Neumann USM 69 i Multi-Pattern Stereo Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone – Nickel

Neumann USM 69 i Stereo Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Neumann USM 69 i is a premium one-point stereo condenser microphone designed for professional stereo recording using coincident microphone techniques such as XY, Mid-Side (MS), and Blumlein. Integrating two independently operating large-diaphragm condenser capsule systems into a single housing, the USM 69 i delivers outstanding stereo imaging, exceptional flexibility, and the renowned sound quality that has made Neumann a trusted name in professional audio production. It is an ideal solution for music recording, broadcast, film production, orchestral capture, podcasting, and immersive audio applications.

Unlike traditional stereo microphone setups that require two separate microphones and complex positioning, the USM 69 i combines both capsule systems in one precisely engineered microphone body. The upper capsule rotates through 270°, allowing engineers to quickly configure multiple stereo recording techniques while maintaining perfect capsule alignment for accurate phase coherence and natural stereo reproduction.

Professional One-Point Stereo Recording

The USM 69 i simplifies professional stereo recording by housing two independent dual-diaphragm condenser microphones within a single microphone body. Each capsule features its own five-position polar pattern selector, enabling complete flexibility when configuring stereo pickup patterns for virtually any recording scenario.

Supported stereo techniques include XY, Mid-Side (MS), Blumlein, and other coincident stereo configurations. The precisely aligned capsule arrangement ensures excellent localization, accurate stereo imaging, and outstanding mono compatibility while significantly reducing setup time compared to dual-microphone systems.

Independent Multi-Pattern Capsule Systems

Each capsule system operates independently, allowing engineers to select from five directional characteristics for both the upper and lower capsules:

• Omnidirectional
• Wide Cardioid
• Cardioid
• Hypercardioid
• Figure-8

This flexibility enables precise tailoring of stereo width, ambience, and directivity to suit orchestras, choirs, acoustic instruments, ensembles, drum overheads, grand piano, harp, radio drama, and spoken-word productions. The two channels are delivered independently through the integrated 5-pin XLR connector for complete post-production control.

Reliable Performance for Critical Recording

The USM 69 i delivers exceptionally low self-noise and a high maximum sound pressure level, allowing it to capture everything from delicate acoustic performances to powerful musical sources without unwanted distortion. An active subsonic filter protects the output transformers from overload caused by structure-borne vibrations and low-frequency interference, helping maintain clean recordings in demanding environments.

In addition to stereo recording, the USM 69 i can also be used as two independent mono microphones with different polar patterns simultaneously, providing additional creative flexibility for professional engineers and producers.

Key Features

• Professional one-point stereo large-diaphragm condenser microphone.
• Integrated dual independent condenser capsule systems.
• Supports XY, Mid-Side (MS), and Blumlein stereo techniques.
• Five selectable polar patterns for each capsule.
• Upper capsule rotates through 270° for flexible stereo configurations.
• Outstanding stereo imaging and excellent mono compatibility.
• Low self-noise for critical recording applications.
• High SPL capability for demanding sound sources.
• Active subsonic filter protects against low-frequency overload.
• Two independent microphone outputs via 5-pin XLR connection.

Ideal Applications

• Professional stereo recording
• Classical music recording
• Orchestral and choir recording
• Drum overheads
• Grand piano and harp recording
• Acoustic instrument recording
• Broadcast production
• Film and television audio
• Radio drama
• Audiobook and spoken-word recording
• Immersive and spatial audio production

Technical Specifications

• Microphone Type: Stereo large-diaphragm condenser microphone
• Acoustical Operating Principle: Pressure gradient transducer
• Polar Patterns: Omnidirectional, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8 (independently selectable for each capsule)
• Stereo Techniques: XY, Mid-Side (MS), Blumlein and other coincident techniques
• Upper Capsule Rotation: 270°
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 13 mV/Pa
• Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted): 13 dB-A
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 81 dB
• Maximum SPL: 132 dB
• Rated Impedance: 150 Ω
• Rated Load Impedance: 1 kΩ
• Power Requirement: 48 V phantom power (P48)
• Output Connector: XLR 5-pin
• Weight: 510 g
• Dimensions: 30 + 48 mm diameter × 293 mm length
• Finish: Nickel

Why Choose the Neumann USM 69 i?

The Neumann USM 69 i is one of the industry's most respected stereo microphones, offering an elegant solution for coincident stereo recording with exceptional flexibility and uncompromising audio quality. Its dual independently configurable capsule systems, rotating upper capsule, low self-noise, and outstanding stereo imaging make it an outstanding choice for recording engineers working in music production, broadcast, film, and classical recording. Whether capturing orchestras, ensembles, acoustic instruments, or immersive stereo soundscapes, the USM 69 i delivers the precision, consistency, and sonic excellence expected from a genuine Neumann professional microphone.