The Neumann KM 184 MT is a modern small-diaphragm condenser microphone that offers a natural and transparent sound. It features a cardioid polar pattern, which remains consistent across frequencies. This microphone is well-known for its low self-noise and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for both stage and studio applications, ranging from classical piano to heavy drumming styles.
Precision
Unlike many microphones that add their own sonic characteristics, the Neumann 180 series, which includes the KM 183 (omnidirectional), KM 184 (cardioid), and KM 185 (hypercardioid) models, is designed to accurately reproduce the original sound without any alteration. These non-modular microphones offer a cost-effective solution compared to the modular KM A and KM D series, which provide interchangeable heads and capsules for analog and digital systems.
Cardioid
The KM 184 is an engineering masterpiece by Neumann. Its cardioid polar pattern is consistent across frequencies, allowing it to reject sound from the rear (180°), even at low frequencies. This microphone does not add any coloration to the sound at wide capture angles.
Frequency Response
The Neumann KM 184 has a smooth and linear frequency response with a slight boost around 9 kHz for added brilliance. Its transformerless amplifier design ensures a wide dynamic range of 125 dB and carefully preserves the integrity of the sound captured by the microphone.
With a self-noise level of just 13 dB, the KM 184 can handle high sound pressure levels up to 138 dB without distortion. It also has a low-impedance output stage, allowing it to operate on cable runs up to 300 meters without losing transmission fidelity.
Application
The KM 184 is a versatile microphone suitable for both studio and live applications. Its transparent sound makes it a great choice for capturing acoustic instruments such as piano, drums, percussion, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, violin, cello, woodwinds, and brass instruments.
This microphone is suitable for soloists as well as ensembles. Its excellent off-axis behavior makes it ideal for stereo and surround recording, ensuring superior imaging quality.
While the KM 184 is not specifically optimized for human vocals, it is often used for classical vocal recordings and situations where sound authenticity is crucial. Its small size makes it visually unobtrusive and well-suited for television and radio applications.
Features:
- Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Low-impedance output for lossless transmission over long cables
- Transformerless circuitry
- Low self-noise level: 13 dB
- Impedance: 50 Ohms
- Minimum load impedance: 1000 Ohms
- Connector: XLR
- Phantom power
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 15 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 81
- Maximum sound pressure level: 138 dB
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 22 x 22 x 107 mm
- Weight: 80 g
Package Contents:
- Neumann KM 184 MT microphone
- Neumann WNS 100 windscreen
- Neumann SG 21 holder
- Documentation