Neumann U87 P48 (Circa 1970's)

[ginsuthaironchef]

I record hiphop vocals, and currently use an AKG C414 bXLS. It's a great mic, just a bit harsh on the highs, and scoops out the mids.

I have used a Neumann U87 (circa 1987) before and loved it!

I recently found a Neumann U87 P48 (circa 1970's) for 650 euro/1000 bucks US.

From what I understand the "P48" has nothing to do with the design, but pertains to the power supply? I have an Avalon 737 on its way, and I am currently using an RNP/RNC Funklogic rack combo.

Can you tell me what I can expect from this U87 from the 70's?
What exactly does P48 mean?
What are the main differences in technology between the Ai's, the circa 80's, and my P48 from the 70's?

Thanks a load in advance.

[frank lyon]

All Aspects of Neumann Products - All U 87 are P 48.

"P 48" is not part of the type designation of any Neumann microphone--it is simply an indication of the powering system for which a certain microphone type was designed. A similar marking is found on the TLM 103, U 89 and KM 180-series microphones, and maybe some others (that could be a good "Neumann Trivia" quiz question). However, in the case of the U 87 this confusion is quite understandable, because at least on some versions of the label, the letters "P 48" are printed closer to the type designation "U 87" than even the word "TYPE" is to "U 87".

[ginsuthaironchef]

Thanks Frank,

P 48" is not part of the type designation of any Neumann microphone--it is simply an indication of the powering system for which a certain microphone type was designed

Do you know how this difference in power system affects the mic sonically?