The Neumann KM 185 is a modern small-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers a natural and transparent sound. It features a cardioid polar pattern that remains consistent across all frequencies, making it suitable for both stage and studio applications. The KM 185 is widely used in various scenarios, from capturing the nuances of classical pianos to recording drums in heavy music genres.
Accuracy is crucial in many applications, where the goal is to reproduce the original acoustic event without altering it. This is where the Neumann 180 series comes in. The series includes three models: KM 183 (omni), KM 184 (cardioid), and KM 185 (hypercardioid). These microphones cover a wide range of live and studio applications. The non-modular design of the Series 180 makes it more cost-effective compared to the modular KM A and KM D series.
One of the standout features of the KM 185 is its hypercardioid polar pattern. This pattern effectively suppresses sound from the rear (-120°), even at low frequencies. The microphone maintains a transparent sound while offering a wide pickup angle.
The frequency response of the Neumann KM 185 is very smooth and linear, with a slight increase in frequency around 10 kHz for added sparkle. Its innovative transformerless amplifier ensures a wide dynamic range of 127 dB while preserving the integrity of the sound.
The KM 185 has low self-noise of only 15 dB and can handle high sound pressure levels up to 142 dB without distortion.
The versatility of the KM 185 makes it suitable for a wide range of applications in both studio and stage settings. It excels at capturing the sound of acoustic instruments such as piano, percussion, drums, acoustic and bass guitar, violin, cello, brass, and woodwinds. It is equally suitable for soloists and ensembles. The microphone's excellent off-axis behavior makes it ideal for stereo and immersive recording with exceptional sound quality.
While the KM 185 is not specifically optimized for the human voice, it is often used for classical vocals and whenever sound authenticity is paramount. Its compact size makes it visually unobtrusive and well-suited for use in television and radio.
Key Features:
- Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Low-impedance output for lossless transmission over long cables
- Transformerless circuitry
- Polar pattern: hypercardioid
- Low self-noise level: 15 dB
- Impedance: 50 Ohms
- Minimum load impedance: 1000 Ohms
- Connector: XLR
- Phantom power
- Frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 79
- Maximum sound pressure level: 142 dB
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 22 x 22 x 107 mm
- Weight: 80 g
Package includes:
- Neumann KM 185 microphone
- Neumann WNS 100 windscreen
- Neumann SG 21 holder
- Documentation