Neumann KM 185 Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone

The Neumann KM 185 is a professional small diaphragm condenser microphone engineered for transparent, uncolored sound reproduction and versatile studio and stage performance. Featuring a frequency‑independent hypercardioid pickup pattern, very low self‑noise, and high sound pressure level handling, the KM 185 delivers accurate capture of acoustic instruments, percussion, and ensemble sources with exceptional clarity and detail.

State‑of‑the‑Art Small Diaphragm Condenser Design

The KM 185 employs high‑precision small diaphragm condenser technology that ensures faithful sound capture across the full 20 Hz–20 kHz range with a smooth frequency response and a slight presence lift for added clarity. Its tight hypercardioid pattern provides excellent rejection of unwanted off‑axis sound, minimizing bleed and improving focus in multi‑microphone setups or live environments.

Hypercardioid Pickup Pattern for Precision

Unlike more common cardioid patterns, the KM 185’s hypercardioid polar response maintains frequency independence across its coverage angle, offering strong rear sound rejection and stable response even at lower frequencies. This makes it especially effective for isolating sound sources and capturing complex acoustic performances with minimal environmental interference.

Low Noise and High Dynamic Capability

With an A‑weighted self‑noise level of just 15 dB‑A, the KM 185 provides an exceptionally quiet signal path that preserves subtle details and dynamic nuance. The microphone handles high sound pressure levels up to 142 dB without distortion, making it suitable for loud sources such as snare drums, percussion, brass, and amplified acoustic instruments, as well as room ambience capture.

Versatile Studio and Stage Applications

The KM 185 is a universal microphone for both studio and live applications. Its transparent tonal character makes it ideal for recording acoustic guitar, piano, strings, woodwinds, and percussion. In larger ensembles and orchestral settings, the KM 185 excels as spot mics or overheads, providing coherent imaging and natural detail. Although optimized for instruments, its linear response also suits classical vocal recording where authenticity is crucial.

Robust Performance and Long Cable Runs

Built with professional performance in mind, the KM 185 features a low‑impedance output stage that enables long cable runs without significant signal loss or degradation. Compact and visually unobtrusive, the microphone is well suited for broadcast, television, and film production as well as critical studio recording environments.

Key Features & Benefits

• Small diaphragm condenser microphone with hypercardioid pattern for focused capture
• Frequency‑independent polar pattern ensures stable off‑axis response
• Wide flat frequency response with added clarity in the high end
• Low self‑noise for quiet, detailed recordings
• High maximum SPL tolerance for loud sound sources
• Ideal for acoustic instruments, percussion, orchestral recording, and demanding studio/live applications
• Compact, robust design for professional use in varied environments

Specifications

• Transducer: Pressure gradient small diaphragm condenser
• Polar Pattern: Hypercardioid
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz–20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 10 mV/Pa ±1 dB
• Equivalent Noise Level (A‑weighted): 15 dB‑A
• Maximum SPL (0.5% THD): 142 dB
• Output Impedance: 50 Ω
• Load Impedance: ≥1 kΩ
• Connector: 3‑pin XLR
• Power Requirement: 48 V Phantom Power (IEC 61938)
• Weight: Approx. 80 g
• Dimensions: Ø 22 mm × 107 mm