Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Alistair Vance
Written by Alistair Vance

May 16, 2026

Universal Audio Bock 187

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Studio microphone functions of Universal Audio

  • Polar pattern: cardioid
  • Frequency range: 20 – 16,000 Hz, +/-2 dB
  • Max SPL: 125 dB SPL, 1% THD
  • Class A FET circuit
  • Large Cinemag output transformer for powerful bass and more headroom at low frequencies
  • Fat mode for boosting low frequencies between 10 and 400 Hz
  • Low-cut at 120 Hz
  • -10 dB pad
  • Handmade in the UA Custom Shop in Santa Cruz, California
  • Incl. wooden storage case

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Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Universal Audio Bock 187 Review: Honest user verdict

Additional Information

Customer Review Summary

I recently acquired a second Universal Audio Bock 187 because I was so impressed with the first one. Having compared it directly with an original U87 from the era before the transformers disappeared from Neumann microphones, I can confidently say that the sound is remarkably similar. I found it difficult to choose which microphone I preferred.

The Bock 187 has performed exceptionally well across various applications, including vocals, drums, double bass, and guitar amps. The sound is always beautifully balanced and rich. Although I haven’t yet used the “fat” mode, I anticipate it will be beneficial for higher female vocals in future recordings.

One minor drawback is the somewhat flimsy switches on the microphone, which can be a bit tricky to operate and read. This aspect has led me to rate the build quality slightly lower. However, the overall construction of the microphone is of high quality, with premium components. It may not have the fame of some competitors like Neumann, but it sounds truly exceptional. I can wholeheartedly recommend it as a user. The quality is tremendous, offering a warm and clear sound without being overly harsh in the high frequencies, and it feels solid and well-built. I believe you can trust Universal Audio in collaboration with David Bock. Highly recommended!

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Alistair Vance

Based in Bristol, Al has spent over a decade mixing local bands before specialising in hybrid studio consulting. He’s obsessed with the price-to-performance ratio, helping musicians achieve a "Radio Ready" sound without the need for a £50,000 Neve console. No fluff, just honest gear reviews to get your tracks sounding professional on a real-world budget.

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