Best U87 Alternatives & Clones: Cheap Vocal Microphones For Home Studios

Warm Audio WA87: Overview

I’ve been reading more and more positive press on Warm Audio each and every day. Their whole mantra is focused on affordable, yet quality audio gear. They’ve tackled many different classic preamps, EQs, and compressors already and now they have moved on the U87.

The Warm Audio WA-87 is not based on the modern Neumann U87ai, rather it’s based on its vintage counterpart. The original vintage model had a bit more of a crunchy high-end and isn’t as bright as the modern U87ai.

Since the WA-87 also takes very well to EQ and compression, brightening it up is no problem. The Warm Audio WA-87 comes in a very nice wooden box. Included is a shock mount (with spare elastic bands), as well as a smaller microphone clip for those super-tight recording situations.

Since picking up the WA-87, I’ve used it on almost every recording session I’ve had at my home studio. I switch between that and the Shure SM7b depending on the singer and style.

United Studio Technologies UT Twin 87: Overview

My first impression of the United Studio Technologies UT Twin 87 is that it offers a compelling blend of the vintage and modern characteristics synonymous with the “87-style” microphone design. The ability to switch between Vintage and Modern modes is a killer feature. In Vintage mode, I found the mic produced a warmer, softer sound reminiscent of classic recordings, which would be well-suited for applications where a more forgiving tone is preferred. Conversely, Modern mode provided a brighter, more articulate response, delivering higher sensitivity and a hotter signal.

The custom K87-style capsule is notable for its construction; precision milling from brass and a 24k gold sputtered membrane contribute to its quality. The large-core, custom-wound output transformer also adds to the mic's headroom and clarity, ensuring that low frequencies are not compromised. 

Sony C-80: Overview

The Sony C-80 condenser features a dual-diaphragm capsule and excels in providing focused uni-directional sound capture. The design draws from higher-end models, incorporating an internal isolation structure influenced by the C-800G, and a second diaphragm from the C-100 that effectively reduces unwanted proximity effects and low-end boominess.

In practice, the C-80 performs reliably, producing clear and detailed recordings that require minimal processing in post-production. When paired with high-quality preamps like the Avalon 737, the C-80 achieves a richness that is typically expected from much pricier microphones.

Neumann TLM 103: Overview

In my experience with the TLM 103, I have found it to perform exceptionally well across different applications, including vocal and instrument recordings. The sound quality is notably impressive; it provides a warm, rich tone that enhances both voice and guitar tracks. Its low self-noise is a highlight, allowing it to capture nuanced details, which is particularly beneficial for classical music and delicate sources.

Audio-Technica AT4050: Overview

I have been using the Audio-Technica AT4050 in my studio for vocal and acoustic guitar recordings. This large-diaphragm condenser microphone offers three switchable polar patterns. The microphone's construction includes dual gold-vaporized diaphragms, something I'm not entirely sure what does, but hey, it says gold, so its gotta be good.

In terms of sound quality, the AT4050 delivers a balanced response. The upper and mid-range frequencies are clear and transparent, while the low-end is rich and well-defined. Compared to the AT2020, which I previously used, I noticed a significant improvement in the bottom-end response, making the AT4050 suitable for a wider range of vocal types and instruments.

When comparing the AT4050 to the Neumann TLM102, which is in a similar price range, I found that the AT4050 outperformed it in low-frequency response. Its price point, while competitive, may still be considered high for those just starting recording.

Peluso P12: Overview

The Peluso P12 is a vacuum tube microphone designed to emulate the characteristics of the classic AKG C12. I originally heard about Peluso in college when my audio teacher pulled out a P-12 microphone. Needless to say, I was blown away when I heard it.

Peluso is a boutique microphone company that does make a lot of wonderful mics! Weighing in at a substantial heft, the construction of the P12 feels solid, with all components fitting securely.

In terms of audio performance, the P12 captures an airy top end and maintains a clean low frequency response, qualities reminiscent of the original C12. After using the microphone for vocal recording, I found it to be particularly forgiving, making it suitable for breathy or intimate singing styles.

With that in mind, the P-87 sounds very thin and almost tiny when comparing back to a real U87. The high end is very brittle. You need a lot of EQ to smoothen out the high end. It’s not exactly harsh, but definitely fragile and weak sounding around 10k.

This microphone comes with a velvet bag, a shock mount, hard mount, a foam wind screen, and a flight case. I wish it was presented with a wooden box like the WA-87, considering the price point. The flight case is nice.

Mojave Audio MA-200: Overview

The Mojave Audio MA-200 is a fixed pattern tube condenser microphone designed by David Royer. With a street price just under a thousand dollars, the MA-200 comes with essential accessories, including a shock mount, power supply, cables, and a hard flight case.

In my experience, the MA-200 excels at capturing a wide range of sound sources, from vocals and acoustic guitars to percussion. Its large diaphragm produces warm and full-bodied audio, effectively avoiding the harsh high-frequency artifacts typical of many modern condensers. When paired with a quality preamp, like my Heritage Audio '73 JR, the mic delivers mixes that are warm and require minimal equalization.

If you’re not looking for a clone, I suggest checking out the Mojave MA-200. This is a tube condenser microphone, so it’s a little different from the U87, but is very similar to the U67. Mojave Audio is company owned by world-renowned microphone makers Royer. It’s a solid choice for versatile recording applications.