Neumann U89 I Studio Microphone Nickel/Black
Description
Originally released to improve upon the ubiquitous U 87 studio staple, the Neumann U 89 i large-diaphragm condenser microphone merges quintessential transformer-coupled, low-noise circuitry with an advanced capsule design that offers uncolored off-axis response and five selectable polar patterns, all with high linearity. This puts the U 89 i high on the list of desirable mics for a range of applications such as vocals, voice-over, and multi-instrument duty.
The K89 dual-diaphragm capsule is built to deliver a smooth and balanced sound in any of its polar patterns—omnidirectional, figure-8, cardioid, wide cardioid, or hypercardioid. Plus, the mic provides a switchable -6 dB pad that allows it to capture SPLs up to 140 dB without distortion, and a low-cut filter at 80 or 160 Hz for controlling buildup of low-frequency content. The U 89 i comes with a wooden box; spider-style shockmounts and compact hard mounts are available separately.
The Pursuit of Perfection
The U 89 i is a universal studio microphone combining classic transformer-coupled circuit topology with a state-of-the-art Neumann capsule. Its linear yet smooth response has made it a prime choice for voice-over and speech, but thanks to five selectable polar patterns, low noise, and distortion, it covers almost any recoding situation in any genre.
A Modern Classic
The U 89 i combines advanced capsule technology with classic transformer-coupled electronics. The result is a very versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone for all studio applications. Its features include five selectable polar patterns and a low-cut filter (80/160 Hz) as well as a switchable -6 dB pad for extreme sound pressure levels of up to 140 dB without unwanted distortion.
Building the Perfect Beast
The U 89 i is similar in appearance to the legendary Neumann U 87 but smaller in size and lighter in weight. This is no coincidence: Introduced in 1980, the U 89 i was conceived with the goal to improve upon the classic Neumann U 87. While the latter has remained the world's most beloved large-diaphragm condenser microphone, the U 89 i is indeed technically superior in many respects. Not only can the U 89 i handle much higher sound pressure levels, it also has a more flexible low-cut filter (80 or 160 Hz) to suppress rumble and compensate for the proximity effect. And in addition to the three main polar patterns (omni, cardioid, and figure-8), the U 89 i offers two intermediate positions, wide cardioid and hypercardioid.
Applications
The U 89 i combines the sonic precision and linearity of a state-of-the-art small-diaphragm condenser microphone with the smoothness and flexibility of a large-diaphragm microphone. This makes the U 89 i a truly universal studio microphone. The U 89 i is an excellent vocal microphone, especially for trained professionals who prefer to have their voice captured in its natural beauty. For the same reasons, the U 89 i is a sought-after microphone for voice-over and film dubbing. U 89 i's combination of flexibility and superior off-axis behavior makes it an excellent choice for orchestral recordings, where it can be used as a main microphone or as a spot microphone for soloists and individual sections.
Key Features:
- For Vocals, Speech, and Instruments
- Five Selectable Polar Patterns
- Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Capsule
- High Linearity and Low Noise
- Transformer-Coupled Circuitry
- -6 dB Pad
- Switchable 80/160 Hz Low-Cut Filter
- Optional Shockmount Reduces Vibration
- Includes Wooden Box
- 48V Phantom Powered