Neumann TLM 103 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone - Nickel

Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone (Nickel) | 008430

The Neumann TLM 103 is a professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has become a modern studio classic, offering the legendary Neumann sound in a transformerless design with exceptionally low self-noise. Designed for professional recording studios, broadcast facilities, voice-over production, podcasting, and music creation, the TLM 103 delivers outstanding clarity, detailed transient response, and remarkable dynamic range for demanding recording applications.

The Neumann TLM 103 (Cat. No. 008430) features a premium nickel finish and is supplied with the SG 2 swivel mount and a wooden storage box. Combining Neumann's renowned large-diaphragm capsule technology with transformerless circuitry, it captures vocals and instruments with exceptional accuracy while maintaining a natural, balanced sound character.

A Modern Studio Classic

Introduced as an affordable alternative to the legendary U 87, the TLM 103 has established itself as one of Neumann's most successful microphones. Its large-diaphragm capsule is derived from the classic K67/87 capsule design, delivering the authoritative midrange, controlled low frequencies, and detailed high-frequency response that have become synonymous with the Neumann name.

A carefully engineered presence boost above 5 kHz enhances vocal intelligibility and instrument definition, allowing recordings to sit naturally within a mix while preserving the authentic character of the original sound source.

Cardioid Polar Pattern for Precise Recording

The TLM 103 features a cardioid polar pattern that focuses on the desired sound source while reducing unwanted sound from the rear. Its consistent off-axis response provides reliable tonal balance, making it ideal for studio recording environments where isolation and accuracy are essential.

Whether recording vocals, acoustic instruments, guitar amplifiers, piano, percussion, or speech, the cardioid design delivers focused, transparent recordings with excellent source separation.

Transformerless Circuitry with Ultra-Low Self-Noise

Neumann's transformerless output circuitry ensures clean, transparent signal transmission while minimising transmission losses. With an exceptionally low equivalent noise level of only 7 dB-A, the TLM 103 ranks among the quietest professional studio microphones available, making it ideal for capturing delicate performances and subtle recording details.

The microphone also handles sound pressure levels of up to 138 dB SPL, allowing it to record everything from soft vocals to loud drums and amplified instruments without audible distortion.

• Ultra-low self-noise of only 7 dB-A
• Maximum SPL handling of 138 dB
• Transformerless circuitry for transparent audio reproduction
• Wide dynamic range for professional recording
• Excellent transient response and detailed sound reproduction

Versatile Applications

The Neumann TLM 103 is suitable for a wide variety of professional recording applications. Its balanced sound signature and exceptional technical performance make it a preferred microphone for engineers, producers, broadcasters, and content creators worldwide.

• Studio vocal recording
• Voice-over and narration
• Podcasting and streaming
• Broadcast and television production
• Acoustic guitar
• Electric guitar amplifiers
• Piano and keyboards
• Drums and percussion
• Brass and woodwind instruments
• String instruments
• Classical music spot microphone applications
• Professional and project studios

Neumann TLM 103 Key Features

• Professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone
• Large-diaphragm capsule derived from the legendary K67/87 design
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Transformerless output circuitry
• Ultra-low self-noise of only 7 dB-A
• Maximum SPL handling of 138 dB
• Wide presence boost for enhanced clarity
• Natural bass response with authoritative midrange
• Premium nickel finish
• Made in Germany
• Includes SG 2 swivel mount and wooden storage box

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Large-diaphragm condenser microphone
• Acoustical Operating Principle: Pressure-gradient transducer
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kΩ: 23 mV/Pa
• Rated Impedance: 50 Ω
• Rated Load Impedance: 1 kΩ
• Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted): 7 dB-A
• Equivalent Noise Level (CCIR): 17.5 dB
• Maximum SPL: 138 dB (0.5% THD)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 87 dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (CCIR): 76.5 dB
• Maximum Output Voltage: 13 dBu
• Power Requirement: 48 V Phantom Power (P48)
• Current Consumption: 3 mA
• Connector: XLR 3 F
• Weight: Approx. 450 g
• Diameter: 60 mm
• Length: 132 mm

Included Accessories

• Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone (Nickel)
• SG 2 Swivel Mount
• Wooden Storage Box

The Neumann TLM 103 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone combines legendary Neumann engineering with outstanding technical performance, making it one of the industry's most trusted studio microphones. With its ultra-low self-noise, transformerless circuitry, detailed sound reproduction, and versatile cardioid pickup pattern, the TLM 103 is an exceptional choice for professional vocals, instruments, broadcasting, voice-over production, podcasting, and commercial studio recording.