The Neumann U87 re-imagined in Rhodium for 50 year anniversary
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The 50th Anniversary Neumann U87 is noticeably extra shiny... · Source: Neumann
The EA87 shockmount · Source: Neumann
The mic ships in an aluminum box · Source: Neumann
Neumann microphones are synonymous with quality and luxury. Can you out-lux a special edition Neumann U87 condenser microphone? The legendary and pricey mic appeared 50 years ago, and the German brand is celebrating the occasion with the Rhodium Edition U87.
So what’s Rhodium, anyway? It’s the kind of rare precious metal that makes gold and platinum look mainstream. It has notable light reflecting properties that facilitate its use in telescopes, and apparently it’s a fingerprint magnet as well. No joke – Neumann is actually shipping the mic with a pair of gloves in the box so you can handle its holiness without smearing finger grease all over it. Somehow, we find the pretentiousness of it all endearing!
The Neumann U87 in Rhodium certainly is a sight to behold, even if it boils down to it being a particularly shiny version of the same fine instrument from 50 years ago. It’s a cool way of honouring the famous mic’s legacy and sort of a “holy grail” tool for high-profile recording artists and engineers. Having it in your arsenal says “I mean business” with the unshakable confidence of a drunk Sean Connery picking up sultry spy women.
Price and availability
Sold in a limited edition of 500 units, the Rhodium-fied Neumann U87 costs a humble 3599 EUR (3188 GBP). Each microphone comes with a numbered certificate of authenticity, signed by Neumann president Wolfgang Fraissinet. The set ships in an aluminium case and includes a shockmount.
More information
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