Neumann TLM-102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Operating Manual

Neumann TLM-102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Introduction

This manual contains essential information for the operation and care of the product you have purchased. Please read the instructions carefully and completely before using the equipment. Please keep this manual where it will be accessible at all times to all current and future users. Additional information, in particular concerning available accessories and Neumann service partners, can always be found on our website: www.neumann.com. Information about service partners can also be obtained by telephone: + 49 (0) 30 / 41 77 24 – 0.

The following related files are available in PDF format in the Downloads section of our website www.neumann.com:

• Operation with Unbalanced or Center Tap Grounded Inputs
• Some Remarks on Microphone Maintenance The Neumann online forum on our website enables Neumann users worldwide to share their experiences. Through its integrated archive function, the forum has developed into an extensive knowledge pool.

Safety instructions

• The microphone has the intended purpose of converting acoustic signals into electrical signals.
• Connect the microphone only to microphone inputs and devices that supply 48 V of phantom power in accordance with IEC 61938.
• Repairs and servicing are to be carried out only by experienced, authorized service personnel. Unauthorized opening or modification of the equipment shall void the warranty.
• Use the equipment only under the conditions specified in the “Technical data” section.
• Allow the equipment to adjust to the ambient temperature before switching it on.
• Do not operate the equipment if it has been damaged during transport.
• Always run cables in such a way that there is no risk of tripping over them.
• Unless required for operation, ensure that liquids and electrically conductive objects are kept at a safe distance from the equipment and its connections.
• Do not use solvents or aggressive cleansers for cleaning purposes.
• Dispose of the equipment in accordance with the regulations applicable to the respective country.

Brief description

• The TLM 102 is a condenser studio microphone with transformerless (TLM) circuit technology and a cardioid directional characteristic.
• The transformerless design of the TLM 102 permits exceptionally clean sound transmission with no coloration, as well as a maximum dynamic range with low self-noise.
• The microphone houses a large diaphragm capsule. It has a linear frequency response up to approximately 6 kHz, above which there is a broad, fl at presence boost.

Scope of delivery

TLM 102 (bk):

• TLM 102 (bk) microphone
• SG 2 stand mount
• Operating manual
• Wooden box

TLM 102 (bk) Studio set:

• TLM 102 (bk), microphone
• EA 4 elastic suspension
• Operating manual

bk = black

Setup

Mounting the microphone

Attach the microphone to a stable, sturdy stand. Use an elastic suspension, if necessary, for the mechanical suppression of structure-borne noise. For this purpose set the microphone into the inner cage from above, and secure it to the inner cage with the threaded nut. If required, use a wind-screen or pop screen from our range of accessories in order to suppress wind or pop noise.

Connecting the microphone

• Caution: An incorrect supply voltage can damage the microphone! Attach the microphone only to a power supply unit, a microphone preamplifier, a mixing console, or other equipment that has phantom power with 48 V (P48), in accordance with IEC 61938. Any P48 power supply equipment can be used which supplies at least 3.5 mA per channel.
• Caution: Very loud noise can damage loudspeakers or your hearing!
• Minimize the volume of connected playback and recording equipment before connecting the microphone. Using a suitable cable, connect the microphone to the microphone input of the audio equipment to be used for subsequent processing, or to the designated P48 power supply equipment. Information concerning connector assignments can be found in the “Technical data” section.
• Cable lengths of up to approximately 300 m between the microphone and the subsequent amplifier input have no effect on the frequency response of the microphone. When connecting the cables, ensure that the connectors are locked correctly. Run the cables in such a way that there is no risk of tripping over them. Address the microphone from the side on which the Neumann logo is located. Gradually increase the volume of the connected equipment Set the gain of the connected equipment so that no distortion occurs at the highest sound pressure level.
• Suppressing noise interference The frequency response of the TLM 102 extends below 20 Hz. The microphone is of course correspondingly sensitive to low-frequency interference such as structure-borne noise and wind or pop noise. Depending upon the situation, the use of an elastic suspension, a windscreen, and/or a popscreen is therefore recommended.
• Sound test Simply speak into the microphone. Do not blow into the microphone or subject it to pop noise, since this can easily result in hazardous sound pressure levels.

Shutdown and storage

• Before switching off the microphone or disconnecting the cables, reduce the volume of connected equipment.
• Only then should the phantom power be switched off.
• Disconnect the cables.
• When disconnecting a cable, always pull only on the connector and not on the cable itself.
• Microphones that are not in use should not be allowed to remain on the stand gathering dust. A microphone that is unused for a prolonged period should be stored under normal atmospheric conditions and should be protected from dust. For this purpose, use a lint-free, air-permeable dust cover or the original packaging of the microphone.

Troubleshooting

corresponding channel settings
The power supply equipment is not connected to the power supply line or there is no battery| Check the connection to the power supply line or check the battery of the power supply equipment
No signal transmission| The microphone is not connected to the correct microphone amplifier input of the subsequent equipment| Check the signal path
If necessary, activate the appropriate input on the corresponding channel of the mixing console
Distorted sound| Incorrect input sensitivity or gain setting of subsequent amplifier| Decrease the input sensitivity or gain of the subsequent amplifier so as to provide sufficient headroom
Wind effects| Use an appropriate windscreen (accessory)
Plosives| Use an appropriate pop screen (accessory)
Transmission of structure-borne noise| Use a suitable elastic suspension (accessory)
Sound is muffled and reverberant| Incorrect directional characteristic| Check to ensure that the microphone is being addressed from the correct side, as designated by the Neumann logo.

Technical data and connector assignments

Permissible atmospheric conditions1)

• Operating temperature range ………..0 °C to +70 °C
• Storage temperature range ………..–20 °C to +70 °C
• Humidity range …………………0 % to 90 % at +20 °C 0 % … 85 % at +60 °C
• Acoustical op. principle ………….Pressure gradient transducer

Directional

• pattern ……………………………………………….Cardioid/
• Frequency range ………………………. 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity2) ………………………………………. 11 mV/Pa
• Rated impedance ………………………………… 50 ohms
• Rated load impedance ……………………. 1000 ohms
• Signal-to-noise ratio), CCIR4) ………………………………………………………73 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio), A-weighted4) …………………………………………….82 dB
• Equivalent noise level, CCIR4) ………………………………………………………21 dB
• Equivalent noise level, A-weighted4) ………………………………………… 12 dB-A Max. SPL5)
• for THD < 0.5 % ……………………………………. 144 dB
• Max. output voltage for THD > 5 % …………… 13 dBu
• Power Supply ……………………………………………P486)
• Current consumption …………………………….. 3.5 mA
• Required connectors …………………………….. XLR 3 F
• Weight ……………………………………………………..210 g
• Dimensions ………………………………..Ø 52 x 116 mm

1. 94 dB SPL equiv. to 1 Pa = 10 μbar
2. 0 dB equiv. to 20 μPa

The microphone has a balanced, transformerless output. The 3-pin XLR connector has the following standard pin assignments:

• Pin 1: 0 V/Ground
• Pin 2: Modulation (+phase)
• Pin 3: Modulation (–phase)

Selected Accessories

(see photos in appendix)

• Elastic Suspensions
  EA 1 ……………………..ni ………………Cat. No. 008449
  EA 1 mt …………………blk …………….Cat. No. 008450

• Auditorium Hanger
  MNV 87 ………………..ni ………………Cat. No. 006804
  MNV 87 mt ……………blk …………….Cat. No. 006806

• Stand Mounts, Misc. Mechanical Adapters
  DS 120 …………………blk …………….Cat. No. 007343
  SG 2……………………..blk …………….Cat. No. 008636

• Table and Floor Stands
  MF 4 …………………….blk …………….Cat. No. 007337

• Foam Windscreens
  WS 2 …………………….blk …………….Cat. No. 008637

• Popscreen
  PS 15 …………………..blk …………….Cat. No. 008472

• Power Supply
  N 248 …………………..blk …………….Cat. No. 008537

• Connecting Cables
  IC 3 mt ………………..blk …………….Cat. No. 006543
  IC 4 ………………………ni ………………Cat. No. 006547
  IC 4 mt …………………blk …………….Cat. No. 006557

• Adapter Cables
  AC 25 ………………………………………Cat. No. 006600

Meaning of color codes: ni = nickel, blk = black, gry = grey

1. All values are for non-condensing humidity. The values are valid for clean and well-looked-aft er microphones or microphone capsules, respectively. Any kind of pollution of capsules and membranes may restrict the said values.
2. at 1 kHz into 1 kohm rated load impedance.
3. re 94 dB SPL
4. according to IEC 60268-1; CCIR-weighting acccording to CCIR 468-3, quasi peak; A-weighting according to IEC 61672-1, RMS
5. THD of microphone amplifier at an input voltage equivalent to the capsule output at the specified SPL.
6. according to IEC 61938

Detailed descriptions and additional articles can be found in our accessories catalog or at: www.neumann.com

Frequency responses and polar patterns

measured in free-field conditions (IEC 60268-4)

Limitation of Liability

Georg Neumann GmbH shall not be liable for the consequences of an inappropriate use of the product not being in compliance with the technical allowance in the user manual such as handling errors, mechanical spoiling, false voltage, and using other than the recommended correspondence devices. Any liability of Georg Neumann GmbH for any damages including indirect, consequential, special, incidental, and punitive damages based on the user’s non-compliance with the user manual or unreasonable utilization of the product is hereby excluded as to the extent permitted by law. This limitation of liability on damages is not applicable to the liability under European product liability codes or for users in a state or country where such damages cannot be limited.

Declaration of Conformity

Georg Neumann GmbH hereby declares that this device conforms to the applicable CE standards and regulations. ® Neumann is a registered trademark of the Georg Neumann GmbH in certain countries.

Errors excepted, subject to changes Printed in Germany • Publ. 09/15 535661/A01

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Neumann TLM-102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone?

The Neumann TLM-102 is a cardioid condenser microphone known for its high- quality audio capture, suitable for studio recording and broadcasting applications.

What are the key features of the TLM-102 microphone?

The TLM-102 microphone offers features such as a cardioid pickup pattern, compact design, low self-noise, and exceptional sound quality.

What is the cardioid pickup pattern of this microphone?

The TLM-102 features a cardioid pickup pattern, which captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear, reducing background noise.

Is the Neumann TLM-102 suitable for recording vocals?

Yes, the TLM-102 is well-suited for recording vocals, providing clear and detailed audio reproduction, making it a popular choice for singers and voice- over artists.

Can I use it for instrument recording?

Absolutely, the Neumann TLM-102 is versatile for instrument recording, capturing acoustic instruments, guitars, pianos, and more with precision.

Is this microphone compatible with phantom power?

Yes, the TLM-102 requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is a standard feature in most audio interfaces and mixers.

Does it come with a shock mount?

The TLM-102 microphone package may or may not include a shock mount, depending on the package or purchase options.

What is the frequency response of the TLM-102 microphone?

The microphone typically offers a frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, covering a wide range of audio frequencies.

Is there an on/off switch on the microphone?

The Neumann TLM-102 does not have an on/off switch; it is powered by phantom power and is always active when connected.

What is the weight and dimensions of the TLM-102 microphone?

The TLM-102 microphone typically weighs around 2 Pounds and has dimensions of approximately 11 x 15 x 10 inches.

Is it suitable for live performances?

While primarily designed for studio use, some artists use the TLM-102 for live performances, especially in controlled sound environments.

Does it come with a carrying case?

The Neumann TLM-102 may come with a protective carrying case, depending on the package or purchase options.

What type of connector does the TLM-102 microphone have?

The microphone typically features an XLR connector, which is a standard connection for professional audio equipment.

Can I use the TLM-102 with a pop filter?

Yes, you can use a pop filter with the Neumann TLM-102 to reduce plosive sounds and improve recording quality.

Is there a warranty for the Neumann TLM-102 microphone?

Neumann often provides a limited warranty for the TLM-102 microphone, warranties often range from 6 months tu 1 year or more.

Where can I purchase the Neumann TLM-102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone?

You can typically purchase the Neumann TLM-102 microphone from authorized Neumann dealers, pro audio stores, or reputable online marketplaces to ensure you receive a genuine product.

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