Neumann U87i

Common name: Neumann U87i

Production Status: Discontinued / Vintage

The U87i is a large diaphragm multi-pattern FET condenser microphone introduced in 1967 to replace the U67 and discontinued in 1986 when the updated U87Ai version was released. I can be operated with 48 V. phantom power or with a pair of internal 22.5 Volt batteries. The centre-terminated K87 capsule is polarised at 46 V. instead of the 60 V. of the later Ai model. It was available in a XLR-3 version (U87i) or with a seven pin Tuchel (or an optional Binder) connector (U87) in satin nickel or dark matte (mt) finish. A Red Dot at the microphone base near the serial number indicated microphones wired for 50 Ohm output impedance as opposed to the more common 200 Ohm. It is a universal microphone, ideal for speech, vocal and instrument applications.

Read George Shilling’s article about the history, features, and uses of this historic mic.

Electrical Characteristics

Frequency Response
40Hz - 16 kHz
Output Sensitivity
8 mV/Pa
Max SPL
122
Max SPL, THD:
0.5
Self Noise (CCIR)
dB
Self Noise (DIN/IEC)
dB-A
Output Impedance
200Ω
Recommended Load
1kΩ
Powering
Internal battery
Phantom 48 only
Supply Current
0.4 mA
Alternative Powering

Switchable Options

Pad
-10 dB
Filter/EQ

Physical Characteristics

Connector
Tuchel 3462 (7-pin), XLR-3M
Connector notes
Available Colours
Satin Nickel. Dark Matte
Weight
500 g
Length
200 mm
Min diameter width
Max diameter
56 mm
Depth

Accessories

Included
Optional
SG 367 swivel mount. Z 26 rubber shock-mount. Z 48 elastic suspension. WS 87 windscreen. M81 and MF 1 table stands. KC 73 and UC 73 7-pin microphone cables. BS 945 battert power supply. N 448 Phantom Power supply unit.