The Neumann U87 is one of the most iconic microphones in the history of sound recording. For over five decades, it has been the go-to tool for countless musicians, producers, and sound engineers. But have you ever wondered when this legendary microphone first made its debut? Let’s take a journey through time to uncover the answer.
The Pre-U87 Era: A Brief History Of Neumann
To understand the significance of the U87, it’s essential to take a step back and explore the origins of Neumann, the company behind this legendary microphone. Founded in 1928 by Georg Neumann, the company started as a small workshop in Berlin, Germany, specializing in the production of high-quality microphones.
In the early years, Neumann focused on developing innovative microphone designs, such as the CMV3, which was used in the 1936 Olympic Games. During World War II, the company shifted its focus to producing communication equipment for the German military. However, after the war, Neumann returned to its roots, continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of sound technology.
The Birth Of The U47 And The Evolution Of Neumann
In the late 1940s, Neumann introduced the U47, a condenser microphone that would become an instant classic. The U47 was designed by Neumann’s chief engineer, Werner Kübart, and was initially intended for use in film and broadcasting. However, its versatility and exceptional sound quality soon made it a favorite among musicians and recording studios.
The U47’s success was a significant turning point for Neumann, establishing the company as a leader in the microphone industry. Over the next few decades, Neumann continued to innovate, releasing a range of microphones that cemented their reputation for excellence.
The Dawn Of The U87: A New Era For Neumann
In 1967, Neumann introduced the U87, a microphone that would revolutionize the recording industry. The U87 was designed to be a more versatile and flexible version of the U47, with a range of features that made it an instant hit.
The U87’s innovative design included:
- A dual-diaphragm capsule, allowing for multiple pickup patterns (omni, cardioid, and figure-eight)
- A switchable high-pass filter, reducing unwanted low-frequency rumble
- A -10 dB attenuation pad, enabling the microphone to handle high sound pressure levels
The U87’s versatility and exceptional sound quality made it an instant favorite among recording studios, musicians, and sound engineers. It quickly became the go-to microphone for a wide range of applications, from classical music and jazz to rock and pop.
The U87’s Impact On The Music Industry
The U87’s influence on the music industry cannot be overstated. It has been used to record some of the most iconic albums and tracks of all time, from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours.”
The U87’s impact can be seen in:
- The development of new recording techniques, such as close-miking and multi-tracking
- The rise of the “sound engineer” as a key creative force in the recording process
- The evolution of music genres, such as punk, new wave, and electronic music
The Legacy Of The U87: A Timeless Icon
Today, the U87 remains one of the most popular and widely used microphones in the world. Its timeless design and exceptional sound quality have made it a staple of the recording industry, with many studios and musicians continuing to rely on it as their go-to tool.
The U87’s enduring popularity can be attributed to:
- Its versatility and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications
- Its exceptional sound quality, with a warm, detailed, and accurate tone
- Its durability and reliability, with many U87s still in use after decades of service
The U87’s Place In History
The U87 is more than just a microphone – it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of innovation and excellence in the world of sound recording. Its influence can be seen in the countless recordings it has helped to shape, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, producers, and sound engineers.
In conclusion, the Neumann U87 is a true legend in the world of sound recording, with a rich history that spans over five decades. From its humble beginnings as a small workshop in Berlin to its current status as a global industry leader, Neumann has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and excellence. And at the heart of it all is the U87, a timeless icon that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
What Is The Neumann U87?
The Neumann U87 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a legendary choice for recording professionals for over five decades. First introduced in 1967, the U87 is known for its warm, detailed sound and versatility, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from vocals and instruments to orchestral recordings and broadcasting.
Its unique sonic character and rugged durability have made the U87 a staple in recording studios around the world, with many considering it the ultimate “go-to” microphone for capturing high-quality sound.
Who Designed The U87?
The Neumann U87 was designed by a team of engineers at Neumann GmbH, a German company founded in 1928 by Georg Neumann. The company was already renowned for its high-quality microphones, and the U87 was the culmination of years of research and development aimed at creating the perfect condenser microphone.
The design of the U87 was led by Neumann’s chief engineer, Dr. Günter Wiener, who worked closely with a team of experienced engineers and technicians to bring the microphone to life. The result was a truly innovative design that would go on to revolutionize the recording industry.
What Makes The U87 So Special?
The U87 is special because of its unique combination of sound quality, versatility, and durability. Its large, dual-diaphragm capsule and advanced electronics provide an incredibly detailed and accurate sound, with a warm, smooth character that complements a wide range of sources. The U87 is also incredibly versatile, with multiple polar patterns and pad settings, making it suitable for everything from delicate vocals to loud instruments.
Beyond its technical specifications, the U87 has a certain “magic” that has captivated recording professionals for generations. Its legendary status is a testament to its ability to deliver exceptional results, time and time again, and its iconic design has become synonymous with high-quality recording.
How Has The U87 Evolved Over Time?
While the core design of the U87 has remained largely unchanged, Neumann has continued to refine and update the microphone over the years. In the 1980s, the company introduced the U87 Ai, which featured improved electronics and a more durable design. In the 2000s, Neumann released the U87 Anniversary Edition, which celebrated the microphone’s 40th anniversary with a special commemorative design.
Throughout its history, the U87 has undergone numerous subtle revisions, from tweaks to the capsule design to updates to the power supply. Despite these changes, the fundamental character of the U87 has remained consistent, ensuring that it remains a timeless classic in the world of audio recording.
Who Has Used The U87?
The U87 has been used by a staggering array of legendary artists, producers, and engineers, including The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and countless others. From classic rock to hip-hop, pop to jazz, the U87 has played a role in shaping the sound of generations of music.
In addition to its use in the music industry, the U87 has also been used in film, television, and broadcasting, with many considering it the ultimate “go-to” microphone for capturing high-quality dialogue and sound effects.
Is The U87 Suitable For Beginners?
While the U87 is undoubtedly a professional-grade microphone, it can be used by anyone who wants to achieve high-quality sound. However, its price point and technical requirements may make it less accessible to beginners.
That being said, many recording enthusiasts and home studio owners have successfully used the U87 to great effect, provided they have a good understanding of microphone technique and the necessary equipment to power it. With proper care and handling, the U87 can be a valuable investment for anyone serious about capturing exceptional sound.
Is The U87 Still Widely Used Today?
The U87 remains one of the most popular and widely used microphones in the recording industry today. Its timeless design and exceptional sound quality have ensured that it continues to be a favorite among top artists, producers, and engineers.
In fact, the U87 has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many modern artists and producers seeking out the microphone’s unique character and sonic magic. Whether in a high-end studio or a home setup, the U87 remains an essential tool for anyone serious about capturing exceptional sound.