Neumann U 87 Review: Is It The Best Vocal Mic?

Recording vocals can be tricky. I’ve spent years testing mics, and the Neumann U 87 stands out as a studio classic for good reason.

I recently had the privilege of using the U 87 on a vocal session, and its sound is clean and detailed. The capsule picks up every nuance—like a magnifying glass for your voice.

Is it worth it for a musician recording at home? Here’s my view.

Bottom line

I’ve used countless mics in my 20-year career, but the U 87 still amazes me. It’s a true Swiss Army knife of the studio world. This mic shines on vocals, piano, drums—you name it.

The sound quality is top-notch, capturing crisp highs and warm lows with stunning clarity that brings out the best in any source.

The build quality is rock-solid. I’ve had mine for 15 years with no issues. But the high cost means it’s a big commitment for home studios.

Is it pricey? Yes. But the results speak for themselves. I’ve used cheaper alternatives, but they just don’t match up.

For serious home recordists, this mic is a game-changer that can elevate your demos to pro-level quality. If you can swing it, the U 87 Ai is worth every penny.

Neumann U 87 Condenser Microphone

4.5

Compact yet powerful, this recording interface combines a vintage preamp with modern DSP features. It is ideal for singer-songwriters seeking classic tone and simplicity, but the single input and lack of MIDI might frustrate larger acts.

Pros:

• Captures every nuance
• Versatile
• Built to last
• Adds professional sheen
• Iconic status

Cons:

• Pricey investment
• Needs a good preamp
• Can be too bright
• Requires proper technique
• Not ideal for all voices

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Key features

Three selectable polar patterns

The switchable polar patterns make the U87 incredibly flexible:

• Cardioid: Great for isolating a source and reducing room sound. Perfect for vocals and most instruments.
• Omnidirectional: Captures a more open, natural sound with full low end.
• Figure-8: Useful for recording duets or mid-side stereo techniques.

I often switch patterns mid-session to get the best sound for each part. It’s like having three mics in one.

Switchable high-pass filter and pre-attenuation pad

The U 87 Ai’s built-in filters are lifesavers. The high-pass filter cuts low-end rumble, while the pad tames loud sources:

• High-pass filter: Cleans up boomy vocals and reduces proximity effect.
• 10dB pad: Handles loud drums and guitar amps without distortion.

These options let me capture clean recordings even in tricky situations.

Crafted for a range of recording sessions

This mic excels at everything. I’ve used it on:

• Vocals: Captures every nuance with stunning clarity.
• Acoustic guitar: Brings out the wood and string detail.
• Drum overheads: Delivers a balanced, full kit sound.
• Piano: Reproduces the entire range beautifully.

Its versatility means I can use it as my main mic for entire projects.

Iconic design and build quality

The U 87 Ai’s look is unmistakable, but it’s more than just looks:

• Solid metal body: Feels indestructible.
• Shock mount: Reduces vibrations for cleaner recordings.
• Large diaphragm: Captures subtle details other mics miss.

This mic is built to last. Mine has survived countless sessions over the years. It’s a workhorse that can handle any task I throw at it.

Microphone durability and longevity

I’ve put the U 87 through its paces for years, and it’s built like a tank. The metal body can handle accidental drops and bumps without issue. I’ve seen these mics last for decades in professional studios.

The U 87 Ai’s components are top-notch, and its dual-diaphragm capsule stays reliable even after heavy use. Proper storage in a dry place is key to avoiding potential issues, but overall, the U 87 is a workhorse that will likely outlast most of your other gear.

Is the Neumann U 87 worth it?

In my experience, the U 87 is a fantastic mic that lives up to its reputation. But it’s not always the best choice for every situation.

Is it worth the cost? That depends on your needs and budget. For serious recordings, it’s a solid investment; for casual use, you might look elsewhere.

Yes, it’s pricey, but the sound quality is unmatched. It might be overkill for home recording, but for serious projects, nothing beats a genuine U 87. 

It brings warmth and clarity to vocals that are hard to beat—though you still need good technique to make the most of it.

In the end, the U 87 Ai is a classic for a reason. It’s a tool I reach for time and time again in my own studio.

Scoring

Frequently asked questions

How does the frequency response of the Neumann U 87 contribute to its sound quality?

The U 87’s frequency response is fairly flat, with a slight boost around 10 kHz, which provides:

• Clear, detailed top end
• Full-bodied midrange
• Smooth low end

This results in a natural, uncoloured sound that captures sources faithfully.

Can you highlight the differences between the original Neumann U 87 and the U87 Ai model?

The U87 Ai is the current version. Key differences are:

• Slightly higher output
• Lower self-noise
• Improved bass response below 50 Hz
• Updated internal electronics to modern standards

Sonically, they’re very similar, with the Ai version having some subtle improvements.

What makes the Neumann U 87 a preferred choice for vocal recordings?

I love the U 87 on vocals because it:

• Captures the full frequency range of the voice
• Adds a touch of air and presence without being harsh
• Handles dynamics well, from whispers to belting
• Offers flexibility with its polar patterns

It flatters most voices and sits well in a mix without needing much EQ.

Which well-known artists have chosen the U87 for their recordings?

The Neumann U 87 has been a popular choice for renowned artists across many genres. Here are some of the notable musicians who have used it:

Classic rock legends:

• The Rolling Stones used the U 87 extensively on “Exile on Main Street”.
• John Lennon recorded his iconic song “Imagine” with a U 87.
• The Beatles used the U 87, both as a group and in their solo work.

Soul and R&B greats:

• Marvin Gaye used the U 87 for “What’s Going On”.
• Stevie Wonder has relied on the U 87 for multiple recordings.
• Ray Charles was also known to use the U 87.

Modern pop stars:

• Beyoncé has used the U 87 in her studio recordings.
• Bruno Mars recorded hits like “24K Magic” with the U 87.
• Carly Rae Jepsen captured “Call Me Maybe” on a U 87.
• Ed Sheeran also favours the U 87 for his recordings.

Rock and alternative artists:

• Kurt Cobain of Nirvana recorded vocals with the U 87.
• Jeff Buckley used the U 87 for his album “Grace”.
• Amy Winehouse used the U 87 for her soulful recordings.
• David Gilmour of Pink Floyd is also a fan of the U 87.

Hip hop and rap:

• Drake has depended on the U 87 for his vocal recordings.
• Artists like Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, and Gucci Mane have also been seen using the U 87 in studio sessions.

The Neumann U 87’s versatility, clarity, and balanced tone have made it an industry standard across genres for over 50 years. Its ability to capture nuanced vocal performances with warmth and detail has cemented its reputation as one of the most famous and widely used studio microphones in music history.