The Neumann KM 183 is a modern condenser microphone that features a small diaphragm and a cardioid polar pattern that remains consistent across all frequencies. Its natural and transparent sound, with minimal self-noise and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, has made it a standard choice for both stage and studio applications. It is suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from classical piano to heavy drumming.
Accuracy
While many microphones are designed to add their own unique sound, there are situations where accurate reproduction of the original sound is required, without any coloring or altering. This is where the Neumann 180 series comes in. The series consists of three models with different polar patterns: the KM 183 (omni), KM 184 (cardioid), and KM 185 (hypercardioid), covering the majority of stage and studio applications. Unlike the modular KM A and KM D series, the 180 series is non-modular, offering a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
Pie chart
The pie chart demonstrates a consistent response across all frequencies. This means that the microphone does not alter the sound it captures, making it ideal for using multiple microphones simultaneously or for achieving precise stereo and 3D imaging.
The pressure-gradient capsule of the KM 183 microphone is specifically designed to provide a flat frequency response in a diffuse field. However, when used in a free field (close to the sound source), it boosts the high frequencies by approximately 7 dB at 10 kHz.
The KM 183 has an impressively low self-noise level of only 13 dB and can handle high sound pressure levels up to 138 dB without distortion. Additionally, its low-impedance output stage allows it to be used with cable runs up to 300 meters long without loss of signal quality.
Application
The versatile KM 184 microphone is suitable for a wide range of studio and stage applications. Its transparent sound makes it an excellent choice for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments, including piano, percussion, drums, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, violin, cello, brass, and woodwinds.
It can be used both for solo performances and for recording ensembles. The superior off-axis behavior of the KM 183 makes it an ideal microphone for stereo and surround recordings, delivering exceptional imaging quality.
Although the KM 183 is not specifically optimized for human vocals, it is often used for classical vocals and any scenario where sound authenticity is of utmost importance. Its compact size makes it visually unobtrusive, making it well-suited for use in television and radio.
Features:
- Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Low-impedance output for transmission over long cables without signal loss
- Transformerless design
- Low self-noise level: 13 dB
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Minimum load impedance: 1000 ohms
- Connector: XLR
- Phantom power required
- 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