Sound Pure's Take
The Neumann TLM 102 is a compact, large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers signature Neumann authority at an accessible price point. Built in Germany, it breaks away from the bulky footprint of traditional studio condensers without sacrificing performance. Utilizing a transformerless circuit design (TLM), the 102 delivers pristine transient speed, ultra-low self-noise, and an exceptionally clean low end that remains clear and uncolored even on dense tracks.
Despite its small stature, the TLM 102 packs a punch. It features a custom-designed cardioid capsule rated for a massive 132 dB Max SPL, allowing it to effortlessly handle loud sound sources like cranked guitar cabs, brass, and aggressive rock drums without overloading. For vocals, a subtle, broad presence boost above 6 kHz adds high-end sheen and clarity that helps vocals cut through a mix naturally, while its integrated pop screen handles light plosives during close-mic setups.
This mic also includes a Neumann shock mount.
From Neumann USA
The reduced overall size contributes to an exceptionally compact appearance, which unites all of the typical design components of a Neumann microphone. The harmonious proportions and gleaming grille ring ensure that even at first glance, the TLM 102* attracts attention.
The TLM 102 is impressive in terms of sound: In the interior is a newly developed large-diaphragm capsule (cardioid) with a maximum sound pressure level of 144 dB, which permits the recording of percussion, drums, amps and other very loud sound sources, for example. Instruments that are not especially loud also benefit from the very fast transient response of the TLM 102. However its most important applications are in the realm of vocals and speech; a slight boost above 6 kHz provides for excellent presence of the voice in the overall mix. Up to 6 kHz the frequency response is extremely linear, ensuring minimal coloration and a clearly defined bass range. The capsule has an elastic suspension for the suppression of structure-borne noise. A pop screen integrated into the grille serves to suppress plosives in vocal and speech recording.
Due to its price and flexible field of application, the TLM 102 is ideal for the home recording and project studio sector, as well as for the broadcasting area, especially when clear lines of sight to the speakers are a priority.
The TLM 102 is available in black and nickel; a stand mount is included.
*The design of the microphone is a registered design of the Georg Neumann GmbH in certain countries.
|
Large-diaphragm microphone with cardioid directional characteristic (pressure gradient transducer) |
|
Compact, characteristic but smaller-scale Neumann design |
|
Very high maximum sound pressure level |
|
Slight presence boost above 6 kHz |
|
Transformerless circuitry |
| Acoustical operating principle | Pressure gradient transducer | |
|---|---|---|
| Directional pattern | Cardioid | |
| Frequency range | 20 Hz ... 20 kHz | |
| Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm | 11 mV/Pa | |
| Rated impedance | 50 ohms | |
| Rated load impedance | 1 kohms | |
| Equivalent noise level, CCIR1) | 21 dB | |
| Equivalent noise level, A-weighted1) | 12 dB-A | |
| Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) | 73 dB | |
| Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) | 82 dB | |
| Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%2) | 144 dB | |
| Maximum output voltage | 13 dBu | |
| Dynamic range, A-weighted1) | 132 dB | |
| Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938) | 48 V ± 4 V | |
| Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938) | 3.5 mA | |
| Matching connector | XLR3F | |
| Weight | approx. 210 g | |
| Diameter | 52 mm | |
| Length | 116 mm | |
| ______________________________________________ 1) according to IEC 60268-1; CCIR-weighting according to CCIR 468-3, quasi peak; A-weighting according to IEC 61672-1, RMS 2) measured as equivalent el. input signal |
Warranty
This item is sold without the Sound Pure 3-year warranty (used / B-stock / dealer-exempt). Coverage terms for items in this category live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.
Returns
Try Before You Buy: take it home, commit only when it's right. Program details →
You may also like
Browse Solid State →
Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC
Come hear it in our control rooms.
Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.