. Maybe a universal audio solo 610. Can get one about $600-700 used but they are roughly 1100 new. You can actually try that before getting a new mic. Most upper end preamps do wonders for the microphones
If you're listening on headphones you might say 103 is better, but as soon as you listen on studio monitors or a decent speaker system, The superiority of the full bottom end of the 49 plus that high end shimmer becomes clear.
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS I thought the 49 was going to sound warmer and bigger but it turns out that if it was "A" it only accentuated some edginess in the voice, where the TLM103 didn't (and I thought it was going to) and the 103 had more bottom and warmth. You may have saved me some bucks lol thanks!
oceantracks choosing either mic would really depend on the vocalist in my opinion. The tlm103 can become a bit brittle in the top end for a real sibilant vocalists. But it’s a bit beefier sounding. I think the tlm49 can handle the top better and isn’t as beefy. Thanks for watching and commenting!
The TLM 103 is designed to grab your attention by scooping and boosting certain frequencies but the TLM 49 is a fatter more saturated high end mic that you can do more to when mixing. TOM 103 will either work with your voice or not, TLM 49 will suit more voices and more styles. Neither mic has a vintage Neumann sound because they don’t have a transformer. You get what you pay for…..
Both are quite good. A bit less low-mid on the 103, a bit less air on the 49 but there’s no “loser” here, two useable tracks. The only question is which do you buy first?
49 clear cut winner in my opinion. Clear mids with a natural fullness and silky smooth throughout the whole spectrum. Not too harsh at all as opposed to the 103 which was immediately jarring to the ear with some additional muddiness. I also found the noise rejection on the 49 to be allot better. That top end boot on the 103 probably is to blame here. Overall great mics regardless. I’d take the 103 over an AT2020 (my mic) alll dayy, so I’m not dogging on it. Up against the 49 though it makes the 103 sound like a Blue Yeti. It’s all relative boys work with what ya got!
I like the sound of both. To me, the TLM 49 sounded louder with vowels (could be a preference) compared to the TLM 103. Both will definitely work have more than enough information to eq, compress, and de-ess without destroying the recording.
The TLM 103 wins. Some people judge by price. I am using high quality headphones, and the 103 is best. Just ordred me a 103, and it comes tomorrrow. am so excited👍
LOOLLLLL you messed up then cause the tlm49 is way better, smoother mids plus the siblance is more controlled An apex 580 sounds exactly like an tlm 103 but with smoother highs and the mic only cost $275 haha sucks to be you bud
@@rylandweet7750 i would yes it is higher but wouldn't say for every use case that is a obvious enough difference to make it worth extra but it is minor improvement i personally sound the 49 little darker then i like a microphone to be for my prime use case
ZamaNRaPBanD thanks! I’m on the streaming sites. Apple Music, Spotify, etc. my latest EP that this song is on is entitled Wake My Mind and my artist name HIS
I’m a fan of subtractive EQ and would lean toward the mic that gives me “more info,” or more “clay” to sculpt the sound. The 49 provides A LOT more transient depth and clarity with a little tone shaping. The 103 lacks the structure that the 49 provides in spades. 49 FTW, for sure. Nice A/B!
Good comparison. Definitely TLM 49 here. Sits really well in the mix, right balance of warmth and clarity and without artificial hype in the presence. Sounds close to a finished record just as is. It's not that sensitive to preamp as 103 too. The 103 I think needs a thicker vintage sounding pre like a 1073 and a LA-2A smoothing it out. Then even a touch of de-essing is needed. Whereas the TLM49 into a modern pre, just sounds good already. The 49 can sound too dark with a vintage pres the 103 sounds good with, so I guess it depends on what signal chain you'll be using.
Just got the TLM 49 cus of this clip bra, awesome sound. next mic will be the c100 pretty clean vox on ur review of the c100 liked that. greetz from germany
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS im trying to but couldnt realy test it cus my brandnew Apollo Twin USB is driving me crazy like theres a delay when i put UAD plugins in the Send into my DAW sounds like a Flanger idk guess i go for RME :/ besides that do you think the TLM 49 is good for deep male voices?
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS yea got it fixed guess it was a cubase problem just went to pro tools. Great Mic .. paired the tlm49 with the Avalon plugin from UAD its fking nuts tho fullsounding, clear and has that warm sound i searched for.
Im upgrading to the tlm49, the 103 is too bright for certain vocals. It's on for people with alot of bass in their voice or rap. For singing, pop & rock. The 49 is much fuller and less high end.
Ok so im back, I actually had the tlm 49 and took it back and got a brand new 103. 49 sounds too flat, thr 103 brings your voice out wayyyyy more!!! Lesson - More money doesn't always mean better. O actually thought it was gonna be a better 103 but its worse.
@@novajflame good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
hey bro i downloaded the files but this shit is confusing files names are not named spcifically which one is which , all the files either says TLM 103 VS TLM 49 or TLM 49 Vs 103
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS thanks man btw i see you said in other video that t m 103 is harshest mic you experienced so would you reccomend tlm 49 over 103 overall becuase ease of mixing vocal due to less sibilance on 49 vs 103
@@TheSpeedyr6 for the price of the tlm49, I would honestly go with the Lauten Atlantis. It is thick sounding like the tlm103 without the harshness, and can in my opinion do what the 49 can. Just my thoughts. The tlm103 can work depending on the artist in front of it but for some people, you may want to turn it off axis a bit so that the sibilants don’t hit it head on. Hope this helps!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS appreciate it g i want to stick with neumann only so i was just trying to figure out which mic is less sibilant before i pull the trigger , im tired of trying cheap as mics
@@TheSpeedyr6 definitely understand! But don’t fall into the “big name and big price” deception. You just gotta go with what fits your voice, not with what’s most popular. I’ve owned the u87ai twice and got rid of it twice. I don’t miss any of the Neumann mics I had. Felt good to be able to buy them but they just didn’t work out for me. A good mic is a good mic honestly. Those mics have been the go to for many years because not many others had quality mics for a decent price back in the days. Hopefully your choice works out for you. Good luck on whatever you go with!
Mic B, the TLM 103, to me, sounded more settled "in the mix". It wasn't as sharp or edgy, and I liked that tameness. TLM 103 sounded like a done record off the bat. That will be hard to beat. I may have to order one.
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS I ended up grabbing a used Shure KSM32 for... wait for it... $225! $550 retail and hard pressed to get that for under $450 these days. But the reason i am saying this is this mic has damn near the exact same sound signature as the TLM 103. I think the 103 has a tiny bit more resolution at the bottom end, like 30-35 hz, on a very deep male voice. Other than that, its basically the same experience when tracking with a nice preampt. I track through the UA 610-A and brighten things up a bit with the Pultec EQ, which is one of my favs on my voice in particular.
Mic A sounds a bit thin to me and gets lost in the mix or blends in with it, Mic B sounds like it has more power and cuts through the mix to stand out better.
2:24 Neumann TLM 49 , MIC A 3:16 Neumann TLM 103 , MIC B И конечно тут бесспорный победитель TLM 49 более чистый , более открытый звук который великолепно прорубает минусовку и делает куплет ярким-запоминающимся, он записал больше ньюансов в голосе чем TLM 103.
Thanks for your videos bro! Since you have a ton of experience trying different mics ect, what would you say is the vocal chain to get that warm I'm your face sound for current Hip-Hop artist have like migos, Rick ross, drake etc? I currently have a tlm 103 and recently purchased a focusrite isa one, but I'm not sure if the 103 and isa will give me that sound. What are your thoughts?
Teno - Will thanks bruh! I think a lot of their sound has to do with the equipment they are using. A lot of it is kind of hard to come by with our average budgets. I’m assuming they use the U87, CL1B, Distressor, LA2A, C12, Neve preamps and what not. Also, probably running them through some post processing chains. I believe it’s best to get a sound you like and run with it. This stuff can be a black hole. But some suggestions: The isa one is a cleaner sounding preamp. A tube preamp can beef your sound up more.
Teno - Will a friend of mine has the slate system. It’s nice but not my cup of tea. I love either my 414xlii or u87ai going into my avalon 737 and Distressor. The Distressor is very versatile
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS thanks for your help bro, I appreciate your reaching back so quickly. One more question, I found my vocals on the 103 to be kinda "raw" not smooth/warm, I know this may being to it not having a transformer, have you noticed the same thing on your vocals too? I'm running it straight into apollo twin. Does the akg have more character?
Teno - Will yeah the 103 can be a bit harsh depending on the vocalist. The isa definitely doesn’t compliment it in my opinion. It’s too clean sounding. I think a tube preamp is better for that mic. The Akg is more pleasing to me although it can be thin based on your proximity to it. It will also reveal the flaws in your room because it picks up everything! Make sure your space is treated if you do get it. If not, you won’t like it at all
The TLM49 sounded fuller and higher quality but the 103 sounded crisp with the beat too, just thinner. Here's the only thing. Both mics pic up sound different sensitivity wise, so I feel if you adjusted the tlm49 level a tad lower it would of sounded even better against 103, i feel its a bit more sensitive than 103 for this reason it can sounds little more harsh with each level increase in volume. The level the 103 seemed to be perfect for that mic but the 49 just a tad lower in the mix would of been better and even more so with beat off comparison.
I feel you can get the 49 to sound better with a broader range of artists, but the 103 is a great mic. If possible have other and let the sound of the artist dictate which one to use. If only 1? If you can afford 49 would be my pick.
Hola saludos cordiales Soy el locutor y voceover José alviarez desde chile para mí el mejor micrófono sin duda alguna es el Neumann tlm 49 tiene más cuerpo su sonido es único fue creado por la empresa Neumann en Berlín Alemania y fue exclusivamente para la voz su sonido es totalmente profesional yo tengo los Dos pero en lo personal prefiero para todas mis grabaciones el Neumann tlm 49 el ganador exelente vídeo te felicito My brother
One wonders if ever since Sennheiser took over Neumann all the parts used are mass produced and not tested to the same standards as before! Nothing sounds that impressive to me, than what I have heard in other mics much cheaper!
Thanks for the comparisson. Funny that there are comments here calling the TLM 103 a "shit" microphone. But I was surprised that the TLM 49 was A. I own both and immediatly identified A as the TLM 103. Strange.
good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
boxley98 both are nice, but I would go with the tlm49 if I wanted a cleaner sound and the wa47 for a fuller vocal. You can get them at the same price if you grab the tlm49 2nd hand
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
Lol the 49 dominated and I honestly thought that was the 103 at first so I’m speaking with my ears. With that being said, the 103 still sounded amazing on its own. The clarity and presence is incredible along with perfect lows. I just think the 49 crushed it in overall smoothness and depth.
Indeed i was thinking the A is the 103 and i listened to the B and got a bit of cringe feeling in my ears.. I was like "if thats the tlm49 i'll cut my dick off".. 🤣 But yeah, A soundes way better, handled the Ss better.. The 103's highs are all over the place
Both sound great, one might complement you voice better than the other, and the other might complement someone else voice better. I think the 103 complements your voice better, but I’m not saying it’s a better mic. I’ve been in A class studios with lots of crazy expensive mic collections and my voice just sounded better on some then others.
Mic a won for sure, I think it’s challenging for untrained ears but if been researching like crazy on mixing videos because I’m bout to start school and mic a sounded literally like half mixed it sat well of the bat mic b still sounds a bit like under the music kinda
Been engineering for 10 years: the 49 is fuller, a lot more body, it's obvious, and more of a balanced tone for a mix without the extra sibilance... (not trying to rhyme lol)...the 103 is more present in the 500hz and up range so it cuts thru a mix but there is a boost of air that produces more sibilance....both great mics, and compared to the 49 it can seem 'thinner'....btw I own both. Great Mixing is about Great Mixing, not equipment, Cheers!
Appreciate your input, and your insight is definitely helpful!
👆🏼Good ears, great advise. Keep it up!
what would you suggest if i have budget and making rnb and pop music. my voice is more baritone but i can hit high notes too! Should I buy an u87 or is the difference to a tlm 49 not worth the extra money?
Something to really take into account is that mics aren’t perfect until they are paired with their right pre. It’s typically like a lock and key and when it fits it fits perfectly. The TLM 103 shines at the right impedance typically around 1200, so if you have a outboard pre with an option to change impedance you will experience a drastically different sound with the 103. Honestly close to the 87 when paired right, the sibilants go away. It’s all about impedance
@@rpc6614 what about u87 with apollo twin duo?
came back to this again and it's still MIC B for the win!
49 wins for sure! It
captures the voice better.
This was a really good comparison, excellent format and excellent performance! The TLM49 has a tiny boost at ~3.1khz. Putting a gentle 1.5db attenuation there, and comparing the two, it's clear by my ears that the 49 is the winner. Just has more detail, more natural smoothness and accuracy. The 103 has that a sort of crispness that cheaper microphones have. Thank you!
Most definitely! Thanks for your feedback
49.. 103 to sibilant and bright on the high end sounds harsh to me
DUDE!!! I wanted to hear the rest of the song damn it!!!!! LOL!!! nice review, and rhyme flow bra!!
Lol I appreciate that!
Feel free to check my music out here:
apple.co/346rusI
spoti.fi/2sTbzkD
Bro your mic locker is gone be insane lmao haha, keep that fire coming..I’m waiting on an album from you that last song you dropped was 🔥
By the way, I like they way that 49 sounds on your voice better than the 103..it’s smoother and handles the deep tones better on your voice IMO (less harsh)
Mista Rags lol thanks bruh! The music has been a bit slow for me currently. It’s been crazy at the barbershop lately but I’m still trying to bang songs out as well. Just haven’t had much time. Thanks for the encouragement!
TLM 103 sounds crisp! Def going to cop one very soon!
Thank you, cheers!
Dope bars too man! Salute.
GoodxJ glad I could help, and thanks!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS 🫡
Man. You put a lot of work and thought into this. Thanks a lot.
Guess I have expensive taste. The clarity of the 49 is very apparent from this video. That's far and away my pick.
103 made it sound like a record right off the bat. the 49 was a bit harsh and midrangy for some reason... wasnt expecting that! thanks for posting this
You can't have any ears talking that craziness. TLM103 is a shit mic dude. Mids scooped and highs boosted too much.
I see it completely different. 103 too much highs. TLM49 seems to need for this type of voice much less EQ and COMP works.
You’re absolutely ridiculous clearly the TLM 49 is the better microphone wtf.
The devil is in the midrange 49 is superior and u87 is even better, tlm103 is designed to cut through a mix right away with v shaped somehow frequency response which might be good but not preferred. if you want a great microphone and let’s cut the nonsense u87 is midrange king if you know what you’re doing.
The tlm 49 was way harsher, 103 smoother, when I listened I was 100% certain the harsh one would be 103 but not the case
Mic A immediately sounded "like a record". I don't know what the hell all these people in the comments are listening to this video on, because Mic A (49) sounds noticeably better on my studio monitors.
The 103 sounds cleaner (MIC B) mic A sounds full just a tad bit more air is what sets the two apart my personal opinion tho !
Cuz the mic pre
Also he in a dead nutz booth. That 49 needs more movement
I've downloaded your files and mixed them and for me the TLM 103 wins! I prefer the smooth and fuller overall sound of the TLM 103, even though the TLM 49 is slightly more airy and open sounding. Also, You did a great job with this comparison video! One of the best!!!
Appreciate you taking the time to use this to do a full in depth comparison! Thanks for watching and giving your feedback as well ✌🏾
What you just described is the TLM49 and not the TLM103. The TLM 103 is the microphone with the open sound, the 49 the one with the fuller sound.
Did you mix up the names?
You really can't beat that 49. Great mic shootout
The difference is clear. I was able to guess the sound sample A and B correctly because the TLM 103 is very sharp and harsh, while the TLM 49 sound was fuller and warmer. I own a TLM 103 and soon I will be purchasing a TLM 49
Nice! The TLM49 is sweet!
I love the sound of the tlm 49
I think I liked "B" more but "A" cut through the mix better so I'd use "A"
Both cut through the mix when the vocals are up as loud as that was lol
I can relate to these bars heavily my G
💪🏾💯
I have listened to quite a few samples between these mics and have always noticed that the 103 is brighter. Having a pop shield helps so much with this mic. The 49, to me, sounds limited in the top end. a warmer sound, yes, but I'd go for the 103 every time. It sounds so much more natural - just need to control the breath with a dampened room and use a pop shield.
The TLM 103 sounds brighter :)
Jumping between the solo’d passages, the 49 has more body than the 103. You can get that body with the right pre-amp, but in this particular test, the 49 wins for me. That being said, I own a 103 and am very happy with it.
You are probably right, but modern productions emphasize bright, 'in your face' vocals, so maybe 103 is better suited for modern productions.
@@adriatic123think that's true, though you can and often do that in post too (with EQ or even saturation). But I still think the 49 is a better natural sound to begin with. Though a Neve pre and LA-2A does get the 103 there, so it's a pretty versatile mic too. The 102 is the one that's just too thin, and a C-414 is often better than a 102.
The 103 sounded like it had more control.
Please Man! Neumann TLM49 VS Sony C100
5 years later and need this to happen :p TLM49 vs C100
You all know you said B before the reveal.
Hahah! Lloved your mic related rap! Genius!!
I hope to see a comparison between the TLM 49 & U87 :)
U87 is better
*I've been **do7.pl/NMicrophone2** a performance/recording musician for over 40 yrs. and recorded on really expensive studio mics, but never in my home studio...musicians can't afford those things. The best sounding vocal/all around mic I've owned up to this point is a Sennheiser MD 421. It always puts everything else under $700 to shame, especially for vocals and snare...dynamic or condenser...so that's what I compared the Neumann 102 to yesterday when it arrived.I kinda expected it to sound a lot like the 421, maybe more airy and bright because it's a condenser mic (especially after reading the snippety comment about not being any better than a $200 mic; although I do agree about Sam Ash being horrible to deal with)...anyway, I was not expecting such a huge difference in sound quality. I think I've finally found the open/airy/pin-drop-yet ballsy/reasonably priced mic I've been looking for all these years.I tested both mics with vocals and acoustic guitar and according to my ears, the Nueman just blew the Sennheiser out of the water on both accounts. I don't really expect it to outdo the 421 on snare drum, but I bet the 102 would be great along with it for double miking.I'm sure some may disagree and say I shouldn't have used the Sennheiser for comparison...but then again lots of people still think they can get away with a Shure 58 for vocals and 57 for snare...or that a Porsche is the best car. Please don't even think about using a Shure under $2,000 or Rode (at any price) for comparison....maybe one of AKG's $1,500+ mics.Just based on quick ear tests, which is what matters to me, the Neumann 102 is by far the best microphone I've ever used under $1,000. Just make sure it's sold and fulfilled by Amazon so you can return it if it shows up pre-opened/used/box beat to hell; which has become so common with all online music stores*
MIC A @ 2:24 ; MIC B @ 3:15 Love TLM 49. It's brighter and clearer.
103 sounded the best for sure!
On female vocals would the 49 be smoother & less sibilant ?
Mia Black it’s possible. Are you rapping or singing? My rapping vocal is somewhat sibilant before hitting the mic normally. Also, the preamp can play a part on your signal going in as well
CLEANMUD VIDEOS hi ya, Mia’s dad here , she’s singing , a home studio (the room is treated just recently tho & she has a good SE isolation shield now too) she’s age 12.
We Currently use Protools 10 or 12 with an Apogee Quartet & an AT4033 Mic...today ive just tried her live Mic to Experiment.. it’s a Neumann KMS105... side by side with the 4033 the Neumann’s rich! Lovely, much sweeter to my ears.. only thing is there’s a bit of high end sibilance.
Does Interfaces have more sibilance than out board gear?
CLEANMUD VIDEOS thanks for your reply btw 😊
Mia Black you may want to try a tube preamp. They are good for rounding out the top end of the mic output. Maybe a universal audio solo 610. Can get one about $600-700 used but they are roughly 1100 new. You can actually try that before getting a new mic. Most upper end preamps do wonders for the microphones
CLEANMUD VIDEOS brill thanks a mill for that 😊😊😊
If you're listening on headphones you might say 103 is better, but as soon as you listen on studio monitors or a decent speaker system, The superiority of the full bottom end of the 49 plus that high end shimmer becomes clear.
Indeed
Witch 1 will run better with a UA La610 as my preamp and UAD mk2 as my interface
Either
The 103 is more colored on the low end. The 49 is a much more true to the real voice. The TLM49 is another level mic.
RPM Weekly thanks for your feedback!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS I thought the 49 was going to sound warmer and bigger but it turns out that if it was "A" it only accentuated some edginess in the voice, where the TLM103 didn't (and I thought it was going to) and the 103 had more bottom and warmth. You may have saved me some bucks lol thanks!
oceantracks choosing either mic would really depend on the vocalist in my opinion. The tlm103 can become a bit brittle in the top end for a real sibilant vocalists. But it’s a bit beefier sounding. I think the tlm49 can handle the top better and isn’t as beefy. Thanks for watching and commenting!
My man you should do a shootout with a tlm49 and u87
Ran this threw my adam's s3h the TLM 49 takes it by a mile. Great review.
The TLM 103 is designed to grab your attention by scooping and boosting certain frequencies but the TLM 49 is a fatter more saturated high end mic that you can do more to when mixing. TOM 103 will either work with your voice or not, TLM 49 will suit more voices and more styles. Neither mic has a vintage Neumann sound because they don’t have a transformer. You get what you pay for…..
Both are quite good. A bit less low-mid on the 103, a bit less air on the 49 but there’s no “loser” here, two useable tracks. The only question is which do you buy first?
49 clear cut winner in my opinion. Clear mids with a natural fullness and silky smooth throughout the whole spectrum. Not too harsh at all as opposed to the 103 which was immediately jarring to the ear with some additional muddiness. I also found the noise rejection on the 49 to be allot better. That top end boot on the 103 probably is to blame here. Overall great mics regardless. I’d take the 103 over an AT2020 (my mic) alll dayy, so I’m not dogging on it. Up against the 49 though it makes the 103 sound like a Blue Yeti. It’s all relative boys work with what ya got!
Cooked the verse fam all praise to the most high
I like the sound of both. To me, the TLM 49 sounded louder with vowels (could be a preference) compared to the TLM 103. Both will definitely work have more than enough information to eq, compress, and de-ess without destroying the recording.
Today I also ordered the TLM 103. Excited how will will be in comparsion to my 300 Euro Sennheiser mic = )
Hi! sennheiser mk4?? I have it and thinking about to switch to 103...
Is the
Tlm 103 vs Tlm 49 vox only.wav file = TLM49
And
Tlm 49 vs Tlm 103 vox only.wav is the tlm 103?
It is the reverse of what you asked. The mic that is first is the mic that is on that particular file.
The 49 sounded fuller, I have the 103 seems like I need to upgrade? hmm
tlm 49 sounds great
The TLM 103 wins. Some people judge by price. I am using high quality headphones, and the 103 is best. Just ordred me a 103, and it comes tomorrrow. am so excited👍
you guys dont understand "SOUND" dont be fooled , learn engineering , do ear exercise and learn to listen , you must be amateur
LOOLLLLL you messed up then cause the tlm49 is way better, smoother mids plus the siblance is more controlled
An apex 580 sounds exactly like an tlm 103 but with smoother highs and the mic only cost $275 haha sucks to be you bud
@@rylandweet7750 not everyone cares about the same thing who looking at these mics
@@Coffeeratgaming yet everyone is trying to get the highest quality out of a microphone right? Hence why the price tag of the tlm 49 is higher..
@@rylandweet7750 i would yes it is higher but wouldn't say for every use case that is a obvious enough difference to make it worth extra but it is minor improvement i personally sound the 49 little darker then i like a microphone to be for my prime use case
*I hope to see a comparison between the TLM 49 & U87*
U87 is better 😂
Ay man dope video! How do you think the Sony C100 stacks up to the TLM49?
jdlp I think it stacks up pretty nicely! The c100 seems to be a bit richer sound but both are nice options.
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS Sweet, thanks bro!
Damn. I thought for sure I knew which was which but was wrong. 103 was the winner for me.
I agree. Some people tend to think more expensive is better, but after watching this, that's clearly not the case. I went ahead and bought the 103.🥰
where can i download the music that you were performing in this video? i like it so much dude.
ZamaNRaPBanD thanks! I’m on the streaming sites. Apple Music, Spotify, etc. my latest EP that this song is on is entitled Wake My Mind and my artist name HIS
I like tlm 103
Thank you for comparison. TLM sounds a bit dull compared to TLM 49. Both are good mics for sure. But 49 has something extra in its sound.
Would that 49 sound good going through the retro 500 pre with the 3 tubes
I do believe so
I’m a fan of subtractive EQ and would lean toward the mic that gives me “more info,” or more “clay” to sculpt the sound. The 49 provides A LOT more transient depth and clarity with a little tone shaping. The 103 lacks the structure that the 49 provides in spades. 49 FTW, for sure. Nice A/B!
Thanks for your feedback!
I Use the TML 103 with the WA73-EQ Preamp by WarmAudio .. this Combo sounds amazing!
I’m about to have this combination as well! Curious to know the settings you use?
Good comparison. Definitely TLM 49 here. Sits really well in the mix, right balance of warmth and clarity and without artificial hype in the presence. Sounds close to a finished record just as is. It's not that sensitive to preamp as 103 too. The 103 I think needs a thicker vintage sounding pre like a 1073 and a LA-2A smoothing it out. Then even a touch of de-essing is needed. Whereas the TLM49 into a modern pre, just sounds good already. The 49 can sound too dark with a vintage pres the 103 sounds good with, so I guess it depends on what signal chain you'll be using.
Just got the TLM 49 cus of this clip bra, awesome sound. next mic will be the c100 pretty clean vox on ur review of the c100 liked that. greetz from germany
Glad I could help! You’ll enjoy those mics!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS im trying to but couldnt realy test it cus my brandnew Apollo Twin USB is driving me crazy like theres a delay when i put UAD plugins in the Send into my DAW sounds like a Flanger idk guess i go for RME :/ besides that do you think the TLM 49 is good for deep male voices?
cus ive some realy deep voiced artist to record soonish.
@@Fatalis069 sorry to hear about your issue. Hope you get it fixed soon
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS yea got it fixed guess it was a cubase problem just went to pro tools. Great Mic .. paired the tlm49 with the Avalon plugin from UAD its fking nuts tho fullsounding, clear and has that warm sound i searched for.
I’m shocked I just knew A was the 103 because it wasn’t super warm & I hear how it can be too bright but this says otherwise
Im upgrading to the tlm49, the 103 is too bright for certain vocals. It's on for people with alot of bass in their voice or rap. For singing, pop & rock. The 49 is much fuller and less high end.
Ok so im back, I actually had the tlm 49 and took it back and got a brand new 103. 49 sounds too flat, thr 103 brings your voice out wayyyyy more!!! Lesson - More money doesn't always mean better. O actually thought it was gonna be a better 103 but its worse.
@@novajflame you sure this time bro? 😂
@@konceptuzari yea definitely. I added a preamp along with my ssl2 and it made it better. The 49 didn't sound better even with the preamp added.
@@novajflame you needed better converters for an external preamp. The 49 is better
@@novajflame good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
49 was more natural, thanks for this video, I'll get the 49. 103 had more treble. and man you are a great rapper.
These rhymes are fireee!
Appreciate that!
Tlm 49 sounded better! 😊 Cheers!
hey bro i downloaded the files but this shit is confusing files names are not named spcifically which one is which , all the files either says TLM 103 VS TLM 49 or TLM 49 Vs 103
Whichever name is listed first in every file is the mic you are listening to
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS thanks man btw i see you said in other video that t m 103 is harshest mic you experienced so would you reccomend tlm 49 over 103 overall becuase ease of mixing vocal due to less sibilance on 49 vs 103
@@TheSpeedyr6 for the price of the tlm49, I would honestly go with the Lauten Atlantis. It is thick sounding like the tlm103 without the harshness, and can in my opinion do what the 49 can. Just my thoughts. The tlm103 can work depending on the artist in front of it but for some people, you may want to turn it off axis a bit so that the sibilants don’t hit it head on. Hope this helps!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS appreciate it g i want to stick with neumann only so i was just trying to figure out which mic is less sibilant before i pull the trigger , im tired of trying cheap as mics
@@TheSpeedyr6 definitely understand! But don’t fall into the “big name and big price” deception. You just gotta go with what fits your voice, not with what’s most popular. I’ve owned the u87ai twice and got rid of it twice. I don’t miss any of the Neumann mics I had. Felt good to be able to buy them but they just didn’t work out for me. A good mic is a good mic honestly. Those mics have been the go to for many years because not many others had quality mics for a decent price back in the days. Hopefully your choice works out for you. Good luck on whatever you go with!
The TLM 49 simply sounded far more authentic, and natural to me. Definitely worth the extra cost.
So cool can’t wait to get mines! Dope vocals too
I like the message of the song fr💯
🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
Some people tend to think more expensive is better, but after watching this, that's clearly not the case. I went ahead and bought the 103.🥰
It's true bro, I got the chance to test them side by side & the 103 is alot better. I was so disappointed & heartbroken
DUDE WHAT?! LOL TLM 49 is better clearly you can't judge by RUclips compression. You've got to go test it out in person.
@@tuneunleashed if all there using mic for is youtube uploads then its not a bad way judge
@@tuneunleashed You comparing cash and you are high asf the tlm103 sounds better and yes you can judge if you have a big studio like me.
Mic B, the TLM 103, to me, sounded more settled "in the mix". It wasn't as sharp or edgy, and I liked that tameness. TLM 103 sounded like a done record off the bat. That will be hard to beat. I may have to order one.
Thanks for your feedback!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS I ended up grabbing a used Shure KSM32 for... wait for it... $225! $550 retail and hard pressed to get that for under $450 these days. But the reason i am saying this is this mic has damn near the exact same sound signature as the TLM 103. I think the 103 has a tiny bit more resolution at the bottom end, like 30-35 hz, on a very deep male voice. Other than that, its basically the same experience when tracking with a nice preampt. I track through the UA 610-A and brighten things up a bit with the Pultec EQ, which is one of my favs on my voice in particular.
Modena Music super dope!!!!!!
@@jonnymodena learn how compression works, l;earn how sound works, learn bro your ears are funky! lmao
Mic A sounds a bit thin to me and gets lost in the mix or blends in with it, Mic B sounds like it has more power and cuts through the mix to stand out better.
Randall Wetmore thanks for watching and your observations
103 way better to me
2:24 Neumann TLM 49 , MIC A
3:16 Neumann TLM 103 , MIC B
И конечно тут бесспорный победитель TLM 49 более чистый , более открытый звук который великолепно прорубает минусовку и делает куплет ярким-запоминающимся, он записал больше ньюансов в голосе чем TLM 103.
2:46 .. 49
49. Hey can you use the TLM103 in an untreated room without it picking up birds outside etc
For the most part, it picks up the main sound source only. However, condenser mics are more sensitive than dynamic mics
Thank you! B sounded better. I've always liked the sound of the 103. I really like your rap too! Bless
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thanks for your videos bro! Since you have a ton of experience trying different mics ect, what would you say is the vocal chain to get that warm I'm your face sound for current Hip-Hop artist have like migos, Rick ross, drake etc? I currently have a tlm 103 and recently purchased a focusrite isa one, but I'm not sure if the 103 and isa will give me that sound. What are your thoughts?
Teno - Will thanks bruh! I think a lot of their sound has to do with the equipment they are using. A lot of it is kind of hard to come by with our average budgets. I’m assuming they use the U87, CL1B, Distressor, LA2A, C12, Neve preamps and what not. Also, probably running them through some post processing chains. I believe it’s best to get a sound you like and run with it. This stuff can be a black hole.
But some suggestions: The isa one is a cleaner sounding preamp. A tube preamp can beef your sound up more.
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS yea your right bro, cost will add up real quick. What's your microphone of choice? Have you tried out the slate ml1?
Teno - Will a friend of mine has the slate system. It’s nice but not my cup of tea. I love either my 414xlii or u87ai going into my avalon 737 and Distressor. The Distressor is very versatile
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS thanks for your help bro, I appreciate your reaching back so quickly. One more question, I found my vocals on the 103 to be kinda "raw" not smooth/warm, I know this may being to it not having a transformer, have you noticed the same thing on your vocals too? I'm running it straight into apollo twin. Does the akg have more character?
Teno - Will yeah the 103 can be a bit harsh depending on the vocalist. The isa definitely doesn’t compliment it in my opinion. It’s too clean sounding. I think a tube preamp is better for that mic. The Akg is more pleasing to me although it can be thin based on your proximity to it. It will also reveal the flaws in your room because it picks up everything! Make sure your space is treated if you do get it. If not, you won’t like it at all
Would y’all recommend the TLM 103 over the 102 for rap vocals?
I believe that either would work. I’ve personally never used the 102 but from the samples I have heard, it sounds pretty nice!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS it is a little bit darker than the 103 but not as round beefy sound as 103 but beautiful microphone nevertheless
The TLM49 sounded fuller and higher quality but the 103 sounded crisp with the beat too, just thinner. Here's the only thing. Both mics pic up sound different sensitivity wise, so I feel if you adjusted the tlm49 level a tad lower it would of sounded even better against 103, i feel its a bit more sensitive than 103 for this reason it can sounds little more harsh with each level increase in volume. The level the 103 seemed to be perfect for that mic but the 49 just a tad lower in the mix would of been better and even more so with beat off comparison.
I feel you can get the 49 to sound better with a broader range of artists, but the 103 is a great mic. If possible have other and let the sound of the artist dictate which one to use. If only 1? If you can afford 49 would be my pick.
Appreciate that feedback!
Hola saludos cordiales Soy el locutor y voceover José alviarez desde chile para mí el mejor micrófono sin duda alguna es el Neumann tlm 49 tiene más cuerpo su sonido es único fue creado por la empresa Neumann en Berlín Alemania y fue exclusivamente para la voz su sonido es totalmente profesional yo tengo los Dos pero en lo personal prefiero para todas mis grabaciones el Neumann tlm 49 el ganador exelente vídeo te felicito My brother
which is the Mic A ?
Answers are at the end of the video
Very noticeable difference in headphones. I have to give it to the 103 as much as I was looking for a reason to purchase a TLM49.
I like this video! thanks from brasil!
One wonders if ever since Sennheiser took over Neumann all the parts used are mass produced and not tested to the same standards as before! Nothing sounds that impressive to me, than what I have heard in other mics much cheaper!
103 BEST For your voice.
Eliel Lazo thanks for watching!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS always bro. Lets do a ft sone time man. Latin HiHop
Eliel Lazo I’m with it!
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS thanks bro.
Save your money and go with the TLM 103 or purchase the Lewitt LCT440 pure for only $269 and get better sound and save save save.
49 sounded better but both was good.. I'm searching for a mic now
Da BoSS thanks! What have you narrowed it down to?
I have one I can give to u
@@firoskhan0007 can you give me a mic??
brother i alsmost buy the tlm 107 but the 49 is the real fire in vocals fire fire thanks brother
Where did u get that shock mount
Smart Mouth the one featured in the beginning is the stock one that comes tlm49. The other is a Rycote shock mount
Great review thank you very much
Mr Awsome thank you for taking the time to watch and comment!
Boss, what did YOU prefer?
I like the 49
solid verse by the way
Appreciate that
Thanks for the comparisson. Funny that there are comments here calling the TLM 103 a "shit" microphone. But I was surprised that the TLM 49 was A. I own both and immediatly identified A as the TLM 103. Strange.
good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
Idk wich is wich but B sounds way better
Gallos Ficty better but not way better
2:29 Mic A
3:21 Mic B
which one do you like ?
Tlm49
At least on vocals
MIC A = 2:29
MIC B = 3:21
103 is b
What’s your thoughts between the Warm WA47 and the Neumann TLM49?
boxley98 both are nice, but I would go with the tlm49 if I wanted a cleaner sound and the wa47 for a fuller vocal. You can get them at the same price if you grab the tlm49 2nd hand
CLEANMUD VIDEOS Thanks for info!🙏🏽 I’ve been on the fence on buying one or the other. I will be getting one of them😂
boxley98 if you can, it would be best to buy from a place that accepts returns. If you aren’t satisfied, you won’t be out of roughly $1k
CLEANMUD VIDEOS true 😂
@@CLEANMUDVIDEOS good afternoon, please tell me what is better to choose for recording male vocals in a home studio, the room is prepared, but not perfect, I have a sound RME BF PRO FS, I need a microphone for recording male vocals (tenor), I choose between tlm 107, tlm49, sony c 100 , telefunken tf11, 29, what can you advise, from those you have or had?
Mic A (49) just skip between the solo records u will notice 49 much better
Lol the 49 dominated and I honestly thought that was the 103 at first so I’m speaking with my ears. With that being said, the 103 still sounded amazing on its own. The clarity and presence is incredible along with perfect lows. I just think the 49 crushed it in overall smoothness and depth.
Indeed i was thinking the A is the 103 and i listened to the B and got a bit of cringe feeling in my ears.. I was like "if thats the tlm49 i'll cut my dick off".. 🤣 But yeah, A soundes way better, handled the Ss better.. The 103's highs are all over the place
@@obskur.records was exactly the same for me haha and I listened on my phone speakers
Both sound great, one might complement you voice better than the other, and the other might complement someone else voice better. I think the 103 complements your voice better, but I’m not saying it’s a better mic. I’ve been in A class studios with lots of crazy expensive mic collections and my voice just sounded better on some then others.
💪🏾
49 takes eq way better esp api neve stuff, exp counts for everything in this sonic world, great vid c
Mic a won for sure, I think it’s challenging for untrained ears but if been researching like crazy on mixing videos because I’m bout to start school and mic a sounded literally like half mixed it sat well of the bat mic b still sounds a bit like under the music kinda