WHICH IS BETTER? TLM 102 or TLM 103???

[@mikebottiaux5850]

I’ve owned the 103 for a few years now and am quite happy with the results.

[@RayAFlanagan]

This is a great video. Thank you! I went for the 102 as sort of a gamble, this makes me feel better lol

[@romandensk]

Getting it as well soon!

[@LetsGoHelio]

Your voice sounds good on any mic to be honest. Great video as always.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Awww...thanks. Grew it myself!

[@LetsGoHelio]

@@DarkCornerStudios lol

[@NKWTI]

I wouldn't be mad at either, but while the 103 is overall warmer and rounder sounding with less air, the 102 seems to sound the exact same...just with more air. Neither are harsh, especially since the 102 has more "treble" out of the box, and since it is the clearer mic without losing any low-end quality, the cheaper mic is the smarter option. It is easy enough to make it sound like the 103 if you want to by starting to make some minor cuts starting at around 16k. So just get the most affordable Neumann and don't look back, you won't regret it. 102 is excellent, and there is no reason to spend a U87 price to get a quality Neumann sound unless you are recording multiple sound sources and want a better swiss-army knife mic. The U87 and higher cost Neumanns are expensive because they could probably record any audio source and be a dream, but if you are just doing one thing...like for example, voice over...you basically already have a U87 if you already own a 103 or 102...they are highly malleable in EQ, and you are getting genuine Neumann quality for cheaper. Don't hesitate!

[@Bammbamm]

Thanks for the review/comparison!!! I just purchased a 102 and am anxiously awaiting its arrival!

[@FredDeMassiveAlambic]

brilliant ! I'll go for a 102 thanks to you,

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers...consider using the links below if you want to support the channel. Glad I could help!!

[@barankaypakoglu7643]

from a home studio perspective the question you have to ask yourself is which one will take less background noise. that should make you lean towards the TLM 102 with less sensitivity.

[@400_billion_suns]

Your thinking is correct, BUT... a number of videos compare both of these mics and the 103 has significantly better off-axis rejection. The 102 picks up a lot more sound from all directions, so despite its higher sensitivity, the 103 is probably still better for noise and poorly treated rooms.

[@TheKwaze]

Very informative thanks and have decided 102 would suit myself best. A sssssibilant test would have been nice, but I gather from the info that the 102 has a less bright top end, so would win that test.

[@cruisingfanatic]

TLM 102 is beautiful... I bought two for the price of one TLM 103 both lovely mics though, but love the sound of the TLM102 .... another great review

[@YourSoundStudios]

Did you get shock mounts? What did that cost?

[@nickkendall3764]

these both sound fantastic to me id be over the moon to own either of then grate video as always

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks Nick!

[@Beatledave7]

Great video thank you. Both are brilliant microphones. The 102 has a lovely natural sound & could probably be used on anyone & anything & faithfully capture what’s in front of it. The 103 might have a little more hype on the top & bottom. Not a bad thing, just different & might suit certain applications better.

[@NKWTI]

It's funny, I've always considered the 102 as having more hype in the high end, but it's not harsh, and I like it better.

[@lionheartroar3104]

Didn't know I needed the nt2a till DC reviewed it. Also proud owner of these two Neumanns. I love the clarity of the 102 and the fullness of the 103. Depends on my project.

[@pinhead2098]

nt2a or 102? trying to make my decision

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Personally I would choose the 103 every day...if finances weren't an issue

[@pinhead2098]

@@DarkCornerStudios nobody asked u bro

[@pinhead2098]

@@DarkCornerStudios finances are the issue :( i want the telefunken 47 but im contemplating saving up for another month or just going cheap but i cant find a good mic under $1000 that i like

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@pinhead2098 nt2a is a wonderful alternative

[@matthooper5059]

I bought my 102 from Amazon a few years ago. Made payments. Have used it on every record that didn't have a "better" mic. This little sucker has been a butt kicker. Recorded several studio projects using U87's and U86's, at the same time on my fiddle and then compared the tracks.. Fantastic mic for the price. The fact that is very flat is what I like about it. 103 has that boost, which may work best for vocals, but dang.........this little baby is epic for my old German fiddle.

[@ahall3823]

For the average home studio user, the self noise of the 102 is nothing compared to background ambient noise. So no real practical difference between the two there. It would really come down to your budget and which one sounds better for your application. Generally I prefer the sound of the 103, but agree that the 102 sounds better for your voice.

[@jas_bataille]

Moreover, the 102 will pick up so much background noise it's almost useless for professional vocal recording in most home studios. Let's face it. You will be better served by a Beta 87A or other electret condenser!

[@pokerqAK47]

102 sounded like ass compared to 103 when I tried them both. Idk which voice would sound better on 102. Maybe if you’re a rapper.

[@GLOBALWRLD]

Thank you for keeping it real I’m this review, you got me thinking bout going with the Tlm 102

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks for watching!

[@OMTEKNO]

Well structured review! You deserve millions of subscribers 😀

[@DarkCornerStudios]

I appreciate the kind words!!! I am slowly getting there

[@LouieShowers]

The 103 is noticeably darker to me on my focal monitors in a treated room. I like the clarity of the 102 better

[@NKWTI]

Yes, everyone keeps saying the 103 is brighter or more presence on comments all over KZbin and I just don't get it, the 103 always sounds much warmer to me and 102 is the clarity mic.

[@JoeStuffzAlt]

Someone said that the TLM 102 might have a few advantages. The 102 has more proximity effect (IN A WORLD), and because it's not as bright, if you have a bright or light voice, it can complement the voice better.

[@mu7495]

Exactly what I was looking for

[@pokerqAK47]

102 sounded harsher and brighter on my alto voice

[@badmiddens]

I am amazed at how many voice over people, narrators specifically, aspire to, and eventually buy the 103. Just to say they use a Nuemann. Well, I can say I use a Nuemann, too. I don't, but I can say it really cheaply! For narration specifically, I kind of chuckle because by the time those lovely Neumann-borne audio files are crunched down by the audiobook apps, then listened to through little earbuds, or even the tinny speakers on their phones, the end user isn't getting anything better than work that was recorded on any number of 100 dollar microphones. Additionally, there are a ton of good sounding U87 clones that get closer to the sound of a U87 than a TLM103 does. Thanks for the vid!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers!

[@cryptoparking]

Nice video! I like how quick you campare the mics and specs of it! Can you make a video of the blue low budgets mics!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Working on it...its more finding the mics...and trying to not drop all my money on them

[@cryptoparking]

@@DarkCornerStudios I understand! Thank for the replied! Keep up the nice work!

[@StruggleSwingGolf]

Damn you, sir! I was perfectly happy with my NT-1. And now? I have to save $700 for a 102. Then again, I could always unsubscribe... 😜😜😜 Great video as always, Aiden!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

No unsubscribes for you!

[@BojanBojovic]

NT1 offers much better high end without harsh sibilants compared to the TLM, no need to feel bad about it. It is actually NT1 that is a poor man's U87, at least when it comes to frequency response.

[@jaymuha]

I’m really good at mixing vocals, and let me tell you, I absolutely kill it on multiple occasions with my 102. My friend has a 103, but has no idea how to mix, so as you could imagine I’d smoke him every time.

[@youngjb94]

😂💯

[@samuelwinslow8550]

With an exceptional microphone very little eq needs done.

[@bryanedako8897]

Brooo, ever since i learnt how to mix vocals, I’m convinced a mid-range price mic is more than enough, besides, even with a ‘perfect mic’, you still need to eq according to the rest of the song anyways

[@jaymuha]

@@bryanedako8897 exactly!!

[@reddeadryan78]

I thought it would be the opposite. 103 less mixing, 102 more mixing, more acoustics. I have a 102 and plan to upgrade to the 103.

[@dentboxhero1717]

102 does sound velvety and rounded on the edges. The 103 captures and translates your voice's dynamics which translates to a better microphone and capable microphone in different scenarios.

[@QuantumGamingUploads]

They are both great mics. I would buy two of the TLM 102 If I had a studio recording voice on one and one for Instruments. If was doing only Audio I would go with the TLM 103.

[@troycopeland5156]

I bought the TLM 102 it has the same exact sound as the U87 AI on figure8 settings I hurried up and bought it before the price went up

[@flameoftheblackdragon7287]

Same sound? Well not to disrespect you …but u need to train your ears much better! Because the Tlm 102 sounds nothing as U87 AI …but if u gonna tell me that the Tlm 103 sounds as U87 AI …than i would say …ok they are very close to 90%

[@thetruth3316]

@@flameoftheblackdragon7287 the tlm 103 sounds harsh. Nothing like the u87Ai

[@markblack1314]

In addition, the 103 is an excellent saxophone mic as well. I have used it on all of my horns and it just sounds fantastic. I prefer the Coles ribbon but that 103 sometimes just gets the job done better.

[@LightningSpiritVA]

From watching this video and listening through my headphones like straight up thought simply 103 but then again the 102 does have it charm and my studio just a room filled with alot of foam, so if one day could get either I think would be happy either one 😊 but some day great video

[@IndyRockStar]

I got a TLM103 for Christmas. I'm looking for a shockmount for it. What is the $130 difference between a EA1 and EA4?

[@johnkotches8320]

Worth and better are *very personal* things. I like the 102, which to me, seems a tad less raised in the presence region and for what I'd use it for it would be "better" -- recording various horns I play.

[@VM-oi3dk]

This room is over treated. It's hard to tell which mic is better. I'm getting away from using complete coverage of walls and everything in sight with porous material and switching to harder panels with some reflection. More diffusion, less absorption makes for a less muffled sound. Standing waves are always a problem, but there are ways around it.

[@zaidyusoff126]

Great Review, big fan of Neumann mics!!

[@cosmicknocks594]

To my ear the 102 is a bit more hyped, the 103 is flatter. Some situations the 103 might be more moldable, like the u87. But with the right vocalist the 102 would likely need fewer eq moves. All about pairing the mic to the voice!

[@guitargod6997]

This is a case of the law of "diminishing returns". Both mics are excellent, but they do have individual "voices". I would not mind owning either, but the price differential might sway me.

[@FloridaBands]

I have the 102 and couldn't justify the price difference on the 103. They sound too much alike. Thanks for the comparison.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thank for watching!!

[@bradalford9829]

well said, I must be nearly def. Cant hear it man. 102 sounds great on his voice.

[@cyberdefenseddi]

Excellent review. Thank you 😎

[@VM-oi3dk]

I notice greater clarity in the 103 in the higher frequencies. The ends of words distort in the 102.

[@PhilipRikoZen]

Something that may help new people watching this: pay attention to the "ess" "ts" "z" "sh" and all those kind of sounds, there you can hear the quality of a microphone, with that quality comes the ability to push and work with the sound harder without making the voice sound like it's broken or glitchy or cheap

[@RANGDAP]

Imo the 102 is good for speech or dry closed proximity effect while the 103 is better for singing, more open. Depends which sound are you chasing

[@gillythekid]

I much prefer the 102. The sensitivity and noise floor is my only issue with it. It’s kind of unfortunate that they’re constantly compared because of their price range and names, because they really are two completely different mics and don’t sound even remotely similar to each other

[@jKHAHN215PA]

Explain that..

[@ashermyers6370]

​ @jKHAHN215PA I'll jump in to explain. I have owned a TLM 102 for a little while now, and I understand the character of the TLM 103 (and Neumann mics in general) well enough to elaborate. The Neumann TLM 102 is an insane value for the money. It is very rugged, and very versatile. I used to think it was more tailored towards vocal capture, but I've been really loving it on drums and acoustic guitar lately. It's currently beating out my $1,000 United Technologies FET47 for overheads and vocal work, but I still love the extended bottom end of the FET47 on kick and bass. This is an important point; the TLM 102 is not going to give you the "most" bass, or the "most" treble, but it will always be a workhorse on any source. If you are careful about making your source sound its best *in the room* , the TLM 102 will be a superior choice for an experienced recordist, ironically. It is more natural in that it sounds less "like a microphone" and more "like music". I love it to death. Often the concern with a budget version of an expensive mic is the frequency response. Budget mics tend to have an inarticulate low end, and an overhyped high end. The TLM 102 is the exception, having a robust bottom end and a natural top end. You won't find yourself EQ-ing the top end out of the TLM 102. The TLM 102 is very flat, and balanced. You could compare the sonics to the flatness of the TLM 193 or an old U87 with a lot of "years on the capsule", meaning it doesn't have a super extended frequency response due to dust and grime. It is flat, natural, and smooth. You can EQ it all day long if you want top end.. but if you don't want to be painted into a corner, the TLM 102 is far superior to the TLM 103 in my eyes. The TLM 103 is just too bright and hyped. I could see a hip hop vocal studio choosing the TLM 103 over the 102, but for a general studio that records lots of instruments, the TLM 102 is the winner to me. ALL of this praise taken into account, the TLM needs to start from a *solid* starting point. Good room, good source, and a good preamp & converter. If you know what you're doing, the noise floor isn't an issue... but if you're cranking up a Mackie mixer gain knob, it might sound like shit. I currently use the TLM 102 with BAE 1073 & Chandler REDD.47 preamps, which both cost double and quadruple the price of the TLM 102. So its not exactly a fair fight. *The noise floor issues that someone may have with their Scarlett 18i20 preamps DO NOT apply to boutique preamps* . Especially the Chandler preamp which is like a holy grail of sorts. you can't make it sound bad. In my head.. the TLM 102 is a lower budget version of an *older* U87. It's not bright, hyped, or flattering. The TLM 103 is a lower budget version of a *newer* U87. I may be crazy, but the only difference between an old U87 and a new one is dirt & spit from years of use. Take that with a grain of salt, since my ears are only 26 years old!

[@theprogrammerrolandmc3039]

@@ashermyers6370 do you work for neumann because why would you be here with a mic you claim you already own

[@ashermyers6370]

@@theprogrammerrolandmc3039 What? I'm confused, what are you trying to imply and why? Why would someone lie about buying an inexpensive mic? Why is it an issue that I already own the mic? What, would you prefer someone who has never used these mics to speak on their performance? You aren't making any sense. I do not work for Neumann, or any other manufacturer for that matter. Someone asked to clarify the differences between the TLM 102 and TLM 103, and they wanted to understand why it is unfair to compare the 102 and 103 as "similar", because they are completely different mics with very different characteristics. Characteristics are more important than frequency response. For example, two vintage U47s could be VERY different in their frequency responses, but the character will be the same. You can EQ one to match the other since they share the same character, the same nature of capture. Thats the real important thing. I think often times people incorrectly compare the 102 to the 103 by saying the "103 is a brighter 102", which is an oversimplification of an already broad comparison. They work better for different things, but ultimately I find the 102 to be more versatile. Hence why I prefer it, as someone who records many different instruments, instead of focusing on something individual like vocal production, where a more specialized vocal mic may be the best option. I owned one TLM 102 for about a year, then got a second one about six months ago. The serial numbers are like 7,000 and 9,000-ish... but they sound like sequential matched mics. I find this level of quality control & repeatability extremely impressive. It means I can rightfully assume every TLM 102 sounds exactly the same. That can't be said for the holy grail mics; every U47 and U87 sound slightly (or not-so-slightly) different. Anyways, no I don't work for Neumann I'm just an engineer and I love microphones.

[@hotza]

@@ashermyers6370 Thank you for such a detailed response! I'd like to buy a condenser all-purpose (reggaeton, trap, hip-hop, ballads) -almost- microphone. (Recording acoustic guitar or miking up electric guitar amps would be great as well). I am a producer, not a signer. My 2 main options are the Neumann TLM102 or the Blue Baby Bottle SL. I know, both microphones have a substantial difference in price, however that is not a problem; would you recommend any of them for these particular uses? Thanks in advance!

[@edhannigan4327]

I had the 102 when it came out and found it had a lot more hi mids and a little lack of warmth but here I am now missing it since I sold it thinking about rebuying one as for the money nothing really beats it.

[@Ramixff]

Do you recommend it for me ? Or i buy tlm 103 ?

[@notalkingrecords]

thanks for the video ... in my opinion if you add a little mid frequencies on the 102 you almost reach the result of the 103 I don't change it I keep the 102 for many years again

[@Ramixff]

I want to buy it for rap an hip hop . Do you still recommend it with your experience??

[@AngelGranados]

I like both microphones a lot but the TLM 102 "accentuates" the sound of the "s", the audio has less body but the price is very attractive. I have the opportunity to own both and as a VO I prefer the TLM 103

[@ezasjad]

Its not only difference on vocals only...vocals in mix too...I tried all and been trying to satisfy myself but could not rode sounds thin others just don't sit in mix tlm 103 I'd just full and fits in mix with minimum processing.....

[@tydings6623]

Jim Gaffigan has really let himself go lol great video bro🤘🙏

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Wait...im the shot out Gaffigan?!?!?! Thought he was the shot out Wolf... Well...back to the gym for me

[@jwtre]

First time buying mics and 102 and 103 weren't doing it for me. I bought two 107s for a singer songwriter set up. 🔥

[@farwestgarohills3831]

Thumbs up for you. TLM-107 is best mic for all. But all can't afford it. I just have TLM-102; I never want TLM-03. I have latest Mixer; I don't need all the facilities available in TLM-107. I use the same facilities from my mixer.

[@jwtre]

@@farwestgarohills3831 tlm102 is awesome!

[@billyvalentine4365]

Sounds like the 102 is running hot. If the gain was slightly rolled off the 102, I feel you could easily EQ the two mics to sound indistinguishable.

[@Mekghmunda]

Exactly. It's like comparing the specs of an iPhone Pro Max 13 vs the 14. These manufacturers are just tricking us to buy expensive shit we don't really need.

[@Frozen_Death_Knight]

I bought the 102 several years ago because I found the 103 not worth the extra money for a vocal mic when the 102 honestly sounds better across the board from every example test I have found including this one. It boosts certain frequencies I just don't particularly care for and the 102 is a pretty neutral sounding mic which makes it great for different vocal mixes. Also, breath sounds just sound great on this thing. It is just very solid all around with no clear downsides for vocal recordings. Have zero complaints after owning one for years.

[@BLACKINDIANS]

Last night, decided to take the 103 out to play around with it. I’ve had it for about 2 months now, but just getting around to testing it out. I already had kind of tested it previously maybe twice but not enough to give a full review. My setup is a Dell laptop, Focusrite Solo, standard XLR, $30 headphones that I’ve had for 3+ years, an isolation shield and a pop filter. YES, the 103 does pick up a lot of sibilance. Mind you, it is thundering and pouring rain outside and I’m in the middle of my bedroom, which is untreated. But once you’re about 6-8 inches away from the microphone, that background noise is almost nonexistent. After about 10 minutes, I found myself recording adlibs, dubs, etc 🤣. I ended up with about 3 reference tracks that I damn near could of sent to my mixing engineer. I’m definitely going to treat my room a little more, but honestly just with some acoustic foam and that’s really all I need. For the price, the TLM 103 is beyond worth it!

[@MichaelW.1980]

Your advice on using decent headphones made me giggle , because even with my AirPods, I instantly heard the difference in high end on the 102 vs the smoother 103. That being said, the difference, while noticeable, doesn’t make it a deal breaker. Actually… the 102 - on your voice - was my favorite as well. Talking about noise and to put it into perspective: At 5 inches to the microphone, you hit it with 78dB SPL. The noise of the microphone is tested at 94dB SPL. With 16dB difference in signal strength, on the TLM102 you get an SNR of 66dBA, and on the TLM103, it’s an SNR of 71dBA. Not quite correct, as the A weighting is based on the test tone you have played to measure it, but it should give you a better idea. What to expect.

[@kayakbandits9894]

Is this a serious question? I just got the 103 and there’s seriously no comparison. The 102 is a gooood mic yes but as soon as I ran the 103 I was like “oh shit”

[@mzonemusicful]

Both are excellent microphones I’ve never had a 103 but every video I’ve heard it in it sounds amazing the102 which I have is a outstanding mic it sounds very modern and smooth and handles eq very well however I still desire a 103 but I’m not at all interested in upgrading any time soon. I don’t think honestly it will make that much of a difference in a mix. YES I’m going to get the 103 geeeeesh.

[@dylanlalondemusic]

Yep it’s a tough call. I always said I liked the 102 more but after hearing them AB’d… gah… their both sexy. Good show mate!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks man!

[@davidcaldeira5362]

What is your recording preamp may I ask ? Lovely video thank you !

[@DarkCornerStudios]

On this video I was using the Arturia Minifuse 2

[@TiernanSongs]

Thank you so very much for sharing this video. The 103 sounds rather boring to me, but the 102 has a sweet "vintage" feel to it. Also, when you point out that the 102 has a similar noise level to the U87, that sells me.

[@ahmadbidmeshki]

You are amazing bro. Thanks for video👏🏻✌🏻

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@seanwebb605]

I love my 102.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

It's my favourite mic now

[@seanwebb605]

@@DarkCornerStudios Quite honestly I was watching the video hoping that you would validate my choice. The last thing that I wanted to hear is that I made a huge mistake spending $1,000 on it and should have spent the extra $600. Part of me really thought that I would regret the decision shortly after the order arrived. Long & Mac told me that it would likely take several months to order. They took my deposit and called me the next day and told me it was in. So happy with it in every way.

[@TheSecondC2]

@@DarkCornerStudios since you have a deep voice like me. What do u think works better for your voice and why? Tlm 102 or tlm 103? Want to get mine on black friday

[@Triumphinchrist1]

Great video.Where did you get that Isobox thing pls?

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Isovox sent it to me to do a video. Quite a nice unit

[@Triumphinchrist1]

@@DarkCornerStudios Does it cut of external noises?

[@arziva1615]

so why would you want a low self noise level ? I mean everyone added vintage noise and noise effect to the recording... so really unless you do adele I can't seem to think why you would have a low self noise level... and she would prob not use that mic anyway... ?

[@grantroche3422]

I got the black 102 and I’ve got on very well with it

[@bscepter]

Just ordered a 102, which should be a wee bit of a step up from my $99 MXL. 😁

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Oh he'll that's a mass8ve step up

[@SamIntharaphithakSamSonic]

I feel that the 103 sounds more natural. The 102 has this low mid boost that I would have to dip out in a mix.

[@Triumphinchrist1]

I like the highs on the 102. 103 feels more middy .Which of these are closer to U87! I got the WA 87 R2. It sounds a bit too vintage for me.

[@ryuzaki1380]

For the voice TLM 102 is better. The TLM 103 is too "harshness."

[@WiredInside]

TLM103 or BCM104 for streaming/podcast setups? Only reason I’m torn is because I like the 103’s mids so much. But the BCM has better broadcast features. What do you think?

[@WassupFred]

Great review

[@logicbk]

I’m listening on Bose quiet comfort ear buds. I was all set to purchase the 103. But the 102s have this natural sound to them. The 103s sounded very mid focused which wasn’t pleasing to me. Maybe the 102 is just better for your voice. I have more to think about now. lol

[@JainamMehta]

Watching this video while owning at2020 in studio

[@urbnctrl]

any person with a bit of mixing skill can make the AT2020 sound as good as a TLM mic, ultimately its just the surrounding factors that make your audio score

[@PsychoBenches]

Just wanna say your voice is awesome. Still not sure which mic I may get though.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks! Cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@PsychoBenches]

@@DarkCornerStudios Definitely subbing. By the way, do you think the TLM 102 does a better job at defining the lower frequencies of your voice? I also have a low voice and not sure if the 103 or 102 would be better.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Perhaps...I just find it isn't as crispy at the top...

[@PsychoBenches]

@@DarkCornerStudios Makes sense. Thanks for your input!

[@ПавлоВенгерко]

@@DarkCornerStudios please tell me I have a poorly prepared room, but I do not like the sharpness, harsh sound of midrange 102, or is it corrected by the equalizer, as 103 behaves in not ideal conditions? .

[@АртемМохно-я3щ]

nice video btw could u please advice an audio interface for vocal recording and mixing about 300-400€ ? 2mic channels are enough

[@SpencerfromEarth]

Focusrite scarlet 2i2

[@danielsysel9408]

I really can't decide... I don't have really well treated room but I don't know how much big of a deal that is. 102 sounds better to me in mids but I love how clear the 103 is...

[@muhammadvet]

Great video.

[@TALKCalgary]

Their both amazing mic's. What I found interesting is how bad both sounded when you placed them in the box thingy at the end of the video, then again would you ever place either mic's inside a drum?

[@BlueHousePictures]

Novice here… Great video. Wondering what might be better in a studio that doesn’t have great sound proofing… IE my house. I live in a busy area so its hard to get a really quite room. Ive heard the 102 picks up more ambient noise. Not sure if that is it true… Any help appreciated!

[@THE-RED-LETTER-PROJECT]

Both sound good. If you are tracking a good song, none of this matters

[@melodychest9020]

Man, you make me laugh so hard in a nice way that it feels quite therapeutic. Your sense of humour is gr888888888! Let's face it, the Neumann badge influences the decision so much that making a choice within their product set is like being a spoilt child really!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thank you for the comments. Makes me feel good to know!

[@melodychest9020]

@@DarkCornerStudios Awesome! Can you get your hands on a TLM 49 and let us have your thoughts on this "vocal" mic vs the TLM 103 for example? Cheers.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@melodychest9020 I like how you think! You spend my money better than I do...bahahaha

[@melodychest9020]

@@DarkCornerStudios hahaha! C'mon bro, surely u can borrow one from SweeeeetWater!! Hehe! We r not priviledged! 😀

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@melodychest9020 I either buy...or wait for one to be sent to me for free... We shall see

[@kyleethekelt]

I agree with you. Hearing you speak into both, I prefer the sound of the 102. The 103 seems to have a weird frequency bump, though I can't tell where. The 103 has a lot less colouration in the off-axis, and the plosive test was only slightly better in the 103 - certainly not worth the price difference. And sensitivity only benefits you if you have a completely treated environment. Kia ora.

[@codeine_ninja]

ur right, but thats cause the 102 is just better lol

[@kingyasofficial]

Definitely feeling the 103 more

[@loveinparis333]

is that just cuz u own one tho or are you fr lmaoo

[@kingyasofficial]

@@loveinparis333 i own the 103 and heard the 102 compared to it… trust if the 102 sounded better i would’ve been happy saving money

[@biggerthanhiphop7641]

I had both ... tlm 103 is better for vocals ..easier to mix ..vocals come out ready to go

[@musiccreation1198]

After using the Roswell Delphos II and Colares....my Neumann's and AKGs are gone via eBay.

[@thetaraparker]

Helpful video.

[@felsongwriter]

What a wonderful review! For my needs, I think the TLM 102 works best. Thank you! ❤

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers! Thanks for watching!

[@d-studio.productions]

Worked with both 102 and 103. But frankly 107 is a way better choise.

[@spider1g5]

I couldn't tell any difference betwixt the two- until we got to the plosives & everything that followed. Listening through my Sennheiser HD 280 Pros (daily editing headset) they sound identical, so I can understand that either of these models will work just fine, thank you!

[@AkhilaBeatstv]

I really think your voice sounds better with the TLM 103

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Once eq'd I kind of agree... That said without any treatment my sibilance can get a tad annoying

[@darkozoric4184]

Own the 102 and hate it on my vocals (singing voice). Has a harsh hi-mid range section thats pronounced on my voice only when I use the 102. A cheap SE 2200 sounds much better and equalised than the 102

[@JesusPiano]

Hi, since I see you got the 3, an odd question here, would you record an acoustic baby grand piano with two NT2As or instead with one 102 & one 103?, (which one where these last 2?) and pls don’t tell me better with the 4 of them or my doubt will remain 🤣 Nice video though. Not my 1st one in your channel (got “your” Audiofuse Studio too, thanks 😀) but new subscriber from now!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

I would pass this question on to Dylan. I can get that in this Friday during the live stream. Micing something like a baby grand isnt something I would mess around with...Dylan is the pro

[@JesusPiano]

@@DarkCornerStudios great thanks. I'll be looking forward to whenever possible 😀

[@magicizaproblem]

102 and 103 is a flavor choice...its hard to answer this question out of context....but ill say this if your recording in a treated room/ a room or space that actually sounds good and you want to get the nuance of the room with the piano or if you want to play on picking up the nuances of the hammer hitting etc the 103 will be better out right. If none of this sounds like something you are trying to do then the 102 will be the best option. 102 and 103 both have unbelievable clarity. If cost isnt an issue it comes down to how much clarity you want....and how much clarity is good for your situation. the 103 presence boost is unnecessary for certain applications and spaces, but if you like the sound you like the sound and nothing sounds like it.

[@JesusPiano]

@@magicizaproblem thanks Preston. The case (at the time) was that I have either both. A pair of NT2A and one of each of the other 2 (tlm 102 & tlm 103) and I didnt knew if to record the piano with a pair of non-same mices would have been more addecuated that recording the piano with a couple of microfonos, of say "lesser quality" but much matched as being the same model if you know what I mean. That was the question at the time. It's now sort of sorted. (Just sort as this creates other questions), I just gave myself a second 102 Neither I know I have done right to be honest, but well, it's done nevertheless 🤣

[@magicizaproblem]

@@JesusPiano to be honest i think you can get away with using 2 different mics i wouldnt tie price into quality with nta 2 either....theres a price difference but it comes down to sound you like, desire and whats appropriate. Thats what makes microphones so tricky.

[@GilbertoMzD]

Hi! How much gain did you use on the TLM 102? Did you use some processing? Thanks!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

No processing...cant recall the gain

[@GilbertoMzD]

@@DarkCornerStudios Thank you!

[@iamsamsie]

What kind of interface/preamp are you using?

[@jaydee816]

Where did you get that boom arm??

[@TALKCalgary]

For me, you sounded better on the TLM103 That said, both mic's sounded terrible in the Isovox although the 102 was a little better.

[@pokerqAK47]

Those who say there’s not much difference between the two have very bad hearing. I could hear in a few seconds that 103 is way better when I tried both myself. 103 is three times better and costs only twice more. I got mine for $800 used today.

[@Jarrettfan]

Its like listening to a full size guitar and a travel guitar.

[@BabyBeyTV]

Cad large condencer microphone

[@hellopsp180]

I really like the 102 regardless. I never even considered the 103 to be worth the money. It would be the TLM 102 then the U67 and U87 AI for me

[@mohammedrushdi4349]

Thank you

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@nityanandasharma8077]

My dream mic

[@peterjones4621]

Thank you for the excellent comparison, I've been vacillating between the two and I was just about to hit the buy button but I decided to do a bit more research. I hope you see this question but I want to record soft rock vocals, does the 103 record vocals dramatically better than the 102? I hope you see this question. New subscriber.

[@MattRBX]

sound basically the same no reason to upgrade if you ask me... or well it depends... like everything... but they are very similar.

[@wickstorm_records]

Got a TLM-103 for 450$. Good deal?

[@DiamondWoodStudios]

Broo congratulations that’s a steal, my only concern is the validity of the microphone, some people have been known to sell high quality replicas of the 102 and I’m wondering if the same thing might have happened with the 103 model, If all is in the clear then my friend you have SCORED..

[@allenward758]

Only a fool would sell a 103 that low. It's either "hot" or fake IMO.

[@MichaelW1980randoms]

The TLM102 is virtually unusable without the Shockmount, given its hypersensitivity to body borne noise. The set with the much needed Shockmount is 849USD at Sweetwater, 679Euro at Thomann.