Between the BP40 and U 87 Ai, the BP40 comes out ahead in max spl, while the U 87 Ai wins on type. Overall, the BP40 scores 79.3 and the U 87 Ai scores 48.6 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The BP40 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 30.7 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the BP40 if you care most about max spl. The biggest gaps in its favor are max spl.
Pick the U 87 Ai if you care most about type. Its strongest claims are type.
Both ship with comparable connection, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the BP40 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Audio-Technica - BP40 wins
- ▲Max SPL — 16.54% more. 148 dB vs 127 dB.
Why Neumann - U 87 Ai wins
- ▲Type: Condenser (vs Dynamic).
Spec comparison
Spec
| Spec | Audio-Technica - BP40 | Neumann - U 87 Ai |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic | Condenserlead |
| Polar pattern | Hypercardioid | Multi (3 patterns) |
| Frequency response | 50Hz–16kHz | 20Hz–20kHz |
| Max SPL | 148 dBlead | 127 dB |
Connectivity
| Spec | Audio-Technica - BP40 | Neumann - U 87 Ai |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | XLR | XLR |
| Headphone out | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
More from the same brands
vsMars is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.