S3-87 Microphone Kit

The S3-87 is a world-class FET condenser microphone suitable for all audio sources. Key features include:

• Our renowned RK-87 capsule
• Our finest transformerless circuit, with "Variable EQ"
• 3-way pattern switch (Cardioid / Omni / Figure-8)
• -10dB pad switch
• Includes shockmount and storage case

The S3-87 is essentially a 3-pattern version of our best-selling S-87 microphone kit, with a larger body and two external switches. Like the S-87, the S3-87 is based on the sound of the Neumann U87, but delivers higher output, lower noise, and lower distortion than the U87 -- that is, higher output and lower distortion than the current production U87 Ai, and 12-15dB higher output than the older U87i (and the various so-called "DIY U87" kits on the market).

Applications

The S3-87 is an all-purpose microphone. The list of applications below are sources for which the mic shines -- but due to its neutral voicing, it can be used on a wide variety of sources with great results.

• Voiceover (both commercial and narration)
• Vocals
• Percussion
• Drum Overheads
• Orchestra / Ensembles
• Foley

See also the "S-87" column of the application guide.

Circuit Description and Options

The S3-87 uses the latest version of our premium transformerless circuit. It is made entirely with superior parts and practices. For example, every JFET is individually selected and manually biased in our shop to ensure maximum gain and minimal distortion. The primary signal caps are polypropylene types, because they sound better. Resistors are 1% tolerance, audio quality, low-noise parts. All the "mods" and upgrades that people like to do to the Schoeps transformerless circuit have already been done.

New in this kit is our "Variable EQ" feature. The circuit kit includes a socketed EQ cap, enabling you to fine-tune the high frequency response of the mic without soldering. If the mic is too bright, plug in one of the included EQ capacitors... if it is then too dark, replace the cap with a smaller value.

The S3's circuit is unique for not using a separate switch board with wires connecting to the audio PCB -- a design that introduces complexity and signal loss. Instead, the switches are soldered directly to the main circuit board. We've kept audio traces as short as possible, and as we always do, isolated the high-impedance circuit above the circuit board. Our design does not compromise the sound or performance of the mic.

What's in the box?

The S3-87 kit includes:

• A low profile foam-lined storage case.
• The S3 microphone body, complete with tapered grille and XLR3 insert.
• Shockmount.
• Our TL3 circuit kit.
• The RK-87 capsule.
• Comprehensive, full-color, step-by-step installation instructions.

Cosmetic Blemish option

We occasionally find an S3 mic body with minor cosmetic/finish options, such as a scratch, or a chip in the paint, or a mark of some kind on the grille. If any such kits are available, they are sold at a discount via the drop-down menu above.