recordinghacks

Search Microphones


Share This Page

OmnidirectionalCardioidHypercardioidBidirectionalWide CardioidNeumann U 89 i

Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The U89 is a large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone positioned as an evolution of the U 87.

Both are transformer-coupled multipattern FET mics, but the differences are significant. Some of the differences include:

  • The K89 capsule differs in size, construction, and sound from the K67/K870 capsule in the U 87.
  • The U 89 has 5 polar patterns. (The U 87 has 3.)
  • Although both mics employ DC-DC converters, FET amplifiers and output transformers, the amplifier circuitry in the two mics differ.
  • The U 89 is physically smaller than the U 87.

Neumann U89 CircuitThe five pickup patterns (figure-8, hypercardioid, cardioid, wide cardioid, omni) are selectable via a rotary switch built into the collar of the microphone.

A second switch provides a -6dB pad, which functions by creating negative feedback within the first stage of amplification. With the pad engaged, the mic’s max SPL is 140dB.

Neumann K89 capsuleThe K89 is a neutral mic, lacking the HF boost common to K67-based mics.

The Neumann U 89 i is also known as: U 89i, U89.

The mic was released in 1990.

Specifications

Frequency Response - OmnidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!
U 89 i Omnidirectional Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - CardioidClick Graph to Compare!
U 89 i Cardioid Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - HypercardioidClick Graph to Compare!
U 89 i Hypercardioid Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - BidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!
U 89 i Bidirectional Frequency Response Chart
Frequency Response - Wide CardioidClick Graph to Compare!
U 89 i Wide Cardioid Frequency Response Chart
Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (8 mV/Pa; 40 - 18,000 Hz)
Cardioid (8 mV/Pa; 40 - 18,000 Hz)
Hypercardioid (8 mV/Pa; 40 - 18,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (8 mV/Pa; 40 - 18,000 Hz)
Wide Cardioid (8 mV/Pa; 40 - 18,000 Hz)
  • Pad: -6dB (Detachable)
  • Filter: HPF @ 80 Hz (Via Switch)
  • Filter: HPF @ 160 Hz (Via Switch)
  • Filter: LIN subsonic filter (Via Switch)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Diameter n/a
150 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 140 dB
Self-noise: 17.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
400g (14.11oz) 185mm (7.28'') 46mm (1.81'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Requires phantom power
  • Phantom voltage: 48 ± 4v

Did we get anything wrong on this page? Please let us know!