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The Roger Nichols Gear Collection

Neumann TLM 103

Item ID: TLM103

Large-diaphragm Cardioid Microphone in Wooden Jeweler's Box with 20Hz-20kHz Frequency Range

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From Our Research Team:

Make pristine recording with this low-noise mic!

The Neumann TLM 103 large-diaphragm cardioid condenser mic boasts a capsule drawn from the U 87 and transformerless circuitry - not to mention classic Neumann sound! The TLM 103 is a great mic for any pro or project studio use and, due to its minimal self-noise, it's been used for classical recordings with a wide dynamic range, sampling (especially for very low amplitude sources), and Foley work. This mic is also robust enough for the live stage, as Jack White has employed the TLM 103 to mic amps in live situations.

Neumann TLM 103 at a Glance:
  • Cardioid pattern to limit bleed
  • Classic design for transparent sound
  • Neumann's "TLM" technology

Cardioid pattern to limit bleed
The cardioid TLM 103 utilizes a tried-and-true transformerless circuit found in high-end Neumann microphones to achieve its otherwise unattainable low self-noise and the highest sound pressure level transmission possible. By focusing on this pattern - used in most recording situations - the attenuation of unwanted rear sound has been optimized. Off-axis sounds are rendered naturally while isolation is increased. This also leads to a high feedback suppression when the microphone is used in live situations or where loudspeaker playback is a factor. And at this price there's no reason not to have a pair! For a stereo pair of TLM 103 mics, check out the TLM 103 Anniversary ST, which comes complete with an aluminum carrying case and shockmounts. Also available as a single TLM 103 Anniversary mic or in matte black finish.

Classic design for transparent sound
The TLM 103 is addressed from the front, marked with the red Neumann logo on the microphone body. The K 103 large diaphragm capsule is based on the K 87, well known from the U 67 / U 87 microphones.The capsule has a flat frequency response up to about 5 kHz, and above that, a wide flat 4 dB presence boost. The large wire mesh headgrille protects the capsule from plosive sounds and effectively prevents pop noises. These characteristics are achieved without resorting to corrective resonance effects. Therefore, the TLM 103 maintains an excellent impulse response and reproduces the details of music and speech without coloration. With the incredibly low self-noise level of the TLM 103 even the smallest signals are reproduced basically noise-free. As it is capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 138dB without distortion, the TLM 103 provides a dynamic range of 131dB (A-weighted).

Neumann's "TLM" technology
The letters TLM stand for "transformerless microphone". With TLM technology the usual output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. As with traditional transformers, it ensures good common mode rejection, and prevents RF interference that may influence the balanced audio signal.

Neumann TLM 103 Features:
  • Nickel finish
  • Large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone
  • Pressure gradient transducer with with one-diaphragm capsule
  • Transformerless circuitry
  • Extremely low noise
  • Includes swivel mount
  • Minimal self-noise
  • Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Rated impedance: 50 ohms
  • Rated load impedance: 1 kohms
  • Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%2: 138 dB
  • Wooden box and stand mount included

Get classic Neumann sound onstage or in the studio with the TLM 103!

TLM 103 Image Gallery

Specification Detail
Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern(s) Cardioid
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL 138 dB
Output Impedance 50 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio 76.5 d CIR (rel. 94 dB SPL); 87 dB A-weighted (rel. 94 dB SPL)
Self Noise 17.5 dB CCIR; 7 dB-A A-weighted
Low Cut Filter No Filter
Pads No Pad
Length 5.2"
Width 2.36"
Depth 2.36"
Weight 1 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number 008430

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Reviews

based on 17 reviews

The Truth

by Randall from Clifton, NJ
February 3, 2012
Music Background: Recording Engineer, Producer
This mic IS THE TRUTH. I own a studio in Clifton NJ. I heard great reviews on the mic and I couldn't be any happier. I run it with a Focusrite Saffire Pro 40 mic pre and its clarity could almost bring... read more [+] a tear to your eye, well worth the money. close [-]

Needs Great Preamp!!!

by Mark Andrasko from Grand Rapids, MI
November 11, 2011
Music Background: Home Recording Studio/Bar Musician
I've been building a home recording studio, did the research, and was super excited to get my hands on this mic. I bought it and was EXTREMELY disappointed with its sound. My Shure SM57 sounded just a... read more [+]s good if not better on vocals. Why? Because through low end to average preamps this thing sounds no better than a 57.

Months later I bought a Daking Mic Pre One and this mic literally transformed into a golden goddess of audio pleasure before my ears.

The TLM 103 NEEDS a good to great preamp to play with before it becomes useful at all (not quite true.. I still plug it into my Behringer Tube Pres from time to time for drum overheads = not bad). close [-]

The Magic Microphone

by Andrew from US
January 7, 2011
Music Background: Professional Pianist, Project Studio Enthusiast
The TLM 103 is remarkable. I’ve used it on alto saxophone, upright bass, female vocals, male spoken word, a Steinway piano, an acoustic nylon string guitar, a clarinet, and a toy accordion. In every i... read more [+]nstance, the sound lept out in the mix with clarity and life. I often pair it with a UA Solo/610 Tube Pre for added warmth. What a killer combo. I LOVE this microphone!! close [-]

sounds great!!!!!!

by JL from PITTSBURGH, PA
December 19, 2009
Music Background: PRODUCER/ARTIS
had a couple of neumanns now(tlm 49 and the 103)i must say i like this 103 better for vocals sounds real good well at least on my voice

A MUST HAVE

by Karnig Baghdassarian from Beirut, Lebanon
September 26, 2009
Music Background: recording, mixing engineer, musician, composer and producer.
this is a must have microphone, it sounds perfect, just like a very expensive tube mic. especially if u use it with a solo 610 tube pre amp from Universal Audio.
Read more reviews

Also popular

See Also: Condensers , Neumann , Neumann Condenser Microphones , Neumann Condenser Microphones

Neumann TLM 103

Today's Payment: $376.65
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