Neumann TLM 103 MT SET

The Neumann TLM-103 is a large diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone that has established itself as a modern studio classic. Introduced in 1997 as a more accessible alternative to the iconic U-87, it has since gained immense popularity among professionals and home studio enthusiasts alike. With a capsule derived from the legendary K67/87 design, the TLM-103 delivers a polished, detailed sound with a wide presence boost above 5 kHz, ideal for vocals and instruments that need to cut through a mix. Its transformerless design ensures minimal coloration and maximum fidelity, while its incredibly low self-noise of just 7 dB-A makes it one of the quietest microphones on the market. Whether you're recording speech, vocals, acoustic instruments, or using it in broadcast and classical applications, the TLM-103 provides the clarity, warmth and dynamic range that engineers demand from a premium studio microphone.

Key Features:

• Large Diaphragm Condenser Capsule:
  Based on the iconic U-87 capsule, it offers a full, balanced tone with refined mids and enhanced detail in the upper frequencies.
• Ultra Low Self Noise:
  With only 7 dB-A of self-noise, it delivers crystal clear recordings, making it ideal for vocals, voiceovers, and delicate acoustic instruments.
• Transformerless Output Stage:
  This ensures a clean, uncoloured signal path with excellent transient response and powerful low end, even at high sound pressure levels.

Studio Proven Performance:

Originally designed for project studios and broadcast applications, the TLM-103 quickly earned its place in top-tier professional environments. Its ability to produce a clear, detailed and focused sound has made it a favourite for voiceover artists, vocalists and audio engineers. The classic Neumann build and iconic tapered grille also lend a distinctive look that reflects its premium status. Despite its affordability, the TLM-103 offers performance that rivals much more expensive models.

Perfect for a Wide Range of Sources:

Thanks to its cardioid pickup pattern and exceptional off-axis rejection, the TLM-103 excels in a variety of settings. It’s particularly well suited for vocals, solo instruments, and speech recordings, where clarity and presence are paramount. It’s also frequently used for drum overheads, guitar amplifiers, and as a spot microphone for orchestral recordings, especially cello and double bass. Its high sensitivity ensures top results even with modest preamps and audio interfaces.

Reliable and Technically Advanced:

The TLM-103 isn’t just about sound quality; it’s also engineered for practical performance. With an impressive maximum sound pressure level of 138 dB and a dynamic range of 131 dB, it can capture everything from a whisper to a roaring drum without distortion. Its transformerless design ensures robust performance with minimal signal loss while maintaining a compact and rugged construction. This makes it as dependable as it is sonically impressive.

Specifications:

• Acoustical operating principle: Pressure gradient transducer
• Directional pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm: 23 mV/Pa ≙ –32.5 dBV ± 1 dB
• Rated impedance: 50 ohms
• Rated load impedance: 1 kohm
• Equivalent noise level, CCIR: 17.5 dB
• Equivalent noise level, A-weighted: 7 dB-A
• Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%: 138 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL): 76.5 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL): 87 dB
• Maximum output voltage: 13 dBu
• Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938): 48 V ± 4 V
• Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938): 3 mA
• Matching connector: XLR 3 F
• Weight: approx. 450 g
• Diameter: 60 mm
• Length: 132 mm