Neumann TLM 102 Vs U87 AI
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ส.ค. 2020
- Just wanted to go ahead and share my experience with the TLM 102 and U87 AI.
The vocal was recorded on both mics at the same time, I stood about 8 inches away from the mic and I did use a pop filter.
If you're in the market for a microphone just know you don't need an expensive mic. to make great sounding music.
Mic Comparison at 7:00
Audio Samples-
drive.google.com/drive/folder...
Purchase the Mics here ⤵️⤵️
Neumann TLM 102-
amzn.to/34EdEAb
Neumann U87 Ai-
amzn.to/2SHUpA0
Rode Video Mic NTG (Mic I used for this video)-
amzn.to/3nyfqeM
Audio Interface I used-
amzn.to/30Njk9S
![[TH] G2 vs PRX | EDG vs FUT - VALORANT Champions 2024 DAY 4](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Bkr_qM7dIaM/mqdefault.jpg)
I agree with you .. I had both the tlm 102 and U87 .. I found it easier to mix with the 102 .. I like the 102 way better . People get blinded by price when it is really about preference when your dealing with higher end mics
This is a really good quality video to be the first video on your channel. You should make a mixing tutorial next. Keep It up man
I was shocked you sounded better on the 102 than on the 87. Keep up the great work bro!
Wow man thank you so much for the review I own a tlm 102 and I was wondering about the u87 AI but really now I am looking at the Manley 🤘🔥😍
The “Manley”?
07:04 for those whose time is precious
pro trick: you can watch series at flixzone. Been using them for watching lots of of movies recently.
@Hezekiah Ricky Definitely, been using Flixzone} for months myself :)
@Hezekiah Ricky Definitely, I've been using Flixzone} for months myself =)
i have a 102 too and i love it. sounds very good. had a few others before like the rode procaster and the s-mic 2s. i am using it for live streams on twitch on a SPL channel one mk 2 pre amp
Sounds like you got yourself a great setup
A very helpful video!! Thank you
Good job on your flows brother. you composed, I hovered.
I have the u87ai and I have had the opportunity to use lots of high end mics. but I must say that Neumann really overdid themselves when they made the tlm 102. It hurts my hart to say that I like it over my u87 on vocals period! The tlm 102 also works much better in a untreated room where the u87ai will become your worst enemy lol. To me it takes eq much better and you can dial in your sound very easy. The u87ai needs a treated room and high end outboard gear to have that sparkle if u ask me. TLM 102 is a BEAST!!!🔥🔥🔥🚀
@@newman2374 yea it definitely is but if your not running a nice Pre and comp with it u would be surprised how much easier it is to get a good sound with a much cheaper Mic. If u haven’t tried it u will never understand where I’m coming from. 😁💯
I agree 👍 the tlm 102 sounds better. Warmer , and less sibilance then the U87AI.
I don’t get the difference regarding the room. If you’re using both in cardioid, there shouldn’t be a difference. I couldn’t justify the price of the U87, but am very satisfied with the TLM 103.
@@dirkpehrke9909 how don’t you “get it”? Every mic works different in untreated rooms.. some work better than others. Its called self noise lil bro. For example, rode nt1 has a self noise of like 5db and a tlm 102 has a self noise of 12db so that means the rode will pick up less background noise n stuff like that. Does that mean its a better mic than the 102? Nah, it jus means it’s better for untreated rooms jus like how the 102 is better for untreated rooms compared to the u87. The u87 will pick up cars driving by and everything thats why its better for a sound treated room/studio
I’m blessed I bought the right mic tlm102
I think you need to run the u87 through some outboard gear to get the sound you thought you were gonna get. I own a 102 and I'm wondering if I need to upgrade too. Can you do a vid showing how to remove the filter in the 102?
Thanks for making this video!
Question which microphone would you recommend a female rapper I was thinking of getting the u87 but that might not be the best for me I have a tiny bit of higher pitch sound thanks
Great review I love the TLM 103, had a 102 in the past and traded it in and got the 103. Now we use a U87ai tho. The U87 through the Avalon 737 Unison gives it that brightness I think u like from the TLM 102. Price wise tho can’t beat the 102 but the U87 sounded better to me. That bottom end difference is everything.
so do you think the tlm 103 is absoluetly worth it for just vocals bro?
@@timuryesa Bro the U87 isn't worth it. TLM 102-103 will do the job with a little Eq. You can hear it. Bright, fresh, dominant. It's a good mic for the mix, 102 and 103. You must learn eq though.
@@TheRealDirtySkillz hey Bro thanks, but I don’t think so. The tlms are the poor mens u87. The u87 is excellent. You can transform the vocals in every direction, so that it even sounds like Sony c800g. Tlm is too harsh especially the 103. People gave me this advice but my opinion and my ear told me, the u87 is crazy!!! I never regret the purchase. It’s industry standard.
@@timuryesa Are you talking about standards or worth it for the money? If you talking about a hobbyist, no money involved I'll be going for the TLM. If you actually make money and have clients go for the U87 who cares. You'll make the money back as people use the studio.
@@TheRealDirtySkillz appreciate your help bro! But It’s Definetly not just for hobby. Its for professional. And I think when I pair it with an analog Avalon 737 into an rme babyface, it’s GAME OVER hahaha. Can’t wait for this combination!
102 for the win. wow!
Everybody called me stupid af for buying the 102 but I’m convinced I made the right choice now that more reviews have surfaced on YT when I bought it , it was more of a blind purchase just putting my faith in the brand of Neumann tbh . Great Work .
That 87 sounded like what I've been trying to mix my vocals to sound like 😂 So I need a mic that does most of the work damn
On god 😭😂
The u87 is definitely worth it. It sounds better when it's mixed down
Are you familiar with the Warm Audio WA 47? How does it compare to a TLM 103?
hello ... I saw that at your microphone tlm 102 you took the sponge out of the capsule ... is there a major difference between sponge and without?
Three years late. It makes a very large difference as I have owned this mic and it takes a shroud of darkness away from the mic by removing it
Good sound, tell me friend, was the bass cut on the u87 turned on? big rgds
are you using another preamp outside of the UA pres?
Props for doin this video!
I already have a TLM 102 but I want to take my vocals to the next level. I’m gonna upgrade and get the U87 Ai.
Thank you, hopefully you get the sound you’ve been looking for out of the U87 Ai. There’s nothing better than finding your end game microphone.
Love my u87ai. Had the 102 and 103 then u87ai. Never looked back. Versatility and flexibility in use with many sources and frequency response is key. If I could not have this u87ai I would use either a tlm103 or an Austrian Audio OC818. im not big on plugins as I run a lunchbox with a neve 1073lb|1073lbeq> 2264alb > Prism into Protools. Got rid of my old apollo for my prism. 102 is a nice budget mic for sure, especially if you have to mic extreme high volume sources.
Tlm 102 better in my opinion u87 over priced
87 for sure, very informative video...
Hi would you recommend an upgrade from at4040 to tlm102 or tlm103 for vocals ? Which would run through isa one? Or is it not worth the price ?
@G.V Music i know i own one since 2013, but now (as an audiophile) I am being hungry again for some upgrade that’s why I’m asking
What plugins you used for the 102?
I've recorded into 87AI and 67's, the 102 is killer though for the price though. The last studio I was in had at least 7 different types of Neumanns, they are all good, just depends on your usage...and then there is EQ that can be done in post.
The polar patterns will let you control the proximity effect for a vocalist. If you want intimate vocals try omni and you can get closer. If you want more bass put it to figure 8.
The TLM 102 through a 1073 is butter. One of the best combos out there.
Which one is that one bro? Could u send a link?
Is USB audio interface with TLM 102 bad for youtube? I just found the mic in my attic, left it there from when I use to be heavy in music lol
😂
What are you running that TLM102 ?
Do you think the tlm 102 on emotional rap songs would be good? What type of vocals do you think is best for it?
Marcus I think it’d do well on an emotional rap song.
As far as vocals go, I think it sounds best on Male rap vocals.
I’ve found it sounds a bit boxier on Female singers/ rappers. All in all having a good vocal performance recorded and knowing your way around the EQ can make the TLM 102 or many other budget mics sound great.
Great video and comparison, I had the tlm 102 and loved it as well. Ended up upgrading to the u87ai. I had a bit of regret because like you , I didn’t hear a huge difference but still a great mic nonetheless.
For me the u87 fit better in the mix
Great video. I think the 87 gave your voice more grit which sounds less pointy and sharp which was cool.
Does removing the foam for TLM102 a very noticeable sound difference?
YES
How would you remove the foam inside the tlm 102? I just don’t want to break mine hahaha. thanks and love the video man.
I appreciate it, thank you!
It’s pretty simple.
You don’t need any tools to do this.
Make sure you have your microphone disconnected and out of the shock mount.
Also keep it on a flat stable surface or a table top before trying this.
You want to make sure it stays propped at an upward standing position, so nothing falls out.
To start off completely unscrew the silver ring that’s around the mic, gently remove the grill by lifting it upward, be careful and make sure you don’t hit the diaphragm.
Inside the grill you’ll find a thin piece of foam (pop filter) , pull it out, and you should be good to put the grill back on and screw the silver ring back on tightly.
Make sure you don’t throw away the internal pop filter, Incase you do decide that you prefer it on or want to sell the microphone in the future.
I hope these instructions help.
Kendrick vibes! 🤘👽U87 is perfection, the 102 very close though. 👌
I just ordered a tlm 102 My homie has a original UA47 I recorded on it & vocals was nice. I record with a $300 Se Electronics Mic with a Apollo Twin & my vocals come out good with a bit of mixing adding before recording & applying plugins after I record.
Manley reference or the Lauten audio eden you should look into for more pop modern sound.
The TLM 102 sounds better on your voice! This vid made me get me one the othet day. Is this recorded without the internal popfilter? How far from the mic are you recording this?
Nice verse btw! 🔥👏
my god that u87 is such a nice polished sound
the tlm102 sounds great on you. if you really sell the u87, look into a brauner phantom classic, a great sounding mic with very detailed high end.
You snapped
Nice video
Thank you
Song? 👀
Avalon 737 preamp make a difference with the u87
How much for u87 boss
GOOD HONEST VIDEO!!! I owned U87 for like 16 years and I can tell you...you're paying for the durability,,, this mic just will not break, I just sold it because I was struggling for money but other than that I wish I had alternatives, I did not want to sell that microphone. I have the TLM102 and it is like a ford compared to a BMW, but if I had money like you, I would keep 2 U87s this dude got the ADAMS IN THE BACKGROUND...LOL I need to step my game up
Hope my u87 ai coming my way sounds better than this! Sorry bro I fast forwarded to recordings what do you run your mics through?
That might have to do alot with the results your getting
I run it thru an Apollo Twin X. I’m sure you’ll love the U87 AI, it just wasn’t for me.
@@adudenamedmiguel that's it? I have a Uad Apollo twin pretty much the same thing u had that was when I stepped into the plugin world and some wat professional world of recording at first thought that's all I needed Uad plugins but within 2 month I knew I needed more than just the Apollo. Try purchasing a nice preamp to complement your Apollo I guarantee it you will see the difference right away
That’s exactly what I’ve been thinking, there’s just so many good pre amp options out there to choose from. Which one do you have?
@@adudenamedmiguel I went with a manley
Tbh beat choice should be a huge factor in mic choice. The u87 has a fuller sound quality meant for bigger beats and vocals.
I see that you removed inner foam from tlm102?
Gives you better clarity
Would love a u87 I had a problem like this with a Tlm 103 until I added a focusrite isa 1 with Safire 14. They discontinued support for the Safire 14 haven’t been able to get the same sound out of the Tlm 103 but it immediately made the mic sound way fuller and in your face back then but made the fatal mistake I upgraded the iMac from high sierrA which was the worst decision of my life because the Safire 14 wouldn’t work. I’m finally getting the quality back with a zoom f3 going into the isa preamp. My zen go usbc was complete shti compared to the focusrite Safire 14. I have the Tlm 107 is well and the switches on that in cardioid mode if I put the high pass to the bottom it makes the mic sound like I’m coming up from under a TH-cam free beat like I’m sitting in the mix rather than on top of it with out adding eq that’s with the zoom f3 in 32bit float mode and it is a complete game changer so I know what you mean with the u87 switches they are also an even better game changer.. I haven’t added any content with the zoom f3 and isa set up yet but I will be soon
I've a TLM102 now, the TLm102 always sounds like it's being coated by something dark in the lower frequencies and a deliberate sparkle on top, but that sparkle is quite intentional added and does not sound as natural. I've noticed this on my own mix and other famous TH-camr that used this mic as well (Since they are doing covers for their channel I assume that they recorded the covers in a well treated room and the tracks are sent for proper mixing and mastering). From your comparison, there is a little difference between the TLM102 and and U87AI unprocessed. But after adding compression and EQ, there difference is much much bigger. The TLM102 sounds more brittle, thin and bright (Without maintaining the details). But Even after adding the effects for the U87AI, it sounded like it is compressed and reverbed (as it is suppose to be) however it still sounds natural and able to maintain the mid range details without being bright. So I can conclude that is either there is different Compressor + Reverb settings applied on both mics that made them sound rather drastically different after adding effects. Or I can conclude that not only the U87Ai sounds more natural but also able to maintain it's naturalness and vocal details after applying effects without sounding thin, or bright. Seems like I'm aiming for a U87AI, let's just end the game.
@@MattDxstined do u think it’s worth upgrading from Rode Nt1a to TLM 102?
@@Kay_Locc yes it is
I have the 102 and it sounds good.. But I could definitely tell the difference with the u87.. Sounds beautiful
The sound of the tlm102 really impressed me, I liked that brightness, it is expected that the u87 sounds incredible, but I must admit that I liked the sound of the tlm102 more than the u87, honestly I laugh a lot with the result, it is unbelievable
I can hear the "slight" difference between the U87 and TLM 102 just dont think its worth the extra couple grand for this mic, everyone comes from a different musical genre and background and I dont think the U87 is a "one size, fits all" I think for home studios and having a good sense of knowing how to mix the TLM 102 is a great mic
@Sash Campbell sounds slight to me .. but it is all about preference
87 sounds definitely more richer but the 102 damn! Shocked me to the fact that I need to go and order one tomorrow.
Did u end up spending $3,600?🤣 i feel u bro if I could afford one I’d buy it with no regrets
The TLM 102 actually won. It sounds way better in the mix than the u87.
Hey bro - I liked this comparison. The modern sharp feel like lil wayne and Chris brown type songs I feel like they are on the TLM 102. It's cleaner, suits your voice, and the U87 sounds thicker. Maybe a little warmer - which too me means a little eq in the mids to lower end freq needs to be cut. Agree it's not required. I might save up for that shit to be honest. The apollo lets it shine for real.
Why don't you compress on the way in so the vocals sound more controlled? It's less work later on.
Good. I have 2 TLM 102 and I would have died on the spot had the U87 sounded like the same. Not that the difference sounds like $3000 but at least you know you will get a bit of more quality. Nevertheless, the TLM 102 beats the U87 in the price/performance category.
big difference to me. the 87 sound more smoother on the top end. and it also takes better to the eq. you vocal sound more natural to me with the 87.
I definitely agree. The u87 is just a higher class. He prefers something warm like a tube mic. You know the Manley
U87 all the way
TLM 102 definitely sounded brighter. I too think it sounded better for your voice.
Subjectively, the U87 has that famous transformer character and highs that are not hyped as most of the modern microphones.
Objectively, put those two mics in the mix and do the EQ, make a blind test and no one would ever notice that you used two different microphones.
Damn the TLM 102 Is more brighter than the u87 I like the TLM 102
Guys. No such thing as a better mic. All depends on the source or voice. No such thing as a rap mic or a rock mic. They all have different frequency responses. And the u87 has a transformer which adds “weight” to the sound that the 102 doesn’t have since it’s transformer less.
Dont sleep on mics like the Sm7, RE20, Warm audio 47jr, 47tube, 251 and price does not make a difference it’s all in the source the material and what you are going for.
U87 all the way it’s not just that it sounds better but it also can take a shit load of processing and still hold it’s body , tone ,and sound . What I also mean is u can shape the sound how ever u like u can make it sound just like your 102 but better, I bet if u he take out a nice bit of 2 to 300 hz he would be like wow and the vocal still won’t sound thin and harsh
That's what makes the u87ai special
The u87 sounds more pro and smooth
How does the 102 stand vs the 103?
Between those two I’d go with the 103. The higher frequency boost would cut better thru the mix, it adds a bit more air on the top end, also the 102 is the little brother for a reason. If you got the extra funds I’d definitely check the Tlm 103 out.
A Dude Named Miguel bro I been researching all day and I came to the same conclusion 103 is pretty sick
@@adudenamedmiguel the 103 is a horrible horrible mic, and the 102 is not its little brother, its actually its own mic and not similar to the 103
You should stack up multiple travks with instruments recorder with the u87 then ypu hear the diff even beter
I have the 102. looking online you will always find a “ better “ mic. I’ve seen the Austrian Audio mic’s. Telefunken. Lauten audio. I like the 102 though.
It’s not a recording mode. It is know as a Polar Pattern. Also, the U87 is legendary. The AI version is the new version. Use an old U87 you will feel different.
I know 🤦🏽♂️ after I recorded this video and watched it back and I had planned to put a *Polar Pattern* correction text every time I said “recording mode”. Unfortunately I forgot to add it in the editing process, I’m glad you caught that and commented on it.
Try uad 610 preamp with u87 ai
TRUTH!!
Very interesting but the 87 sounds better to me. I believe it comes down to what you like at the end of the day. Send that 87 this way.
That U87ai sounds better for you man but like I said before that manley ref or lauten eden will get you that modern sound
The modern sound is what I’ve been aiming for, for a while now.
When I first heard my vocals on the Manley and compared them to the U87 Ai vocals I was kinda leaning more towards the U87 Ai, so I was kind of in regret.
But once I ran it through the HA-73 EQ pre amp, I fell in love with the sound.
@@adudenamedmiguel I think you should check out the Lauten Eden also. It has 3 multi voice modes. It might give you a better sound. I sent you this message on your new video. I'm feeling your vocal chain also. The U87ai is an amazing mic lol. The manley is close to sony c800g
I feel like your vocals are a bit under compressed. U87 is a classic mic most definitely. If you had it compressed more probably then U87 would shine.
Great video. I think the U87ai really upped the sound of your tune to "radio-ready". You nailed it when you said you preferred the TLM102 because you're used to it. Listening with an unbiased set of ears - U87ai sounds like its price tag. Bums me out because I was going to pull the trigger on a TLM102 today. Dig the sample of your tune BTW. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you! Listening back I do agree the U87 ai gives you that “radio ready” sound, it definitely is a great mic and I would highly recommend it if you have the budget. The TLM 102 isn’t for everybody though, especially if your looking for that “radio ready” sound. Have you looked into the TLM 103?
TLM 102 sounds much better in my opinion!
i prefer u 87 for the smooth top end , 102 is great but the edgy top end , sometimes, can be a problem for world class sound , cause it is not easy on the ear to work on high frequency , they hurt you quickly and impact your judgement easily .
What you talking about bro? the u87 STANDS OUT STOUT! Its frigging GREAT on YOUR VOICE. KEEP IT!!!
Goood video
8:09 tlm 102 mix
8:26 u87 mix
nice comparison. i just have never liked the 102, honestly i think a rode nt1 sounds better for less than half the price.
The u87 was way smoother. They both sounded good though some better processing would help out the tlm 102. Im not an audio engineer just a listener and artist myself who own none of these mics lol
To be honest, I think that the tlm 102 sounds better in the mix, because its brighter and clearer. I reckon the u87 will sound good on females cause it has more low end. The tlm 102 has more high end and really brings out the male voice. But great comparison👍🏼
Keep that u87 man... The highs sounds much better on that mic, your voice sound much better and smoother on that one. You probably are too used to the 102, but trust me, that u87 sounds fuller and creamy..
He went with the manley
U 87 sounds fuller in the lows/mids but doesn’t have this brightness that the 102. For your voice better the 102 (without eq the highs).
Sell the u87 and buy a great pre/comp
I truly believe this was a bad Comparison nothing against the 102 because I know how clean it is but the U87 ai is a monster of a mic
I think the u87 suits your voice waaaay better than the 102. Much more clear and natural sound.
You need a compression and better eq technique, sound like you rapping out your noise
A 700 dollar microphone is a budget option??
It’s the budget option for the Neumann brand
Jesus loves you sir !
Tripping bro . That u87 got you sounding right
ur delusional
The TLM 102 obviously sounds better than the U87 both wet and dry, this may be due to the fact that it's brighter, an average human will perceive a brighter sound as better. At the end, both are great microphones, but for your vocals, I'll definitely stick to the TLM 102
it does sound better lol
In My opinion Tlm 102 Sounds better i mean more open! It sounds brighter..When I hear the Neumann u87 microphone, I just want to immediately remove everything that's in front of it. It sounds like there's a sponge in front of it. To be honest the u87 s got better low end... For 2k i personally just expect more...
It’s actually $3.6k not $2k bro. If that’s what u meant wen u said 2k
@@Kay_Locc thx Bro :-)
@@m4schine-gun-kellyiii343exactly the tlm102 sounds better
I think that the TLM 102 is a Sennheiser MK4 in a Neumann casing, the 250 USD extra you'll pay would be for the "Neumann" brand. Keep in mind, Neumann belongs to the Sennheiser Group.
this is not true
Tlm 102 Is reality Better on your voice, U87 was darker but in a less clear way, had more room resonances, was too nasal. No doubt in 2016 I had a great deal even if the cutted the price today
So I’m hearing the U87Ai is Smoother, Clearer and Makes U sound Professional. , TLM 102 is To Bright and thin ! Hugh Difference . I’m listening on a older IPad and it’s sooo obvious!! Stay with the U87 Ai and your Be Loved ! I’m surprised tat All these ears don’t hear that Beautiful high in Quality .
High in Quality , the TLM 102 is a beginners. Mic but the , TLM 103 if u can afford it , is the best Beginner Mic. Then U87 A i is your Pro Mic !!! But keep the TLM 103 if u can. These 2 mic’s will serve u well
the u87 sit more smooth in the mix
there's a difference, but not a $2500 difference
It didn't sound bad but i think there was a huge difference... 4 real the U87 sounded like a record while the 102 sounded more like a homemade track... if u get what i mean...
ur delusional
The U87 wins by far.