Neumann U67

The rebirth of the Neumann U67

The Neumann U67 presents itself as the successor to the Neumann U47. But professionals quickly adopted it as the new standard: essential studio equipment . Compared to its predecessor, it also offers many more advantages.

The microphone features three selectable polar patterns and advanced tube circuitry. It also incorporates low cut and pad switches. Its design makes it a very versatile microphone with a sound quality ratio unequaled to date .

A brief history of the comeback of the U67

The Neumann U67 is the first microphone to be equipped with the famous K67 capsule. Since its introduction, this capsule has given Neumann microphones their signature sound. Moreover, the successor to the U67, the U87, also incorporates this feature.

The microphone tube system is equally masterful. It is equipped with an intelligent system to minimize the hissing of the tubes. The Neumann U67 was one of the first condenser microphones to address modern recording techniques such as close-range miking (with the famous proximity effect).

While its low-cut filter compensates for the proximity effect that occurs at short recording distances. Thanks to its pre-attenuation, the Neumann U67 can withstand pressure levels of up to 124 dB without distortion.

Its exterior appearance, as well as its sound and technical designs, are equally timeless. The cone-shaped body and the tapered grille have even become the hallmark of the Neumann brand.

elegant design will be found in the majority of Neumann microphones for the next 50 years. In terms of finish, we cannot fail to point out that the microphone is entirely manufactured and soldered by hand.

Applications of Neumann Microphones

The Neumann U67 is a universal microphone that is suitable for almost all applications. Its technical characteristics make it an exceptional vocal microphone . But it also proves itself for all kinds of instruments.

These include strings, woodwinds, brass, piano and drums. It also produces great sound with acoustic and electric guitar, bass and upright bass.

Who is the Neumann U67 for?

The Neumann U67 is a great option for female or male singers. Thanks to its power, the microphone has a design specially adapted for voice recording.

It also offers a magnificent, balanced and complete sound . Additionally, the Neumann U67 has an incredible frequency response.

It therefore represents an excellent option for anyone craving control over sound. It does an excellent job of picking up voice, and can be used for most sources without suffering from inferior sound quality.

The characteristics of the U67

The Neumann U67 is tube condenser microphone That is to say, it is much less robust than dynamic microphones. However, it has the advantage of frequency response.

The microphone has a large diaphragm , which allows it to perfectly capture bass frequencies. The Neumann U67 also has a well-designed electronic circuit in its body.

The main role of the latter will be to enhance the output signal, hence the need for an external power supply. Apart from that, the microphone is very sensitive to variations in sound pressure.

When omnidirectional directivity is activated, the Neumann U67 has a sensitivity of 15 mV/Pal. For cardioid polar pattern it is 24 mV/Pal, while for figure eight it is 16 mV/Pal.

The microphone has a total of three types of directivity:

• Omnidirectional directivity : the microphone captures sound at 360°. In other words, the microphone delivers the same electrical voltage if a sound wave hits it in front, behind or to the sides.
• A cardioid polar pattern: the microphone then has a blind spot behind it. In other words, it will deliver a very low voltage if a sound wave hits it from the back.
• And bidirectional directivity: the Neumann U67 has a total of two blind spots on the sides.

The Neumann U67 is equipped with a high-pass filter, a 10dB attenuator and an external power supply.

Technical characteristics :

• Polar pattern: omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8
• Frequency response: 20 Hz — 20 kHz
• Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kOhm: 15/24/16 mV/Pa1
• Nominal impedance: 200 ohms
• CCIR2 equivalent noise level: 32/28/31 dB1
• Signal to noise ratio: CCIR2 (rel. 94 dB SPL) 62/66/63 dB1)
• Maximum SPL at 0.5% THD 114 dB (cardioid)
• Maximum SPL for 0.5% THD with 3/124 dB pre-attenuation
• Maximum output voltage -9.8 dBu
• Power supply: NU 67 V
• Microphone matching connectors: spec. 7pin
• Power supply: XLR 3 F
• Weight: 560g
• Dimensions: 56mm diameter/200mm length
• Package weight: 7.21 kg

By the way, you can also other complete pro microphone or studio microphone tests on this link

The sound quality of the Tube Microphone

The Neumann U67 is known worldwide for its sound quality and versatility. It is a tube microphone with a large diaphragm. Its specific features give it incredible sound quality .

Without a doubt, this is the best studio microphone of all time for vocal pickup, or voice recording.

Moreover, this is the reason that pushed Neumann to carry out a new production based on the original data. Whether in a professional recording studio or a home studio, the sound quality produced leaves us speechless.

With this microphone, you won't have a bit of hiss even when pushing the preamp all the way up (provided you have a high-end one of course).

The sound produced is pleasantly warm, with lots of dynamics.

Omnidirectional directivity

The Neumann U67 has an omnidirectional polar pattern. Regardless of the position of the recorded sound source, the microphone will exhibit equal sensitivity in all directions. One of the main advantages of this directivity is the absence of proximity effect.

The microphone is not very sensitive to plosives. However, once this directivity is activated, the microphone will be very sensitive to the ambiance of the room in which it is placed.

Compared to other sources, it is quite impossible to isolate an instrument. If you play several at the same time, when recording, they will all be recorded at the same time.

We especially find this kind of directivity in a lavalier microphone. In recording studios, these are not the most common.

But with a good quality acoustic room, there are numerous applications such as overhead use.

It is also possible to use it on a drum kit, or on delicate instruments such as the violin or the piano. By selecting this directivity, be sure that the Neumann U67 will deliver a very natural sound.

Bidirectional directivity

This is a directivity that is generally found in a ribbon microphone . It functions as a pressure gradient sensor.

Shaped in a figure of eight, this type of directivity measures the pressure between the front and back of the capsule. This implies that the microphone is sensitive to sound sources placed in front of and behind the microphone.

This characteristic is mainly used to capture the sound of a room while controlling the sound sources. A microphone with bidirectional directionality only picks up sound sources placed in front and behind it.

It's basically used to give air and space to recordings that use an amp. This type of microphone is then used for recording two singers simultaneously or for Mid/Side sound recordings.

Cardioid polar pattern

Once engaged, its polar diagram takes the shape of a heart (hence its name). This is the one most used in studios (professional or home studio). It is only sensitive to sound coming from the front.

It is then easy to isolate the sound sources. And they are less prone to feedback. Regarding use, it will be more useful for recording a directional sound source. We can cite for example the recording of a singer's voice, snare drums, guitar amp, etc.

The proximity effect of the Legendary Microphone

The proximity effect mainly affects bidirectional and cardioid polar patterns. In other words, the closer the sound source is to the microphone, the stronger the bass will be. In this case, the sound obtained will be warmer, intimate with much more character.

In fact, this is one of the very appreciated characteristics of the Neumann U67.

Apart from that, with the Neumann U67, you can be reassured: it handles everything related to feedback very well.

In addition, discover our guide to the Coles 4038 microphone . This article offers you a complete review of the Coles 4038 microphone.

Electrical signal

It is based on the principle of transduction. That is to say, a sound source will cause an acoustic wave, which in turn will create an electrical signal.

The stronger this vibration, the higher the voltage of the electrical signal will be. With the Neumann response curve, you don't have to worry about distortions.

My point of view

The Neumann is highly sought after thanks to its sound quality . It offers a choice of three polar patterns and has state-of-the-art tube circuitry. It also integrates in it low cut filter and attenuator switches.

With its characteristics, the Neumann U67 fully deserves its legendary title. This also makes it an essential recording equipment . Among other microphones of its kind, the Neumann U67 remains the best.

The microphone fits almost all mixers and preamplifiers. However, it requires a specific diet. As a result, a traditional +48v phantom power supply for the preamp will not work.

We really need more! A dedicated external power supply.

This power supply is always included with the purchase of the microphone. Sound engineers around the world know this well! No tube microphone without external power supply.

Sound recording with Neumann U67

The sound it produces no longer really needs any special processing in post-production.

The recording fits naturally and perfectly into all mixes. It delivers warm, smooth sound to offset today's cold, digital sounds.

With the Neumann U67, the sound never becomes shrill, whatever the sound source, even at high frequencies.

Versatile, it can be an omnidirectional, bidirectional and cardioid pickup with a simple flip of a switch.

On stage, in the studio, for singing, for a podcast or a broadcast, the Neumann U67 will perform its task to perfection. You will even be surprised. With a worldwide reputation , it is one of the best microphones of all time.

If you opt for the Neumann U67, you will see the quality of your recordings improve significantly.

Its general tone is rich. It's the perfect hardware for recording anything you can imagine. But, it is especially suitable for large professional studios, especially given its exorbitant price.

However, if you are considering purchasing one, it will be a great long-term investment. You will just need a pop filter, or a windshield to control background noise, unwanted noise and parasites.

Then, just plug it in and listen to the magic happen.

Our opinion on the Neumann U67

The soft, limey and inimitable sound of the Neumann U67 remains highly sought after by professionals and amateurs all over the world. It's a legendary tube microphone that has been imitated many times, but never equaled. Used as a vocal microphone or for instruments, the Neumann U67 is made to showcase your talent, particularly with its exceptional audio quality. A reference in the studio! Well done Neumann!

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