The Neumann KM 183 is a modern condenser microphone that features a small diaphragm and a frequency-independent cardioid polar pattern. It is known for its natural and transparent sound, low self-noise, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. It has become a standard choice for both stage and studio applications, covering everything from classical piano to heavy drumming styles.
Accuracy is of utmost importance in certain applications, where the microphone should faithfully reproduce the original acoustic event without altering it. This is where the Neumann 180 series excels. Consisting of three models with different polar patterns (omni, cardioid, hypercardioid), namely the KM 183, KM 184, and KM 185, these microphones cater to a wide range of stage and studio needs. While the 180 series offers a cost-effective solution with its non-modular design, the modular KM A and KM D series provide a broader range of interchangeable heads and capsules for analog and digital systems.
The pie chart of the KM 183 microphone is uniform and does not introduce any frequency-dependent coloration. This is particularly important for situations involving multiple microphones and when precise stereo/3D imaging is desired.
The pressure-gradient capsule of the KM 183 microphone is specifically designed to produce a flat frequency response in a diffuse field. In a free field, it has a 7 dB high-frequency boost at around 10 kHz.
Notably, the KM 183 boasts a remarkably low self-noise level of only 13 dB and can handle high sound pressure levels up to 138 dB without distortion. Its low-impedance output stage allows for reliable cable runs up to 300 meters without any loss in transmission.
The KM 184 is a versatile microphone suitable for both studio and stage applications. Its transparent sound reproduction makes it an excellent choice for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments such as piano, percussion, drums, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, violin, cello, brass, and woodwinds. It can be used for both solo performances and ensembles. Thanks to its impressive off-axis behavior, the KM 183 delivers exceptional results for stereo and surround sound recordings, offering outstanding imaging quality.
Although not specifically optimized for human vocals, the KM 183 is often preferred for classical vocal recordings and situations where sound authenticity is crucial. Its compact size makes it visually unobtrusive, making it ideal for use in television and radio productions.
Key Features:
- Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Circular polar pattern
- Low-impedance output for long cable runs without signal loss
- Transformerless design
- Low self-noise level: 13 dB
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Minimum load impedance: 1000 ohms
- Connector: XLR
- Requires phantom power
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 12 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 81
- Maximum sound pressure level: 140 dB
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 22 x 22 x 107 mm
- Weight: 80 g
Package includes:
- Neumann KM 183 MT microphone
- Neumann WNS 100 windscreen
- Neumann SG 21 mount
- Documentation
