a U87 - but quieter

[John Willett]

Originally Posted by Meurig

I love my 1979 vintage U87 - the tone is just so right for my needs. But I just wish it was a little quieter.

I'm wondering if there are any simple mods that could be done to only reduce the self noise? I don't really want to go to the trouble of sending it to Klaus or the guys in Germany; partly because of the long wait but mostly because I'd like to leave the tone intact.

Would prefer to work with someone UK based as I can't bear to be without it for long.

Any thoughts anyone?

Martin Gathard at Sennheiser UK is the real Neumann microphone guru in the UK.

I would talk to him first.

There is also Ashley Styles at Saturn Sound, but it can take a long time with him, I am told (maybe longer than Klaus in Germany).

[Klaus]

No "microphone guru" can address the marginal noise floor of a stock U87. The reason? Its capsule polarization voltage (44VDC) is woefully low- dictated by the DIN phantom power standard (48VDC).

The U87 model, introduced in 1967, predates later models with DC-to-DC converter, which pumps up the supply voltage to 60VDC- the level the K87 capsule was originally designed for.

So, as long as you keep the mic's electronics stock (your expressed desire), you will have to live with the relatively low s/n and head room the U87 is notorious for.

[kidvybes]

...great info Klaus!...thanks for an explanation that a layman can comprehend...

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[Meurig]

Originally Posted by Klaus

No "microphone guru" can address the marginal noise floor of a stock U87. The reason? Its capsule polarization voltage (44VDC) is woefully low- dictated by the DIN phantom power standard (48VDC).

The U87 model, introduced in 1967, predates later models with DC-to-DC converter, which pumps up the supply voltage to 60VDC- the level the K87 capsule was originally designed for.

So, as long as you keep the mic's electronics stock (your expressed desire), you will have to live with the relatively low s/n and head room the U87 is notorious for.

It's good of you to chime in Klaus - much appreciated.