Neumann TLM-103 Review
Reviewer: Jake Jones
Average User Rating: 
Product Reviewed: Neumann TLM-103
What is the Neumann TLM-103?
The Neumann (pronounced ’noy-man’) TLM-103 is the best selling microphone for Neumann, a German company with a *long* track record of producing incredible microphones. It’s no joke that Neumann mics can be found in nearly all hit-making studios around the world. As Neumann themselves say, “It is difficult to imagine a professional audio studio without a Neumann microphone.” Click here for specs
Ok, you get the point – this company sets the standard! However, many of their mics also cost over $3,000 – which is where the TLM-103 comes in: it gives you that “Neumann Sound” for about a grand.
The Neumann TLM-103 can be thought of in two ways: the absolute best project studio mic you could over own, or the lower end of the world of insanely freakin’ expensive microphones. Either way you cut it, not a bad reputation to have.
If you’ve been searching around for information on the Neumann TLM-103, I know things can be a bit confusing, so I wrote this Neumann TLM-103 Review to help you as much as I can! If you’re even looking at this review, I’m going to assume you’re after a *very* professional sound and are willing to spend a few dollars to get it.
Best Place to Buy the Neumann TLM-103?
Below we’ve rated the Top 3 Vendors to purchase the Neumann TLM-103 from:
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==> 5 payments of $219 (no interest, no need to create a line of credit)==> 45 Day Price Match Guarantee – find it cheaper and they refund you==> 45 Day Money Back Guarantee - return for any reason. Full refundMy Thoughts:I’ve purchased over $15,000 of gear from AMS over the years and have never been disappointed. Not once. I continue to recommend American Musical Supply to everyone I talk with. |
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==> Good return policy==> You may already have an Amazon.com account – makes buying easyMy Thoughts:Chances are you’ve already bought something on Amazon.com before. Huge and trusted, they are not a bad place to buy music and studio gear, if they carry what you’re looking for. |
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eBay.com |
==> Potential for a good deal==> buy only from users with great feedback!My Thoughts:I’m not a fan of buying used microphones, but occasionally you can find a good deal on a new Neumann TLM-103 on eBay. You do have to create an account, however, if you’re new to eBay. Some folks may find the buying & bidding process intimidating. |
How Does the Neumann TLM-103 Sound?
Well, taste is a subjective matter – but countless artists and studio users have given this microphone very high marks. It can be considered a ‘warm’ mic, but it will not overly color your sound.
TLM means ‘Transformerless Microphone’ which means that this is a *very* quite microphone. This is generally considered to be a great attribute, though if your’re stepping up from a cheaper microphone, you may be surprised at just how much ambient noise this thing pics up! Be prepared to treat your recording room a bit better to isolate unwanted background noise – welcome to pro recording, champ.
What Should You Record with the Neumann TLM-103?
Mostly, this mic is used for capturing vocals, but it is also a bit of a workhorse in the studio, capable of recording acoustic instruments and woodwinds. This mic is even at home being used as a overhead mic when recording drums.
It has a fairly high SPL (Sound Pressure Level), which means it can record sounds up to 138 decibles without distorting.
Neumann TLM-103: Pros
- Gorgeous Neumann sound at a very reasonable price for this brand
- Makes you sound, um, better than you are (sorry but it’s true)
- Simple package, stunning results
Neumann TLM-103: Cons
- Does not have pad (or low end rolloff switch)
- May not come with shock mount (consider the Anniversary Edition – it comes with the shock mount)
- This thing practically picks up the sound of your thoughts – you better have a quite studio or recording room!
Overall Recommendation: Buy with Confidence
You won’t regret buying this microphone, especially if this is your first foray into ‘Pro’ microphones. If you do not like it for any reason, you can return it. This is a piece of gear that will be in your studio forever. Tip: I sometimes buy more expensive gear on a no interest payment plan to make it easier.
Neumann TLM-103 Video Review:
Neumann TLM-103 User Review (video):
Alright guys, as always I hope you’ve enjoyed this Neumann TLM-103 Review! Have a great day and here’s to your singing success!
Jake Jones | Founder | LearnHowToSingBetterFast.com | Thank you to Neumann for making great gear