The TLM 103 is a large-diaphragm microphone that offers high sound quality at an affordable price. It is ideal for professional and semi-professional recording tasks. The microphone features a transformerless design, which is the same as many other Neumann microphones. It has an extremely low self-noise level and can handle high sound pressure levels.
The TLM 103 has a cardioid polar pattern, similar to the U 87 microphone. This pattern is effective in suppressing unwanted sounds from the rear of the microphone, making it suitable for most recording tasks in sound studios. Despite its increased isolation, the microphone still captures off-axis sources naturally, allowing for recording concerts or studio sessions with active loudspeakers without the risk of feedback.
The microphone is versatile, with a universal cardioid polar pattern and low self-noise. It is easy to use and relatively affordable compared to other microphones in its class. This makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from home studios to professional recording, dubbing, and broadcasting studios.
The TLM 103 features a large protective grille that shields the capsule from explosive consonants and plosive sounds. Its high performance is achieved without the need for corrective resonance filters, resulting in excellent transient response and faithful reproduction of the sound of musical instruments, vocals, and speech.
The self-noise level of the microphone is incredibly low, ensuring that even the lowest volume signals are reproduced almost silently. It can handle signals with a maximum sound pressure level of up to 138 dB without distortion.
The TLM 103 incorporates transformerless technology, indicated by the letters TLM in its name. A transformer in the output circuitry has been replaced by an electronic circuit, which provides high common mode rejection and protects the balanced signal from RF interference.
To reduce the impact of structural noise, the entire internal structure of the microphone, as well as the capsule, are mounted on elastic suspensions within the housing. However, this design makes the microphone more susceptible to structural noise and plosive sounds. To counteract this, the EA 1 elastic suspension is available as an additional accessory.
Features of the TLM 103 include a cardioid polar pattern, sensitivity of 23 mV/Pa, impedance of 50 ohms, and a recommended load impedance of 1000 ohms. Its signal-to-noise ratio is 87 dB, and it can handle a maximum sound pressure level of 138 dB.
The package includes the microphone, shock mount, and documentation.