All user reviews for the Neumann TLM 103

Hello curious wanderer,
Owned and used a Neumann TLM 103 for about a year now.
I've paired it with various preamps including a LA-610 mKII.
Primarily used w/ acoustic guitars and vocals.
There does tend to be a lot of artifacts when using this mic at close sources -- these artifacts i have not experienced with other mics and concluded that the microphone is causing the problem. These 'artifacts' are distortion in nature of the source and tend to be difficult to edit out or make EQ correction. That's why I only give this a 4 star instead of 5 star review.

BUT, like always, take every review with a grain of salt.
You can hear it paired w/ other microphones here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOjTCh4WO_Q

cheers,
bainmack

I borrowed a pair of these to record an acoustic piano at my studio. They looked great, nice and light and easy to place.
There seemed to be something missing at the top end. Sure you can eq to hell and back but I like my source sound to be awesome. After many adjustments and a bit of eq I still couldn't get that top end without it sounding muddy. I even tried just using one in case of P.C. But nope. That flat spot was still there.
In the end I used my pair of NT2's. The difference was incredible.
I'm sure the name will sell many and maybe I'm just too pedantic. I love my Rodes even more now.
Sorry Neumann, doesn't do it for me.

-see other notices and manufacturer data sheet

NOTICE GLOBAL

-sold ... utlilis year
-chirurgical, fearsome noise level signal
-Neumann U87 and 89 and KM184, AKG 414BTL2, Studio project C4, Audio Tech 4050, AKG Solid tubetc ...
-prcis some sources (guit acous and some voice, bass, perc etc ...) or search for it on-shine ... otherwise delicate
-8/10 According to the purchase price
-micro typ have in its fleet
-less hard with a good pre-amp lamp
Before buying this mic I did not like too much of certain surgical cot neumann (eg 184/87) ... on some sources it is rather very useful ... in complment of Dynamic good (MD441 ...), and static or softer (414) / TLM170 / MKH404

This is everything and more you would ever expect from Neumann. A great condenser recording mic with a broad and clear frequency response. Perfect for recording studio vocals and professional broadcasting. Every studio needs a good vocal mic and this one definitely sets the bar high. 100% recommended.

It is a very sensitive mic so I would definitely recommend buying the shock mount accessory which let's the TLM do it's job without interruptions.

OVERALL OPINION

It is a very precise microphone that delivers reliable and clear recordings. Although it is an expensive purchase, it is one that you won't regret making. Worth every penny!!!

Condenser vocal microphone, large diaphragm, cardioid.
Ideal for taking close.

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for a month and I've tested a lot of other sources, viola, acoustic guitar, shaker, electric guitar, bass.

I tried a lot of large diaphragm condenser microphones with his older brother (U87) and it is mostly the price that motivated my choice.

It has a strong proximity effect gives the body a lot of female voices but against part-it does not suit me on male voices.

The downside is that it does not have a variable directivity and lacks an attenuator.

For the rest, it does the job and for the price (on occasion) I remake this purchase without hesitation.

What kind of microphone?

Microphone to rap

What technology?
electret

OVERALL OPINION

How long you use it?

1 week

Did you tried many other models before buying it?

No, I did the 2050 so for me it is day and night

What is so special that you love the most, least?

his capacity to judge by yourself https://neafbi-officiel-91.skyrock.com/

How would you rate the quality / price?

not bad at all knowing there is the suspension with the cost so the price is lower microwave


With experience, you do again this choice?

must see that knowing the tlm 193 is a 70 euro dearer but without suspension so ....

Microphone Type: Condenser
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL: 138 dB
Output Impedance: 50 ohms
No low cut/pad.
Shockmount NOT included.
Wooden, padded, box included.

OVERALL OPINION

I'm going to start off by saying that, if I were in the market to buy this mic new ($1100), there are many others I'd be looking at in its price range; however, for the price you can get them on the used market, they're fairly well priced.

People complain a lot about how these have a brittle high end - I get that. I'm not going to sugar coat it and say that it sounds AMAZING, but it's also not anything a tad of EQ can't fit. What I love about this mic, is the fact that it IS fairly bright. It brings out the character and definition in vocal performances. Beware - This mic WILL show your mistakes, it can be flattering if you're good, and be VERY unforgiving, if you're bad.

For the price these things cost, I would really expect for it to come bundled with a shockmount, and not have to pay an extra $50 for it, but I suppose it's not a huge deal.

This mic will NOT get you the classic Neumann U series sound, but it's a very nice mic for any studio to have around. In its used and new price ranges, there's other mics that can certainly compete well with it, but being the trusted name Neumann is, it's a fairly safe bet for most.

Got this mic (TLM 103) from my local Guitar Center store. The price was high but the name says it all. It does just what I wanted it to do. It sounds like "nothing". VOC recorded in my home digital studio sound natural, open, as if I was there live doing it. It sits in the mix like nothing else I have. I can turn the channel way down and the vocals are still very much a part of the mix. I got Mogami cables for the full signal path and I'm sure that helps a little....if you crank the preamp you must have the iso mount. And no mine didn't come free with the mic. Here is the low down, you get what you pay for and this quality is the best that I have had from recording at home. Its not cheap at all, its pretty expensive and it took me a while to save for it. But once I heard it I knew I had to start saving because this was the mic that really made me sound the best. It will do the same for you as well.

OVERALL OPINION

This microphone has really made a name for itself and for a good reason. It has a nice natural sound to it and works well in many situations. I have used it on drums and vocals and have been very pleased with the results every time. The only down side is the shock mount doesn't always come with it, but other than that, it is hard to lose with this fantastic piece of gear. I haven’t had a single complaint with this mic or even seen or heard anyone else complain about it when they come record at my house. They all love it, but when I tell them how much it cost they all say they wont be getting it. But if you want cheap quality then go to radio shack and get a mic. If you want great quality invest in your career and yourself and get the TLM 103.

Large diaphragm cardioid microphone without att and without high-pass
SG1 clamp supplied with a wooden box, suspension ELESTA Optional AI1 (TLM 103, M 147)
comes in two colors: gray and mtal foncbr /> Dtails technique at: Sennheiser.com

OVERALL OPINION

For the price it is a good micro trs is also in this price range most Aesthetics and well done, it proposes a circuit without output transformer (Transform Less Microphone) or of the pr TLM fixed. It is a micro extrment clean, with a bump is higher than the microphones oldest brand, which gives it a modern and trsdtaille color at the top of the spectrum. The main diffrence with models like the M 147, the equivalent lamp, is a somewhat broader directivity and rstitution of mdium mdium up a little less pronounced.
Its main dfault when compared to less affordable models is its lack of body, sound was less than its full NSAIDs (U89i) notte on acoustic guitars and strings. necessitte this investment more complex than a U89 that is my opinion one of the easiest to use microphones!
micro competitor cost: Blue Dragon (excellent!)
The result is well located and trs nanmoins comparable to micro BPM, it remains in this price range that most cohrent AKG C 3000, AT 4033 etc ...
If you love color, 4050 AT Savre srieux a competitor to the same extent as the C414 and U89 of Thiers OCCAZ (his sober and full) of OCCAZ TLM 170 (extreme versatility, high quality!
The brand offers each microphone to the sound Extremely diffrent, it becomes a matter of taste, appropriate, but the TLM 103 is the finish and the name for him.
it's more of a microphone on a robust and significant cash pressures.
With ca 103 will not always can be fabulous, but it does not ever be bad, and that's what dj price compared to other brands!

I use this mic for over a year a couple pro p2 tf I will not say I fluently but with an inventiveness of got phenomenal results, the micro application to be a little masters and consistent to believe erreus k'il takes the hooks are perfect for starting to give the body or the heat up?! I test the coupling with another micro matched on the TF pro deferred custody and (we believe) 57 sm try a little nothing, that is for delire koi be surprised!

OVERALL OPINION

I use this mic for over a year a couple pro p2 tf I will not say I fluently but with an inventiveness of got phenomenal results, the micro application to be a little masters and consistent to believe erreus k'il takes the hooks are perfect for starting to give the body or the heat up?! I test the coupling with another micro matched on the TF pro deferred custody and (we believe) 57 sm try a little nothing, that is for delire koi be surprised!

Large diaphragm condenser microphone. One directional: cardioid. No pad or low-cut filter.
Workmanship. The suspension, which is essential, must be purchased separately at a price bordering on scam.

OVERALL OPINION

It is a very micro criticized, often by people who have never used or have been in bad conditions.

It is true that an entry-level, yes but at Neumann. And found that the reputation of the brand: the chiseled, accurate (perhaps too) and racy.
It is against a little too dry and surgery.
Nevertheless, a partner at a good tube amp, it can be great on some voices and many instruments: classical guitar, piano, wood percussion.
It is far superior to many microphones Chinese who tried to copy it but have only reproduce its shortcomings.
As against the price too high (over 1100 euros with its suspension) is a real handicap to compete in the AKG 414 XLS who is superior.

It's been six years since I use it and I often return to it when I do not want to take any risks with the quality of sound. When I bought it, it was 5000frs and AKG 414 more 9000frs. Today, for the price, I will opt for the AKG without denying either.

See the website builder.

OVERALL OPINION

- How long have you use it?

2 years.

- What is the particular feature you like best and least?

+ =>
- The signal to noise ratio is excellent.
- The micro possde gain trs lev ... super convenient for acoustic instruments and voice .... much less practical for high volume sound sources.
- The sound is pure and trs was a sense of micro vrit with this ....

- It does not work on all the voices. Inadequate on nasal voices.
This micro possde a bump in mdiums which according to the timbre of the singer is more or less adapted.
.... Résumé for the TLM103 is far less universal than the confrre the AKG C414.
As against this boss can be very useful for the recovery of classical guitar / folk.

Once I even used to record the cracking of codes of my bass player for a portion of SLAP ........... EXCELLENT!

- How do you report qualitprix?

Good. It remains all the same onreux from an AKG C414 ... which is more universal.

- With the exprience, you do again this choice? ...

I think I would take an AKG C414.
But I do not regret my choice at all .... it's a great micro!
Can be for the purchase of a first condenser microphone srieux ..... it is better to take the AKG C414.

Ja'i the Achte 1 year ago it is coupled with a preamp TLaudio 5051, and still I cross that there is nothing to 1000euro better off as a condenser microphone for studio diafragme before the j'utilisee c414uls AKG, and even if it is not niqment cardiod, the sound of the TLM103 is becuop warmer is precise, plain detailes, the only thing is that we must play with the EGULATION for a more natural because there are too many to le5K if not ..... EST has the micro meiller 1000reuro

OVERALL OPINION

Ja'i the Achte 1 year ago it is coupled with a preamp TLaudio 5051, and still I cross that there is nothing to 1000euro better off as a condenser microphone for studio diafragme before the j'utilisee c414uls AKG, and even if it is not niqment cardiod, the sound of the TLM103 is becuop warmer is precise, plain detailes, the only thing is that we must play with the EGULATION for a more natural because there are too many to le5K if not ..... EST has the micro meiller 1000reuro

TLM103
Static Microphone for All!

OVERALL OPINION

TLM103. Finally a microphone edge whose sentence is final ... He and the geule! Bravo! Finally, a Neumann microphone that makes you who you are with a signature discrte but not fooling anyone ... For a price that is less likely to cause fcheuses situations, see even cause many divorces ... Use a pre amp with a Class A, provided with tubes Telefunkun Diamond ... Why not? A sweet and old amps brand pr Quad, Quad II or an old McIntosh? For their musicality ... ... completely silent and Hop!
While the comparison with a U87 trsdlicate become, of all the membrane fawn you it is not the same?? Well yes! Everything else just about talent (for once ...) & pr amplification.

T says it all

OVERALL OPINION

I was looking for a good static and the era I test a few hours.
I recorded a few takes ... then I did the same with a low-end micro Tbone SC450 (100 euros).
I t trsdcu the TLM103, in the sense that the diffrence from my Tbone n'tait Vrau not gross! away from l. .. Sectra refund the silent sound of the same Tbone ... Obviously the better ... but of justifying the price diffrence ... I do not think!

Since I have tried on occasion then finds a U87 ... and b. .. l a worth it! see anything!

Frankly ... A person who seeks a good mic, I would recommend to SAVE a little more (I pay the U87 Euro 1500) ... if not ... look at the cot instead of mid-range microphones to report quality prices much more interesting than the TLM103!
Precision: the comparisons with the same t RALIS pramplis (a p'tit BLUETUBE and a Universal Audio)

Neumann is not given ... but LTo me, it really pays too the brand!

See below, it shows dj prcis
1) that the capsule of U87 is indeed fabulous
2) it is not everything in a micro

OVERALL OPINION

- 5 years
- The quality in recording the vicinity a small bump due
- No, only a few microphones of well, the press is sold pasncessairement brands. Since I tried lamps AKG, Electro-Voice, Brauner, Beyerdynamic and it seems that, apart from AKG, the performance is well gnralement Fidler to cot; Ricardo Music West had about a Groove Tubes ... Nice try!
- Excellent qualitprix because that achieving this certainty has a cot, so it is adequate (if it were only a microphone for singing, it would plutt "good")
- Yes

The silent mode, 3-4 years ago, the TLM103 dnigrer the grounds that this mic excels in the voice speaks and would be less able to singing hardcore.
In my opinion, this opinion is not ngatif honnte trs, it is excellent for voice talking is one thing, but ingnieur sound will tell you that the famous "greenhouse proximity does not fit all situations, and is 'irraliste' in some cases (cinma, etc.).. dpend All types of voice and accompaniment (both "Transformerless" must Obviously well be round to give a valid rsultat). But as his owners know, there is trs good for strings and wind instruments, so versatile, and up the akm ( Obviously, then saturate it, but you have plenty of room before reaching this stage). Still, he should not compare the lines out of proportion.
But for this kind of petty or small hostile [qu'videmment because, in part lgitime fear is that it ensures the lowest common dnominateur and therefore takes all more than proportionally with cong Nres (but they are REALLY trs below, except that I did not test the GA or Heil)], the ingnieurs sound chip included in the "minimum list "a studio. Duly noted. Obviously if you have the option of a U87 acqurir ... this is not comparable. If you have found an original and reliable microphone that outperforms, you do not like the blow Pigon.

Condenser microphone large-diaphragm, more particularly suitable for singing.

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for 1 year already
Appreciated features: the price, "true" pro microphone. Too bad the suspension is so expensive.
Compared to big brother U87, or the TLM 193, the 103 sounds a bit tight, lacks precision and clarity, it requires a good equalizer to make good sound. So the logical "price" is met, the TLM103 sounds worse compared to others, but it is also cheaper. I'd say it's a microphone in the entry level range (although the price may seem high). But if you really want a more precise mic, I recommend waiting a little longer and buy a TLM193 (possibly second hand), which is a one class (price) higher.

Condenser microphone transformater output.
Capsule of U87 (LA studio reference).
Single cardioid directivity
No general mitigating
No high-pass filter
No supension original livery
Excellent sensitivity
(For more information see the test Audiofanzine)

OVERALL OPINION

I use this mic for about a year mainly for making voice together with a tube amp ART TUBE.
What strikes me first is the big sound obtained immediately without correction. Grain and a great mid-bass presence effect without distortion, like a large magnifying glass over the sound.
No overflow in the treble, the vocals are always very well mastered.
It is the quality offered to Pro Home Studios.
The unique Directivity Cadio not too troublesome for working in a Home Studio.
Pop filter needed.
For use in a room large enough (12 M2 mini cab abstain)
This is the best condenser microphone, or electret that I have never used for singing (I always use or have used the Audio Technica 4033, RODE NT2, AKG C535 EB).

I do not understand how can Neumann can sell this excellent microphone without its suspension (there are elastically effective and inexpensive suspensions, see one of NT2)

The protection box is beautiful but wooden hinges and lock closure are a little cheap. A suitcase-type flight case might have been preferable.

The value is good considering the quality of the gear ...

(Originally written by Hagbard/translated from Audiofanzine FR)


1) The U87 capsule is fabulous

2) the capsule is not the only parameter for the sound of a mic

OVERALL OPINION

- Five years

- Quality of the proximity effect

I also tested a tube AKG, Electro-voice, and Brauner and the sound generally corresponds to the price (except for the AKG) .

- Excellent value for money. Quality has a price and it is fully justified.

- Yes

Three or four years ago it was very trendy to criticize the TLM103 with the argument that it was great for speech but not for vocals.

But that's not true. It depends on the voice and the accompaniment (it's a transformerless mic so you need other good components to get a good result). But the mic is also very good with wind and string instruments so it's quite versatile. Don't even try to compare it with products in other price ranges.

Top sound engineers include it in their must-have list when it comes to equipping a new a recording studio. See Steve Pogact's online article: Build a studio?.

I've used the Neumann TLM103 strictly in the studio on everything from vocals to banjo to acoustic guitar. It is great for any and all applications that you would typically use a large diaphragm condenser mic for. The only thing I wasn't happy about was that with the regular model (not the Anniversary edition) I had to purchase a separate shockmount; however, the clip that comes with the mic works fine as well if you don't care about having a shockmount for it.

OVERALL OPINION

I've had the TLM103 about a year and a half and I have had nothing but good times with it. It's got such a clear and crisp sound. I've used a ton of different Neumann mics (U87, U67, etc) and although this isn't as great as those classic mics, it definitely holds its own. A friend of mine did a shootout between this mic and the U87 and said he really couldn't see much of a different, except of course for the $2000 extra the U87 will run you. Although it may be a bit pricey for a small studio setting, if you are looking for a real quality mic, this is about the cheapest you can get from a company who makes the best mics on earth. I wouldn't trade this mic for any other in its price range.