I bought one of these a few months ago, and they're surprisingly close to authentic... expecially the 34mm diaphram version (they offered a 28mm too I believe). Certainly usable for voice acting as a backup!
@@ridingdriving The sibilance is much less than a real TLM103. It has more self-noise though, but it's entirely usable. Has a very 'up front' sound, and not quite as 3D as the real thing. (But for the price, it's excellent!)
I might be missing something, but to my ears, the 35 quid copy sounds a bit clearer. Whether it can handle instruments and high spl levels, remains to be seen, but certainly for vocals it sounds amazing, especially for that price.
I suspect when you let your ears decide it’s difficult to put the ethical issues to one side. I now do that. I’ve got a few cheap mics that sound quite nice so I’ll use them.
Amazing, it really sounds very decent, buying the fake ones and then applying a little bit boost or cut to the EQ and your good to go. And for the saved $3500 dollar, you could buy any analog Neve, SSL or UAD channel strip or rack unit instead.❤❤❤
I'm listening with DT 770 pro 250's without a headphone amp and it sounds pretty decent. As long as it doesn't have any branding on it it might be a good little mic. I wonder how long it will last though
I would not worry about that at all - some of my Chinese mics are now 20_ years old and have the lifespan of virtually every mic - which is extremely long. Electret condensers could lose some of their charge, so the story goes, but none of my small or large diaphragm mics seem to be aging.
I got the TLM103 copy from Temu today. It came with a different kind of shockmount which is also made of matte titanium-colored plastic. At least it's lighter if you use a boom arm instead of a desktop stand. If you run it through a decent preamp and fool around with the EQ, I'm sure it'll sound even better.
@@eastanglianradio, yes, it is! A good preamp is important, but covering your walls with saw-toothed foam tiles if possible also makes a big difference.
I have to add my 2 cents and agree with the other folks commenting - it sound pretty darned good for a cheap copy. Not a lot of difference except maybe the levels. The only thing I can see to get a better comparison would be a recording a complete audio spectrum which would be a great deal more complex and involved. I've got a few good mikes for what I do, but, yes, for someone starting out, this should be a nice purchase. My only concern is the plastic parts - I've had numerous Chinese plastic things that soon break!!!!
The chinese copy sounds a bit airy as your "S" and "T" pretty much stands out while the original TLM103 has less noise and the 1k freq were toned down a bit.
I've used both along with many of other mics up to the U89s. The difference is subtle esp at $150. The real test is when you put an RandB voice on it. I've had mics that sound amazing a lower volumes, but once high vocals hit them they crackle At one point I was really concerned with the aesthetic in the studio so this would've been a good look.
The snag is it's gone - to be honest, there's not much point me keeping many of the mics I feature, as for my work, they're not in the mic box - but I'll keep this in mind if I can devise some kind of meaningful test - so much depends on the environment the test is done in, so as the acoustics of the studio change, it messes up repeatability. The desk in this video is now facing a different way so I can use the space better. Best wishes Paul
2:23 It's weird that they deliver this kind of cable when this microphone needs 48 V. However, are you sure it's needs 48 V? Did you try the mike without 48 V? Because every dynamic mike works perfectly with switched on 48 V. provided you use the right cable. That's why it's called "phantom power".
It's actually quite common - electret condenser mics can be designed to work pretty well from the 5v polarising voltage that typically you get from a computer unbalanced mic socket, or the usual 48V phantom power provided between pins 2 and 3 on an XLR type connector. It's 100% NOT a dynamic and is of course silent without either 5V hot power or 48V phantom. The XLR to 3.5mm cable is a very common one supplied now.
@@pauljohnson4590 Thank you, I didn't know this! Today two of these mikes arrived, I bought them because of this video and I just wanted to check them out and give one to a friend. Well, I can only agree with what's been said in this video. It's amazing how good they sound. I paid 84 euro for the two, shipping included..... 😊 BTW, to my surprise mine even came with Neumann badges. I did some recording with them today and I like them on vocals because of the presence. On an acoustic guitar they sounded a bit harsh, especially compared to a Neumann KM184 and an old AKG C4521/CK1. But hey, it's amazing I am comparing this TLM103 clone to mikes way more expensive than these....😁
It could be equally good in terms of audip quality but it would differ in terms of longevity. Original TLM 103 last for decades retaining its good quality but the chinese copy may not even last 3-5 years, just a thought.
I’m not sure? I’ve got a few old Chinese mics from the 80s and they’re still ok. I suppose there’s not really much in them to fail? Capacitors really and even Neumann buy in that kind of stuff. And we know where from?
Sir , could you suggest which affordable Pre amp is good for a TLM 103, as of now my set up is with TLM 103+ scarlet solo +DAW - Need more colorful sound : ) for VO's - HELP
If you have a genuine 103 with a Scarlett then you already have a good technical match. When you say colourful - it worries me. Do you mean you want to start messing with exotic, boutique treatments? I know lots of people want to add something 'magical', but my view is that before you start this crazy path, your acoustics and the voice of the person need serious consideration. What does your current gear not do? Can we hear a bit? We cannot comment without it. Soundcloud link, perhaps?
Fun fact, a real tlm-103 does not have a balanced output. While it does use an XLR connector and it does run off of phantom power its audio circuit actually converts the input of your console or interface to unbalanced.
Sort of, I think the correct description is impedance balanced, but there is a possiblity of compromising Common Mode Rejection, if the preamp circuit that follows is poorly designed. Clearly, the TLM103s out there work with practically everything, but the circuit does indeed stick everything onto pin 2, but the preamp just uses the differential between 2 and 3 to produce the output. Strange though, but many manufacturers 'simulate' what old transformers did naturally.
@@pauljohnson4590 It's unbalanced. Pin 3 of the mic's XLR jack is connected to ground through a capacitor, grounding it for audio but letting the phantom power through. It's OK for a short mic cable, but if you need to run a cable for any distance, you may run into noise problems.
@@ScottGrammer yes I’ve checked on the diagram, the thing of course is the preamp connection the other end is differential so as 2 rises, the input circuitry pulls the other way, which is quite clever. But of course if you could power it, you could indeed take an unbalanced feed from 1 and 2. I suspect other mics also work well in this mode but we’re unaware!
There is a cross headed screw in the coarse thread at the bottom, and then three screws recessed into the band near the grill. Once you remove these, the microphone will pull apart. It would be unlikely the ground wire is causing you problems, as there isn't one? The PCB is soldered to the XLR connector. If the drop was severe, the circuit board could have cracked - but opening it up should make it quite obvious. Best wishes
@@eastanglianradio Thank You very much for your reply Sir. I will give it a shot. ( Update: You were correct no grounding to the body. Everything seemed correct only the capsule was very dirty and I am guessing something to do with that as couldn't see anything else.
@@pauljohnson4590 I just saw a video, one repair man having some TLM 103s which mentioned they're fake, although one of them seems to have serial number. That confuses things even more. Check that video If you like. Video title: Three fake TLM 103 micsI
Had a comment - but it vanisshed from Arup Sircar. He said: Dear Sir...is Blue Ember a decent match with Audient id 14 mk 2.. After ur review I ordered the clone tlm 103..hope things works out better.. Thnx Sir for the nice comparison review. These mics have been around for a few years now and are quite neutral - people I respect like them and label them as good value for money. The interface is a bit odd. Gets nice reviews but for some reason has very little possibilities in the monitoring department - maybe you can work around this, and possibly it's the ADAT interface that you want. Most interfaces can do the monitor mixes, but is that going to work with your system? Probabloy not one I'd choose.
Was expecting a reply but finally got it.. as I watch all the exciting reviews.. cause I'm basically a programmer...but very keen on recording vocals..thanks Sir.
@@arupsircar4855 I couldn't find the post at first - but oddly some comments vanish? I replied to another this morning, but that one has vanished too! It was about the Blue ember?
@@eastanglianradio Yes Sir ! Its the same post about the compatibility of the B. Ember..with id 14 mk2. I have purchase quite a lot of gears from Sweetwater through my relatives.. but the service infrastructure is very poor in India..as Sweetwater official Mark Maxwell had tried to help me out in all aspects.. as still facing some issues though it was purchased in 2013...Thanks Sir..
@@arupsircar4855 Well - the best I will be able to do is assess the mic? I assume you have the mics and the interface? What is the issue you are having? I may be able to replicate it with the interfaces I have? I can try for you.
@@pauljohnson4590 I am having a glitching issue as I am raising the preamp knobs..but this interface is new to me as preciously I was using Komplete 6.. I have my mic xlr input connected via Yamaha mixer and the line out put is connected to my id 14 interface..previously there wasn’t any issue with my Komplete 6.. I am keeping my mixer mic ch vol and mixer main volume practically at half..but I'm not sure about the id 14 preamps..which are supposed to be very strong..please suggest.. Sir. Thankyou. Dev.
It sounds so bad in the high frequency it sounds like your in a untreated room unlike the real mic. A beginner could use this mic but it would cause lots of frustration most would quit because trying to get it to sound correctly. Imaging adding verb to it😂
@@bf4lvr To be far, not a lot - starting about 4.5k, a gentle roll off rising to at least 14-15k taks the edge off. It's not so warm at the bottom, but I've not had much luck adding eq down there - it gets a bit muddy.
I suppose this makes sense, but often, when you finally can afford the expensive one, your brain tells you how much better it is. Until you can afford one your brain convinces you the other way. Funny that!
need instrument and singing and an analysis of noise floor - why go thru the trouble of making a video if its just talking - talking doesnt really cut it
I bought one of these a few months ago, and they're surprisingly close to authentic... expecially the 34mm diaphram version (they offered a 28mm too I believe). Certainly usable for voice acting as a backup!
hello, do you have a link or reference?
@@ridingdriving We recorded this video using the 34mm TLM103 copy... ua-cam.com/video/imB6j6KIfKA/v-deo.html
@@offplanetfilms thats a shocker for the price....very good
@@ridingdriving The sibilance is much less than a real TLM103. It has more self-noise though, but it's entirely usable. Has a very 'up front' sound, and not quite as 3D as the real thing. (But for the price, it's excellent!)
There's 26 and 34mm, but the price is almost the same, 34mm is more professional
I might be missing something, but to my ears, the 35 quid copy sounds a bit clearer. Whether it can handle instruments and high spl levels, remains to be seen, but certainly for vocals it sounds amazing, especially for that price.
I suspect when you let your ears decide it’s difficult to put the ethical issues to one side. I now do that. I’ve got a few cheap mics that sound quite nice so I’ll use them.
Amazing, it really sounds very decent, buying the fake ones and then applying a little bit boost or cut to the EQ and your good to go. And for the saved $3500 dollar, you could buy any analog Neve, SSL or UAD channel strip or rack unit instead.❤❤❤
The differences between mics are getting closer and close - so much now boils down to if you like it in the first ten seconds!
cant believe how good it sounds...bang for your buck at a completely new level
I held it up to the light expecting a smaller one, but as far as I can see it's 25 or 30mm - I cannot be sure without dismantling it.
I'm listening with DT 770 pro 250's without a headphone amp and it sounds pretty decent. As long as it doesn't have any branding on it it might be a good little mic. I wonder how long it will last though
I would not worry about that at all - some of my Chinese mics are now 20_ years old and have the lifespan of virtually every mic - which is extremely long. Electret condensers could lose some of their charge, so the story goes, but none of my small or large diaphragm mics seem to be aging.
Can you do a spectral analysis of the mic?
Link?
In terms of Price difference which one is a SCAM?🤔
I totally see your point!
I got the TLM103 copy from Temu today. It came with a different kind of shockmount which is also made of matte titanium-colored plastic. At least it's lighter if you use a boom arm instead of a desktop stand. If you run it through a decent preamp and fool around with the EQ, I'm sure it'll sound even better.
I think they source all the parts and then what actually goes in the box is a bit random! The important thing is really the sound, isn't it!
@@eastanglianradio, yes, it is! A good preamp is important, but covering your walls with saw-toothed foam tiles if possible also makes a big difference.
I have to add my 2 cents and agree with the other folks commenting - it sound pretty darned good for a cheap copy. Not a lot of difference except maybe the levels. The only thing I can see to get a better comparison would be a recording a complete audio spectrum which would be a great deal more complex and involved. I've got a few good mikes for what I do, but, yes, for someone starting out, this should be a nice purchase. My only concern is the plastic parts - I've had numerous Chinese plastic things that soon break!!!!
The chinese copy sounds a bit airy as your "S" and "T" pretty much stands out while the original TLM103 has less noise and the 1k freq were toned down a bit.
Considering how cheap it is - it's quite usable really - just trading on the shape, I guess?
I've used both along with many of other mics up to the U89s.
The difference is subtle esp at $150. The real test is when you put an RandB voice on it. I've had mics that sound amazing a lower volumes, but once high vocals hit them they crackle
At one point I was really concerned with the aesthetic in the studio so this would've been a good look.
@@algoriithmtheproducer what eq changes would you make to the fake tlm 103 for it to sound closer to a real thing?
Well I must be getting cloth eared! To be honest, very little difference between them!! Quite useful as a back up I'd say!!
I tend to think we hear the word 'counterfeit' and automatically think bad. I do think you are correct here - not a bad performing mic.
The snag is it's gone - to be honest, there's not much point me keeping many of the mics I feature, as for my work, they're not in the mic box - but I'll keep this in mind if I can devise some kind of meaningful test - so much depends on the environment the test is done in, so as the acoustics of the studio change, it messes up repeatability. The desk in this video is now facing a different way so I can use the space better. Best wishes Paul
much better than the bm-800, that's for darn sure. 😅👍👍
el precio es mayor igual xd
2:23 It's weird that they deliver this kind of cable when this microphone needs 48 V. However, are you sure it's needs 48 V? Did you try the mike without 48 V? Because every dynamic mike works perfectly with switched on 48 V. provided you use the right cable. That's why it's called "phantom power".
It's actually quite common - electret condenser mics can be designed to work pretty well from the 5v polarising voltage that typically you get from a computer unbalanced mic socket, or the usual 48V phantom power provided between pins 2 and 3 on an XLR type connector. It's 100% NOT a dynamic and is of course silent without either 5V hot power or 48V phantom. The XLR to 3.5mm cable is a very common one supplied now.
@@pauljohnson4590 Thank you, I didn't know this! Today two of these mikes arrived, I bought them because of this video and I just wanted to check them out and give one to a friend. Well, I can only agree with what's been said in this video. It's amazing how good they sound. I paid 84 euro for the two, shipping included..... 😊
BTW, to my surprise mine even came with Neumann badges.
I did some recording with them today and I like them on vocals because of the presence. On an acoustic guitar they sounded a bit harsh, especially compared to a Neumann KM184 and an old AKG C4521/CK1. But hey, it's amazing I am comparing this TLM103 clone to mikes way more expensive than these....😁
@@UCS0608 Hope you have fun with them. Let me know how you get on.
It could be equally good in terms of audip quality but it would differ in terms of longevity. Original TLM 103 last for decades retaining its good quality but the chinese copy may not even last 3-5 years, just a thought.
I’m not sure? I’ve got a few old Chinese mics from the 80s and they’re still ok. I suppose there’s not really much in them to fail? Capacitors really and even Neumann buy in that kind of stuff. And we know where from?
@@pauljohnson4590 Thank for your tips
Sir , could you suggest which affordable Pre amp is good for a TLM 103, as of now my set up is with TLM 103+ scarlet solo +DAW - Need more colorful sound : ) for VO's - HELP
If you have a genuine 103 with a Scarlett then you already have a good technical match. When you say colourful - it worries me. Do you mean you want to start messing with exotic, boutique treatments? I know lots of people want to add something 'magical', but my view is that before you start this crazy path, your acoustics and the voice of the person need serious consideration. What does your current gear not do? Can we hear a bit? We cannot comment without it. Soundcloud link, perhaps?
Fun fact, a real tlm-103 does not have a balanced output. While it does use an XLR connector and it does run off of phantom power its audio circuit actually converts the input of your console or interface to unbalanced.
Sort of, I think the correct description is impedance balanced, but there is a possiblity of compromising Common Mode Rejection, if the preamp circuit that follows is poorly designed. Clearly, the TLM103s out there work with practically everything, but the circuit does indeed stick everything onto pin 2, but the preamp just uses the differential between 2 and 3 to produce the output. Strange though, but many manufacturers 'simulate' what old transformers did naturally.
@@pauljohnson4590 It's unbalanced. Pin 3 of the mic's XLR jack is connected to ground through a capacitor, grounding it for audio but letting the phantom power through. It's OK for a short mic cable, but if you need to run a cable for any distance, you may run into noise problems.
@@ScottGrammer yes I’ve checked on the diagram, the thing of course is the preamp connection the other end is differential so as 2 rises, the input circuitry pulls the other way, which is quite clever. But of course if you could power it, you could indeed take an unbalanced feed from 1 and 2. I suspect other mics also work well in this mode but we’re unaware!
where does one buy the copy?
Sir how do you open the tlm 103 to get to the grounding wire? I think mine has disconnected after it was dropped.
There is a cross headed screw in the coarse thread at the bottom, and then three screws recessed into the band near the grill. Once you remove these, the microphone will pull apart. It would be unlikely the ground wire is causing you problems, as there isn't one? The PCB is soldered to the XLR connector. If the drop was severe, the circuit board could have cracked - but opening it up should make it quite obvious. Best wishes
@@eastanglianradio Thank You very much for your reply Sir. I will give it a shot. ( Update: You were correct no grounding to the body. Everything seemed correct only the capsule was very dirty and I am guessing something to do with that as couldn't see anything else.
Does it work if you turn off the phantom power? I forgot to ask you that.
No it’s needs 48v phantom. It works on a little lower than that but the electret capsule needs power
You have the link for buy .
Is your Mike the 25mm capsule
Does the Chinese copy has any serial number?
Very good point. From memory, I don't think it did!
@@pauljohnson4590 I just saw a video, one repair man having some TLM 103s which mentioned they're fake, although one of them seems to have serial number. That confuses things even more. Check that video If you like. Video title: Three fake TLM 103 micsI
Had a comment - but it vanisshed from Arup Sircar. He said:
Dear Sir...is Blue Ember a decent match with Audient id 14 mk 2.. After ur review I ordered the clone tlm 103..hope things works out better.. Thnx Sir for the nice comparison review. These mics have been around for a few years now and are quite neutral - people I respect like them and label them as good value for money. The interface is a bit odd. Gets nice reviews but for some reason has very little possibilities in the monitoring department - maybe you can work around this, and possibly it's the ADAT interface that you want. Most interfaces can do the monitor mixes, but is that going to work with your system? Probabloy not one I'd choose.
Was expecting a reply but finally got it.. as I watch all the exciting reviews..
cause I'm basically a programmer...but very keen on recording vocals..thanks Sir.
@@arupsircar4855 I couldn't find the post at first - but oddly some comments vanish? I replied to another this morning, but that one has vanished too! It was about the Blue ember?
@@eastanglianradio Yes Sir ! Its the same post about the compatibility of the B. Ember..with id 14 mk2.
I have purchase quite a lot of gears from Sweetwater through my relatives.. but the service infrastructure is very poor in India..as Sweetwater official Mark Maxwell had tried to help me out in all aspects.. as still facing some issues though it was purchased in 2013...Thanks Sir..
@@arupsircar4855 Well - the best I will be able to do is assess the mic? I assume you have the mics and the interface? What is the issue you are having? I may be able to replicate it with the interfaces I have? I can try for you.
@@pauljohnson4590 I am having a glitching issue as I am raising the preamp knobs..but this interface is new to me as preciously I was using Komplete 6..
I have my mic xlr input connected via Yamaha mixer and the line out put is connected to my id 14 interface..previously there wasn’t any issue with my Komplete 6..
I am keeping my mixer mic ch vol and mixer main volume practically at half..but I'm not sure about the id 14 preamps..which are supposed to be very strong..please suggest.. Sir.
Thankyou. Dev.
I just bought one for $8.99(although I have two actual 103’s). I got it because it was on sale and I wanted something cheap for the kids to use.
It just goes to show that cheap and cheerful can actually work!
it works with an xlr cable sir !!!
Indeed, did I say it didn't? I'mn a tad confused as I powered it with one? Don't worry, I'm probably a bit thick?
my bad sir i was just pointing that out sir you were absolutly right peace.
@@MrLuckythelover No problem Corwin. Sometimes, if the Chinese just made the mics and stopped using the common shapes they'd sell more, I'm sure!
@@eastanglianradio i agree, i bought tis mic because of your review , i received it today its the best mic i got ,and i cant beleiv it .
Thank you for the video - I dont have the money to get an expensive mic. But this might be good for recording my guitars :)
The thing is, they’re a great start when money is tight!
Thanks that what I looking for
the copy sounds much better....
It sounds so bad in the high frequency it sounds like your in a untreated room unlike the real mic. A beginner could use this mic but it would cause lots of frustration most would quit because trying to get it to sound correctly. Imaging adding verb to it😂
The original sounds thicker and richer
if I’m recording vocals with the fake one what eq changes do you think I should make for it to sound closer to the real one?
They sound similar to me.
The difference is that the bass end is missing. Not much going on down the bottom.
@@pauljohnson4590 if I’m recording vocals with the fake one what eq changes do you think I should make for it to sound closer to the real one?
@@bf4lvr To be far, not a lot - starting about 4.5k, a gentle roll off rising to at least 14-15k taks the edge off. It's not so warm at the bottom, but I've not had much luck adding eq down there - it gets a bit muddy.
Funny comments. Could sell them anything as long as it looks pro.
make more video i really enjoy your vids
I will - summer has been crazy but it's easing up now, so I'll do some more shortly. Paul
The Neumann is not worth 30 times the price of this mic. The copy would be fine for most people.
I suppose this makes sense, but often, when you finally can afford the expensive one, your brain tells you how much better it is. Until you can afford one your brain convinces you the other way. Funny that!
Neumann TLM 103 is 100 times better
@@dave-3187 Mmmmm....don't think so! (Not to these old ears!)
@@eastanglianradio Neumann TLM 103 is a fantastic microphone the quality is outstanding .you best just leave it all alone and just used the copy
@@dave-3187 I have a U87. but its value means it only comes out of the box occasionally because I'm too clumsy!
is it whiskey? no, it's a replica. hmmm.... well, what the hell, cheers!
thanks next time talk closer for comparing mics sounded alright to me
well, you just sold about a thousand of these, congrats...
need instrument and singing and an analysis of noise floor - why go thru the trouble of making a video if its just talking - talking doesnt really cut it
Neumann TLM 103 is 100 times better than a copy iv also got a copy it is rubbish