Neumann
Neumann, officially known as Georg Neumann GmbH, was founded in 1928 in Berlin, Germany, and has since become one of the most prestigious names in the professional audio industry. The company was established by Georg Neumann, an engineer with a passion for innovation in audio technology, who quickly made a mark with the introduction of groundbreaking microphone designs. Neumann's unwavering commitment to quality and precision has made it a leader in the field of microphone manufacturing, with its products becoming a benchmark for excellence in sound recording.
Neumann's first major success came with the launch of the CMV 3, often referred to as the "Neumann Bottle," which was the world’s first commercially available condenser microphone. This innovation revolutionized the recording industry by offering unparalleled sound clarity and sensitivity, characteristics that have come to define Neumann microphones. Over the decades, the company continued to push the boundaries of audio technology, consistently introducing new models that set new standards in the industry.
Among Neumann’s most iconic products is the U 47, a large-diaphragm condenser microphone introduced in 1947, which quickly became a favorite among recording engineers for its warm, rich sound and exceptional detail. The U 47 was used to record some of the most famous vocal performances in music history and remains highly sought after by professionals and collectors alike. Following this success, Neumann introduced the U 67 in 1960, which further solidified the company’s reputation as the maker of the world’s finest microphones. The U 67’s versatility and distinctive tonal character made it an instant classic, particularly in the recording of vocals, orchestras, and acoustic instruments.
Neumann’s product range extends beyond microphones to include studio monitors and audio processing equipment, all designed with the same attention to detail and commitment to sonic excellence. The KH series of studio monitors, for example, is renowned for its precise sound reproduction, making it ideal for critical listening environments such as recording studios, post-production facilities, and broadcast stations. Neumann’s studio monitors are engineered to deliver a flat frequency response and exceptional accuracy, ensuring that audio professionals can trust what they hear when mixing and mastering.
Innovation has always been at the heart of Neumann’s philosophy. The company was a pioneer in the development of stereo microphones and continues to innovate with products like the TLM series of transformerless microphones, which offer high sound pressure level handling and low self-noise, making them perfect for modern digital recording environments. Neumann has also embraced the digital age with the development of its digital microphone series, which integrates seamlessly with digital audio workstations (DAWs) and provides unmatched audio quality.
Neumann products are used by a diverse range of professionals, including recording engineers, music producers, broadcasters, and sound designers. Their microphones and monitors can be found in the world’s most prestigious studios, concert halls, and broadcast facilities, where they are relied upon to capture and reproduce sound with the utmost accuracy and detail. The brand's commitment to quality has made it a trusted name in the industry, with a legacy that spans nearly a century.
Key products in Neumann’s lineup include the U 87, arguably the most famous studio microphone of all time, known for its versatility and iconic sound signature; the TLM 103, a modern classic offering superb sound at a more accessible price point; and the KH 310, a high-performance studio monitor revered for its clarity and precision. Neumann’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation continues to shape the future of audio technology, ensuring that its products remain the gold standard for professionals around the globe.
Today, as part of the Sennheiser Group, Neumann continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, combining decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology to create audio equipment that sets the benchmark for quality in the industry. Whether in the recording studio, on stage, or in the field, Neumann’s products continue to define the sound of countless iconic recordings, making them an indispensable tool for anyone serious about audio production.