The truly revolutionary Neumann TLM 103 microphone

When buying something, to set everything else apart, the immediate focus of consideration is the brand. When it comes to microphones, Neumann is the brand. Neumann has been a name that stands for high quality microphones since 1920. Their newest product in the line is the Neumann TLM 103. It is intended to meet the requirements of those in home recording to those in professional broadcast as well as those in the commercial recording studio.

The Neumann condenser microphone belongs to the 100 FET series category of condenser microphones. This revolutionary product incorporates two essential and distinctive Neumann technologies: the TLM (Transformerless Microphone) and the U87 microphone technology. This is why this Neumann TLM 103 is a safe, high-quality microphone and well worth it for under $1,500.

Neumann has called it the “Universal Cardioid Microphone”. This is due to the polar pattern of the Neumann microphone. The capsule of the TLM 103 was modeled on the K87 capsule of the U87 and the U86 tube microphone. While these two models U67 and U87 use a double diaphragm capsule (which has 2 separate rear electrodes) to produce multiple polar pattern effects, this Neumann TLM 103 only uses a single large diaphragm, called the K103, designed solely for cardioid operation. . . “Cardioid” associated with a “heart shape”. This means that sounds are clearly accepted from the front, while sounds coming from behind are rejected.

Unlike microphones with an omnidirectional mode switch, where you can activate this mode at any time so you can pick up sounds coming from all directions, the Neumann TLM 103 does not have this switch offering. At the same time, there is no pad to lower and control the sensitivity of this microphone. While this may be considered a limitation, experts say it’s not a real shortcoming.

The Neumann TLM 103 is powered by a 48V DC transformerless circuit, giving it a low self-noise level (with only a CCIR rating of 7db-A or 17.5dB), but is also capable of providing a Significant dynamic range of up to 131 dB based on DIN.IEC 651 rating. This means the TLM 103 is powerful enough to handle sound pressures up to 138 dB without any sign of distortion. On the other hand, the low noise mark suggests it’s a great fit for Foley effects and great recordings. Also, with the presence of TLM technology, the balanced audio signal is maintained as RFI from radio frequency interference is avoided.

The Neumann TLM 103 has also mounted elastic internal structures designed to handle and reduce the effects of some external shocks. This is very important as the TLM 103 does not have a bass roll off switch. The product package also comes with the SG 103. This is a swivel clip, which is made of plastic. Well, with a couple or a few adjustments to the mic stand, it’s going to look worn. It would be better if Neumann also modeled it on the one in the U87 mount, which is made of metal.

The Neumann TLM 103 is not just a product with an associated cost. This is truly a revolutionary product in its own class and category of microphones. In fact, owning one is an investment! You can choose from matte black or satin nickel finishes in a wooden storage box.