A New Studio Standard for Any Situation: High SPL Tolerance ＆ Low Noise, Neumann TLM 107

2022-11-25

When it comes to Neumann, models like the U 87 Ai, U 67, and the more recent TLM 103 are well-known. However, somewhat overshadowed by these, there is the TLM 107—a microphone that falls right between them in the TLM Series. Positioned at a mid-range price point, it may seem affordable to professionals but expensive to amateurs. However, when you consider its features and performance, the TLM 107 offers exceptional cost effectiveness. Let me introduce this ‘hidden gem’ of microphones: the TLM 107.

*The article features the TLM 107 Black.

＜Neumann TLM 107＞

The Most Modern Microphone from Neumann

＜Feels larger in person than it looks in photos＞

When holding the TLM 107 again, I get the impression (purely subjective) that it has a unique appearance, which is rare for a Neumann microphone. Neumann mics generally have a consistent design aesthetic, whether it’s a standard model like the U 87 Ai or more modern ones like the TLM 103, all sharing that signature ‘Neumann look’. However, the TLM 107 deviates slightly from that design, in a good way.

The body has a diameter of 64mm, making it somewhat thick. Although it’s slightly thinner than the M 149 TUBE, it’s still on the larger side within the lineup. The grille features a steep slope, and the overall design is notably rounded. This rounded shape might be what gives the TLM 107 a different image compared to other Neumann mics. The slanted grille design is intended to help reduce vocal pop noise.

＜Rear switches and luxurious illuminated display＞

Looking at the back, you’ll notice that various settings are displayed with LEDs, giving a modern feel. The controls are also designed to be sleek, featuring a button that operates like a directional pad, moving up, down, left, and right. To adjust the PAD, you move the button to the left, and for the LCF, you move it to the right. You can change the polar pattern by moving the button up or down.

＜The center of gravity is quite close to the base＞

As expected from Neumann, the build quality is solid and the thick, sturdy body gives a sense of reliability. Weighing 445g, it feels neither too heavy nor too light. When you hold it, you’ll notice the center of gravity is low, and the grille doesn’t feel heavy. Since the center of gravity is near the base of the microphone, it provides excellent stability when setting up.

＜You should definitely get the EA1 suspension along with it＞

In terms of price, size, and weight, the TLM 107 sits right in the middle of various microphones. In other words, it’s a reliable microphone that you can use casually. While it comes with a Neumann wooden box and a swivel mount holder, it does not include a suspension mount. You can use the EA1 suspension or the EA4, which is designed for the TLM 102.

TLM 107 Specs: A Versatile Microphone Ideal for Studio Installations

To better understand the positioning of the TLM 107, let’s compare its specs with Neumann’s standard microphones, excluding tube microphones for easier comparison:

	TLM 107	TLM 103	U 87 Ai	U 89 i
Transformerless	◯	◯
Max SPL	153dB SPL	138dB SPL	127dB SPL	140dB SPL
S/N Ratio	84dB	87dB	82dB	77dB
Equivalent Noise	10dB-A	7dB-A	12dB-A (cardioid)	17dB-A
Sensitivity	11mV/Pa	23mV/Pa	28mV/Pa (cardioid)	8mV/Pa
LCF	3 Steps	None (1 Step)	2 Step	3 Step
Polar Pattern Switch	5 patterns	None	3 patterns	5 patterns
Weight	445g	450g	500g	400g
Length	145mm	132mm	200mm	185mm

I have also gathered the frequency characteristics of these four models.

＜TLM 107 (Cardioid) Frequency Response＞

＜TLM 103 Frequency Response＞

＜U 87 Ai (Cardioid) Frequency Response＞

＜U 89 i (Cardioid) Frequency Response＞

Based on their model names, one might assume that the TLM 103 and TLM 107, and the U 87 Ai and U 89 i, are similar respectively. However, the data clearly indicates that they are quite different microphones. The TLM 107 is positioned as a higher-end model compared to the TLM 103, but it is evident that their frequency characteristics are entirely distinct.

A notable feature of the TLM 107 is its high sound pressure level (SPL). This is related to its two-step PAD; while models like the U 87 Ai offer a switch between having PAD on or off, the TLM 107 features a 3-step PAD of 0dB/-6dB/-12dB. With no PAD, it has an SPL handling capability of 141dB, which is still higher than the other three models. When using the -12dB PAD, it reaches 153dB SPL, making it suitable for use with percussion instruments.

In addition to the PAD, the TLM 107 also has a low cut filter (LCF) with no filter/40Hz/100Hz options, and it offers five selectable polar patterns: omnidirectional, bidirectional, cardioid, wide cardioid, and hypercardioid.

＜Similar yet different: TLM 103 (right) and TLM 107 (left)＞

The TLM 103 is an exceptionally capable microphone with excellent specifications and sound, but its limited functionality means it is suited for specific situations. In contrast, the TLM 107 does not have such restrictions on its usage scenarios, making it a great option for a microphone that you can keep on hand in studios.

Both the TLM 103 and TLM 107 feature a transformerless design, which results in low distortion and a highly reproducible low-end response. However, this comes with some disadvantages, such as issues with cable length, but these are rarely problematic in studio settings.

The equivalent noise level is also very low, measuring at 10dB-A, which is lower than that of the U 87 Ai. The TLM 103 has an even lower noise level of 7dB-A, likely due to its simple circuit design and the fact that it has fewer switches, being exclusively cardioid.

A New Neumann Sound Different from the U 87 Ai

＜A very user-friendly sound for vocals＞

I’ve tried using the TLM 107 in various situations. One of its defining characteristics is a gentle dip around 5kHz, and this dip proves to be effective when listening to the sound. In particular, this reduction in the frequency range that can create a sense of pressure in the ears results in a very pleasant sound for vocals. The high-frequency components and brightness are not lost; rather, they are cut naturally.

I also conducted some vocal editing and mixing, and the sound quality held up well against plugins and pitch editing, maintaining its excellent quality even after mixing. When listening on a smartphone after the final mix, the high quality of the TLM 107 was still evident. This durability is something you won’t find in inexpensive microphones, which is a strong reason to choose Neumann.

＜Recording an upright piano in omnidirectional mode＞

The sound of the TLM 107 in its cardioid pattern is similar yet distinct from that of the TLM 103. While they both exhibit similar directional qualities, the TLM 107 offers a smoother and more seamless extension in sound. I recorded the piano in omnidirectional mode and was impressed by the beautiful continuity from low to high frequencies.

Not in a negative sense, but it gives a slightly different impression from the Neumann sound you might hear with models like the U 87 Ai. The TLM 107 has a very modern sound among Neumann microphones. The quality is unmistakably Neumann, and considering that the price of the TLM 107 is about half that of the U 87 Ai, it offers an excellent deal.

I’ve introduced the TLM 107; what do you think?

Due to its price point and recognition, it may not be the first choice for many, but it truly is a hidden gem. If you are setting up a studio, it is definitely worth considering alongside the U 87 Ai. While the U 87 Ai is essential for studio operations due to its reputation, the TLM 107 might eventually take its place in the long run.

The TLM 107 is suitable not only for vocals but also for high strings, and its transformerless design allows it to capture the rich low frequencies of instruments like the double bass and piano. With its high sound pressure level, it could also yield excellent results with bass drums. This microphone inspires a lot of creative possibilities, so if you have the chance, be sure to give it a try!

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