I own a TLM 107. People haven't been paying much attention to this mic because their minds are too focused on the 103 or even the U87. People just don't know what they are missing.
I like the TLM107 alot, but don’t like it on vocals, on bass, drums, overheads, misc instruments really great, prefer with good preamp like 1073 or Daking
I ordered C414 XLII because I prefer its less sibilant nature to TLM 103, but the wonderful transient response on 107 made me rethink my decision. You can really hear the difference in this video: th-cam.com/video/wCozRZkquCg/w-d-xo.html Waiting for both 414 and 107 to arrive to do some tests, but have a gut feeling 107 is going to be the keeper.
I own the TLM 103, but in this comparison, the TLM 102 really performed great. In other comparisons I recognised that the U87 had more body/low end than both the 102 and 103. I am a bit surprised that none of the more expensive mics in this comparison had the same amount of body. I was listening through good speakers in a treated room and the biggest surprise is, how little differences there are at least to my ears. In a blind test, I would have failed miserably.
Hmm I actually wasn't a huge fan of the TLM 67, I found it the most dynamic... My favorite was the TLM 49 and then surprisingly the TLM 103! I found the 102 a little tinny for my liking (and for his voice). If I were Ed's engineer, I would definitely use the 49, then double with the 103. Great video, thanks for the knowledge 🤙
Completely agree. On other videos of other singers too, prefer the TLM49. But the TLM 103 is quite good too. With a Neve style pre, the TLM 103 into LA-2A style comp sounds even more right. Whereas, I think the TLM49 sounds tonally about right as is, just needs a good clean pre. Honestly, I think the TLM 67 sounds too flat, like it's already got a vintage preamp character baked in, which I'd rather have the flexibility of molding. And at the price, the TLM102 I wouldn't use, it's too thin and flinty, I'd reach for an AKG C-414 / Austrian Audio OC-16 / Sony C-80 / Soyuz 1973 or Microtech Gefell 930 instead.
same here, took me years of in depth research and hard thinking, but I never never never ever regretted getting the TLM 103, and I hope it will outlast me and get into the hands of one of my nieces or kids one day and be their lifetime companion aswell :D
thanks a lot for sharing ! It's funny how sound appeals to us differently. I thought the tlm 103 and 67 were the worst with your voice. I liked the 107 i think it was the most balanced. good video !
Wow, you sound the smoothest on the TLM 67. It sounded the most like how a finished record feels to me. The TLM 49 had the same body and presence as the 67, it just had a honky high mid resonance. You also sound really great through the 103 and 107. All of the mics sound like part of the same family, though. The capsules are incredibly well designed and manufactured at Neumann. They're arguably still the very best at it. I have a u87ai here that was made last year. Not sure what was going on at the lab when mine was made, but it sounds extra good compared to every other modern u87 I've work with. Super grateful to have it!
the 49 stands out from all the others, it combines the not harsh high end without missing detail or sounding dull, and the mid forward cutting thru great shoot out...thanks a lot
The TLM 103 just sound so warm and bright using the dt 990 headphones, It was my choice from the beginning and now from this comparison, I cannot go wrong with my next purchase.
Bottom line. Get the best that you can afford without stressing yourself then concentrate on the creative process. The microphone is typically the least important part of the chain of variables. A good performance with a cheap mic will be better than a lackluster performance on a 10K microphone. Besides you might be stressed to haul out your 10K mic to capture a great performance that actually puts the tools at some risk. I had a U47 get seriously damaged when a 57 would have done the trick from the beginning. These comparison videos are helpful for people trying to do their diligence prior to spend a bunch of money. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a more expensive mic is going to radically transform the song. Psychologists call this “magical thinking.” Once you purchase the mic spend hours and hours learning how to get the most out of it and never blame the mic for a poor result.
Hi Edward, Im really into music but i dont have the money to buy the equipment and your videos motivate me. Continue like this!!! I love your videos!!!
Everything depends on the buck u pay.. but I would rather go for the tlm 102.. which sounds awesome according to my budget.. Thanks for d excellent review bro 👍
That tlm 49 is full and smooth and controlled the vocal so dam good the bottom end is amazing and I didn’t hear any weird high end it wasn’t brittle it just held everything together like glue 🔥
@@GFODT562 sure. Take a look at anything from Lauren Audio. The LA320, for example, is an incredible tube driven mic for very little money. Also, Warm Audio make good copies of classic mics for a lot less money. sE Electronics are another quality brand for very little money. It really depends what your budget is and what you are looking for.
I have a tlm 103 already it’s it’s a dope ass mic and my next purchase is literally the Lauten audio clarion Fc - 357 ‼️ beast mic and I need to get mines now before everyone catches on and they bump up the price lol 😂 💪🏽 how you liking the sound from it ?
@@JuanRamone23 It's the best. Versatile, warm lows, plenty of smooth air in the highs. Honestly the dry signal sounds so good and cuts through the mix so well that I don't even want to put reverb on it half of the time. It sounds like it costs twice as much
@@huesmusic9526 I started wanting the TLM 103 so bad, but saw a video from AudioHaze calling the Clarion a "TLM 103 killer". Loved the versatility and the dry signal it sounds like butter imo. Love how rich this thing sounds and the dry signal just sits with subtle mixing and only needs a touch of reverb.
@@brendanpatrickmusic same story for me but I actually owned a TLM 103, and as great as it sounded at times it was so tedious to eq because of the high frequencies. What’s funny is I actually was looking to get the Atlantis, but I came across the Clarion which was significantly cheaper and on sell for 1000. I thought after I ordered I would regret it, but the first time I heard my voice through the Clarion I fell in love still to this day I can’t believe its the price it is. You said it perfectly u get the high end sound the TLM 103 has but even better and much smoother!
ive been mixing and mastering for 20 years and used all of these, truth once a track has been mastered, you couldnt tell the difference between the 800 dollars or the 8000 dollars. save money go for the 102 or 103. this guy in the video is using effects /compression / reverb.! so its the 102 or 103 for 700 dollars. thats all ya need
Wonderful video! i'm a session musician and in my studio i use the tlm 102 + Electro voice EV re 20. I play and record all saxophones and flute..The tlm 102 for me is better than 103 because is clear , a little bit more flat than 103. The 103 has more high frequences ( saxophone doesn't need ) and in some case 103 sounds more "muddy" in the mix because has even low frequences push up. So the 102 for instrumental use is incredibly good !!
The 49 is a standout for vocals, but it's the 67 that won me over for its unique character and versatility; it sounds equally good on acoustic instruments as it does on vocals. The 67 is my choice for the "one mic to do it all" winner. It has something special that the other mics are missing- its own signature voicing. The other mics are trying to emulate another classic, but the 67 is a hybrid...almost a "best of" blend. Love it!
They all sound the same. I am a professional music producer and REALLY can't hear any difference. And IF there is a difference, I don't know i it's better or worse. Actually I would just buy the most expensive one to flex with it in front of the vocalist. But in reality, I appreciate the compactness and low price of the 102 and go with it.
I'm kinda glad that almost 15 years ago I wanted a TLM102 or 103 so so so so bad but I wanted to buy just one and have it for the rest of my life and was giga lucky that I went for the TLM 103 and a nice preamp (ART Voice Channel) and I still use this daily for everything from Teams Meeting, Videocalling, Gaming, Streaming, Rehearsing Vocals, Recording Vocals. there was never a situation where I felt like "ah I shouldn't have gotten the TLM103, I should've rather gone with the XYZ" - never. - when it comes to stage microphones though, I can never get it right and be satisfied. that's my curse xD
I don't have any of these mics and I have never used them before but listening to the examples here IMO the TLM 49 would be my choice as a vocalist. Of all the mics tested it gives the most three dimensional sound. I will definitely be looking into getting one
I bought the TLM2 on a whim. I’ve been producing professionally for over 12 years now. This mic is absolutely amazing at its price range! Definitely remove the foam inside the mic first thing, it’ll transform it into such a better vocal mic. Honestly can’t beat it at that price point.
I would say none mostly because of the price, but also 102 and 103 are a bit brighter than perfect. I like how the TLM 193 sounds, but all those microphones are actually very good.
BE AWARE: if your Neumann mic is outside warranty don't send it back to them for repair to Sennheiser/Neumann as I naively did. They came back with a sizeable fee for inspection then a bill 10-20% higher than retail price for the whole mic to replace a capsule! The 3 options they gave me were: - pay the large inspection bill and have them returned - pay over the RRP for the whole microphone to have the only capsule replaced - Neumann would scrap them "free of charge"
Could not disagree about the 102 vs 103 more. The 103 sounded like shattering glass it was so harsh in the top end. The 102 was pretty harsh too, but I feel that top end could be dialed back in post with Soothe2. The only one that sounded good to me was the TLM67. I'd use an Austrian Audio OC18 over any of them though
@@henrikpetersson3463 It’s the resonant frequencies I don’t like. A flat top end doesn’t have to harsh or grating, but in the case of the TLM103 it does. I like the top end of the OC818 and OC18. It’s present without sounding harsh.
yo what type of money u got to just have these mics laying around like plates????????? i be here with the neewer nw800 hella vocal chain just go get that muddy low out we coolin tho
thanks a lot for test ... interesting ..... why not singing constantly at the high of the membrane(s)? Your room is not treated properly, talking about acoustic. That can be heard, when you singing at wider distance. That makes it more difficult to judge the sound of the microphone
You make it hard to pay attention, Your singing is so good it distracts me from what mic you're using, Great comparison video (Probably the best products on earth to compare)
I've used multiple Neumann microphones over the years and each of them have their own tonal characteristics which might suit some recording situations over others. Was an owner of the TLM102, then 2 U87Ai but I've since sold all of them off and let me explain why: 1. I personally think Neumann microphones given their long lineage in microphone design and technology isn't all that bad, it has a reputation and sound that precedes its cost. Most of your favourite records in one way or another have probably been recorded on a Neumann microphone. 2. Super expensive for hobbyist and beginner producers/recording engineers but if you see it as an investment, it'll pay itself off over time. With solid-state microphones like the TLM series and the FET series (purple badge), you have a keeper for a long time. 3. The TLM102 whilst the most affordable model in the Neumann range actually punches above its weight, the lack of features like a pad or a HPF obviously contributes to the cost-savings but overall I personally found it lacklustre for what I did; i mainly recorded vocals and sometimes for certain genres like R&B and hip-hop, I need to do quite a bit of work in the mix stage to get it to sit in the mix. It's great as an all-rounder tho, have done guitars/toms/drums with it and holds up well. Handles high SPL levels well too. The mids are much more muted than what you'll get with the 103 or U87, might be good for singers who tend to sound really bright. 4. I had 2 U87s after that, I actually got a 2011 model off a friend who actually bought it new and didn't even use it, that was my main workhorse for about 2 years-ish, but I've observed multiple issues with the microphone which was inherently part of its design; the pad changes the sound of the mic, if anyone owns a U87Ai and hasn't used it before, go try it out, record something on the normal settings, turn on the pad and re-record the same thing again, level match it and compare. The pad filter changes the sound of the microphone in a unpleasant way. From what I understand, it's actually something to do with pad being mechanical in design (i could very well be wrong but I've spoken to some microphone designers/repair guys and that's what they told me). The second issue is that the rated SPL level for the microphone is super super low compared to modern microphone designs; 117dB SPL without the pad. My experience is that with louder singers who get close to the microphone, there is some HF distortion that happens which is quite unpleasant and apart from pulling them away from the mic, there's nothing much you can do about it. This was verified by the famed Neumann guru Klaus Heyne on Gearspace when I posted about it. 5. Between the 2 U87Ais I owned, the other one was a 2009 model which i exchanged for an Avalon 737 as the other guy who owned the mic wanted a 737 as i was trying to sell it off and i'd figured it was easier to sell a mic than a 737. When i got it, i noticed the output of the mic was much much lower than my 2011 model. Initially I thought i got a faulty mic and I went on Gearspace to consult about this issue, Klaus Heyne actually replied my post and told me to swap the capsules between the mics to troubleshoot what the issue was, if the sound traveled with the capsule swap, it was the capsule, if the sound stayed, it was the internal circuitry that's the issue. In the end, the sound traveled and he explained that after the early 2000s when Neumann was trying to increase production of their microphones, they basically changed the tolerances of the capsules leaving the factory. What this means is that some capsules were over-tightened on the line but according to Neumann specs they still "passed". I just happen to get an over-tightened capsule so I couldn't use both U87Ais as a stereo pair. Unfortunate. In the end I sold both off to friends but of course i told them about the condition of the mics and explained that they can consider getting the capsule replaced if they want to. Never missed using a Neumann mic after. That being said, they aren't bad microphones, I've heard the TLM107 in action and it sounds beautiful. The studio I go to regularly to record has a U67 reissue that I would choose on some occasions and it performs great. I also have used the M149 on multiple occasions and at some point did consider getting one myself. But all-in-all, I do think the U87 is over-rated and over-hyped. The TLM67 kicks ass tho. My 5 cents worth!
Just returned my 102 prolly gonna check out the 103. The 102 sounded good the size of the mic turned me off honestly. Petty I know but just being honest lol
@@larrycomno your right! I just rather and have the budget to wait to try the 103 and I needed a reference to compare it to never owned a Nuemann before my current mic is a nt1a which is just fine as well never know might go back to it (102) lol
Excellent comparison. Ultimately, it's what matches your voice -- your instrument. We came to the same conclusions. Too add, for your voice -- and thanks for emphasizing that -- the crispy 103 would also stand out in a mix. The 49 was a close 2nd, but its presence silking might disappear you in a dense final.
That what I was thinking. The TLM170 is one of my most used mics. And the TLM193 is probably the best sounding out of the TLM-series. Out of this test the TLM49 sounded the most interesting to me
Ok that was some impressive prominence and editing to have you look like your singing continuously while the microphones change. I know how you did it but you did it very well must of taken alot of effort and time, I respect you for that. In My personal opinion however I didn't hear much difference in the mics enough, I'd probably go for the mid range price.
I bought a TLM 49 on Craigslist for $800 (mint) without a shock mount. Then it took forever to find a shock mount for it. Finally I find one and buy it. When it arrived, the mic just wouldn't screw in. I finally noticed part of the mount was bent. The whole time i was trying to screw the mic in, it scratched up the logo really bad :( I took a look at the pictures of the shock mount from the original listing and it was indeed slightly bent there too. I was so bummed. Every time i see all those scratches it royally bugs me. Since it was my first Neumann mic, I didn't know the shock was bent. Oh well. I'm not sure how much that devalues it and I'm probably never going to sell it anyway.
this song suits your voice so well, you’re an amazing singer!!! i got distracted from comparing microphones because i was so into your voice singing the song haha!!!
I've owned a 49 for 3+ years and I'm always surprised how amazing it sounds for the price. On your track specifically, the 49 tamed the dynamics and captured the airiness of your voice.
I use the 49 every week personally it has to be one of the best vocal mics ever made even to this day pair it with some good plug ins that mic blows me away everytime I’m jus t astonished with it it truly is smooth and just brilliant not hyped bright nothing it’s just stellar
Your voice would benefit much more from a tube mic and/or preamp, and not one of these. As your volume increases, the upper mids become overly-strident and fatiguing.
Microtech Gefell M71s or M930 beats all of this tlm's. The M71s still use the real M7 capsule which was used in the vintage U-47 mic. If needed a multi pattern mic then the UMT70s. Nowadays the Neumann is owned by Sennheiser. Microtech Gefell continues the Neumann tradition of high quality microphones.
The answer is : if you get that kind of money buy whatever you want that fits your voice and your style. At this level you should know for yourself. Me, I know that the AKG C414 is my all time favorite. For some it's the U87, one of those, or maybe the Sony or U47 (but those are absurd at the price they got) or a D112 or a Schoeps, telefunken... pricier than a 102 or 103, probably. But then again, past this pricepoint, today, really it's a matter of taste.
AMAZING JOB MAN! great video, great song, great voice, great production... in my humble opinion... for the huge diference of price... it is much worth it the TLM102 or 103 unless money doesnt matter to you jaja
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I just want to say that I REALLY appreciate the looping of the same vocal phrase for an optimal comparison. Shot!
I own a TLM 107. People haven't been paying much attention to this mic because their minds are too focused on the 103 or even the U87. People just don't know what they are missing.
Facts!!
This is the best Neumann video you've done so far.
I like the TLM107 alot, but don’t like it on vocals, on bass, drums, overheads, misc instruments really great, prefer with good preamp like 1073 or Daking
@@BrianSladek well, I like it on my voice
I ordered C414 XLII because I prefer its less sibilant nature to TLM 103, but the wonderful transient response on 107 made me rethink my decision. You can really hear the difference in this video: th-cam.com/video/wCozRZkquCg/w-d-xo.html Waiting for both 414 and 107 to arrive to do some tests, but have a gut feeling 107 is going to be the keeper.
Tlm 49 is definitely on another level🔥🔥🔥 Mic comparisons from this channel is my favourite typa content fr🔥🤩
I own the TLM 103, but in this comparison, the TLM 102 really performed great. In other comparisons I recognised that the U87 had more body/low end than both the 102 and 103. I am a bit surprised that none of the more expensive mics in this comparison had the same amount of body. I was listening through good speakers in a treated room and the biggest surprise is, how little differences there are at least to my ears. In a blind test, I would have failed miserably.
On his voice at least, 102 always sounds best to me, IMO. Very balanced, and free of coloration. The 107 sounds great too.
I never used the 67, but owning the others I must say: I love the TLM 49 over the others.
Hmm I actually wasn't a huge fan of the TLM 67, I found it the most dynamic... My favorite was the TLM 49 and then surprisingly the TLM 103! I found the 102 a little tinny for my liking (and for his voice). If I were Ed's engineer, I would definitely use the 49, then double with the 103.
Great video, thanks for the knowledge 🤙
Thanks for watching 🙏🏻
I love my TLM 103 but man the the 49 sounds great. If the lottery gods smile upon me, I'd buy the lot. It's a great video. Thanks Edward.
Completely agree. On other videos of other singers too, prefer the TLM49. But the TLM 103 is quite good too. With a Neve style pre, the TLM 103 into LA-2A style comp sounds even more right. Whereas, I think the TLM49 sounds tonally about right as is, just needs a good clean pre. Honestly, I think the TLM 67 sounds too flat, like it's already got a vintage preamp character baked in, which I'd rather have the flexibility of molding. And at the price, the TLM102 I wouldn't use, it's too thin and flinty, I'd reach for an AKG C-414 / Austrian Audio OC-16 / Sony C-80 / Soyuz 1973 or Microtech Gefell 930 instead.
I love my 49!
ive had my 103 for almost 10 years and ive loved every moment of our journey. amazing video my friend, subbed!
same here, took me years of in depth research and hard thinking, but I never never never ever regretted getting the TLM 103, and I hope it will outlast me and get into the hands of one of my nieces or kids one day and be their lifetime companion aswell :D
thanks a lot for sharing ! It's funny how sound appeals to us differently. I thought the tlm 103 and 67 were the worst with your voice. I liked the 107 i think it was the most balanced. good video !
Wow, you sound the smoothest on the TLM 67. It sounded the most like how a finished record feels to me. The TLM 49 had the same body and presence as the 67, it just had a honky high mid resonance. You also sound really great through the 103 and 107. All of the mics sound like part of the same family, though. The capsules are incredibly well designed and manufactured at Neumann. They're arguably still the very best at it. I have a u87ai here that was made last year. Not sure what was going on at the lab when mine was made, but it sounds extra good compared to every other modern u87 I've work with. Super grateful to have it!
the 49 stands out from all the others, it combines the not harsh high end without missing detail or sounding dull, and the mid forward cutting thru
great shoot out...thanks a lot
Agree!!! Thanks for watching!!
The TLM 103 just sound so warm and bright using the dt 990 headphones, It was my choice from the beginning and now from this comparison, I cannot go wrong with my next purchase.
great comparison. All mics can use the same shockmount? thanks a lot!
Bottom line. Get the best that you can afford without stressing yourself then concentrate on the creative process. The microphone is typically the least important part of the chain of variables. A good performance with a cheap mic will be better than a lackluster performance on a 10K microphone. Besides you might be stressed to haul out your 10K mic to capture a great performance that actually puts the tools at some risk. I had a U47 get seriously damaged when a 57 would have done the trick from the beginning. These comparison videos are helpful for people trying to do their diligence prior to spend a bunch of money. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a more expensive mic is going to radically transform the song. Psychologists call this “magical thinking.” Once you purchase the mic spend hours and hours learning how to get the most out of it and never blame the mic for a poor result.
The 67 sounds like a record, rather than a crispy home studio.
TLM 67 is a BANGER. One of the best acoustic guitar mics.
Hi Edward, Im really into music but i dont have the money to buy the equipment and your videos motivate me. Continue like this!!! I love your videos!!!
Favorite music TH-camr by far keep up the good work
Thanks so much!!! I appreciate your support 🙏🏻
Everything depends on the buck u pay.. but I would rather go for the tlm 102.. which sounds awesome according to my budget..
Thanks for d excellent review bro 👍
That tlm 49 is full and smooth and controlled the vocal so dam good the bottom end is amazing and I didn’t hear any weird high end it wasn’t brittle it just held everything together like glue 🔥
Ya ya ! ❤
They are nice but ridiculously overpriced. There are mics that are just as good for a lot less money these days!
Bro do you mind naming a few? I was about to look into these
@@GFODT562 sure. Take a look at anything from Lauren Audio. The LA320, for example, is an incredible tube driven mic for very little money. Also, Warm Audio make good copies of classic mics for a lot less money. sE Electronics are another quality brand for very little money. It really depends what your budget is and what you are looking for.
@GFODT562 Also take a look at Acustica Audio Lava mic emulation they are crazy good .
@@GFODT562lol fr im look at a aston spirit right now
@@_YoungKD what are you using rn
What I did is I decided I wanted a TLM 103 for about a year and then right before I purchased I found and got a Lauten Clarion FC-357 instead 😂🔥
This made me so happy to read. So glad people are finally catching on that mic is so underrated.
I have a tlm 103 already it’s it’s a dope ass mic and my next purchase is literally the Lauten audio clarion Fc - 357 ‼️ beast mic and I need to get mines now before everyone catches on and they bump up the price lol 😂 💪🏽 how you liking the sound from it ?
@@JuanRamone23 It's the best. Versatile, warm lows, plenty of smooth air in the highs. Honestly the dry signal sounds so good and cuts through the mix so well that I don't even want to put reverb on it half of the time. It sounds like it costs twice as much
@@huesmusic9526 I started wanting the TLM 103 so bad, but saw a video from AudioHaze calling the Clarion a "TLM 103 killer". Loved the versatility and the dry signal it sounds like butter imo. Love how rich this thing sounds and the dry signal just sits with subtle mixing and only needs a touch of reverb.
@@brendanpatrickmusic same story for me but I actually owned a TLM 103, and as great as it sounded at times it was so tedious to eq because of the high frequencies. What’s funny is I actually was looking to get the Atlantis, but I came across the Clarion which was significantly cheaper and on sell for 1000. I thought after I ordered I would regret it, but the first time I heard my voice through the Clarion I fell in love still to this day I can’t believe its the price it is. You said it perfectly u get the high end sound the TLM 103 has but even better and much smoother!
Why does this guy say "as a singer songwriter" and I can't find any of his original songs.. only gear salesmanship?
And he’s a pretty pitchy
I'm definitely getting the TLM 49💯
ive been mixing and mastering for 20 years and used all of these, truth once a track has been mastered, you couldnt tell the difference between the 800 dollars or the 8000 dollars. save money go for the 102 or 103. this guy in the video is using effects /compression / reverb.! so its the 102 or 103 for 700 dollars. thats all ya need
this is the absolute truth
currently on the fence between the 102 and 103. this may have pushed me to upgrade to the 103. great video.
Wonderful video! i'm a session musician and in my studio i use the tlm 102 + Electro voice EV re 20. I play and record all saxophones and flute..The tlm 102 for me is better than 103 because is clear , a little bit more flat than 103.
The 103 has more high frequences ( saxophone doesn't need ) and in some case 103 sounds more "muddy" in the mix because has even low frequences push up. So the 102 for instrumental use is incredibly good !!
Concise and comprehensive review
Great mics with great sounding qualities
Dope content as usual
The 49 is a standout for vocals, but it's the 67 that won me over for its unique character and versatility; it sounds equally good on acoustic instruments as it does on vocals. The 67 is my choice for the "one mic to do it all" winner. It has something special that the other mics are missing- its own signature voicing. The other mics are trying to emulate another classic, but the 67 is a hybrid...almost a "best of" blend. Love it!
The 102 & 103 Fit Your Voice 👍🏻💪🏻
They all sound the same. I am a professional music producer and REALLY can't hear any difference. And IF there is a difference, I don't know i it's better or worse.
Actually I would just buy the most expensive one to flex with it in front of the vocalist.
But in reality, I appreciate the compactness and low price of the 102 and go with it.
Tlm 102 is perfect fit for your vocal.
49 is killer then the 102, the 103 and the 67 sounds cheap
I got a Neumann tlm 103 on Facebook marketplace for fairly cheap, and i need to find out if it’s real. What should I do?
Your voice in 67 does not stand out, it is probably also because you are directed too low in the diaphragm due to the size of the microphone.
I'm kinda glad that almost 15 years ago I wanted a TLM102 or 103 so so so so bad but I wanted to buy just one and have it for the rest of my life and was giga lucky that I went for the TLM 103 and a nice preamp (ART Voice Channel) and I still use this daily for everything from Teams Meeting, Videocalling, Gaming, Streaming, Rehearsing Vocals, Recording Vocals. there was never a situation where I felt like "ah I shouldn't have gotten the TLM103, I should've rather gone with the XYZ" - never.
- when it comes to stage microphones though, I can never get it right and be satisfied. that's my curse xD
I don't have any of these mics and I have never used them before but listening to the examples here IMO the TLM 49 would be my choice as a vocalist. Of all the mics tested it gives the most three dimensional sound. I will definitely be looking into getting one
I bought the TLM2 on a whim. I’ve been producing professionally for over 12 years now. This mic is absolutely amazing at its price range! Definitely remove the foam inside the mic first thing, it’ll transform it into such a better vocal mic. Honestly can’t beat it at that price point.
TLM 193 has entered chat.......👀
Does Neumann TLM 102 work well with Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen???
I honestly was kinda hoping you would have done a stand-alone guitar comparison but this still definitely helps. Good song choice btw
I got a 103 off the Facebook marketplace for $680
@6:20 That's what I am looking for Edward, thanks for a great comparison. Cheers Bro.
i'd rather get a shure SM7b, RODE NT1, Blue Spark or a Shure SM58 or 57 if I want a high quality XLR mic
Feels you didn't commit to one in particular... kind of... dishonest...
Personally I like all of them, they all sound clear & professional,
I would say none mostly because of the price, but also 102 and 103 are a bit brighter than perfect. I like how the TLM 193 sounds, but all those microphones are actually very good.
BE AWARE: if your Neumann mic is outside warranty don't send it back to them for repair to Sennheiser/Neumann as I naively did. They came back with a sizeable fee for inspection then a bill 10-20% higher than retail price for the whole mic to replace a capsule!
The 3 options they gave me were:
- pay the large inspection bill and have them returned
- pay over the RRP for the whole microphone to have the only capsule replaced
- Neumann would scrap them "free of charge"
Tlm49 was no slouch!
Could not disagree about the 102 vs 103 more. The 103 sounded like shattering glass it was so harsh in the top end. The 102 was pretty harsh too, but I feel that top end could be dialed back in post with Soothe2. The only one that sounded good to me was the TLM67. I'd use an Austrian Audio OC18 over any of them though
Interesting that you prefer the OC18 which also has a bright top end. I think it's more uncomfortable than the TLM 102. But to each his own.
@@henrikpetersson3463 It’s the resonant frequencies I don’t like. A flat top end doesn’t have to harsh or grating, but in the case of the TLM103 it does. I like the top end of the OC818 and OC18. It’s present without sounding harsh.
67 is amazing sounding .... big body ...
yo what type of money u got to just have these mics laying around like plates????????? i be here with the neewer nw800 hella vocal chain just go get that muddy low out we coolin tho
The application is most important than the mic.
Can you explain in a video how you edit your records, thanks Edward.
I love the tlm 107
Wauw what a beautiful voice..
Thank you!!
thanks a lot for test ... interesting ..... why not singing constantly at the high of the membrane(s)? Your room is not treated properly, talking about acoustic. That can be heard, when you singing at wider distance. That makes it more difficult to judge the sound of the microphone
You make it hard to pay attention, Your singing is so good it distracts me from what mic you're using, Great comparison video (Probably the best products on earth to compare)
Thanks man!!
Is it just me or do they all sound the same? Feels like the Emperor's New Clothes
I can hardly tell the difference. I would just go with the 103 or 7
in between TLM 103 is the best, bul all ways u87 sounds magic 🙏🏽
I thought tge 103 sounded best on this song for your voice.
I've used multiple Neumann microphones over the years and each of them have their own tonal characteristics which might suit some recording situations over others. Was an owner of the TLM102, then 2 U87Ai but I've since sold all of them off and let me explain why:
1. I personally think Neumann microphones given their long lineage in microphone design and technology isn't all that bad, it has a reputation and sound that precedes its cost. Most of your favourite records in one way or another have probably been recorded on a Neumann microphone.
2. Super expensive for hobbyist and beginner producers/recording engineers but if you see it as an investment, it'll pay itself off over time. With solid-state microphones like the TLM series and the FET series (purple badge), you have a keeper for a long time.
3. The TLM102 whilst the most affordable model in the Neumann range actually punches above its weight, the lack of features like a pad or a HPF obviously contributes to the cost-savings but overall I personally found it lacklustre for what I did; i mainly recorded vocals and sometimes for certain genres like R&B and hip-hop, I need to do quite a bit of work in the mix stage to get it to sit in the mix. It's great as an all-rounder tho, have done guitars/toms/drums with it and holds up well. Handles high SPL levels well too. The mids are much more muted than what you'll get with the 103 or U87, might be good for singers who tend to sound really bright.
4. I had 2 U87s after that, I actually got a 2011 model off a friend who actually bought it new and didn't even use it, that was my main workhorse for about 2 years-ish, but I've observed multiple issues with the microphone which was inherently part of its design; the pad changes the sound of the mic, if anyone owns a U87Ai and hasn't used it before, go try it out, record something on the normal settings, turn on the pad and re-record the same thing again, level match it and compare. The pad filter changes the sound of the microphone in a unpleasant way. From what I understand, it's actually something to do with pad being mechanical in design (i could very well be wrong but I've spoken to some microphone designers/repair guys and that's what they told me). The second issue is that the rated SPL level for the microphone is super super low compared to modern microphone designs; 117dB SPL without the pad. My experience is that with louder singers who get close to the microphone, there is some HF distortion that happens which is quite unpleasant and apart from pulling them away from the mic, there's nothing much you can do about it. This was verified by the famed Neumann guru Klaus Heyne on Gearspace when I posted about it.
5. Between the 2 U87Ais I owned, the other one was a 2009 model which i exchanged for an Avalon 737 as the other guy who owned the mic wanted a 737 as i was trying to sell it off and i'd figured it was easier to sell a mic than a 737. When i got it, i noticed the output of the mic was much much lower than my 2011 model. Initially I thought i got a faulty mic and I went on Gearspace to consult about this issue, Klaus Heyne actually replied my post and told me to swap the capsules between the mics to troubleshoot what the issue was, if the sound traveled with the capsule swap, it was the capsule, if the sound stayed, it was the internal circuitry that's the issue. In the end, the sound traveled and he explained that after the early 2000s when Neumann was trying to increase production of their microphones, they basically changed the tolerances of the capsules leaving the factory. What this means is that some capsules were over-tightened on the line but according to Neumann specs they still "passed". I just happen to get an over-tightened capsule so I couldn't use both U87Ais as a stereo pair. Unfortunate. In the end I sold both off to friends but of course i told them about the condition of the mics and explained that they can consider getting the capsule replaced if they want to.
Never missed using a Neumann mic after. That being said, they aren't bad microphones, I've heard the TLM107 in action and it sounds beautiful. The studio I go to regularly to record has a U67 reissue that I would choose on some occasions and it performs great. I also have used the M149 on multiple occasions and at some point did consider getting one myself. But all-in-all, I do think the U87 is over-rated and over-hyped. The TLM67 kicks ass tho.
My 5 cents worth!
Some interesting info! Gracias!
Thank you so much for such great and useful information
M 149. wonderful mic.
What mics do you use now for vocals ?
depends on what I'm looking for. 149 is good. TLM 107 is nice.. Sennheiser 441 is great, too.@@vadimmartynyuk
Neumann Overrated
Not really. They always perform amazing and sound the part. U87 is used all around the world dude and for a good reason.
@@MrSound4Life i know for u87 kind worth it,
But look at the tlm 102 it's harsh cost around $700 that's overrated
I liked the TLM 107 and the 49. Great demo thanks. 😊
TLM 103 has the radio quality feel
I do reggae/dancehall tlm 102 is good for that
hey man mind if you share your tracking compression/eq?
TLM49 stood out to me too. thanks for the comparisons
I really liked the TLM 103 and the 67 (for a dofferent flavour) over the others
That song is fire thats for one all mic sound good
Just returned my 102 prolly gonna check out the 103. The 102 sounded good the size of the mic turned me off honestly. Petty I know but just being honest lol
That was my reasoning too😂 glad I’m not alone in that opinion
Never go by size. The AKG 414 is a small mic too, and it's excellent.
@@larrycomno your right! I just rather and have the budget to wait to try the 103 and I needed a reference to compare it to never owned a Nuemann before my current mic is a nt1a which is just fine as well never know might go back to it (102) lol
I like the 49 then the 102. That little egg sounds great to me. Bang for buck.
TLM 49 sounds the best. no question
The 67 sounds horrible
And Then you need high end mic preamp to optimize the sound
Excellent comparison. Ultimately, it's what matches your voice -- your instrument. We came to the same conclusions. Too add, for your voice -- and thanks for emphasizing that -- the crispy 103 would also stand out in a mix. The 49 was a close 2nd, but its presence silking might disappear you in a dense final.
Interesting perception 👍
Young William Lopez Amy Lee Michael
tl;dr get the tlm 103
Great voice and I think the tlm 103 and tlm67 sound best!
You missed the TLM193 and / or TLM170 :)
That what I was thinking.
The TLM170 is one of my most used mics. And the TLM193 is probably the best sounding out of the TLM-series.
Out of this test the TLM49 sounded the most interesting to me
TLM 49 sounds awesome🎉
Tlm 67 Big Sound !!!
Ok that was some impressive prominence and editing to have you look like your singing continuously while the microphones change. I know how you did it but you did it very well must of taken alot of effort and time, I respect you for that. In My personal opinion however I didn't hear much difference in the mics enough, I'd probably go for the mid range price.
the yodeler
He can’t hit a note with that yoodeling
Nah man skip all this and buy m149 😘
I bought a TLM 49 on Craigslist for $800 (mint) without a shock mount. Then it took forever to find a shock mount for it. Finally I find one and buy it. When it arrived, the mic just wouldn't screw in. I finally noticed part of the mount was bent. The whole time i was trying to screw the mic in, it scratched up the logo really bad :( I took a look at the pictures of the shock mount from the original listing and it was indeed slightly bent there too. I was so bummed. Every time i see all those scratches it royally bugs me. Since it was my first Neumann mic, I didn't know the shock was bent. Oh well. I'm not sure how much that devalues it and I'm probably never going to sell it anyway.
if it helps , the normal mount of the tlm103 fits the tlm49
102 is better for your voice
I love micro neumann and thank. You Edward Smith
this song suits your voice so well, you’re an amazing singer!!! i got distracted from comparing microphones because i was so into your voice singing the song haha!!!
Thank you!!
Please make a video about xlr cable 🙏
I've owned a 49 for 3+ years and I'm always surprised how amazing it sounds for the price. On your track specifically, the 49 tamed the dynamics and captured the airiness of your voice.
I use the 49 every week personally it has to be one of the best vocal mics ever made even to this day pair it with some good plug ins that mic blows me away everytime I’m jus t astonished with it it truly is smooth and just brilliant not hyped bright nothing it’s just stellar
Why did you mike your eyes with the tlm67?
im the 1000th like
Thank you!!
Your voice would benefit much more from a tube mic and/or preamp, and not one of these.
As your volume increases, the upper mids become overly-strident and fatiguing.
I love the sound of the 49 🔥🔥🔥
White on beige not the best contrast, buddy.
Microtech Gefell M71s or M930 beats all of this tlm's. The M71s still use the real M7 capsule which was used in the vintage U-47 mic. If needed a multi pattern mic then the UMT70s.
Nowadays the Neumann is owned by Sennheiser.
Microtech Gefell continues the Neumann tradition of high quality microphones.
The answer is : if you get that kind of money buy whatever you want that fits your voice and your style. At this level you should know for yourself. Me, I know that the AKG C414 is my all time favorite. For some it's the U87, one of those, or maybe the Sony or U47 (but those are absurd at the price they got) or a D112 or a Schoeps, telefunken... pricier than a 102 or 103, probably. But then again, past this pricepoint, today, really it's a matter of taste.
AMAZING JOB MAN! great video, great song, great voice, great production... in my humble opinion... for the huge diference of price... it is much worth it the TLM102 or 103 unless money doesnt matter to you jaja
49 is best out of all In this video.