Do Voice Actors Really Need a Neumann U87?

The Neumann U87 may be one of the most recognisable microphones in the world, but does that make it the right microphone for voiceover and animation? This week, the team digs into the reputation, sound and real world value of the U87. Andrew is considering one for Somerset's animation work, which sparks a much bigger discussion about why certain microphones become industry standards and whether producers genuinely require them. We compare the U87 with alternatives including the Neumann TLM 103, TLM 193, U89, Sennheiser MKH 416, Microtech Gefell models and the Austrian Audio OC818. The conversation covers: • Why animation studios sometimes record with both a U87 and a 416 • Whether microphone requirements are about sound or repeatability • The differences between older U87s and newer U87 Ai models • Why a great microphone can still sound ordinary in a poor room • The U87 compared with the Austrian Audio OC818 • Transformer and transformerless microphone designs • Whether the mic, preamp or converter makes the biggest difference • Why performance and room acoustics still come first • Processing, reverb and the engineer's role in the final sound Is the U87 still the ultimate voiceover microphone, or has its reputation become bigger than the microphone itself? Thanks to our sponsors: Austrian Audio Making Passion Heard. Find out more about the team and the show at theproaudiosuite.com.