The Neumann TLM 107 is a condenser microphone with 5 different polar patterns, an attenuator, and a high-pass filter. Unlike other microphones that may evoke nostalgia, the TLM 107 is a modern microphone that offers a wide range of capabilities and high-quality sound reproduction. It can be used in recording, mixing, and post-production, opening up new possibilities in the field.
This microphone features a newly developed transducer that delivers exceptional accuracy in pulse response. It offers a choice of 5 polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8, wide cardioid, and hypercardioid. Regardless of the polar pattern selected, the TLM 107 ensures accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency range. Its sound is balanced, with a nearly linear frequency response up to 8 kHz and a slight boost beyond this range, adding a sense of freshness and presence to vocals or instruments. Special attention has been given to reproducing natural speech, particularly the "s" sound. The grille has been upgraded to reduce sensitivity to plosive sounds, and the capsules are better protected against dust and moisture.
The TLM 107 is designed to provide uncompromising sound quality. Its transformer-less design ensures high linearity of frequency response and a wide dynamic range. The microphone has a self-noise of only 10 dB, making it practically inaudible. Furthermore, its stability does not depend on the specific microphone unit used. The microphone can handle a maximum SPL level of 147 dB, but with the built-in attenuation, it can be increased to 153 dB, allowing it to record high loudness sounds without distortion. The microphone also features filter settings at 40 Hz and 100 Hz, which are the most commonly used in sound recording. The 40 Hz setting cuts low-frequency noise below the range of fundamental tones, while the 100 Hz frequency is often optimal for vocals, including baritone recordings.
One of the most innovative aspects of the TLM 107 is its management concept. All microphone functions can be easily controlled through a single navigation button, providing an intuitive user experience. The chrome trim of the microphone is illuminated, and the Pad and Low Cut statuses are displayed through LEDs on the switch. To avoid distracting singers, the switch and display are located on the back of the microphone. The illumination automatically turns off after 15 seconds of inactivity.
In terms of specifications, the TLM 107 is a large-diaphragm microphone with a pressure gradient transducer. It offers the following features: 5 polar patterns (omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-eight), balanced sound in all 5 polar patterns, intuitive one-button navigation control, LED indicator for quick viewing of current settings, switches for attenuation (-6 dB, -12 dB) and low-cut filter (40 Hz, 100 Hz), and exceptional transparency and naturalness in reproducing the human voice with an exceptional transient response.
In terms of its acoustic working principle, the TLM 107 operates on a pressure gradient transducer. It offers the following specifications: a reproducible frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, sensitivity of 11 mV/Pa at 1 kHz with 1 kΩ, nominal impedance of 50 Ω, load impedance of 1 kΩ, maximum SPL for THD <0.5% of 141 dB, maximum output voltage of 10 dBu, power supply voltage of 48 V ± 4 V, current consumption of 3.2 mA, microphone connector XLR3F, weight of 445 grams, diameter of 64 mm, and length of 145 mm.
The package includes the microphone itself, a wooden case, wall mount (SG 2), and a user manual.