Product Overview

The U 89 i mt (006450) was engineered to improve upon the traditional large-diaphragm condenser by offering greater linearity and higher SPL handling. While it shares the iconic Neumann aesthetic, it is slightly more compact and lighter than the U 87. Its standout feature is the five-pattern rotary switch, which includes Omnidirectional, Wide-Angle Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, and Figure-8. This allows engineers to fine-tune the microphone's "reach" and side-rejection without altering its fundamental tonal balance, making it one of the most reliable and "honest" microphones in any locker.

Product Description

The Standard for Natural Sound:

While many microphones are prized for their "color," the U 89 i mt is sought after for its neutrality. It provides the smoothness associated with large-diaphragm systems but with the transient precision and linear response typically found in high-end small-diaphragm condensers. This makes it a premier choice for "trained" voices and acoustic instruments that benefit from being captured in their natural beauty without artificial hype.

Advanced Five-Pattern Flexibility:

The U 89 i mt extends the utility of a standard condenser by offering two intermediate polar patterns:

• Wide-Angle Cardioid: Ideal for large sound sources like grand pianos or small vocal groups where a standard cardioid might feel too narrow.

• Hypercardioid: Provides superior rejection of sound from the sides, perfect for isolating instruments in a crowded studio or on a live stage.

  The frequency response remains remarkably flat up to 10 kHz within a pickup angle of ± 100°, ensuring that off-axis "spill" from other instruments sounds natural and uncolored.

Engineered for High-Pressure Situations:

The internal amplifier of the U 89 i mt is built to handle extreme dynamics. It accepts sound pressure levels up to 134 dB without distortion, which can be increased to a staggering 140 dB via the switchable -6 dB pad. This enables the distortion-free recording of loud brass sections, percussion, and high-gain guitar amplifiers that might overload other sensitive condenser capsules.

Precision Low-Frequency Control:

To manage environmental rumble or the "proximity effect" during close-miking, the U 89 i mt features a two-stage roll-off filter selectable at 80 Hz or 160 Hz. This allows for a clean, tight low end even when the microphone is placed just inches away from the source.

Professional Matte Black Aesthetic:

The "mt" version features a non-reflective matte black finish, making it the preferred choice for television studios, film sets, and broadcast suites where bright lighting can cause distracting reflections on standard nickel finishes. Handcrafted in Germany, the U 89 i mt comes protected in a signature Wooden Box.

Key Features

• Five Selectable Polar Patterns: Omni, Wide-Angle Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8.

• Advanced K 89 Capsule: Delivers an exceptionally linear and balanced frequency response.

• Superior Off-Axis Rejection: Off-axis sound is captured without tonal coloration.

• High SPL Handling: Capable of handling up to 140 dB with the switchable -6 dB pad.

• Two-Stage Low-Cut Filter: Switchable at 80 Hz or 160 Hz to eliminate low-end rumble.

• Compact & Lightweight: Easier to position in tight spaces compared to the U 87.

• Non-Reflective Finish: Professional Matte Black is ideal for video and broadcast use.

Applications

• Voice-Over & Dubbing: The first choice for a natural, authoritative, and uncolored vocal.

• Orchestral Spot-Miking: Excellent for strings, woodwinds, and soloists within a large room.

• Grand Piano: Wide-angle cardioid captures the full resonance of the instrument.

• Acoustic Guitar: Preserves the intricate detail and harmonic balance of the performance.

• Loud Instruments: Easily manages the high-pressure transients of brass and drums.

Technical Specifications