Neumann

Neumann is owned by the Sennheiser Group, but has a rich history of making great microphones.  Today, they make high-end studio mics, including the quasi-legendary U87, a popular preference among the rockers and divas, past and present.

Neumann emerged in Germany in the late 1920s, in the same era Shure was being established in the U.S.  After making the switch from tubes to solid-state circuitry in the 1960s, the U87 gained recognition as one of the finest studio vocal mics around, and still enjoys that reputation today.

I’ve worked with a U87 several times.  Coupled with the right preamp (in my case, a UA 602), the U87 picks up beautiful tones and all the warm, subtle harmonics that make a great voice.  To record rooms of drums or a horn section, I often use a pair of SKM 184’s.  When positioned correctly, they deliver crystal stereo imaging.

Neumann microphones are pricey, no doubt about it.  They are an investment piece, though, and will become the pride and joy of any studio.  The Neumann SKM 184 microphones run for about $1,650 and a new Neumann U87 runs around $3,000.  MusiciansFriend.com and Amazon.com are your best bet for purchase.