Neumann 008522 Miniature Microphone KM 183 Stereo Set State-of-the-art small diaphragm condenser microphone
Home / Neumann 008522 Miniature Microphone KM 183 Stereo Set State-of-the-art small diaphragm condenser microphone
Product Overview
The KM 183 Stereo Set is designed for engineers who refuse to compromise on sonic authenticity. While the KM 184 is a cardioid favorite, the KM 183 is the choice for those who want to capture the full acoustic environment without the tonal limitations of directional pickup. Each set is hand-selected at the Neumann factory in Germany to ensure that both microphones share identical sensitivity and frequency response, providing the perfect phase-coherent foundation for professional A-B stereo and ambient surround recording.
Product Description
The Mastery of Omnidirectional Recording:
The KM 183 is a true pressure transducer. Unlike directional microphones, it captures sound from all directions ($360^{\circ}$) with zero off-axis coloration. This creates a wide, immersive soundstage that makes the listener feel as if they are standing in the room. When used as a spaced pair (A-B stereo), these microphones deliver a lush, deep image that is the hallmark of world-class classical and acoustic recordings.
Diffuse-Field Equalization for Natural Brilliance:
High frequencies are naturally absorbed by the air in large halls. To combat this, the KM 183 features diffuse-field equalization—a deliberate +7 dB treble boost at 10 kHz in the free field. When the microphones are placed further back in a reverberant space (the diffuse field), this boost balances the natural high-end roll-off, resulting in a perfectly flat, transparent, and lifelike response.
Unlimited Low-End Accuracy:
One of the most powerful features of the KM 183 is its limitless bass response. Because it is a pressure transducer, it has no proximity effect—the bass remains tight and natural whether you are inches or meters away from the source. This makes it an indispensable tool for capturing the deep, fundamental frequencies of pipe organs, double basses, and the complex low-end harmonics of a concert grand piano down to 20 Hz.
State-of-the-Art Engineering:
Despite its heritage, the KM 183 features modern transformerless circuitry. This ensures a massive dynamic range of 127 dB and a remarkably low self-noise of only 13 dB-A. The microphone can handle extreme Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) up to 140 dB, allowing you to place it inside a piano or over a drum kit without fear of distortion.
What’s in the Box?
2 x KM 183 Microphones (Nickel): Hand-matched for acoustic symmetry.
2 x SG 21 bk Stand Mounts: Swivel mounts for precise angling.
2 x WNS 100 Windscreens: Multi-layer mesh for reducing air turbulence.
Premium Wooden Storage Box: Padded protection for your investment.
Key Features
Factory-Matched Pair: Guaranteed performance consistency for stereo imaging.
Omnidirectional Polar Pattern: Frequency-independent pickup for a natural, open sound.
Diffuse-Field Equalized: Tuned for perfect tonal balance in large halls.
Satin Nickel Finish: The classic, professional Neumann aesthetic.
Zero Proximity Effect: Consistent bass response at any distance.
Transformerless Circuitry: High output gain and immunity to interference.
Applications
Orchestral & Choral Arrays: The gold standard for A-B stereo and Decca Tree setups.
Grand Piano & Organ: Captures the full frequency spectrum and room resonance.
Acoustic Guitar & Strings: Ideal for close-miking in balanced acoustic environments.
Ambiance & Room Miking: Perfect for adding "life" and spatial depth to any studio recording.
