It has a low self-noise level of 4.5 dBA and uses a cardioid polar pattern which is ideal for vocal recording. While both condenser microphones are outstanding, the almost double-price for the TLM-103 is warranted, for its fuller, richer bass response, and crisper, airier high frequencies. It’s a large-diaphragm condenser that is perfect in the studio. But I’m guessing that’s not what you had in mind…. Many people swear by one kind of another, but it’s really a matter of personal preference, budget, and where you are recording. A list of studio vocal mics wouldn’t be complete without a ribbon mic. Thus, it is perfectly suited for vocals and audio drama productions in high definition as well as for demanding samples production and instrumental recordings. The Neumann TLM 102 is definitely one of the best studio microphones under $1,000. Neumann TLM-102 Frequency Response & Polar Pattern, Neumann TLM-103 Frequency Response & Polar Pattern, Tropical studio vibes with @paradisestudiosuk and, Evening sessions with @iampaulkalkbrenner , Only the most high-tier spaces at @larrabeestudios, Beautiful studio space. As a result, the lower self-noise level makes up a large part of the TLM-103’s heavier price tag. While both condenser microphones are outstanding, the almost double-price for the TLM-103 is warranted, for its fuller, richer bass response, and crisper, airier high frequencies. Sign up for the Iris remote recording platform waitlist here, 31 Best Podcast Hosting Sites In 2020 (Top 6 Have Free Offers), How To Start A Podcast: A Complete Step-By-Step Tutorial (2020 Guide), Best Podcast Recording Software (For Mac & PC), The Best Podcast Starter Kit (For 1, 2, 3 & 4+ Hosts). Well, the “best” vocal mics all cost over $1,500 – plus you will need a handful of other expensive equipment to properly power them. With a capsule design based on the legendary U87, the TLM-103 also has a louder output signal and lower self-noise. One thing to be aware of is that it does require a lot of gain to get great sound, so you will want to a decent pre-amp like the DBX286s or something simpler like a Cloudlifter CL-1. Because I've also lost count on how many people who are prefering the M930 over a U87 or TLM 103 for VO-work. This is responsible for the fuller low-end response achieved by the TLM-103. I already own the SM7b which sounds good but can sound a little honky and have tried the AT4047 which sounds great apart from a little sibilance. - @_madebypet, We're loving the symmetry in this sleek set up fro, 10 Best Mini Distortion Pedals (That Money Can Buy In 2020), I Enrolled At Point Blank Music School (Here’s My Review), 6 Of The Best Audio Interfaces For Beginners (2020), Fusing Sound Design & Architectural Principles (Interview With Ténèbre), Empowering Communities Through Knowledge Sharing (Interview With Stranjah), It’s All In The Details (An Interview With Objectiv), 11 Organizations Making A Difference To Music & Mental Health. Feature-wise, they are both clean and bare. The Rode NTK is a large-diaphragm tube condenser. This comes at an (insignificant) trade-off though… SPL levels. The Rode NTR uses a 1.8-micron ribbon element, has an internal shock mount, and a bi-directional pickup pattern. There is a caveat here, though. No fancy switches, no extra modes, and just a standard XLR port. On the other hand, the TLM-102 has a self-noise level of 12dB (A). I know someone who tried over 50 different mics side-by-side and ended up choosing this one. 10 Best Amp In A Box Pedals With Excellent Tone (2020). It’s an easy decision, and the TLM-103 (check out user reviews here) is the clear winner out of the two. Mojave might not be the most well-known name, but I’m a big fan of the MA-201fet. Tube microphones are highly regarded for vocal recording because of the smooth ad warm tone they record.