Neumann TLM 102 BK – Studio Condenser Microphone (Black)

Neumann TLM 102 BK Overview

The Neumann TLM 102 BK is the most affordable large diaphragm condenser microphone made by Neumann. And, of course, it is  designed and manufactured in Germany with great attention to every detail. Compared to more expensive Neumann microphones, the Neumann TLM 102 BK is reduced in size and features, but Neumann would never compromise on sound quality. Despite its affordable price, the TLM 102 has a very attractive look with a gleaming chrome ring between a classic tapered headgrille and the famous Neumann diamond.

Compact Yet Powerful

The TLM 102 sounds as smart as it looks! Its newly developed large diaphragm condenser microphone capsule has all the qualities that made Neumann microphones the first choice in recording studios all over the world: a clear and focused sound with superb definition. Due to its remarkably linear response across the entire midrange, the TLM 102 is able to capture the authentic character of any voice or instrument, enhanced by a slight lift around 10 kHz for silky highs. The TLM 102 has gorgeous bottom end, too, enriched by the well-controlled proximity effect of a large diaphragm cardioid capsule. A joy for every singer

Bundled with a vibration-reducing shockmount and a compact stand mount, the black Neumann TLM 102 BK Studio Set large-diaphragm condenser microphone brings renowned Neumann sound quality to a price point that’s inclusive to home producers, working musicians, and independent singer-songwriters. The capsule’s high SPL rating of 144 dB permits the recording of percussion, drums, amplifiers, and other loud sound sources clearly and without distortion. With its 8 to 12 kHz treble boost, the TLM 102 imparts a silky vocal presence while avoiding pronounced sibilance.

The mic utilizes a cardioid polar pattern to provide directional sound pickup in front of the capsule and strong rejection behavior behind it, yielding less background noise than most other polar responses. The integrated pop shield reduces breath noise and vocal plosives, though external pop filters are available for even more control. The TLM 102’s transformerless output stage aids the mic in achieving a clean character with plenty of reach in the bass range, and it delivers resistance to electromagnetic interference.

Silky Tone

Neumann developed the TLM 102 as a universal talent for vocal and instrumental recordings. Its finely tuned sound signature especially accents the area of 8 to 12 kHz which is crucial for human voices. The recordings get a silky elegance typical of large-diaphragm microphones; the voice gets a noble presence in the overall mix. Nevertheless, the TLM 102 remains easy to handle and deals masterfully with critical consonants or sibilants, thanks to the integrated pop shield.

No Problem with High Volume

The TLM 102 also processes extreme volume and jumps in dynamics without distortion. That makes it an excellent choice for miking loud amps and drums. It reproduces sound pressure levels of up to 144 dB (e.g. very loud trumpet at a distance of about 4″) with great clarity: open, detailed, with powerful bass and refined treble.

Neumann Sound on a Budget

The TLM 102 stands for legendary sound on a budget. Neumann remodeled the production and omitted non-vital functions such as pattern, pad, and low-cut switches. When you hear the TLM 102, you’ll immediately notice what they did not omit: the Neumann sound, which remains faithful to its big role models.

Clear and Powerful

The TLM series works with a transformerless output stage to enable a clean and direct sound, very “close” to the acoustic source, and a powerful bass transmission all the way down to the lowest frequencies. Its transformerless output stage also makes the microphone resistant to electromagnetic fields and minimizes transmission losses.

Features at a Glance

• Easy handling for vocal and instrumental recordings
• Distortion-free sound even at extreme sound pressure levels up to 144 dB
• Slight treble boost for silky vocals (independent of music genre)
• Built-in pop shield reduces vocal plosives
• Cardioid polar pattern lessens background noise
• XLR 3-pin output
• Requires 48V phantom power
• Includes stand mount and vibration-reducing shockmount