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Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Nickel)

BH #NETLM103 • MFR #008430
29 reviews
Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Nickel)
Key Features
  • For Speech, Vocals, and Instruments
  • Cardioid Pattern Reduces Ambient Noise
  • Large-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule
  • Capsule Derived from U 87 Microphone
Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the heralded U 87 microphone for project studios, producers, and vocalists, the nickel Neumann TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm condenser mic offering the classic Neumann sound with elevated presence to impart a crisp, clean, and full tone. It boasts a capsule based on the U 87 married to pristine transformerless circuitry, allowing it to handle high SPLs up to 138 dB without distortion while maintaining superbly quiet self-noise of just 7 dBA.
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$1,195.00
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Neumann TLM 103 Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2Affordable Alternative to the U 87
  • 3Large-Diaphragm Capsule
  • 4Refined and Full Sound
  • 5Technical Excellence
  • 6Transformerless Output
  • 7Applications
  • 8Features at a Glance

Designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the heralded U 87 microphone for project studios, producers, and vocalists, the nickel Neumann TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm condenser mic offering the classic Neumann sound with elevated presence to impart a crisp, clean, and full tone. It boasts a capsule based on the U 87 married to pristine transformerless circuitry, allowing it to handle high SPLs up to 138 dB without distortion while maintaining superbly quiet self-noise of just 7 dBA.

The combination of the transformerless output stage and heightened treble response makes the TLM 103 a great choice when the sound source needs to clearly cut through the mix. The mic's compact body is ideal for positioning it in tight spots such as over a snare, inside a kick drum, or in front of a small guitar amp. By utilizing a cardioid polar pattern, the mic can effectively reduce ambient noise or instrument bleed behind the mic. The TLM 103 comes with a secure, space-saving swivel mount and a wooden box.

Affordable Alternative to the U 87
Introduced in 1997 as an affordable alternative to the venerable U 87, the TLM 103 has since become a classic in its own right. Today, the TLM 103 defines the standard by which contemporary studio microphones are measured. Its classic, tapered headgrille design gives the TLM 103 a distinct Neumann look.
Large-Diaphragm Capsule
The TLM 103 is a cardioid microphone with a large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87. However, the TLM 103 has a slightly more modern voicing with a wide presence boost for frequencies above 5 kHz.
Refined and Full Sound
Its very direct yet refined sound is perfect for vocals and solo instruments that pop out of the mix without effort. Of course, the TLM 103 also has the famous authoritative midrange that has become the hallmark of Neumann microphones and made them a top choice in studios around the world. A special feature of the TLM 103 is its impressively deep yet controlled low end, perfect for sonorous voices and powerful bass instruments.
Technical Excellence
With an incredibly low self-noise of only 7 dBA, the TLM 103 is among the quietest microphones available. And its high sensitivity of -32.5 dBV ensures ultralow noise, even with budget preamps and audio interfaces or vintage tube equipment. At the same time, the TLM 103 can handle enormous sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB without the need for pre attenuation. Its vast dynamic range of 131 dB makes the TLM 103 a very easy-to-use studio microphone as it will capture anything from a soft whisper to a thunderous bass drum without adding noise or distortion.
Transformerless Output
As a member of Neumann's TLM series, the TLM 103 works with a transformerless output stage, which minimizes transmission losses and ensures a very immediate, uncolored sound, true to the original as well as a clear, powerful bass response, even at highest signal levels.
Applications
The TLM 103 was primarily designed for project studios and broadcast use, but due to its outstanding performance was soon embraced by renowned studios as a more modern sounding alternative to the U 87 for speech, vocals, drums, guitar amps, and piano. The TLM 103 is also often used as a spot mic in classical recordings for cello and double bass.
Features at a Glance
  • Large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic U 87 microphone
  • Balanced sound with enhanced presence
  • Cardioid pattern reduces background noise
  • Transformerless circuitry with high SPL capability
  • Extremely low self-noise of only 7 dBA
  • XLR 3-pin output
  • 48V phantom powered
  • Includes swivel mount and wooden box
UPC: 615104084308

Neumann TLM 103 Specs

Microphone
Primary ApplicationsStudio Recording
Form FactorLarge Diaphragm Mic / Stand/Boom Mount
Intended Sound SourcesVocals, Instrument
Sound FieldMono
Operating PrinciplePressure Gradient
CapsuleCondenser
Polar PatternCardioid
OrientationSide Address
CircuitrySolid-State
PadNone
High-Pass FilterNone
Tone AdjustmentNone
Gain AdjustmentNone
IndicatorsNone
On-Board ControlsNone
WindscreenNone
Performance
Frequency Range20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL138 dB SPL (.5% THD)
Off-Axis Rejection>2 dB at 60°
>10 dB at 120°
>25 dB at 180°
Impedance50 Ohms
Load Impedance1000 Ohms
Sensitivity-32.5 dBV at 1 kHz into 1 Kilohms
Output Level13 dBu (Max)
Dynamic Range131 dB A-Weighted
Signal-to-Noise Ratio76.5 dB CCIR
87 dB A-Weighted
Equivalent Noise Level7 dB A-Weighted
17.5 dB CCIR
Connectivity
Output Connectors (Analog)1 x XLR 3-Pin Male (on Mic)
Headphone ConnectorNone
Power
Bus PowerNone
Operating Voltage48 V ± 4 V (Phantom Power)
Operating Current Consumption3 mA
Physical
ColorNickel
MountingMic Clip/Stand Adapter (Included)
Included CaseHard Case
Included FiltersNone
Dimensionsø: 2.4 x L: 5.2" / ø: 6 x L: 13.2 cm
Weight15.87 oz / 450 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight2.615 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)19.3 x 7.35 x 3.95"

Neumann TLM 103 Reviews

5 years and still as good as the day I bought it

By Kevin
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-08-01

5 years and still sounds as good as the day I bought it. Demo'd a bunch of mics in the BH store in manhattan, and this one sounded the best w/ my voice. I like how it sounded more neutral than the other mics, and neumann is a good brand with good build quality. I still get excited to use it all these years later, you can't put a price on that.

Absolutely in love

By Gabriela
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-12-30

Beyond words, this mic has a great sound and I couldn't be happier with my new family member.

Yep

By Anthony
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-04-21

I should have gotten the stereo set. I prefer this over my U87 on some applications. I am beyond pleased. I also have to say that B&H was solid and hassle free. I got all my order in a timely fashion.

Huge upgrade for my recordings

By Christopher
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-02-03

I’ve used the TLM 102 for a long time for home recording. I made the decision to upgrade to the TLM 103, and I won’t look back! The detail this microphone gets is stunning! I’ve used this on both male and female vocals, as well as acoustic guitar, and sax. WOW!!! This purchase has taken my home recordings to a new level. It must be said though that B &H was fantastic to deal with. Their customer service is second to none! Thank you B & H!!!

A great mic

By Al
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2021-01-23

Such a great microphone. So quiet and so responsive -- especially on the high end; stuff that just didn't exist with my previous (still good) mic, suddenly appears in the mix. Build quality is excellent and the case is commensurate with the price! Minus one star because it was on backorder FOREVER. Literally months.

It's great and so is B&H

By Joe
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2020-08-03

First a comment about B&H - this was my first purchase with them and I couldn't be happier with their professionalism and excellent customer service. Now as for the mic - it wins my WOW factor award. I was flip flopping between the 102 and the 103. I read reviews and watched comparison videos. I mainly was in the market for a great vocal mic for recording. I first opted for the 102 mainly to save some money. I thought it was real good but I was still curious about the 103 so I called B&H and asked about their return policy. Based on that discussion, I bought a 103. When it arrived, I still had the 102 and was able to compare the two mics myself. Hands down winner - the 103. Richer and vibrant. So I returned the 102. If I was in a position to keep both, I would have because I would use the 102 for recording guitar amps among other things. Some day, I'll buy a 102. But for vocal recording, OMG, the 103!!! And like I said at the beginning, B&H has awesome customer service. Plus the payboo card saves sales tax. I'll be a repeat customer for sure.

Perfection

By Wayne
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-07-06

No one needs to sell the Neumann TLM 103. It's the best of the best, next to the U87 (which is just too expensive for us mere mortals). The TLM 103 is the last microphone a Voice Actor or Singer will ever need to buy. It lives up to the hype. The brand shock mount it comes with is a perfect addition. The case was unnecessary and overkill, but maybe it'll be of use one day. If you're on the fence about mics, just buy this one. You won't ever need another.

Absolutely love it

By Gabriela
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-01-18

Been wanting this mic for a long time, and as a pro VO talent this was a must-have. Love its sound, size and power.

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