Neumann KM 140 Cardioid Miniature Condenser Microphone with AK 40 Capsule
Brand
NEUMANN
Bring legendary German recording precision and uncompromised detail to your studio setup with the Neumann KM 140. As the industry-standard foundation of Neumann’s historic, premier KM 100 modular miniature series, this small-diaphragm pencil condenser is configured with a true, linear cardioid capsule. Highly coveted by vintage collectors and world-class recording engineers alike, it is the absolute reference choice for acoustic guitars, grand pianos, drum overheads, string ensembles, and spot-miking critical acoustic sources.
Neumann KM 140 Miniature Cardioid Condenser Microphone
The Neumann KM 140 is a professional miniature condenser microphone from the historic Neumann KM 100 modular microphone system. Combining the KM 100 output stage with the AK 40 cardioid capsule, the KM 140 delivers the renowned Neumann sound quality in a compact and highly versatile microphone design. It provides exceptional clarity, low self-noise, accurate transient response, and excellent off-axis performance, making it a trusted solution for professional studio recording, classical music production, broadcast, film, and location recording applications.
Designed as part of Neumann's first modular small-diaphragm microphone platform, the KM 140 allows the capsule and output stage to be separated and combined with a wide range of accessories. This flexible architecture enables discreet microphone placement using extension cables, swivel mounts, stands, suspension systems, and stereo mounting solutions while maintaining the same high-quality audio performance.
Precision Cardioid Sound Capture
The Neumann KM 140 features the AK 40 cardioid capsule, a pressure-gradient transducer designed to provide accurate directional sound capture with excellent rejection of unwanted noise from the rear. The capsule delivers smooth frequency response characteristics and reproduces sound sources within a wide pickup angle without unwanted coloration, making it suitable for detailed recordings where clarity and natural tonal balance are essential.
The cardioid pattern provides focused pickup while maintaining a natural acoustic character, making the KM 140 particularly effective for recording individual instruments, ensembles, and situations where controlled isolation is required without sacrificing realism.
Historic Neumann KM 100 Modular Microphone System
The KM 140 belongs to the Neumann KM 100 series, a modular miniature microphone system designed to provide maximum flexibility for professional audio engineers. The system consists of interchangeable active capsules and a dedicated KM 100 output stage, allowing users to adapt the microphone configuration according to the recording application.
The compact construction of the KM 100 system makes it suitable for applications where a traditional microphone would be too large or visually intrusive, including film recording, stage productions, overhead microphone placement, and concert hall installations.
Transformerless Circuit Design
The KM 140 uses Neumann's transformerless output circuitry, providing high output capability, extremely low self-noise, excellent common-mode rejection, and clean signal transmission. Powered by standard 48 V phantom power, the microphone delivers reliable performance in professional studio and broadcast environments.
Key Features
- Professional miniature condenser microphone.
- Part of the historic Neumann KM 100 modular microphone system.
- Combines KM 100 output stage with AK 40 cardioid capsule.
- Accurate cardioid pickup pattern.
- Excellent off-axis response with minimal coloration.
- Transformerless output circuitry for transparent sound reproduction.
- Very low self-noise and high output capability.
- Compact design for discreet microphone placement.
- Compatible with Neumann KM 100 accessories and mounting solutions.
- Suitable for professional studio, broadcast, and location recording.
Ideal Applications
- Classical music recording
- Orchestral and ensemble recording
- Acoustic guitar recording
- Piano recording
- String instruments
- Choir recording
- Broadcast production
- Film and television audio
- Location recording
- Stereo microphone configurations
Technical Specifications
- Product Type: Miniature condenser microphone
- Series: Neumann KM 100 Modular Microphone System
- Capsule: AK 40
- Acoustical Operating Principle: Pressure-gradient transducer
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 15 mV/Pa
- Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted): 16 dB-A
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 78 dB
- Maximum SPL: 138 dB
- Maximum SPL with 10 dB preattenuation: 148 dB
- Rated Impedance: 50 Ω
- Rated Load Impedance: 1 kΩ
- Power Requirement: 48 V phantom power (P48)
- Current Consumption: 2 mA
- Output Connector: XLR 3-pin
- Diameter: 22 mm
- Length: 92 mm
- Weight: 80 g
Why Choose the Neumann KM 140?
The Neumann KM 140 remains a respected professional microphone for engineers who require accurate, natural, and detailed cardioid sound capture in a compact format. Combining the precision of the AK 40 capsule with the flexibility of the KM 100 modular system, it offers outstanding performance for classical recording, acoustic instruments, broadcast applications, and professional location work. With its transparent sound character, reliable construction, and modular flexibility, the KM 140 represents the engineering quality and recording excellence associated with Neumann microphones.
| Brands | NEUMANN |
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