(Open Box) Neumann TLM 103 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
(Open Box) Neumann - TLM 103 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone, 50 Ohms, 138 dB Max SPL
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Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Neumann - TLM 103
TLM 103 Cardioid Condenser MicrophoneThe Neumann TLM 103 captures pristine, clear sound and is a modern update on the classic U87. It is a transformerless cardioid condenser microphone with a gentle presence boost for an incredibly direct sound with stunning definition and ultra-low noise, which is what made it one of the biggest successes in Neumann’s history.
Introduced in 1997 as an affordable alternative to the venerable U 87, the TLM 103 has since become a modern classic in its own right. The TLM 103 defines the modern standard by which contemporary studio microphones are measured. With a classic tapered headgrille design, the TLM 103 maintains a distinct Neumann look we know and love.
23 mV/PaSensitivity
20 Hz - 20 kHzFrequency Range
138 dBMax. SPL
Amazing Features
• Large diaphragm capsule derived from the classic U 87 microphone
• Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability
• Balanced sound with enhanced presence
• Extremely low self-noise: only 7 dB-A
A Modern Classic
Refined, Clear SoundThe TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the iconic Neumann U 87, but the TLM 103 has a slightly more modern voicing with a wider presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz. Its very direct whilst maintaining a refined sound, perfect for vocals, and solo instruments that stand out in the mix with minimal effort.
The TLM 103 also has the famous authoritative midrange that has become the hallmark of Neumann microphones and become the number one choice in studios around the world. A unique feature of the TLM 103 is its impressively deep yet controlled low end, ideal for sonorous voices and powerful bass instruments.
The New Standard
Ultra-Low NoiseThe TLM 103 has set new standards for technical performance, with an incredibly low self-noise of only 7 dB-A , it is among the quietest microphones ever. With high sensitivity of 23 mV/Pa, you get ultra low noise even with budget preamps and audio interfaces or vintage tube equipment.
This condenser microphone can also handle huge sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB without the need for preattenuation. Its wide dynamic range of 131 dB makes the TLM 103 a very easy to use studio microphone and can capture anything from a quiet whisper to a thumping bass drum without adding noise or distortion.
Technical Excellence
Various UsesAs part of the Neumann TLM series, the TLM 103 works with a transformerless output stage, minimizing transmission losses and keeps a very immediate, uncolored sound, true to the original, along with a clean, powerful bass response, even at highest signal levels.
The TLM 103 was designed primarily for project studios and broadcast use, but due to its outstanding performance was soon used by well known studios as a more modern sounding alternative to the U87 e.g. for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps, and piano. The TLM 103 is also commonly used as a spot mic in classical recordings e.g. for cello and double bass.
The Tech Spec
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Acoustical operating principle | Pressure gradient transducer |
| Directional Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Range | 20 Hz - 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 kohms |
| Equivalent noise level, CCIR 1 | 17.5 dB |
| Equivalent noise level, A-weighted 2 | 7 dB-A |
| Maximum SPL for THD 0.5% 3 | 138 dB |
| Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (re. 94 dB SPL) 4 | 76.5 dB |
| Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (re. 94 dB SPL) 5 | 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 | XLR3F |
| Weight | approx. 450 g |
| Diameter | 60 mm |
| Length | 132 mm |
