Neumann TLM103 + ISA-One Pre + Mogami Cable

Utilizing Neumann’s famous K87 large-diaphragm capsule found in their world-renowned U87ai and U67 microphones,, the Neumann TLM-103 is a large-diaphragm condenser mic suited for a wide variety of sources. It’s set at a tight, focused, cardioid pattern that aids in the rejection of unwanted signal from the rear of the mic, as well as providing excellent isolation.

This is the highly coveted, much sought after Neumann sound, priced within reach to those on a limited budget, yet there have been no corners cut nor has their been a design compromise where quality is concerned.

The acronym “TLM” stands for “transformerless microphone.” It yields extremely low self-noise and can stand pressure levels up to 138 db, which means you can place the Neumann TLM-103 in front of pretty much any sound source and expect excellent results.

The TLM-103 shines as a vocal mic but also excels as a spot mic for woodwinds, strings, percussion, guitar cabinet micing, drum overheads, room micing, and field duties. Its low noise and wide frequency response make this microphone ideally suited for broadcast duties, be it voiceover work or foley (the reproduction of everyday sounds for use in filmmaking).

It has a distinctive look, possesses the famous Neumann badge on the front of the mic, and most importantly, it’s a Neumann. Enough said.

The ‘ISA One’ microphone pre-amplifier delivers Focusrite's prestigious ISA transformer-based pre-amp in a rugged and portable chassis, at a groundbreaking price. ISA One features the classic vintage microphone pre-amplifier topology from the original ISA110 module, including the Lundahl L1538 transformer and bespoke zobel network. (The original 110 pre amp formed the cornerstone of each channel of Focusrite's legendary Forte console.)

The pre-amp is complemented by a line input (XLR and TRS Jack) and an independent D.I. channel, complete with dedicated gain control, active or passive impedance switch, a TRS Jack output for routing to an amp and an independent XLR output on the rear. This flexible independent D.I. makes the ISA One ideal both for engineers wishing to blend a D.I.’d guitar signal with a mic’d guitar cabinet, and for demanding performers who require a single classic solution for both guitar and vocals.

A variable impedance circuit has been added, allowing the user to switch between four carefully selected input impedance settings. In addition to the original ISA110 impedance, three further impedance settings allow perfect matching, or creative mismatching of the pre amp with any microphone. ISA One also features an insert point, should the need arise to place extra processing between the pre amp or D.I. and the optional converter. Phantom power, phase reverse and a 75Hz, 18dB/octave high-pass filter are also available from the angled front fascia.

Independent input metering for both channels is provided in the form of a moving coil VU meter with variable calibration to suit analogue and digital recording media, alongside two six-LED peak meters; inputs can be metered either pre- or post-insert. The meter calibrations utilise all the same reference points as Digidesign's Pro Tools HD system, allowing effortless line-up.

ISA One’s headphone output features a dedicated volume control, which delivers an external stereo cue mix, (a simple click track, or a stereo mix feed from an interface or a live console,) fed to the headphones via two TRS jack inputs on the rear of the unit.

An optional state-of-the-art stereo A-D converter is also available (the same card as used with the ISA430 Mk II), embodying cutting-edge conversion technology seated within Focusrite’s custom analogue circuitry. This optional card can be retrofitted at any time and provides two channels of 24 bit/192kHz A-D conversion with a dynamic range of 119dB.

From large recording facilities to small project studios, engineers and artists trust Mogami Gold Studio microphone cables. Wired with Neglex studio quad, this 4-conductor cable offers the highest cancellation of noise and is the quietest, best sounding cable you can buy. Mogami Gold helps cure many of the problems encountered in a typical project or home studio, creating a pin-drop quiet recording environment with enhanced dynamic range.