TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm microphone used in professional and semi-professional audio recording. It is essential when high sound quality is needed but with a limited budget. Thanks to its reliable and transformerless circuitry, which is identical to some other Neumann microphone models, the TLM 103 has very low self-noise level and can capture signals with the highest sound pressure levels. Its capsule, derived from the U 87, provides a well-balanced and effective cardioid polar pattern that reduces off-axis signal levels.
Polar Pattern
The TLM 103 is equipped with a wide-diaphragm capsule that provides a cardioid polar pattern. This pattern is sufficient for most recording situations and effectively reduces unwanted side sounds. The microphone remains less sensitive to sources outside its main picking direction, ensuring a natural sound. This prevents acoustic feedback during concert recordings or when using studio monitors.
Acoustic Characteristics
The TLM 103's capsule is marked with the Neumann logo on the microphone body. The TLM 103 capsule is an improved version of the S 87 capsule used in the well-known U 67/U 87 microphone models. The frequency response is linear up to 5 kHz, followed by a wide, flat boost of +4 dB in the high-frequency range. A large, acoustically transparent grille protects the capsule from explosive sounds and wind noise. These high-performance characteristics are achieved without the need for resonance correction, preserving impulse response and reproducing musical and speech details accurately.
Reliability
The entire construction is mounted inside the microphone body using elastic mounting to minimize operational noise. Additionally, the TLM 103 capsule is mounted on an additional elastic mount. The frequency response reaches 20 Hz, and low-frequency signals are reproduced without altering the tone. This wide frequency range makes the TLM 103 more sensitive to operational noise and wind noise. To protect against these, accessories such as the elastic suspension EA 1 MT are provided. When recording vocals in close proximity to the source, it is recommended to use windscreen shields PS 10 and PS 20.
Features:
- Cardioid microphone with a large-diaphragm
- Pressure gradient transducer, single diaphragm capsule
- Transformerless circuitry
- Extremely low self-noise level: 7 dB-A
- Swivel mount included
- User-friendly, suitable for home and professional studios
- High-quality professional equipment at an affordable price
Included:
- TLM 103 MT microphone
- Elastic suspension EA 1 MT shock mount
- Aluminum case
- Documentation