Neumann TLM 102 vs Rode NT1 - This Mic Has a Serious, AVOIDABLE Flaw (Microphone Comparison/Review)

[@AudioHaze]

EDIT: The TLM Frequency response I included was actually the 103, sorry for this! The 102 is the greyed out one behind it. Here are the links if this review helped! Amazon: TLM 102 - amzn.to/3puCa19 NT1 - amzn.to/2NUoBJK Sweetwater: TLM 102 - imp.i114863.net/yRxQED NT1 - imp.i114863.net/oeaZVO

[@franklong6269]

I have to say that I thought the Rode NT1 sounded better than the TLM 102. Also, I heard some room noise with the Rode NT1. The acoustic guitar samples were instructive as there is almost no discernable difference between the two mics. The Neumann was slightly brighter, but the NT1 was more controlled. I would call the acoustic recording a draw.

[@Podcastage]

That fury you feel when everything goes wrong while filming a video is only known by other people who make videos. We understand. We accept you.

[@AudioHaze]

Hahahah. YES. So glad its not just me I needed this.

[@danielgaudet6114]

I would say that the top two requirements in investment for a home studio would be to get proper soundproofing and damping. I would believe that Neumann also had that expectation when they discuss a home studio otherwise they would call it a microphone for home use. That being said, my experience with a number of LDC Neumann microphones is that they tend to be very sensitive to background noises in the room (but depending on usage it might be less important - i.e. in front of a guitar cab or kick drum). As for the TLM 102, IMO, a reason why it doesn't have a shock mount is because they packaged it to meet a certain price point.

[@AudioHaze]

Yeah I get that, definitely some fair points. As a counter, I think sound dampening and treatment is fair to expect, but much of the issues I experienced were from the physical conduction of sound, not reflections. I mentioned in the review that I think the 102 actually does a pretty great job of noise rejection, just not in regards to conduction. My solution would simply be to offer an average, solid shock mount in the cheaper package, and judging by the price point of the some of the competitors, I don't think that would add on too much cost. Just my thoughts though! Thanks for the comment :)

[@the0cr00k0kid]

That’s exactly what he said bro

[@pedrova8058]

jus hype, like the "headless" Les Pauls, a silly design error (but of course, it has a "history" and a name)

[@sharp5flat9]

But how do you soundproof a home studio?

[@MrDoublebeats]

I have had the 102 and 103 in a home studio setting and what I learned about them is that paying 800 and 1100 for those mics made my recording and mixing so much easier. Now in the beginning I was frustrated because I thought those mics would automatically make the vocals I was recording pro level, but I had to learn about optimal gain in each stage and the use of moving blankets as I was recording in a basement. Now as I am in the process of buying 2 mid to high end mics I understand that these higher end mics are sensitive to capture nuances. I can use a podmic to record when it's noisy and I can't do anything to control the environment (it's only 100 and I have recorded with a space heater on and it didn't pick up anything)

[@AudioHaze]

Thanks so much for the info! Definitely some good stuff in here :)

[@urbnctrl]

Thats not a differenxe between high end and mid or low end.. you're comparing 2 differenr types of microphones. Condenser mics vs Dynamic mics. Of which Condensers do pick up way more background audio. This isn't to say that dynamic mics are somehow low end or mid end..

[@MrDoublebeats]

@@urbnctrl what I mean is that it's easier to mix, what I am a speaking about has nothing to do with the type of microphone but the build and capsule, I don't have to eq as harshly with those 2 mics in comparison to using a cheaper condenser microphones. As well as how it sounds with no processing on the way in it's more "refined" going in in my personal opinion

[@kennylawson9557]

I record with the Neumann Tlm 102 on female vocals in my vocal booth and it is one of the best mics I have ever used... It sounds better than the Rode's hands down.

[@rylandweet7750]

I prefer the nt1 for vocals over the 102 and 103, and we’ll many other mics prices in the 1k range that I’ve had, Vocals all need to be mixed and the nt1 sounds so smooth when mixed and exciting, the 102 and 103 are good for vocals if youre wanting more raw style vocals….but good luck getting it to sound good unless you have some higher end preamps because with any pres under 1 grand you’re going to need to compress harder and eq more… any mic that cost over 1k do not sound good with to much eq unless it’s a u87ai then you CAN do what you want with it, but the nt1 is like the u87 when it comes to mixing, you can litterally eq and compress how you want to get what you want and it works with it.

[@AudioHaze]

Nice take! Yeah the 102 definitely as a "post processed" sound sometimes, I just tend to really like it tbh

[@FFOGHORN]

If you have to have a $700 Neumann - and your environment is untreated or iffy - consider the KMS 105! It has most of the Neumann attributes but also enjoys much better off-axis rejection. I love it!

[@HarvinderSingh-yy8th]

Why not Mojave MA -D over KMS 105.

[@wozzawarren]

This is such a great review! I was torn with what to buy and the Nt1 is obviously more budget friendly. I have a basement studio and I have kids upstairs, my furnace goes off and I am always aware of environmental noise. This review confirmed the NT1 is for me. Thanks so much!

[@AudioHaze]

Yes so happy I could help!!

[@ryanreedtv3242]

103 is the best mic for you, if you can afford a $1400 mic. (Anniversary version with case and shockmount) I have the 102, it's great however the 103 is better at cutting out background noise and is better for lower male vocals. With the 102 you may need to mix a bit more to get your vocals ideal, vs the 103 sounds better out of the box. 🍻 If you want a quality budget mic for vocals, I'd go with Shure. Shure SM27 (or SM series)

[@bjrnbrynemo9059]

I bought a Røde NT1 online. I didn't like the sound. I also felt it picked up some small disturbances from my setup or something. Maybe the AIR preamp function on focusrite made it worse. I sent it back, got my money back, and bought Neumann tlm102. The sound feels like a breath of fresh air. I didn't have any problems (with or without shock mount), and so far I am happy. (I got it 2 days ago). I also bought a RYCOTE Shock Mount InVision USM-L. Works fine.

[@AudioHaze]

Nice! Well I'm glad it worked out for you :) the outcome is certainly very dependent on the environment you're working within.

[@SimonSchuett]

Thanks for the review! I got a really cheap but decent shockmount for my TLM 102, which is basically a clone of the Rycote you mentioned: Roadworx MSM 2000. It cost me only around 25€ and fixed the issue. Works fine although the metal pop filter isn’t as effective as the NT1‘s.

[@AudioHaze]

Love this, this is the info we all need thank you so much!!

[@GestattenWinnetou]

There‘s another, a little pricier, but still a 100 bucks under the Neumann mount: Rycote Invision Studio Kit USM-L.

[@ellfsproject]

The editing in this video was even better than usual, congrats o/

[@AudioHaze]

Thank you! I thought it was pretty nice too :)

[@henrikpetersson3463]

To be fair, the TLM102 with the shock mount is $850. And it is a really nice shock mount. But I do agree with your point here. The mic should be sold with a shock mount, period. And even with one, it is really sensitive still. A really solid mic though. I prefer the 103, 107 and 67 in the TLM series. But those are a bit more. A tip for opening up the sound of the 102 a bit is to remove the built in pop filter because it makes it sound a bit congested even though it's handy to have there.

[@elektro.phobia]

I've kind of just learned to use a noise gate, silence empty portions of a vocal track, and EQ the rumbling frequency away LOL ... The tlm102 is really good, but it's so true, it picks up EVERYTHING.

[@vacation_generation]

Really great and honest review. You're absolutely right about Neumann being errr....a bit tight by leaving out the shock mount especially for the price. Totally unusable without a shock mount. Still, the Neumann sounds a little bit warmer to me. Damn confused! I only want to invest in one good mic, and not regret buying a cheaper one then regretting getting the more expensive one.🤣

[@AudioHaze]

Well if you want to extend price of the 102 by a hundred bucks or so that may work for you! Keep in mind its sensitivity to environmental sounds though. AKG c414 is a beautiful alternative for a brighter (and more flexible) mic, and if you go to the used and refurbished market the prices could start to compete :)

[@BOKHTARIMUSIC]

Это видео полезно тем кто хочет купить Neumann для домашней студии. Он по факту все объяснил что не делайте этого и он прав. Лучше купите RODE или Lewitt.

[@NKWTI]

I think the R0de can take you pretty damn far when mixing or having access to live EQ if not able to do anything in post. The R0de is a great mic, just not as great out of the box as Neumann. The R0de needs a slight reduction in the low end and then it sounds perfect.

[@a.t.hustle1583]

Thats when the NT-1A comes into play.

[@realmadzero]

​@a.t.hustle1583 I have both and the NT1 sounds better. Clearer vocals and it has less self noise

[@kashphlinktu]

I have a tlm102 and I’m lucky enough to have a basement studio, vibrations don’t seem to travel through the concrete much so it’s not an issue. I compared my other mics a/b on drum overheads, vocals and acoustic guitar and the 102 is just miles better. It’s just got some kind of magic.

[@HarvinderSingh-yy8th]

Underground studio is good.

[@thomascampitelli3268]

These mics sound so close to one another on KZbin that had you not called out when one mic was used and when the other was used, I could not have guessed. The only giveaway was the rumble due to the lack of a shock mount. I suspect that through your interface into nice headphones or monitors, you can hear more subtleties. However, from what I can hear on KZbin, they might as well be the same. An excellent video review.

[@galeriaproductions70]

So... I'm watching this video cause I do have the NT1 and wanted to upgrade to the tlm 102. I was considering not getting the mic after this review. That was until @11:37 and I saw those KRK's. I refuse to take advice from someone using KRK's in Their home studio. ( I hope you know I'm only joking) but still not a fan of the Rokits. Thanks for the very detailed Video. I feel like everyone makes videos Highlighting how great the tlm102 is, but they never point out their flaws, and I also hope Neumann does watch this. for now I will stick to my NT1 and SM7B

[@dangradinaru8627]

I actually am here for the NT1 because I already own a pair of TLM 102’s, a TLM193 and a U87 Ai. I think Neumann mics took a plunge in quality and quality control since Sennheiser bought them …to the point where companies like Rode got way ahead of them when it comes to support and overall quality of the products regardless of price point. By the way, my U87 is highly susceptible to EMI, and is a 2700€ mic. Bottom line I am considering a pair of NT1’s for general purposes. Cheers!

[@idane1234]

U say the nt1 is better than the u87? I think the u87 is the most expensive mic in the world he needs to be different nah?

[@kjc7684]

I 100% agree with you. These new Neumann mics are drastically different pre Sennheiser. Sennheiser has definitely dropped the quality while looking to capitalize off the Neumann brand name. The old U87 is so much better than the U87 Ai that people seem to praise so much now. I honestly just think its hype or clout marketing sells. The Rode NT1 is the best home studio microphone as far as quality and price. This is a conclusion I have come to over extensive work with tons of different mics. You get actual voice recording with no boost. This makes the mixing process so much easier especially for an inexperienced mixer looking to learn. This is the best mic to learn on. All the boost, effects, air, processing that people love from these other mics can be added to the vocals in the mix down process. I learned the hard way but to me you can't find a better inexpensive solution with great quality for accurate sound than the NT1...Rode is definitely on the heals of Neumann because Neumann is not really Neumann any more.

[@somasora7]

Using the upside-down Rode shock mount on the 102 was genius. Peak studio jank 😂

[@AudioHaze]

Love me some studio jank 😎

[@thestingyham1188]

You can buy some really dirt cheap shock mounts that work just great off of aliexpress for pennies. The trick is to find the same shock mount but not listed as selling with the Neumann name, because then they bring the price up but you can get the same one for a whole lot less if you just check the sizing, and search based on that. This goes for about any expensive shock mount, actually.

[@MichaelAddlesee]

I think what people are perceiving with the TLM102 is the extra boost in the treble which is more than that of the NT1 - have a close look at those graphs again. I suggest doing the blind test again with the NT1's treble boosted to be identical to the TLM102 and then see if people can tell the difference.

[@TMD4000]

Hi - nice review by the way - thanks a lot ....ahm, the shown Frequency Response chart is from the TLM 103 .... the TLM 102 has just a small 10k bump ....

[@AudioHaze]

Thank you for letting me know! Will edit my pinned comment to try and fix this :)

[@andypeake3726]

Always use a shock mount when using a condensor to make professional recordings. They are available in many styles on the internet. I am the happy owner of a TLM 102 and have made many excellent recordings with it. I do not have a heater 2 floors down so I don't have to deal with the same subsonics (low frequency rumble) as you. However, I do have multiple shock mounts and mic stand risers to buffer any low vibrations. Personally, I would choose to not judge a mic based on whether it comes with a shock mount or not. Also, there is a tool called a high pass filter that comes on many mics and mic pre's that exist in part for the purpose of eliminating subsonics. I also own a MicParts S-87 platinum, Dachman Audio DA 87i, 2 NT1-A MPs, A Lauten Audio LA 320 V.2 tube mic, AKG 214, MXL 990 w MicParts capsule mod, MXL V67 Mogami and an AT 4033. All are good mid level condensors. All have worked well for vocal and other recordings. Here is a song I wrote and recorded with a lead and background vocal recorded using a TLM 102. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fX7Ld4uBp5ppq8U ....suggesting you can get a good sounding recording from a TLM102, when recorded with a good mic shock mount, pre and gain structure, even with a self noise of 12dB (A) A mic with 12dB (A) self noise is not recommended for quite level recordings however. The Rode NT1-A has the best self noise in our price range and does sound ok. The NT1 also has low noise and is flatter than the NT1-A.

[@nicolasheinemusic]

They learned their lesson. I purchased mine with a shock mount that you can screw in with that system last year (white edition) for 675€.

[@renegadetherapper]

You blessed me with this review. I was about to blow my entire savings on this + a new interface + a new DAW that's compatible with it + the shock mount, pop filter, cords yada yada Might actually go with the NT1 after all...

[@Leo9ine]

Never buy an interface that requires a proprietary DAW. There are so many reasons that's a bad idea. You're losing any workflow benefits of different daws by being stuck with one, and, if they stop updating the software in a few years (when you update your whole OS) then your interface is a paperweight.

[@arimakisho8008]

@@Leo9inedoes audient id24 require properietary daw?

[@maximeheberttalbot4505]

Just got a new subscriber, gawd I love your honesty! I kinda prefer the sound of the 102 but nobody talks about all those drawbacks! after everything you said, I'd prefer having a 'flat' noiseless Nt1! the nt1 is such a great microphone

[@AudioHaze]

Glad I could help! And thank you so much for the kind words, its not lost on me :)

[@thareaper195]

103 and 102 are the best mics.. I gave my rode away many years ago that mix just didn’t cut it for me.. I wouldn’t trade my Neumanns for nothing 😎

[@matthewcebrian]

My rabid horniness for the sound of the TLM does make the drawbacks seem like the legion of red flags I’ve ignored without a second thought in relationships. Also, the sweatshirt you wore in this video is gangster AF. Thank you for your work and assistance.

[@AudioHaze]

Thank you my friend :) considering making it the official review sweatshirt lol, I love its ton, its just a bit moody and Lewitt needs to support it a little more

[@kizu5234]

Two years later.. and I finally have the Tlm 102 in my hands!!

[@ivorymakesmusic626]

Excellent video I owned a 103 for a couple months and got so mad with the rumble that I had to get rid of it ! But the sound itself was great.

[@marvinjonathan1093]

Rode never disapointed me , quiet, it fixed the muddy from my deep voice and last it can handle loud scream even from a close distance.

[@troycopeland5156]

Great video I bought the TLM 102 About a month ago from Amazon for $699 mines came with a rack mount and shock mount 😳 😀

[@AudioHaze]

Ah no way!! Thats awesome congrats dude :)

[@griffinmusicinc]

Bro, putting that mic on THAT stand which is designed for dynamic performing mics is a crime! 🤣. GET A SHOCK MOUNT! 😂

[@jeremyryannoel]

Maybe it’s situational, but the last 3-4 instances I’ve heard and used the TLM 102, around 2.5khz on vocals tends to be harsh in terms of sibilance. The bright side is it can be cut with EQ. It sounds “spitty” at times. Other than that, it’s not the worst I’ve used.

[@tedbahas]

Don’t buy w/o the shock mount. Its super sensitive and specs out really well. Its certainly not the cheapest option. I work with Neumann at Sweetwater Sound and we really encourage people to always spec it with the shock mount. These are built in a clean room by hand and is tested rigorously for years of service. These also do want a proper 48 volt supply in from the mic pre. The electronics need that amount of juice in order to allow the mic to perform well when pushed hard. Most low cost microphones will lose bass response and pinch the mids when pushed hard. The company’s design criteria is not to compromise the sound quality . In addition these are hand built in Germany with labor that has been building these for multiple generations. Unfortunatley that does come at a premium. The value of this mic is that it is a “designation mic” that will give you years of great service without feeling like you are missing out on sound quality.

[@SIATPhoenix]

That song made me cry for some reason 😢

[@wildstraw5930]

I have the Aston shock mount which uses a spring loaded mount mechanism for a round microphone body. I would expect it would work well with this mic. Considering buying the TLM-102 as my Aston Origin is busted 😢

[@dantheman_youtube]

I’m considering this mic , as I am in a position to upgrade . In the UK 🇬🇧 if I buy it from Thomann the “TLM 102 Studio Set Black” cost £511 including vat and delivery that converts to $685.08 USA 🇺🇸. So must have come down in price as it’s now roughly to reference you $700 with a shock mount . I’m currently using the SM7B and NT1 and NT USB - it’s just become a bit of a hobby collecting cool audio gear ⚙️ 🎙 🎤 🔊

[@AudioHaze]

Nice! Well with the shockmount its definitely worth it!

[@SinnizterHouseMusic]

Man Brotha I brought the TLM 102 and I been aggravated with the microphone trying to use it with my UAD interface and I’m recording in my semi truck and I haven’t be recording because I been frustrated with it the way my vocals sound but I also have C214 microphone thank you for this video

[@Elsolocup]

I got the tlm 102 because after many attempts to make my rap sound tighter i just couldnt I figured a better mic can pickup the subtleties alot better giving more dimension to work with, But i could just suck at mixing vocals and perhaps my nt1 is fine Now i have two solid mics

[@AudioHaze]

Yeah the more the merrier I suppose :)

[@Ben-ic1ve]

I’m relatively new to the mic game. I’m looking to mainly record guitar and mic amps. I mean based off the comparison they seemed somewhat comparable (especially considering the price difference). In a recording on its own I feel like there is a difference, but in a full mix where the recording from the mic is processed, I’m not sure how the differences would pan out. Great video!

[@DonaldMerrit]

I got a tlm-102 about seven or eight years ago. loved it, and then I bought a u-87 I can't believe how great it is.

[@avelinadiso2682]

I thank you so much for your review about this microphones, you save me a couple of hundreds of dollars brother, I'm almost ready to order neumann, thank God I came across your review, I got rode nt2 and I'm satisfied. Thanks brother for your review.

[@MelborneMoon]

First, thanks for the great videos. Really enjoying your channel. Curious as to your opinion. I'm looking at buying either the TLM 102 or the 103 (both with shockmounts and I have a relatively well treated and quiet room :-) ). I currently have the NT1 and although I know it's a great mic, I'm always working quite hard and mostly failing at trying to make it sound more like the TLM 102 sounds with no processing in your video and in other videos I've watched. I'm aiming for the "intimate quality" you described in this video. In most videos comparing the 102 and 103, if I'm completely honest (although I really like both), I very slightly prefer the 102. I think it's because the 103's high boost starts lower and therefore has a very slight bit more bite to my ears. Most people seem to think this makes the 103 sit in a mix better though, which very well may be true. Anyway, I'm babbling here. Considering the self-noise is quite a bit better on the 103 and the similarity in their sounds, what are your thoughts between the two?

[@AudioHaze]

Personally, in the limited experience I have with the 103, I don't know if the fidelity warrants the additional price. To my ears, the TLM 103 is just SLIGHTLY more pleasing, but both have very similar sound profiles. You said it yourself that you seem to like the 102 sound more, so why not go for it! I think you'll be happy with it :)

[@MelborneMoon]

@@AudioHaze Really appreciate your input! Probably doesn't sound like it from my comment, but I've actually been at this recording thing quite a few years (decades lol). But, I've still learned some really helpful things from your videos and really like your honesty and approach. Never too old to learn lol. Thanks again.

[@WhiteChocoateify]

@@MelborneMoon you should look at other mics. And try before you buy. I had the tlm 103. It was good for 20% of songs I made. It got in the way of a lot of creation. The boosted high-end and presence. Wash hard at times. It changed the tone of my voice as a male vocalist. Made me sound higher pitched. Please try it before you spend that much money.

[@lalocura1828]

The tlm captures the emotion much more

[@ivorymakesmusic626]

Digging the tune for the vocal demo. Is it streaming anywhere ?

[@6moon18]

TLM sounds really good Amazing video yo really good Gonna get my rode nt1 in a couple of weeks Thanks for all your reviews and comparisons

[@AudioHaze]

Thanks for saying that, it did indeed sound very very good!

[@PAT4200VM]

@@AudioHaze Likewise! Due to this amazing video including the comments I'm going to kop that Rode NT1

[@modernemcee]

Funny because I sold my 102 and got a sm58 after watching your videos. As a rap artist who likes to move around a lot, it just makes more sense to go dynamic for me. I’ve also noticed an improvement in my vocal performance after using a dynamic mic for awhile. I fw the 102 (which I got used on fb marketplace WITH shock mount for $500). I went to it after the NTK (I just didn’t want to wait for my mic to warm up every time I wanted to use it). But as far as quality of sound; the sm58 gets it done for me. Albeit the post processing requires slightly more work, I don’t worry about it picking up too much ambient noise. I’m sure my clients have appreciated the 102 and NTK but I just sent some demo vocals to the same client and he said NOTHING about a difference in mics but actually commented on how good the vocals sounded. He’s a sound designer/audio engineer who does solid work so he definitely knows what he’s talking about. Before the reveal Mic one is the Neumann Mic 2 is the rode You can tell by the sharpness the strings hit the heart but to justify the difference you have to care that much.

[@AudioHaze]

Just wanted to say that changing from a 102 to an SM58 is such a baller move oh my god love that.

[@modernemcee]

@@AudioHaze haha thanks man. I’ll admit that going to a less expensive mic has helped me place the emphasis on how good my material is, not worrying if I’m making the most out of the mic. I also like the idea of conquering bigger pirates with a smaller sword on some Peter Pan ish. Thanks for all you do bro!

[@AudioHaze]

@@modernemcee Yeah definitely, going just as far on a budget set up is so much more bad ass love it. Thanks for your kind words!

[@zagorcuk1966]

Rap is not music.

[@Hardware244]

Do you have any audio examples of your vocals done w/the 58? What preamp are you using w/it?

[@emilio23canton]

omg the wanky upside down shockmount is legendary hahahahaha

[@guitardo100]

Relatively new to the mic game hence why I scour KZbin vids. This one pointed out a noticeable concern with and without shock mounts. Thank you for that. Had to throw on the headphones to truly hear the difference between the mics and I think both are pretty decent. going to scope out your other video comparing TLM102 vs TLM 103. cute kitty btw.

[@babyblue4824]

i got the MXL Revelation ii. Hope i do it justice with my upcoming recordings.

[@NateRiver-h4p]

In the blind guitar test, I realize that mic 1 has a weird noise and I say that's Neumann TLM 102 :D

[@richy3417]

In the blind test, I liked the NT1 better, to my surprise... Had a richer, fuller, more dynamic sound. Hurray, because that's the one arriving in my mailbox next week :))

[@urbanhookupz]

Thanks for a fair review with important knowledge

[@lewis1902]

Call me insane but they sounded pretty much the same to my ears (with the exception of all the noise when the 102 wasn't in a shock mount)

[@freddiewhite9656]

I could tell the TLM was the first mic on the blind guitar just by the buzz in the background

[@BehzadRaeisi]

It's not Fair! We should compare condenser mics in a fairly treated room(if not a real music studio) & Even in these vocal recordings i can clearly hear the difference. Listen again; you'll notice that NT1 has some weird sound (like someone is choking 😅) Ps: sorry if i couldn't say it right, eng is not my first language 🥲🙏🏽)

[@mavil64]

Damn the moment the blind test goes Mic number 2 I just immediately started laughing. It's such a huge difference and I almost never expect it in these kinds of stand offs. They both sounded amazing though!

[@a.t.hustle1583]

I do really appreciate the shock mount/pop screen on the NT-1A but that NT1 shock mount/pop filter is the fuggin truth. And I can't find one anywhere that's doesn't require to come with.

[@seanwebb605]

It didn't take me months to save up for it. The money was burning a hole in my pocket.

[@apkeeney]

The upside is that the 102 replicates exceptionally well the inside of a working coal mine.

[@AudioHaze]

Hahahaha, perfect for sound design projects specific to cave expeditions

[@BenjaminRenhat]

Dude nice video. But to me the rode which i love it too. Get more clicking sound from the singer mouth. Its harder to fix then the noise floor..

[@unknownxy8026]

I think the problem with the shock mount is more present in the US. In europe there is a bundle at e.g. Thomann, with a shock mount included for €609

[@zakontower936]

we need the capsule of neuman

[@timothybondaudio]

The 102 is just cleaner and clearer without the brittleness in the highs (the 103 more so). The thing is that you are paying a lot for small increases in sound quality which the majority of people who aren't in audio just won't notice. I'll admit I've never liked the NT1 and this review doesn't shift my position, but the Neumann name does inflate the price tag and it's ridiculous they don't supply a shock mount which is stupidly expensive to buy separately. But I'd still take the Neumann...

[@eliyahu3013]

Hey I wanted to know what audio interface you use and what exactly are all your settings. If you can link a pic that would be awesome.

[@AudioHaze]

I'm using the Scarlett 18i20, straight into ableton. Not much else to consider though (no processing ever used on mic reviews), what settings are you curious about?

[@mplive7173]

I got a great universal shock mount for 17.99 CAD that doesn’t harm the mic at all and works perfectly

[@larrywills4398]

The argument of value for money and not buying into a brands reputation is hard to hear from someone with a gibson right behind them! Great explanation tho.

[@seanwebb605]

Well I love my Neumann TLM 102 microphone. But I bought it with a shock mount.

[@AudioHaze]

Ah, well that will do it :)

[@seanwebb605]

@@AudioHaze When I went into the store to order mine they warned me that it would takes months to arrive from Germany. And it arrived the very next day. With the shock mount I spent $1,000 Canadian. It was surprising that it was so tiny and only came in a box with some foam and plastic. No wooden box or pouch for storing. But I do absolutely love it.

[@AudioHaze]

@@seanwebb605 yeah as I said in the review, it’s a brilliant mic, and I have no doubt the shockmount works great, but to not include any peripheral support in the standard package is just silly. I can’t think of many solid mics that don’t come with a shockmount, regardless of price

[@seanwebb605]

@@AudioHaze That's very fair. But I really like it and always intended to buy the kit with the shock mount.

[@Shulyaka]

Which gen of NT1 is that?

[@leandrobremer-music]

The question is (and yes Im ready to watch another video) is there anything in between to recommend? Mainly for vocals :)

[@DeathbyLibra]

Sennheiser makes a shock mount for about $75-$100 that fits the tlm perfectly

[@simondurrant43]

it comes down to what a "home studio" is. it's reasonable for Neumann to expect a "studio" to be acoustically treated, not just be a room, however bad (and your room is dreadful!) that you play and record in. As Mike Delgadio frequently says on his booth junkie channel, sort your room out before you even think about a classy mic. Is this the real reason for the popularity of good dynamic mics?: their relative insensitivity means they are more tollerant of bad rooms. Yiou're right about the shock mount but you could get an AKG C414 XLS for similar money and that has shockmount, case etc.

[@AudioHaze]

Granted, yes, my room isn't great (although, no it is not dreadful), part of the mission of this channel is discuss recording in less than ideal room environment. As thats what 80-90% of casual producers and audiophile are working within. Many things are out of our realm of control. Street noise, busy cities, children, families, there's just an endless number of things the casual producer has to deal with. My point was even though it sounds fantastic, its sensitivity to the room around it makes it unideal for the primary group of creatives I want to talk to.

[@ryanreedtv3242]

I have the 102, its nice. But the 103 is better. I paid $170 for the official Neumann EA shockmount. As far as sensitivity, I live in a big apartment and never had an issue with it picking up unwanted noise.

[@Hughsteph]

Nice to know I have the option to turn my rode SM upside when I upgrade to the 103 😂💯

[@AudioHaze]

We are innovators here lol

[@mara.records]

Great review! I'm curious. Which one do you prefer?

[@AudioHaze]

Hard question! In their current states, and in the environment I have now...I have to go with the Rode. If I were to spend an extra $100 for a shockmount, the 102

[@bganonimouse2754]

Great video, bought me an NT1 very recently after rejecting the TLM102 because of the price. Glad I did and thanks!

[@AudioHaze]

Enjoy the new mic! You won't be dissappointed :)

[@Neko_Nugget]

It’s insane how the sennheiser mk4 shock mount is exactly the same as neumanns shock mount for 60 dollars more fucking insane

[@kamranramsdenmusic]

So just to clarify if I were to get the 102 but with a shock mount would it negate the criticisms in this video?

[@AudioHaze]

I mean yup basically haha

[@wav446]

Bro, add a rapping test, 90% ppl are for that, I think for rapping and home studio better is nt1 because it's more cold and pic up less noise, it's better for mixing. The Neumann has more warm, but you can add it, using diffren pre amp if u want.

[@kizu5234]

is there any small mic similar to the TLM 102 that you reccomend?

[@AudioHaze]

Good question! Its a very distinctive tone, especially on voice over, my inclination is to say with some EQ'ing, you could get the NT1 close, but I haven't tried

[@gabrielpotel1]

with or without the shockmount the elm sounds million times better than the nt1

[@jackraymond5009]

I have owned and sold both a TLM-103 and a TLM-102. I bought the TLM-103 from new, and ended up finding the sound rather hard and unforgiving. I bought the TLM-102 secondhand and sold it for precisely the reasons you are so annoyed with it. I was wondering if there had been something wrong with my copy, and I was watching this video to find that your experience precisely mirrored mine. It is a resonance magnet, and I am amazed that it made it to public sale.

[@arupsircar4855]

I have the tlm 102 n rode nt 1a...the difference is minor where the tlm high frequency is a bit more..but while comparing both the tracks at a bit high level I heard a bit of hum noise in the blank recoded space on the tlm as the nt 1a was absolutely silent..

[@iamomid]

6:44 The NT1 has a noise level of 4dbA

[@AudioHaze]

Yes, got that slightly wrong off the top of my head! Thanks for the correction :)

[@exuperybeatz6448]

Great video!!!! I actually loved this microphone, but all the flaws you just said are just to real to ignore. Anyway, are things to keep in mind if I ever have this money for a mic :D

[@AudioHaze]

I still love this mic! Use it almost every day, even with the flaws lol

[@hypebrand2484]

Haha I have both mics the nt1a doesn’t even come close to the 102.those mics are priced high for a reason.

[@AudioHaze]

Well theres a difference between the nt1a and the nt1 to be fair, they sound entirely different. The nt1a is very bright, the nt1 is much more neutral.

[@waynepayne864]

bro had a glow up

[@theiammike123]

I know it's Neumann, the mother of all mic brands. But in the case of the TLM series, it really needs to let go of its lame ass mic holders and reconsider its shockmounts because the competition is getting way steeper. Mine's a BOYA BY-M1000, bought it for $97, own it for over a year and a half now 🥰. And it has everything, even a metal shockmount 😅😅.

[@AudioHaze]

I'll need to check that mic out, I'm not very familiar! Its definitely true, competition is offering a ton for the price, not sure why Neumann doesn't do the same.

[@LaidbackSounds]

@@AudioHaze Neumann is a good brand but they are funny with their price and always have been specially in 2021 seen the competition, even on their insta yesterday they posted some marketing bs to justify their high price point and most people on the replies were not having it lol. Also Neumann belongs to Sennheiser and produce all their stuff in the same factories (one being in Ireland not so far from where i live) so again they are quality and i love their products but its not like they are boutique running small scale factories. For 600 bucks dont be stingy with it include a bleeding shock mount i totally agree !!!! 150 e for a shockmount is some piss taken brings the thingy to 750 e , i can get a dope at4047 with shockmount for 650 e here or other nice mics too...

[@theiammike123]

@@AudioHaze It's also known as MOVO VSM-7. Booth Junkie reviewed it about a month ago. 🙂

[@RustedMelody]

So glad I watched your video, thank you!

[@AudioHaze]

Happy to help!

[@yarbgreat1]

At the end, there was noise on the signal of the TLM

[@back2the80sradio]

The same thing happened to me when I purchased the anniversary edition of the TLM103 with shock mount. The expensive shock mount sucked!

[@larrycom]

I know you won't like if I say this, but save your money and get the TLM 49 which comes with a great shock mount and a close to U87 sound , except filters. Sorry.

[@AudioHaze]

I mean I have no problem with that! I'd love to eventually check out that mic :)

[@PAT4200VM]

I was torn between the two until I saw this video. I believe the Rode NT1 will be great especially for my first mic. Thank you @AudioHaze

[@AudioHaze]

So happy I could help!

[@HarvinderSingh-yy8th]

NTI is great microphone. It sounds flat and rounded at all ends without any distortion. Now NTI has been discontinued. I don't know why. It has optimum base, mid and high end.

[@TheRayVincentOrchestra-rr7ei]

you talked me out of the tlm, thanks man!

[@jasper_north]

If you don't touch a mic does it still need a shock absorber?

[@maxlarsen]

Ofcourse they can include a bag, they can include the mic with a golden bag, but then the price would be 187200$ (included stuff also cost money).

[@JasonCarrara]

It is a nice looking Gibson though

[@risehitsiblaze1]

Waves NS1 noise suppressor plugin and Waves X Noise plugin.