6. Neumann U87 (Room Microphone)

The Neumann U87 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a studio staple for decades. It is commonly used as a room microphone for drum recordings, capturing the overall sound of the kit and the natural reverb of the room.

The U87 has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which makes it well-suited for recording the full frequency range of a drum kit. It has a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to isolate the sound source and reduce unwanted background noise.

When using the U87 as a room mic, it is typically placed a few feet away from the drum kit and aimed towards the center of the kit. The distance and angle of the mic can affect the amount of room ambience captured in the recording. Experimenting with different mic positions can help achieve the desired balance between direct sound and room sound.

The Neumann U87 is also hugely popular in recording studios as a vocal microphone, delivering a very present and warm tone. Overall, the Neumann U87 is a versatile microphone that can be used in a variety of recording situations, including drum recordings as a room mic. Its warm and detailed sound quality has made it a favorite among many engineers and producers.

Blog