Studio Mics -
The TLM-103
Details for the
TLM-103
General Description
The Neumann TLM-103 Anniversary is the Cave’s primary large diaphragm condenser microphone
As with the AKG 414, its primary role is an Acoustic Desk micing of the Taylor 814ce LTD Cocobolo and the Seagull Entourage Rustic CW QI acoustic guitar.
The Muse Cave generally produces instrumental Musical Portraits but when a Vocal, or some video Dialog, is required the TLM-103 is the mic of choice.
By using the Neumann TLM-103, through the Avalon VT-737sp, and the AKG 414 through the Mike-e preamp channel strip, great tracks can be created for the acoustic guitars in stereo.
Comments
Cardioid pattern to limit bleed:
The cardioid TLM 103 Anniversary utilizes a tried-and-true transformerless circuit found in high-end Neumann microphones to achieve its otherwise unattainable low self-noise and the highest sound pressure level transmission possible.
By focusing on this pattern - used in most recording situations - the attenuation of unwanted rear sound has been optimized. Off-axis sounds are rendered naturally while isolation is increased.
This also leads to a high feedback suppression when the microphone is used in live situations or where loudspeaker playback is a factor. For a stereo pair of TLM 103 mics, check out the TLM 103 Anniversary ST, which comes complete with an aluminum carrying case and shock mounts. Also available as a single TLM 103 mic with a wooden box and stand mount or in matte black finish.
Classic design for transparent sound
The TLM 103 Anniversary is addressed from the front, marked with the red Neumann logo on the microphone body. The 103 large diaphragm capsule is based on the K 87, well known from the U 67/U 87 microphones.
The capsule has a flat frequency response up to about 5 kHz, and above that, a wide flat 4 dB presence boost. The large wire mesh head grille protects the capsule from plosive sounds and effectively prevents pop noises.
These characteristics are achieved without resorting to corrective resonance effects. Therefore, the TLM 103 maintains an excellent impulse response and reproduces the details of music and speech without coloration. With the incredibly low self-noise level of the TLM 103 even the smallest signals are reproduced basically noise-free. As it is capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 138dB without distortion, the TLM 103 provides a dynamic range of 131dB (A-weighted).
Neumann's "TLM" technology
The letters TLM stand for "transformerless microphone." With TLM technology, the usual output transformer is replaced by an electronic circuit. As with traditional transformers, it ensures good common mode rejection, and prevents RF interference that may influence the balanced audio signal.
Mic Type
Polar Pattern
Impedance
Max SPL
Large Diaphram Condensor
Cardioid
50 ohms
138 dB
Studio Role
Acoustic Guitar | Vocal | Dialog
Diaphragm Size
Large 1" pressure gradient diaphragm
Sensitivity
Maker
Purchased from
23 mV/Pa = –32.5 dBV ± 1 dB
Neumann
Sweetwater
Freq Response
20Hz-20kHz
Mic Cost
Replacement Cost
$
1478
$
1500
Phantom Powered?
Yes
Shock Mounted?
Yes
Output Transformer?
No
Low Pass
Filter?
High Pass
Filter?
No
No
Low Pass
Frequency
High Pass
Frequency
[Low Freq]