Thank you all for watching... I enjoyed this Microphone versus and I hope you all enjoy it as well. Check out my TOP favorite gear picks on Sweetwater ✅👉🏾 imp.i114863.net/zQGG0
Lol ikr I’m like dang bro why all these beat makers be hiding these voices like gone head n kanye that ish already Lmaooo but for real though I think we need Lauten Audio Eden LT-386 vs neumann u 87 vs sony c-800g
Great comparison video. I work as a film composer and have a pair of TLM 103 mics that I mainly use to record grand piano. The U87 sounds a shade rounder and warmer on your video but the difference is so minimal !!. Love my 103's !!. Thanks for doing this 👍
I remember while studying audio engineering in school the challenge was to make a tlm 103 sound like a u87 using a parametric eq. This was achieved without alot of work.Some would say the tlm is a better buy if you have a high qualify E.Q in your arsenal because it certainly be tweaked to sound pretty much exactly like a u87..nice video btw..thanks
The Tlm 103 sounds clearer on the top end. But you have to be conscious of sibilance and adjust distance from the mic or adjust preamp. Just bought one because of your input. Thanks for your video.
I have the TLM for over 20 years. I LOVE it ESPECIALLY on MY voice because I have a light voice so I don't need ALL the switches etc. When I'm recording others I just pull them BACK a tad bit for clarity OR roll off on the Eq if they don't wanna pull back and JUST be in the pocket. I DO like the U87 but I chose the TLM 103 moons ago. Enjoyed the video!!!!
the U87 have something more yess but solo like that without musical context, its actually impossible to tell wich one would be the best in certain case. The TLM103 holds its self really nicelly considering the price difference
Great video. What grabbed me first was your voice which is so smooth, well balanced with zero harshness, rare gift. As for the mics, the U87 just sounds more musical and I can see it just sitting in a mix and flattering most voices and magically making them sound very refined. Amen!
Thanks, great comparison. U87ai kills it - combine it with a quality pre, and you're all set. But there are situations were TLM103 is the better choice: U87ai has a max SPL of only 117dB (and better don't even try to use it's pad, it won't sound stellar 🙄) - so for very loud sources TLM 103 might be the preferred option: once U87ai distortion sets in, it does set in in a quite nasty way (typically this happens when you'd have to set your pre to less then 20dB gain to reach 0dBFS @ +4dBU standard studio level).
Appreciate the shoutout and you actually doing the review! This was the best side by side I’ve seen done yet. The Neumann TLM 103 with an Apollo is the ultimate on the go condenser mix 🔥
@@TheRealDirtySkillz well the artist russ has said numerous times and recently posted the Tlm 103 and apollo twin and he's made platinum selling songs on the road so I think a pretty successful artist can back his claims
I have a TLM 103 and I’ll say it works good for soft, smooth vocals. But it’s almost as if it can’t handle louder, crisper vocals without distorting or being too harsh. Even with PERFECT levels I still have to subtractive EQ and De-Ess to tame those frequencies. It definitely DOESNT lack clarity though. Just depends on your vocalist
It sounds like the TLM103 has way less low mid to it which almost sounds like more of a "finished product" type sound. Like, I bet a lot of mixes end up EQ's those frequencies out of the vocal track if they used a mic other than the TLM103. That's the main thing I noticed anyway. I would probably prefer it over the u87 in a lot of cases, but it's hard to tell from this one example haha. Great video
Great video! Thank you! May I ask you if it is okay to leave the mic connected to the interface with xlr all the time? Or is it worth disconnecting it and putting in the box after the vocals session?
i have a TLM102 going into an avalon 737/distressor/Apollo Twin, the best quality of my life but still that warm full sound im looking for isn't all the way there yet. the U87 is like the star on top of the tree as far as wide warm vocals go!
The TLM 103 is just soo much pristine when singing. It balances out the frequencies in your voice. It’s lighter but it can be made deeper. The 87 is fuller but for you sounds a bit more muddy and like a lot of work would be done on it.
@@fufu4700 lol. or the speakers. They both are good but the 87 was noticeably fuller without sounding muddy. felt like i heard the full range of everything.
I have the 102 and 103 and familiar with the U87 . i believe the most significant characteristic with the U87 is a more noticeable WARMTH although slight it is there. BUT this can be created in the 103 with a dedicated eq / mild compression using a vocal pre. which enhances the 103 Success with NEVE 511 ,Working with a Heritage Elite / with EQ, single channel at this time,. Very nice. Made in Spain. They have been around about 15 years and seems to be very committed to craftsmanship, in emulating the sought after characteristics of some of the classic Neve line of pre's.
very hard for me to not cringe when you swap away from the U87. I am sold. thanks for the greatest content on microphones on the internet. Seriously. I subbed and love your style.
Gotta love it when your own vocals moves you. Vocals man especially when you kicked it up towards the end with the TLM 103 which I like TLM 103 clarity better.
U87ai is smoother / more '3d', it just sounds 'real'? When it comes to EQ, if you scoop a bit out of that 700 - 1.5k nasal area and add a 12k high shelf you can get it sounding close to a C12 which is an unreal microphone. One thing that I really don't like about the TLM mics is the sibilance and mouth noises they pick up - 103 is better at that than the 102. I recently just got a U87ai for £1600 brand new with the shock-mount - Although I really wanted the Nickel body instead of the black, but with that discount, It'd be dumb to trip over the colourway.
Hi Archie, Nice to meet you!. I am an EU Spanish voice actor and international audio producer located in Spain and I fully agree with you in what you say. Both are very balanced, bring great warmth and vocal presence and are the soul of the German brand Neumann!. I have worked (as voice actor) with both MICs but, currently, I prefer to work with my TLM 103 because of its better price-quality ratio, but yes, indeed, its older brother, UA87 Ai, is the world standard to work on voicover and dubbing. But attention!!, every day, the TLM 103 is establishing itself as one of the key pieces/tools in any PRO Recording Studio together with the PreAMP UA 610 Solo (made in USA) and the RME UC Fireface sound card (made in Germany). In Europe each one of these tools is currently around 1,000 Euros. Greetings from sunny Spain!
Thanks for the comparison video Bro! Well, the TLM 103 sound character is better for what I produce, which is Trap and Drill music. I need that gritty texture. GREAT VIDEO AND THANKS FOR THE SHOUT!
The U87 is way warmer bro... more balanced across the spectrum too letting you shape it easier to how you want it. I use the TLM a lot it has a harshness in the high mids and certain essy voices get really harsh in the top end when you start compressing.
@@farangdan747 For hip hop, I don't want warm and clean... I want gritty and harshness to blend with the character of the beat. We all produce differently and there's no wrong answer. That's the beauty of being different! Different ideas, great results!
What up Arch? I have the TLM103 connected to an Apollo x6. My unison pre of choice is the 1073 (gain around 40-45 depending on the artist). Just purchased an iconic mars comet which should be here today. You think that a decent setup? Mainly rap vocals….
We own a TLM103 and a U87 in our studio for many years. Many people forgot about the Art of recording and the Art of Microphone Knowledge. Biggest mistake we always see is that people compare DIFFERENT Microphones in the exact SAME position. EVERY Microphone got a DIFFERENT sweet spot, it might not be a big difference, but before you test two or more microphones against eachother, you have to find out in which position and with which preamp (not every chain works with every mic the same way!) each microphone sounds THE BEST. Only that way you can get a fair comparison. The K103 is actually the front side of the K87 and the capsule is responsible for 70-90% of the sound. Since the capsules are close to be similar the sound shouldn't be too far away. And surprise, it isn't. If you bring the TLM103 in its sweet spot its NEVER harsh or anything like this. People hating on the TLM103 and loving the sound of the U87 know nothing about the true Art of Recording. Also its very important to mention that the output transformer of the U87Ai is extremely transparent and neutral. So no matter with which microphone your going, you will get GREAT results as long as you got a great Talent infront of the microphone and a engineer who knows what he's doing.
Hello. I have a RODE NTK microphone. It is a good microphone, but it is quite bright. I am thinking of some alternative in the studio as a second mike. What do you think about Neumann Tlm 102?
Hi! The Rode NTK is considered on the warmer/darker side. Do you have it connected to a preamp? The TLM102 is considered brighter than NTK but the TLM102 would be a great second studio mic. The NTK and TLM102 are the best of both worlds, lol. I hope this helps.
If an artist has a lot of sibilance in their voice the 103 is a mess. It can be very harsh. U87ai is a very good balanced mic. Running it through the Avalon 737 is amazing.
As always, great video! I'd love to hear a comparison between the Advanced Audio CM800t and the Warm Audio WA8000. I'm thinking about going with the Advanced Audio version based on some shootouts on GS, but I haven't heard them compared to each other (only compared to the OG Sony) Thanks!
Thank you. So glad I discovered your channel. You got a like and a subscribe. I've listened to the TLM 103 called a U87 clone. I know it's a broadcast standard for voiceover. But... there's a mid clarity to the U87, especially on your voice that is a sweet song from heaven. I'm a baritone and don't need a boost in the lows and mids so a little high end magic makes me shine. Right now my budget is fine with my Rode NT1. I may never feel the need for a U87 but if I had a stash of spare cash I might give myself a present.
The U87 sounds monstrous over that 103…. It’s no comparison but I do agree that if there is no access to the 87 than the 103 is definitely a great substitute. Especially since the extra bottom end the 87 offers is usually eq’d out of a lot of music.
thank you ! When I read the comments, I don't understand why almost nobody doesn't hear the differences. It is night and day for me... Currently earing the video on a pair of dynaudio BM15A, it is so obvious. May be people or using their laptop speakers or something like that 🤣
The 103 on my headphones and bottom phone speakers has perceivable fuller less crammed high end / slight harsh sounds. The 87 sounds like a remake of the 103 where they iron everything out and add some body and realness about it. That 103 sounds heat bro but that 87 makes it sound a hit
GREAT MIC BATTLE BRO BIG THANKS I PREFER U87 IT SEEMS JUST ALITTLE MORE SENSITIVE I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION FOR U BRO is there a difference in sound between the black nickel u87 mic and the silver colored u87 mic THANKS FOR YOUR REPLY AND ADVICE BEST REGARDS MiKE
The saturation in the low mids on the u87 is definitely a sound and it’s nice but for a more modern sound the tlm 103 has clearer sounding low mids so depends on what you need either would work. I’ll go with the tlm until it makes me enough money to buy a u87.
Awesome video test on these two microphones ! I have been using my Neumann 103 into a Bae Neve 1073 w/eq. , B2 Bomber ADC to bypass my Apollo x6 converters I just ordered a Neumann U87 Ai and a UA 1176 so this will be will be my new vocal chain for tracking. It looks I made a good choice on the U87. MacBook pro m1, Cubase 12 pro Apollo x6. Would love to know your vocal chain when tracking vocals and what sample rate you record at too 48kHz etc..Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for your time and knowledge .🙂👍
Thank you so much. Great vocal chain setup Billy. Oh yes, you are definitely going to love the U87 Ai with the 1176.. Are you placing the BAE Neve 1073 between the U87 Ai and 1176? That's a killer chain. Mine is very similar.. I use my U87 Ai or Lauten Atlantis > Neve 5211 with the silk cranked to emulate the 1073 > UA 6176 (Just the 1176 compressor side) > Apollo 8 Quad > Pro Tools at 24bit, 48kHz. I hope this helps and thank you for such a great comment and question.
@@archiebeatz your welcome. yes U87 into the bae 1073 out into the ua 1176 out into the B2 Burl bomber out rca spdif into the Apollo spdif rca input. Wow that's an awesome vocal chain and setup you have. I love your RUclips channel I look forward to check out your music and videos. Thanks so much for replying and helping out.with your great tips. 😎👍
They are both great sounding mics and not really a whole lot of difference between the two. The U87 maybe has a hair more roundness to it but as many have already said, it's nothing that can't be matched in post production. Can't go wrong with either IMHO...xox..:)
GREAT COMPARISON. Im getting the 103 and hoping that it can make my voice like yours. :) Your voice would sound great on anything. ha ha. God has blessed you. I ordered the 103, coming in today. I don't think its as good as the 87 but for me its so close I just wont justify the xtra cost. I use the 414xl2 through BAE 1073,, bluey compressor and pultek eq for my hardware chain going into pro tools HD. Ill end up buying the u87.The 414 sounds better on my VX but for other clients I want the neumann option. Thank you for taking time to post this. Gonna look for your music to purchase and will sub. I dont think theres much difference that we will hear in the final mx between these 2 mics.
So looking at the price, I see you don't use the extra spider looking shock mount. Is that absolutely necessary? With this mic, you get a little pop screen and stand and done? My best is my sm7b but, really want to add this 103 for vocals, VO, etc. THanks always! Love your videos!
what I mostly hear with these really nice/more expensive mics.. and what i hear also in this comparison is their is an almost Compressed sound making vocal fuller/thicker less harsh.. I have a 103.. but would love a U87.. :) thanks for sharing!
I have a question, I’m not a tech guy, or professional recorder, but have few projects to record. I’m good with my smartphone (iPhone) there are many cool applications for recording there - the question is is there any way to connect Neumann to my IPhone? I already bought interface, XLR cables, will buy a Neumann and wanna use my iPhone I don’t wanna use my computer it’s less convenient than my smartphone…. Forgot: planing to get whisper booth too ) Mic without studio, is like watching a modern Netflix movies in black and white colors
I LOVE my TLM 103, had it for about 6 months now, but man as I record more and more clients daily, the same harshness around 2.5kHz-2.8kHz kills me every time and I end up EQing it down a little. Even in this test I could hear the nasal-tone brought out SO MUCH in the 103. It’s a GREAT sound for those who like the nasally tone, but not so great when you don’t want it. I might have to pick up the U87 for me and my clients who want something a little warmer. Obviously it’s nothing that can’t be solved in post, but I like recording it as perfect as I can out the gate cause the more I EQ out ~2.5kHz, obviously the more detail I lose. AMAZING mic nonetheless!!!
That’s not a problem with the mic itself, that’s an issues with the frequency, also known as the “pain frequency” (2k-3k) there’s always harshness there, even if you’re only using software instrument, or MIDI, no matter what, will always have harshness around that frequency range in your mix, and that’s your job to fix it.
@@Melvin7727 Some yes, but in this particular situation it’s not the mic itself , like I’ve said that’s the “pain” frequency there will always be harshness there, you have to learn the gear and know how to use them. The TLM103 likes air Mic placement is key, gain staging it’s very important too.
@@lkfloripa For sure, but when you directly compare the 103 to the u87 and other mics, that 2-3k is way more prominent in the 103. That’s what I’m getting at. Nothing a simple eq curve can’t solve, but that kills some of the good elements in that range too. Just depends on how nasally the voice your using on it is too.
@@itsandiroo oh yeah, the u87 kills the TLM103 that’s why it’s one of the best mics of all time, not even a fair comparison in my opinion, they’re two different beasts, the 103 has a huge boost on the high end, the U87 it’s way more balanced and flat, but regardless the EQ curve… what makes the U87 special is it’s circuit, the transformer, capacitors… all the nice components combined makes the U87 a U87. But if you learn the TLM103 with the right mic placement, gain staging paired with a good preamp it will sound amazing. You won’t need to worry about cutting frequencies much, you’ll have a better cleaner signal without picking up all that nasty sound, you would just EQ to tone taste.
Yea I like when he said if the TLM 103 was the only microphone he was stuck with he wouldn’t be mad because that’s the same one I’ve had since 2011 😂. So I’ve been rocking with the 103 for 13 years. The only other 2 microphones I like using at different studios are the U87 and the AKG C414 XLii.
Im not an expert, and I'm sure there's a hair difference in sounds somewhere, but tbh, they both sounded pretty much the same to me. I'm thinking on buying a Marshall MXL to start my VO career. Nonetheless great vid bro bro! Happy New Year!
Hi, thank you for this video. I usually make rap and r&b vocal recording and i want to buy mic for using very long times. I mean dont want to think do i need to change this mic ?. Its very difficult to choose between these three microphones ( TLM103, TLM49,U87AI). Can you help me about this ? Best Regards.
Years ago, I had a 103 for a week. You get what you pay for. Boxy midrange, cheap top end. The 87 I know well. I have a few of them. A workhorse of a mic that is at home on stringed instruments, voice, drums/percussion, guitar. The 1st thing that I think of when I think of a 103 is, where the eq's to pull out that annoying midrange. A U87 is well balanced. You can't compare a budget mic to an 87. Like comparing a Kia Soul to a Honda Pilot. Neither are Ferrari's, but that 87 is an all purpose workhorse that has been on more records than Usain Bolt
@@matthewphillips5483 Another world in music. The U87 is King and the 103 is the wet nurse so to speak. For an excellent all purpose large diapgramg it's hard to beat the U87. It is the mic which followed the 67.. I loathe 103's. Shrill. For VO if you're right on top of it, sure. Why not.
Great video. However to me, no comparison. People if you have budget please go for 87, if not tlm is next choice. Sound, in my ear, u87 is the only mic that keeps the voice tone roundness touching the ceiling and the floor all time properly no mater what phrases you are singing. This is critical for correct outcome specially Indian classical and semi classical singing.
Great Comparison, thank you. You should try an Microtech Gefell M930. Its build from an Old Neumann Engineer with the words: Its not possible to build a microphone closer to perfection than a M930;) And the price is way much lower than an U87
Loved the shoot out. My preference is that beautiful Submarine U87ai, it had better midrange on your vocals to me. I’m glad to have these amongst my arsenal of microphones. Thanks for the review. Keep them coming!
I have the tlm 103, I like it but the type of voice I have, it's not working for me. My voice is smooth like R&B type, and I like to rap. I like the tlm but feel like something is missing. I get loud, and man, I believe the U87 Ai will do justice. I have a good pre, and it comes from the same company as my audio interface Apollo twin X quad. I do something similar to what you do bro, and I respect your level of skills 💯 dealing with the recordings, mixing/mastering, and videos/skits... sound is very important how it goes in, and the tlm 103 catches a lot of unwanted sounds like plosives to me. I believe the tlm is for some type of voices, and not all as the U87 Ai have more of a stretch with control. Buying my U87 today.
TLM 103 is a great mic for the price, if you can dish out a couple more grands $$ - the common ear won't tell the difference... thanks for the shoot out...
Thank you all for watching... I enjoyed this Microphone versus and I hope you all enjoy it as well. Check out my TOP favorite gear picks on Sweetwater ✅👉🏾 imp.i114863.net/zQGG0
Idk man with your vocals bro you could record on a 20$ and still sound good. Dope video bro.
Hahahahaha, There are some that have me sounding like Chewbacca, lol. Thanks bro. I really appreciate it.
@@archiebeatz Can a nice singing voice sound good in $20-100 mics? O.o
😂😂😂
Lol ikr I’m like dang bro why all these beat makers be hiding these voices like gone head n kanye that ish already Lmaooo but for real though I think we need Lauten Audio Eden LT-386 vs neumann u 87 vs sony c-800g
@@denilsonardon0715 Yes
Sold my TLM 103 and kept my U87ai! The U87 just sits better without doing too much to it!!
Oh I see. Yeah, they are two different microphones with great benefits. I prefer my U87 but it's great to have a second neumann perspective you know.
Great comparison video. I work as a film composer and have a pair of TLM 103 mics that I mainly use to record grand piano. The U87 sounds a shade rounder and warmer on your video but the difference is so minimal !!. Love my 103's !!. Thanks for doing this 👍
I remember while studying audio engineering in school the challenge was to make a tlm 103 sound like a u87 using a parametric eq. This was achieved without alot of work.Some would say the tlm is a better buy if you have a high qualify E.Q in your arsenal because it certainly be tweaked to sound pretty much exactly like a u87..nice video btw..thanks
How do you do it???
Slight low Mid boost and slight roll off past 10k
Both of them sound great but I think the U87 adds more body,thickening the vocal sound more than the Tlm 103. And that makes it fit better in the mix.
Tbh I hear quite a massive difference between the 2, during the talking test and the singing test. Thanks for this!
The Tlm 103 sounds clearer on the top end. But you have to be conscious of sibilance and adjust distance from the mic or adjust preamp. Just bought one because of your input. Thanks for your video.
6:21 U87 7:08 TLM 103
Thank you for this.🤍
🐐
@@alittleblackcircle3628 its not the same recording...
I have the TLM for over 20 years. I LOVE it ESPECIALLY on MY voice because I have a light voice so I don't need ALL the switches etc.
When I'm recording others I just pull them BACK a tad bit for clarity OR roll off on the Eq if they don't wanna pull back and JUST be in the pocket.
I DO like the U87 but I chose the TLM 103 moons ago.
Enjoyed the video!!!!
You so dope bro your videos an journey are very inspiring. Great voice and advice
the U87 have something more yess but solo like that without musical context, its actually impossible to tell wich one would be the best in certain case. The TLM103 holds its self really nicelly considering the price difference
Great video. What grabbed me first was your voice which is so smooth, well balanced with zero harshness, rare gift. As for the mics, the U87 just sounds more musical and I can see it just sitting in a mix and flattering most voices and magically making them sound very refined. Amen!
The U87 sounds slightly thicker, but only slightly. I have the 103 and I love it. I definitely want to get a U87 one day though.
Thanks, great comparison. U87ai kills it - combine it with a quality pre, and you're all set. But there are situations were TLM103 is the better choice: U87ai has a max SPL of only 117dB (and better don't even try to use it's pad, it won't sound stellar 🙄) - so for very loud sources TLM 103 might be the preferred option: once U87ai distortion sets in, it does set in in a quite nasty way (typically this happens when you'd have to set your pre to less then 20dB gain to reach 0dBFS @ +4dBU standard studio level).
I'd like to see a shoot out between a TLM 103 and a AKG C414 XLII
Appreciate the shoutout and you actually doing the review! This was the best side by side I’ve seen done yet. The Neumann TLM 103 with an Apollo is the ultimate on the go condenser mix 🔥
According to who? Do you use this...
@@TheRealDirtySkillz well the artist russ has said numerous times and recently posted the Tlm 103 and apollo twin and he's made platinum selling songs on the road so I think a pretty successful artist can back his claims
I have a TLM 103 and I’ll say it works good for soft, smooth vocals. But it’s almost as if it can’t handle louder, crisper vocals without distorting or being too harsh. Even with PERFECT levels I still have to subtractive EQ and De-Ess to tame those frequencies. It definitely DOESNT lack clarity though. Just depends on your vocalist
It sounds like the TLM103 has way less low mid to it which almost sounds like more of a "finished product" type sound. Like, I bet a lot of mixes end up EQ's those frequencies out of the vocal track if they used a mic other than the TLM103. That's the main thing I noticed anyway. I would probably prefer it over the u87 in a lot of cases, but it's hard to tell from this one example haha. Great video
They use the TLM where I record at in Chicago . Enviyon entertainment, I love that mic for my voice. So smooth
Yes!!!
Great video! Thank you! May I ask you if it is okay to leave the mic connected to the interface with xlr all the time? Or is it worth disconnecting it and putting in the box after the vocals session?
Man idk about processing... But im totally in love with the u87. It just sounds... Like a dream. Definitely gonna get my hands on that in the futur
Both mics are great but I like U87 more, it sounds softer, while TLM103 is more crispy and bright
facts.
i have a TLM102 going into an avalon 737/distressor/Apollo Twin, the best quality of my life but still that warm full sound im looking for isn't all the way there yet. the U87 is like the star on top of the tree as far as wide warm vocals go!
That’s a nice chain, what kind of music do you do?
Hey Arch, you need to do the Neuman TLM49 vs. any other mic you choose. I use it on all my vocals.
I think the u87 just sounds a little smoother but both dope AF.
Thank You for this I've been looking for this line up all day 🙌😁😁😁💪🏾😎💯
TLM all the way I love the u87 worked on it for years but it's something special about the tlm
The TLM 103 is just soo much pristine when singing. It balances out the frequencies in your voice. It’s lighter but it can be made deeper. The 87 is fuller but for you sounds a bit more muddy and like a lot of work would be done on it.
exactly what I said that's why I like the 103 more
@@JimonRussell725 love that 💯💯🙌🏾
Y’all ears broken
@@fufu4700 lol. or the speakers. They both are good but the 87 was noticeably fuller without sounding muddy. felt like i heard the full range of everything.
I have the 102 and 103 and familiar with the U87 . i believe the most significant characteristic with the U87 is a more noticeable WARMTH although slight it is there. BUT this can be created in the 103 with a dedicated eq / mild compression using a vocal pre. which enhances the 103 Success with NEVE 511 ,Working with a Heritage Elite / with EQ, single channel at this time,. Very nice. Made in Spain. They have been around about 15 years and seems to be very committed to craftsmanship, in emulating the sought after characteristics of some of the classic Neve line of pre's.
very hard for me to not cringe when you swap away from the U87. I am sold. thanks for the greatest content on microphones on the internet. Seriously. I subbed and love your style.
Gotta love it when your own vocals moves you. Vocals man especially when you kicked it up towards the end with the TLM 103 which I like TLM 103 clarity better.
U87ai is smoother / more '3d', it just sounds 'real'? When it comes to EQ, if you scoop a bit out of that 700 - 1.5k nasal area and add a 12k high shelf you can get it sounding close to a C12 which is an unreal microphone. One thing that I really don't like about the TLM mics is the sibilance and mouth noises they pick up - 103 is better at that than the 102.
I recently just got a U87ai for £1600 brand new with the shock-mount - Although I really wanted the Nickel body instead of the black, but with that discount, It'd be dumb to trip over the colourway.
Just got my u87 last week and it’s so nice
Congrats on 100k🎉🎉🎉
Hi Archie,
Nice to meet you!. I am an EU Spanish voice actor and international audio producer located in Spain and I fully agree with you in what you say. Both are very balanced, bring great warmth and vocal presence and are the soul of the German brand Neumann!. I have worked (as voice actor) with both MICs but, currently, I prefer to work with my TLM 103 because of its better price-quality ratio, but yes, indeed, its older brother, UA87 Ai, is the world standard to work on voicover and dubbing. But attention!!, every day, the TLM 103 is establishing itself as one of the key pieces/tools in any PRO Recording Studio together with the PreAMP UA 610 Solo (made in USA) and the RME UC Fireface sound card (made in Germany).
In Europe each one of these tools is currently around 1,000 Euros. Greetings from sunny Spain!
Thanks for the comparison video Bro! Well, the TLM 103 sound character is better for what I produce, which is Trap and Drill music. I need that gritty texture. GREAT VIDEO AND THANKS FOR THE SHOUT!
yes i also hear more grit and warmth in 103
The U87 is way warmer bro... more balanced across the spectrum too letting you shape it easier to how you want it. I use the TLM a lot it has a harshness in the high mids and certain essy voices get really harsh in the top end when you start compressing.
@@farangdan747 For hip hop, I don't want warm and clean... I want gritty and harshness to blend with the character of the beat. We all produce differently and there's no wrong answer. That's the beauty of being different! Different ideas, great results!
@@farangdan747 what mics do you own?
What up Arch? I have the TLM103 connected to an Apollo x6. My unison pre of choice is the 1073 (gain around 40-45 depending on the artist). Just purchased an iconic mars comet which should be here today. You think that a decent setup? Mainly rap vocals….
Yes!!! That’s an awesome setup 🙌🏾
We own a TLM103 and a U87 in our studio for many years. Many people forgot about the Art of recording and the Art of Microphone Knowledge. Biggest mistake we always see is that people compare DIFFERENT Microphones in the exact SAME position. EVERY Microphone got a DIFFERENT sweet spot, it might not be a big difference, but before you test two or more microphones against eachother, you have to find out in which position and with which preamp (not every chain works with every mic the same way!) each microphone sounds THE BEST. Only that way you can get a fair comparison. The K103 is actually the front side of the K87 and the capsule is responsible for 70-90% of the sound. Since the capsules are close to be similar the sound shouldn't be too far away. And surprise, it isn't. If you bring the TLM103 in its sweet spot its NEVER harsh or anything like this. People hating on the TLM103 and loving the sound of the U87 know nothing about the true Art of Recording. Also its very important to mention that the output transformer of the U87Ai is extremely transparent and neutral. So no matter with which microphone your going, you will get GREAT results as long as you got a great Talent infront of the microphone and a engineer who knows what he's doing.
Hello. I have a RODE NTK microphone. It is a good microphone, but it is quite bright. I am thinking of some alternative in the studio as a second mike. What do you think about Neumann Tlm 102?
Hi! The Rode NTK is considered on the warmer/darker side. Do you have it connected to a preamp? The TLM102 is considered brighter than NTK but the TLM102 would be a great second studio mic. The NTK and TLM102 are the best of both worlds, lol. I hope this helps.
@@archiebeatz Thank you for your response. I have a Universal Audio Apollo Twin Usb interface.
@@mariuszhotynzespoaccord9178 Dude....check out the Warm Audio 251 or 47 tube. My lord!!!! Better than TLM’s
@@tuneunleashed Ok.
If an artist has a lot of sibilance in their voice the 103 is a mess. It can be very harsh. U87ai is a very good balanced mic. Running it through the Avalon 737 is amazing.
As always, great video! I'd love to hear a comparison between the Advanced Audio CM800t and the Warm Audio WA8000. I'm thinking about going with the Advanced Audio version based on some shootouts on GS, but I haven't heard them compared to each other (only compared to the OG Sony) Thanks!
Thanks Paul! If I get my hands on those microphones I will definitely review them. I’ve been dying to test them out. Be on the look out brother.
I bought TLM two months ago and I don't regret it, they are perfect. Like from Brazil Bro! God Job!
Thank you. So glad I discovered your channel. You got a like and a subscribe. I've listened to the TLM 103 called a U87 clone. I know it's a broadcast standard for voiceover. But... there's a mid clarity to the U87, especially on your voice that is a sweet song from heaven. I'm a baritone and don't need a boost in the lows and mids so a little high end magic makes me shine. Right now my budget is fine with my Rode NT1. I may never feel the need for a U87 but if I had a stash of spare cash I might give myself a present.
The U87 sounds monstrous over that 103…. It’s no comparison but I do agree that if there is no access to the 87 than the 103 is definitely a great substitute. Especially since the extra bottom end the 87 offers is usually eq’d out of a lot of music.
TLM1 03 is horrible with plosives. Buy a Mojave MA200 spades above the TLM 103.
thank you ! When I read the comments, I don't understand why almost nobody doesn't hear the differences. It is night and day for me... Currently earing the video on a pair of dynaudio BM15A, it is so obvious. May be people or using their laptop speakers or something like that 🤣
I want a shoot out between the Neumann U87ai verses the Warm Audio wa87
I have u87 and wa87.
Man the neumann u87 kills it and it's a fenomenal mic i can not compare to any other microphones!
Nice video, Any comparison you mentioned. What do you think of Microphone parts S387. Hope its possible since I can't afford real U87.
Thx
The 103 on my headphones and bottom phone speakers has perceivable fuller less crammed high end / slight harsh sounds. The 87 sounds like a remake of the 103 where they iron everything out and add some body and realness about it. That 103 sounds heat bro but that 87 makes it sound a hit
Interesting perspective. I dig it, lol.
GREAT MIC BATTLE BRO BIG THANKS I PREFER U87 IT SEEMS JUST ALITTLE MORE SENSITIVE I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION FOR U BRO is there a difference in sound between the black nickel u87 mic and the silver colored u87 mic THANKS FOR YOUR REPLY AND ADVICE BEST REGARDS MiKE
No
The saturation in the low mids on the u87 is definitely a sound and it’s nice but for a more modern sound the tlm 103 has clearer sounding low mids so depends on what you need either would work. I’ll go with the tlm until it makes me enough money to buy a u87.
I actually like the brightness of the TLM personally in the test you did. The U87 is warmer and darker for sure. Both go crazy though!!
Following after my bro I have the tlm103 saving for the u87. Great video fam.
Thanks for this. Gotta find U87 vs. clines.
"It's impossible to tell the difference solo"
Bruh, the body entirely fell tf away when switching to the TLM 103
Awesome video test on these two microphones ! I have been using my Neumann 103 into a Bae Neve 1073 w/eq. , B2 Bomber ADC to bypass my Apollo x6 converters I just ordered a Neumann U87 Ai and a UA 1176 so this will be will be my new vocal chain for tracking. It looks I made a good choice on the U87. MacBook pro m1, Cubase 12 pro Apollo x6. Would love to know your vocal chain when tracking vocals and what sample rate you record at too 48kHz etc..Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for your time and knowledge .🙂👍
Thank you so much. Great vocal chain setup Billy. Oh yes, you are definitely going to love the U87 Ai with the 1176.. Are you placing the BAE Neve 1073 between the U87 Ai and 1176? That's a killer chain. Mine is very similar.. I use my U87 Ai or Lauten Atlantis > Neve 5211 with the silk cranked to emulate the 1073 > UA 6176 (Just the 1176 compressor side) > Apollo 8 Quad > Pro Tools at 24bit, 48kHz. I hope this helps and thank you for such a great comment and question.
@@archiebeatz your welcome. yes U87 into the bae 1073 out into the ua 1176 out into the B2 Burl bomber out rca spdif into the Apollo spdif rca input. Wow that's an awesome vocal chain and setup you have. I love your RUclips channel I look forward to check out your music and videos. Thanks so much for replying and helping out.with your great tips. 😎👍
Just got the sm7b. I’m getting the tlm 103 next. This comparison helped so much. I’ll wait and get the u87 for Christmas🔥🔥🔥
From God?😂
@@scutifr everything I get comes from God lil dude
@@ghostbandana6204 what’s his address? 😂🙏
@@scutifr U87 Neuman Dr. 😭
@@bigmanbeats8582 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Great video thx, I have the TLM -103 and really like it, However the high end sibilance is really hard to manage on it, any words of advice?
Ok earlier than excepted, tomorrow my u87 arrives!
That's awesome. Congratulations on the new microphone!!
@@archiebeatz thanks man in germany its just around 2600
"they have that Neumann sound in common", I would love to hear that too...
They are both great sounding mics and not really a whole lot of difference between the two. The U87 maybe has a hair more roundness to it but as many have already said, it's nothing that can't be matched in post production. Can't go wrong with either IMHO...xox..:)
GREAT COMPARISON. Im getting the 103 and hoping that it can make my voice like yours. :)
Your voice would sound great on anything. ha ha. God has blessed you. I ordered the 103, coming in today. I don't think its as good as the 87 but for me its so close I just wont justify the xtra cost. I use the 414xl2 through BAE 1073,, bluey compressor and pultek eq for my hardware chain going into pro tools HD. Ill end up buying the u87.The 414 sounds better on my VX but for other clients I want the neumann option. Thank you for taking time to post this. Gonna look for your music to purchase and will sub. I dont think theres much difference that we will hear in the final mx between these 2 mics.
So looking at the price, I see you don't use the extra spider looking shock mount. Is that absolutely necessary? With this mic, you get a little pop screen and stand and done? My best is my sm7b but, really want to add this 103 for vocals, VO, etc. THanks always! Love your videos!
You need a shock mount for both mics.
Aye TLM 103 + Grandmother gang excellent
🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾
what I mostly hear with these really nice/more expensive mics.. and what i hear also in this comparison is their is an almost Compressed sound making vocal fuller/thicker less harsh.. I have a 103.. but would love a U87.. :) thanks for sharing!
Great job!!
I just picked up the u87Ai and its a beautiful thing !! which pop screen would u recommend ???
Hey brother in your opinion between the At2020 and the blue ember what’s better for singing/rapping I’ve seen mixed reviews for both
Thanks for video! have you heard of Aston Spirit mic if any good vs u87?
You are welcome and thank you for watching. Well, the Spirit sounds amazing but it's not in the same class as the U87. I hope this helps.
Thank you!
I have a question, I’m not a tech guy, or professional recorder, but have few projects to record. I’m good with my smartphone (iPhone) there are many cool applications for recording there - the question is is there any way to connect Neumann to my IPhone? I already bought interface, XLR cables, will buy a Neumann and wanna use my iPhone I don’t wanna use my computer it’s less convenient than my smartphone….
Forgot: planing to get whisper booth too )
Mic without studio, is like watching a modern Netflix movies in black and white colors
Just got the TLM 103 yesterday
That's awesome. What do you think so far?
@archiebeatz im confused between TLM 103 and TLM 107. please help me. love your content. thanks for educating .
I LOVE my TLM 103, had it for about 6 months now, but man as I record more and more clients daily, the same harshness around 2.5kHz-2.8kHz kills me every time and I end up EQing it down a little. Even in this test I could hear the nasal-tone brought out SO MUCH in the 103. It’s a GREAT sound for those who like the nasally tone, but not so great when you don’t want it. I might have to pick up the U87 for me and my clients who want something a little warmer.
Obviously it’s nothing that can’t be solved in post, but I like recording it as perfect as I can out the gate cause the more I EQ out ~2.5kHz, obviously the more detail I lose. AMAZING mic nonetheless!!!
That’s not a problem with the mic itself, that’s an issues with the frequency, also known as the “pain frequency” (2k-3k) there’s always harshness there, even if you’re only using software instrument, or MIDI, no matter what, will always have harshness around that frequency range in your mix, and that’s your job to fix it.
@@lkfloripa
No. Certain pieces of gear can accentuate the problem.
@@Melvin7727 Some yes, but in this particular situation it’s not the mic itself , like I’ve said that’s the “pain” frequency there will always be harshness there, you have to learn the gear and know how to use them. The TLM103 likes air Mic placement is key, gain staging it’s very important too.
@@lkfloripa For sure, but when you directly compare the 103 to the u87 and other mics, that 2-3k is way more prominent in the 103. That’s what I’m getting at. Nothing a simple eq curve can’t solve, but that kills some of the good elements in that range too. Just depends on how nasally the voice your using on it is too.
@@itsandiroo oh yeah, the u87 kills the TLM103 that’s why it’s one of the best mics of all time, not even a fair comparison in my opinion, they’re two different beasts, the 103 has a huge boost on the high end, the U87 it’s way more balanced and flat, but regardless the EQ curve… what makes the U87 special is it’s circuit, the transformer, capacitors… all the nice components combined makes the U87 a U87. But if you learn the TLM103 with the right mic placement, gain staging paired with a good preamp it will sound amazing. You won’t need to worry about cutting frequencies much, you’ll have a better cleaner signal without picking up all that nasty sound, you would just EQ to tone taste.
great voice man
Thank you so much.
Yea I like when he said if the TLM 103 was the only microphone he was stuck with he wouldn’t be mad because that’s the same one I’ve had since 2011 😂. So I’ve been rocking with the 103 for 13 years. The only other 2 microphones I like using at different studios are the U87 and the AKG C414 XLii.
Hey bro what mic would you recommend for a low muddy voice ? For vocals??
I think the TLM 103 will be just fine. It's clean and transparent. I hope this helps.
@@archiebeatz rite on
Love your vids. How about the Neumann TLM49 (or equivalent) vs Sennheiser MK4 ?
Im not an expert, and I'm sure there's a hair difference in sounds somewhere, but tbh, they both sounded pretty much the same to me. I'm thinking on buying a Marshall MXL to start my VO career. Nonetheless great vid bro bro! Happy New Year!
Dude! Nice vocals!
Thank you 🙏🏾
Can you do Lauten Audio Eden LT-386 vs neumann u 87 vs sony c-800g?
Hi, thank you for this video. I usually make rap and r&b vocal recording and i want to buy mic for using very long times. I mean dont want to think do i need to change this mic ?. Its very difficult to choose between these three microphones ( TLM103, TLM49,U87AI). Can you help me about this ? Best Regards.
yo intro dope asf
Thanks bro
Years ago, I had a 103 for a week. You get what you pay for. Boxy midrange, cheap top end. The 87 I know well. I have a few of them. A workhorse of a mic that is at home on stringed instruments, voice, drums/percussion, guitar. The 1st thing that I think of when I think of a 103 is, where the eq's to pull out that annoying midrange. A U87 is well balanced. You can't compare a budget mic to an 87. Like comparing a Kia Soul to a Honda Pilot. Neither are Ferrari's, but that 87 is an all purpose workhorse that has been on more records than Usain Bolt
For voice over work, this couldnt be further from the truth. Most VO artists own a TLM-103; not a U87. But maybe for music it is different.
@@matthewphillips5483 Another world in music. The U87 is King and the 103 is the wet nurse so to speak. For an excellent all purpose large diapgramg it's hard to beat the U87. It is the mic which followed the 67.. I loathe 103's. Shrill. For VO if you're right on top of it, sure. Why not.
for some reason i dig the Neumann TLM 103 more.
That’s awesome. It’s all about preference and it’s a great choice Kane!
Is it me or or does the 103 sound a bit brighter? I'm not hearing a big difference besides that.
Great video. However to me, no comparison. People if you have budget please go for 87, if not tlm is next choice. Sound, in my ear, u87 is the only mic that keeps the voice tone roundness touching the ceiling and the floor all time properly no mater what phrases you are singing. This is critical for correct outcome specially Indian classical and semi classical singing.
Great Comparison, thank you. You should try an Microtech Gefell M930. Its build from an Old Neumann Engineer with the words: Its not possible to build a microphone closer to perfection than a M930;) And the price is way much lower than an U87
What about the Rode K2 vs the TLM 102? They're both the same price but which is better?
Nice comparison! I prefer the TLM103 Sound, booth are golds!
I like them both, great video
the 013 was reedy and too high s, the 87 solid centre focused and gives more cranium in your head quality so that
👍🏾
Did it happen that you used 103 even if you`ve had the U87 ?
Loved the shoot out. My preference is that beautiful Submarine U87ai, it had better midrange on your vocals to me. I’m glad to have these amongst my arsenal of microphones. Thanks for the review. Keep them coming!
I have the tlm 103, I like it but the type of voice I have, it's not working for me. My voice is smooth like R&B type, and I like to rap. I like the tlm but feel like something is missing. I get loud, and man, I believe the U87 Ai will do justice. I have a good pre, and it comes from the same company as my audio interface Apollo twin X quad. I do something similar to what you do bro, and I respect your level of skills 💯 dealing with the recordings, mixing/mastering, and videos/skits... sound is very important how it goes in, and the tlm 103 catches a lot of unwanted sounds like plosives to me. I believe the tlm is for some type of voices, and not all as the U87 Ai have more of a stretch with control. Buying my U87 today.
well said
This was the exact comparison I wanted to see thanks man
You put that tlm 103 with the Avalon 737 you have the u-87 only differences is the tubes
I will go for TLM 103
Great choice! 🙌🏾
Hey Archie, can you do the Shure KSM32 vs the Tlm 103
THANK YOU 🐐
Archie thx i got the apollo twin x to work...
You are welcome. Awesome. I'm glad to hear that!
TLM 103 is a great mic for the price, if you can dish out a couple more grands $$ - the common ear won't tell the difference... thanks for the shoot out...
Great video