Neumann TLM 67 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The TLM 67 captures the spirit of Neumann’s classic U 67, which defined the sound of the 1960s. But instead of electron tubes the TLM 67 relies on trouble free FET electronics with a special sound design for a gorgeous retro tone. Like its predecessor, the TLM 67 is a versatile studio workhorse with three polar patterns, pad and low cut options.

The TLM 67 is extremely versatile. Its three switchable directional characteristics (omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-8), selectable 10 dB pre-attenuation and high-pass filter permit detailed adjustments to be made, depending upon the specific recording situation.

Exterior design

The TLM 67 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone in the classic Neumann style, with a unique dual-color design. The stylish pearl-gray of the microphone body combined with the classic Neumann nickel lends the microphone a touch of distinctive individuality. The legendary, frequently imitated design of the Neumann U 67 was the first to be developed by Neumann employees in collaboration with the famous German designer, Wilhelm Braun-Feldweg. The design of the TLM 67 represents a contemporary development of that of the U 67, transferring its positive impact to the present era. The enhanced exterior design thus links past and future microphone design trends.

On the occasion of its 80th anniversary, the Neumann company is honoring its founder, Georg Neumann, with a three-dimensional metal emblem on the front of the TLM 67. The distinctive Neumann attraction is conveyed in every detail of the microphone.

Applications

Due to its extensive control features, the TLM 67 is suitable for a wide range of applications. In addition to its primary role as a vocal microphone for all types of music and spoken voice, in orchestral recordings the TLM 67 can be used as a main microphone and as a spot microphone for individual instruments.

Acoustic features

The microphone is addressed from the side on which the Neumann logo is located. A large wire mesh grille encloses the elastically mounted double diaphragm capsule. The directional characteristics omnidirectional, cardioid or figure-8 can be selected via a switch below the grille. The selected setting is indicated by a symbol shown in a window above the switch.

Electrical features

The letters “TLM” stand for “transformerless microphone”. In the TLM 67, an electronic circuit is used rather than a conventional output transformer. Like a transformer, the circuit ensures good common mode rejection, effectively suppressing interference signals that affect the balanced modulation line. The microphone can operate at sound pressure levels of up to 105 dB without distortion, and has a dynamic range of 94 dB (A-weighted), without the use of the pre-attenuation switch.

Filter and pre-attenuation

The pre-attenuation switch on the back of the microphone can be used to reduce transmission levels by approx. 10 dB. It should be used only when there is a risk of overloading following devices due to very high sound pressure levels. Use of the switch does not increase the dynamic range of the microphone, but rather shifts it by 10 dB, to higher sound pressure levels. The other switch on the back of the microphone can be used to change the cutoff frequency of the built-in high-pass filter, so as to suppress the effects of impact sound and wind noise, or to compensate for the proximity effect.

Operational reliability

Elastic mounting of the capsule supplies protection from the transmission of structure-borne noise. If required, the EA 87 elastic suspension and WS 87 windscreen are available as accessories, for further suppression of structure-borne and wind noise. The PS 15 or PS 20 a popscreen can be used if the microphone is to be addressed at close range.

• Acoustical operating principle Pressure gradient transducer
• Directional pattern Omni/cardioid/figure-8
• Frequency range 20 Hz ... 20 kHz
• Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm 10/18/9 mV/Pa
• Rated impedance 50 ohms
• Rated load impedance 1 kohms
• Equivalent noise level, CCIR1) 29/24/30 dB
• Equivalent noise level, A-weighted1) 16/11/17 dB-A
• Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) 65/70/64 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) 78/83/77 dB-A
• Maximum SPL (tube characteristic) for THD < 0.5 %2) 110/105/111 dB
• Maximum SPL (tube characteristic) for THD < 5 %2) 130/125/131 dB
• Maximum output voltage -1 dBu
• Power supply P48
• Matching connector XLR 3F
• Weight 490 g
• Diameter 56 mm
• Length 200 mm
• Microphone only - Shockmount not included