Neumann TLM-193

I produce my own music in my home studio, right now I record onto a Tascam TSR-8 half-inch eight-track deck via SPL Goldmike, Track one and DBX 376.

Been doing it seriously for a few years now.

I listen through Alesis M1 mk2's.

This is a serious condenser mike with a fine sound. I like it on my vocals better than my rode NT1A since the TLM 193 is darker and more natural-sounding. Good for almost any application, but wonderful on vocals and acoustic guitars.

I'm very happy I made this investment (about a year ago.) I enjoy a classy vocal sound with great midrange presence and not too much top-end. I bought this mike without trying it in advance just because it was the most affordable Neumann, but as soon as I'd plugged it in I realised this was THE vocal mike for my voice and sound.

I am a full-time composer and music producer with over ten years experience. I currently record into ProTools HD2 system monitoring through JBLs.

I have owned my TLM-193 for about ten years. It is my primary condenser mic going through my Avalon 737 mic pre.

This microphone has kept me and my clients very happy over the years. I also own a couple of Rodes (NT1 & NT2) as well as many dynamic mics for drum kit recording.

I mainly use this mic on vocals and acoustic instruments (guitars, strings, horns, percussion). I generally use my TLM-193 as a close placed mic as it really shines in that position due to its fixed cardioid pattern.

Compared to other Neumann models I've heard, the TLM-193 has a darker sound. It is less hyped in the high frequencies. I like this because in this world of harsh digital recording, I prefer to have a warmer source signal. Anyway, I can always hype those highs with eq on my Avalon if I want it.

I am writing this review because I consider the Neumann TLM-193 to be overlooked by many who think only of the TLM-103 or higher priced models such as U87, U89 etc... I dare say that this mic has turned into THE sound of my studio and my productions.