Neumann KM 143 Wide-Angle Cardioid Miniature Condenser Microphone with AK 43 Capsule

Neumann KM 143 Miniature Wide-Angle Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Neumann KM 143 is a professional miniature condenser microphone from the historic Neumann KM 100 modular microphone system. Combining the KM 100 output stage with the AK 43 wide-angle cardioid active capsule, the KM 143 delivers the renowned Neumann sound with exceptional clarity, natural tonal balance, and precise directional control. Designed for professional recording applications, the KM 143 is particularly suited for classical music, acoustic instruments, ensembles, broadcast production, and situations where a wider pickup area is preferred over a conventional cardioid microphone.

The AK 43 capsule uses a pressure-gradient transducer with a wide-angle cardioid characteristic, providing a natural transition between focused direct sound and surrounding ambience. This makes the KM 143 an excellent choice for capturing realistic acoustic environments while maintaining effective rejection of unwanted rear sound.

Wide-Angle Cardioid Sound Capture

The KM 143 provides a wide-angle cardioid polar pattern designed to capture a broader sound field than a traditional cardioid microphone. This characteristic allows musicians and engineers to achieve a more open and natural recording while retaining directional control.

The AK 43 capsule offers controlled attenuation of off-axis sound, with approximately 4 dB attenuation at 90°, 8 dB at 135°, and 11 dB at 180°. Its frequency response remains consistent for sound sources within a wide angle of approximately ±90°, helping preserve natural tonal quality even when the sound source moves away from the central pickup axis.

Historic Neumann KM 100 Modular Microphone System

The Neumann KM 143 is part of the legendary KM 100 miniature modular microphone series. This system was designed around interchangeable active capsule heads and a dedicated KM 100 output stage, allowing professionals to configure microphones according to specific recording requirements.

The modular design provides flexibility for professional applications, including discreet microphone placement, stereo recording techniques, orchestral recording, studio production, and broadcast environments. Different capsule characteristics can be combined with the KM 100 output stage to achieve the desired directional response and acoustic performance.

Professional Recording Performance

The KM 143 features Neumann's transformerless output technology, providing a clean, transparent signal path with excellent transient response and reliable performance. Its compact miniature design allows placement in locations where larger microphones may be impractical, while maintaining the high audio standards expected from Neumann professional microphones.

Key Features

• Professional miniature condenser microphone from the Neumann KM 100 modular system.
• Combines KM 100 output stage with AK 43 wide-angle cardioid capsule.
• Wide-angle cardioid polar pattern for natural sound capture.
• Excellent balance between direct sound and ambient detail.
• Consistent off-axis frequency response with minimal coloration.
• Compact design for discreet microphone placement.
• Transformerless circuitry for transparent audio performance.
• Designed for professional studio, broadcast, and location recording.
• Compatible with Neumann KM 100 modular accessories.

Ideal Applications

• Classical music recording
• Orchestral and ensemble recording
• Acoustic instrument recording
• Piano recording
• String instruments
• Choir recording
• Room and ambience capture
• Stereo microphone techniques
• Broadcast production
• Professional location recording

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Miniature condenser microphone
• Series: Neumann KM 100 Modular Microphone System
• Capsule: AK 43 Active Capsule
• Acoustical Operating Principle: Pressure-gradient transducer
• Polar Pattern: Wide-angle cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 15 mV/Pa
• Equivalent Noise Level: 16 dB-A
• Maximum SPL: 138 dB
• Rated Impedance: 50 Ω
• Rated Load Impedance: 1 kΩ
• Power Requirement: 48 V phantom power
• Output Connector: XLR 3-pin
• Diameter: 22 mm
• Length: Approximately 92 mm

Why Choose the Neumann KM 143?

The Neumann KM 143 remains a respected professional microphone for engineers seeking a natural, spacious, and accurate recording solution in a compact format. Its wide-angle cardioid pickup pattern provides an ideal combination of clarity, ambience, and directional control, making it a versatile choice for classical music, acoustic instruments, broadcast, and location recording. With its modular KM 100 architecture and precision Neumann engineering, the KM 143 delivers the reliability and sonic performance expected from a professional miniature condenser microphone.