Neumann has been synonymous with exceptional sound quality throughout the history of recorded music. Many, if not all, of these microphones are likely familiar to some degree both in part to Neumann’s longstanding reputation and the universality of many of their models. So, what is the best Neumann mic for vocals?
Neumann Sets the Standard for Vocal Performance Live & In-Studio
Neumann sets the standards in quality and precision that expert engineers and audio professionals have relied on for decades. It’s no secret that many of the company’s own developments are also considered major breakthroughs in the world of recorded sound at large. Consider the legendary U 87 and its impact on music production — it’s no exaggeration to say that’s been used on thousands of commercially successful records since its debut in 1967.
If you could only get one microphone for vocals, you wouldn’t be wrong in looking to Neumann. While certainly on the pricier side, even for their “budget-friendly” offerings, you’d be investing in unparalleled expertise and a pedigree unlike any other microphone manufacturer past or present.
Features to Look for in a Vocal Mic
Large-diaphragm condenser mics are the standard go-to for vocal recording. Condensers are able to capture the detail in vocals and other acoustic instruments for intimate performances that sound phenomenal. You might also consider additional features such as a high-pass filter to remove excess low-end. And in order to have an all-around microphone for other types of recordings, switchable polar patterns are an enticing option, though for solo vocalists you’ll probably mostly utilize cardioid pickup.
The 6 Best Neumann Mics for Vocals in 2023 (Live & Studio Sound)
1. Neumann TLM 102 – Best Overall
The TLM 102 is one of the brand’s most popular current offerings. We consider it one of the best overall choices thanks to its affordable price and its performance as a studio workhorse for multiple applications. The TLM 102 provides a fixed cardioid polar pattern, low self-noise, impressive SPL handling, and a balanced frequency response with some extra sweetness in the top-end that makes vocals shine. It could easily be the best Neumann mic for vocals on a reasonable budget.
2. Neumann U 87
Neumann’s U 87 is still one of the most-used and most famous mics ever produced. As a premium large-diaphragm condenser, it’s equally versatile on vocals, piano, percussion, acoustic guitar, toms, brass, and virtually anything you could throw at it. The U 87 includes three polar patterns (cardioid, figure-8, and omni), a high-pass filter, and a -10dB pad for louder sources. Modern circuitry and an original vintage capsule make the current generation of 87s formidable condensers for numerous applications.
3. Neumann TLM 49 – Best for Vintage Sounds
The TLM 49 doesn’t get the same publicity as an 87 or even a TLM 102 in many cases, but it could very well be the exact Neumann you’re looking for. Its design derives from vintage microphones of the 1950s: the M 49 and M 50 models to be precise. The TLM 49’s sound is often described as “warm,” with a specially tuned frequency response that’s perfect for vocals. This microphone also takes inspiration from the beloved U 47 if that’s any indication of the vintage-style color you’d like in a proper vocal microphone.
4. Neumann U 67 – Best for Recording Vocals
Neumann debuted the original U 67 in 1960 as a successor to the famed U 47. It, too, featured a tube-based design that Neumann eventually replaced with FET circuitry in 1967 with the U 87. Still, the U 67 is widely considered the sound of the 1960s, and this meticulously crafted recreation of a classic is a stellar microphone. A surprisingly versatile mic, it sounds incredible on vocals, piano, toms, overheads, and many other sources thanks to its solid handling of high SPLs. The best Neumann mic for vocals carries a hefty price tag, though!
5. Neumann TLM 107
Sonic versatility is a desirable trait of any quality microphone, especially for those of us without the budget to buy specific mics for only one or two practical applications. The TLM 107 is an amazingly versatile mic in terms of sound and performance, thanks to its multi-pattern construction, two-step high-pass filter, and two-step attenuation pad. Included polar patterns are cardioid, wide cardioid, hypercardioid, omni, and figure-8 for any number of arrangements. Its mostly flat frequency response has a slight presence boost at the top-end to add a bit of clarity and shimmer to vocals or other sources.
6. Neumann U 47 FET
Alongside the U 87 that came later, the U 47 is one of the most recorded Neumann mics in history. This U 47 FET captures the detail and transient response of instruments like kick drums and percussive elements with exceptional quality. Being FET as opposed to tube, it can tolerate higher SPLs and sharper transients without breaking up or distorting. As a vocal microphone or mic for acoustic instruments, it performs just as well and should be considered a workhorse all around (though it’s quite pricey!).
