Neumann KM 185 mt Hypercardioid Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Matte Black

Neumann KM 185 mt Hypercardioid Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Neumann KM 185 mt is a professional small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for studio recording, live sound, broadcast, and demanding acoustic applications where accurate sound capture and excellent unwanted-noise rejection are essential. Featuring a precise, frequency-independent hypercardioid polar pattern, the KM 185 mt delivers a transparent, natural sound character with low self-noise, high SPL capability, and reliable performance for a wide range of instruments and recording environments.

As part of the renowned Neumann Series 180 microphone family, the KM 185 mt is engineered for users who require faithful reproduction of acoustic sources without adding unwanted coloration. Its compact matte black design makes it visually unobtrusive for professional stage, television, radio, and studio applications while maintaining the legendary engineering standards associated with Neumann microphones.

Precise Hypercardioid Pickup Pattern for Focused Recording

The Neumann KM 185 mt features a tight, frequency-independent hypercardioid directional pattern that provides excellent rejection of unwanted sound from the rear and surrounding areas. This controlled pickup capability helps isolate the intended sound source in complex recording environments, making it especially useful for multi-microphone setups, live performances, and studio sessions where separation and clarity are important.

The consistent off-axis response helps maintain natural tonal balance even when sound arrives outside the main pickup direction, supporting accurate stereo imaging and professional recording results.

Transparent Sound Quality with Exceptional Detail

Designed for faithful audio reproduction, the KM 185 mt captures the character of the original sound source with a smooth and linear frequency response. Its subtle high-frequency enhancement around the upper treble range provides additional brilliance while preserving the natural tone of instruments and performances.

The microphone is suitable for detailed recording applications including acoustic guitar, piano, violin, cello, upright bass, wind instruments, drums, percussion, and other acoustic sources where clarity and authenticity are required.

High Dynamic Range and Low Noise Performance

The KM 185 mt incorporates a transformerless microphone amplifier design that delivers a wide dynamic range while maintaining the sonic integrity of the capsule. With an equivalent noise level of only 15 dB-A and the ability to handle sound pressure levels up to 142 dB SPL at 0.5% THD, the microphone provides clean performance for both subtle acoustic recordings and high-energy sound sources.

• Low self-noise for detailed and quiet recordings
• High SPL capability for demanding instruments and percussion
• Wide dynamic range for professional studio and live applications
• Low impedance output suitable for long cable runs without transmission losses

Professional Applications

The Neumann KM 185 mt is a versatile microphone for professional recording engineers, musicians, broadcasters, and live sound professionals. Its focused hypercardioid pattern makes it a practical choice for situations where precise sound capture and reduced background pickup are required.

• Studio recording and acoustic instrument capture
• Piano, acoustic guitar, violin, cello, and upright bass recording
• Drum and percussion applications, including situations requiring spill reduction
• Wind instrument recording
• Classical music and authentic acoustic performances
• Broadcast, television, and radio production
• Live stage applications requiring controlled microphone placement

Compact Professional Design

With its slim 22 mm diameter and approximately 80 g weight, the KM 185 mt provides a discreet microphone solution without compromising professional performance. Its compact construction allows flexible positioning in studio environments, on stage, and in broadcast applications where microphone visibility needs to be minimized.

Neumann KM 185 mt Key Features

• Small-diaphragm condenser microphone
• Hypercardioid directional pattern
• Frequency-independent off-axis response
• Transparent and natural sound reproduction
• Excellent rejection of unwanted sound
• Low self-noise of 15 dB-A
• Maximum SPL capability of 142 dB
• 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
• Transformerless head amplifier design
• Low impedance output for extended cable runs
• Compact matte black finish

Technical Specifications

• Acoustical Operating Principle: Pressure gradient transducer
• Directional Pattern: Hypercardioid
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kΩ: 10 mV/Pa ± 1 dB
• Rated Impedance: 50 Ω
• Rated Load Impedance: 1 kΩ
• Equivalent Noise Level: 15 dB-A (A-weighted)
• Maximum SPL: 142 dB for THD 0.5%
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 79 dB (A-weighted, referenced to 94 dB SPL)
• Maximum Output Voltage: 10 dBu
• Power Requirement: 48 V ± 4 V phantom power (P48)
• Current Consumption: 3.2 mA
• Connector: XLR 3 F
• Weight: Approx. 80 g
• Diameter: 22 mm
• Length: 107 mm

Included Accessories

• Neumann KM 185 mt Microphone
• WNS 100 Windscreen
• SG 21 bk Stand Mount Swivel

The Neumann KM 185 mt Hypercardioid Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone is a professional recording tool for engineers, musicians, and production specialists who need accurate sound reproduction, excellent isolation, and dependable performance across studio, stage, and broadcast environments.