The Magic of Arijit Singh and the Neumann U87 Microphone

Ever listened to an Arijit Singh song and felt chills down your spine? That’s not just his powerful voice-it’s also the magic happening behind the scenes. One of the biggest secrets to capturing that emotional depth is a legendary piece of audio equipment: the Neumann U87 microphone.

Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Mic

In this in-depth blog, we’ll unravel how Arijit Singh’s golden voice and this world-renowned microphone work in perfect harmony. From the singer’s humble roots to the microphone’s engineering brilliance, and from technical specs to alternatives and usage tips, you’re getting the full scoop.

Who is Arijit Singh?

Arijit Singh, born in Jiaganj, Murshidabad (West Bengal), on April 25, 1987, is one of India’s most beloved playback singers. Raised in a musically inclined family, Arijit was exposed to classical training at a young age.

Arijit’s Musical Journey and Breakthrough

After gaining recognition in the reality TV show Fame Gurukul (2005), Arijit struggled for years behind the scenes, working as a music programmer. His breakthrough came with “Tum Hi Ho” in 2013, a song that turned him into a household name overnight.

His Versatility and Influence in the Industry

From soul-stirring ballads like “Raabta” and “Channa Mereya” to upbeat tracks like “Nashe Si Chadh Gayi,” Arijit has showcased an unmatched vocal range. Today, he is not just a singer; he is a brand in himself-a symbol of raw emotion and vocal excellence.

The Sound Behind the Voice – The Neumann U87

Introduction to the Neumann U87

The Neumann U87 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone known for delivering pristine audio with lush midrange and extended high-end detail. It’s a flagship product from the German company Neumann, and a go-to for recording vocals with emotional weight and clarity.

History and Legacy of the Microphone

Introduced in 1967, the U87 quickly became an icon in the world of professional audio. It has captured the voices of legends-Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Adele, and now Arijit Singh.

Why It’s a Studio Favourite Worldwide

It’s versatile, durable, and delivers consistent, warm, and natural-sounding recordings. In studios across the globe, it’s considered a benchmark for vocal recording microphones.

Why Arijit Singh Chooses the Neumann U87

Voice Clarity and Richness

When you sing like Arijit, every tiny detail-every breath, every vibrato, every whisper-matters. The U87 ensures that nothing is lost in translation.

Enhancing Emotional Range in Vocals

Arijit is a master at conveying emotion through voice. The U87, with its exceptional frequency response and sensitivity, perfectly captures those nuances, making you feel each lyric deeply.

Studio Precision and Control

This microphone enables engineers and producers to mould the vocal recording with extreme precision during mixing, while retaining a natural sound.

Features of the Neumann U87 Microphone

Polar Patterns and Versatility

The U87 offers three polar patterns:

• A cardioid for isolating the voice,

• Omnidirectional for capturing room ambience,

• Figure-8 for duet recordings or room pickup.

This versatility is part of what makes it perfect for complex vocal sessions.

Frequency Response and Sensitivity

With a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, it’s capable of capturing both the deepest bass and the most shimmering highs. Its sensitivity is around -31 dBV, which means it picks up even the softest vocals with extreme detail.

Build Quality and Aesthetics

The U87 is housed in a sleek nickel or black finish, with robust construction that ensures long-term durability. The design hasn’t changed much over the decades, because it was perfect from the start.

Pros of the Neumann U87

Exceptional Vocal Capture

Vocals recorded on the U87 feel alive. You can sense the room, the breath, the emotion with crystal clarity.

Professional-Grade Reliability

It’s been around for over 50 years and is still considered the gold standard. That says it all.

Timeless Design

Its classic look pairs beautifully with its elite performance, making it a favourite for high-end studios.

Cons of the Neumann U87

Price Tag – Is It Worth It?

At over $3,200, it’s definitely not budget-friendly. However, professionals view it as a long-term investment that pays for itself in quality.

Not Ideal for Beginners

For amateurs without a sound-treated room or high-quality preamp/interface, the U87 may not perform at its peak.

Requires High-Quality Gear Chain

Pairing this mic with cheap gear is like putting caviar on white bread- it just doesn’t do it justice.

Why Professionals Choose the Neumann U87

Used in Legendary Studios

From Abbey Road to T-Series Studios, the Neumann U87 can be found wherever vocal excellence is expected.

Trusted by Award-Winning Artists

From Indian music directors like Pritam and A.R. Rahman to global legends, the U87 is often the first mic pulled out for vocal sessions.

Compatibility with Modern DAWs and Interfaces

Whether you’re using Logic Pro, Ableton, or Pro Tools, the U87 integrates beautifully through high-quality preamps like Avalon VT-737sp or Universal Audio 610.

Top Alternatives to the Neumann U87

Neumann U87 vs. Its Alternatives

Sound Quality Comparison

While the alternatives are impressive, the U87 still holds the crown for smoothness, clarity, and sonic richness, especially in the midrange.

Price to Performance Ratio

If you’re recording commercially or working on music full-time, the U87 is worth it. Hobbyists may prefer alternatives that provide great value.

Which One Should You Buy?

1.  For Pros: Go for the Neumann U87
2. For Semi-Pros: Choose the AKG C414
3. For Beginners: Start with the Warm Audio WA-87 R2

Tips for Using the Neumann U87 Effectively

Best Recording Practices

Use a pop filter, ensure your recording space is acoustically treated, and avoid clipping. The mic is highly sensitive and captures every detail-good and bad.

Pairing with Pre-Amps and Interfaces

For the best results, pair the U87 with high-end preamps like:

1.  Avalon VT-737sp
2. Neve 1073
3. Universal Audio Apollo x8

These preamps help retain the microphone’s warmth and dynamic range.

Maintenance and Longevity Tips

1. Store it in a dry, dust-free case

2 . Avoid humidity

3 . Always turn off phantom power before unplugging

Proper care can make this microphone last for decades.

Final Thoughts – Is the Magic in the Mic or the Artist?

It’s a bit of both.

Arijit Singh brings the magic through his raw talent, expression, and emotion. But the Neumann U87 ensures that every ounce of that magic is preserved and delivered to the listener in its purest form. Think of it as a world-class lens on a superstar camera—both need to shine to capture a masterpiece.

So if you’re chasing quality like Arijit’s, this microphone is your best friend. It’s not just a piece of equipment it’s part of a creative ecosystem.

Conclusion

From the heart-wrenching songs of Arijit Singh to the smooth, soul-touching recordings that make you stop and the Neumann U87 microphone plays an essential role. It’s the unseen hero behind some of the most unforgettable performances in modern music.

If you’re serious about producing high-quality vocals or want to emulate the kind of sonic depth that artists like Arijit Singh deliver, then investing in the Neumann U87 or its high-quality alternatives is a no-brainer.