The U 89 i is a universal studio microphone combining classic transformer coupled circuit topology with a state of the art Neumann capsule. Its linear yet smooth response has made it a prime choice for voice over and speech, but thanks to five selectable polar patterns, it covers almost any recoding situation in any genre. The U 89 i combines advanced capsule technology with classic transformer coupled electronics for a very versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone suited for all studio applications. Its features include a two-stage low cut as well as a switchable 6dB preattenuation for extreme sound pressure levels of up to 140dB without unwanted distortion.

The U 89 i is similar in appearance to the legendary Neumann U 87, but smaller in size and lighter weight. This is no coincidence: Introduced in 1980, the U 89 i was conceived with the goal to improve upon the classic Neumann U 87. While the latter has remained one of the world’s most beloved large-diaphragm condenser microphones, the U 89 i is indeed technically superior in many respects. Not only can the U 89 i handle much higher sound pressure levels, it also has a more flexible low-cut filter to suppress rumble and compensate for the proximity effect. In addition to the three main polar patterns—omni, cardioid, and figure-8—the U 89 i also offers two intermediate positions, wide cardioid and hypercardioid.