Product Overview

The KM 185 Stereo Set is the high-precision specialist for stereo recording. While many engineers use cardioid pairs, the hypercardioid pattern of the KM 185 is preferred for environments where maximum separation is required between instruments. Each pair is meticulously matched at the Neumann factory in Germany to ensure identical frequency response and sensitivity, providing the phase-coherent foundation necessary for pinpoint-accurate stereo imaging.

Product Description

Faithful Reproduction

While many modern microphones are designed to add their own sonic "imprint," the Neumann Series 180 is built for applications requiring a faithful reproduction of the original acoustic event. The KM 185 provides a transparent sound without adding or removing tonal characteristics. Because it is a non-modular system, it offers elite Neumann engineering at a more cost-effective price point than the modular KM A or KM D series.

Precision Hypercardioid Isolation

The KM 185 features a hypercardioid pattern that is remarkably frequency-independent. It provides excellent rejection of rearward sound (at 120°) even at low frequencies. In practical usage, there is no sound coloration over a wide pickup angle, which is critical for maintaining precise stereo and surround imaging in multi-microphone setups. Its frequency response is incredibly smooth, featuring a slight treble lift around 10 kHz for added brilliance and "air."

Advanced Transformerless Engineering

Equipped with an innovative transformerless head amplifier, the KM 185 maintains total sonic integrity while offering a wide dynamic range of 127 dB. It boasts a very low self-noise of only 15 dB-A and can handle high sound pressure levels of up to 142 dB without distortion. Thanks to its low-impedance output stage, it can drive long cable runs of up to 300 meters (1000 feet) without any transmission loss.

Classic & Unobtrusive Design

Measuring just 107 mm in length and finished in beautiful Satin Nickel, these microphones are visually discreet on stage or in the studio. Their small size makes them well-suited for TV and radio applications where high-fidelity audio is required without the gear becoming a visual distraction.

Key Features

• Factory-Matched Pair: Guaranteed acoustic symmetry for flawless stereo imaging.

• Uniform Hypercardioid Pattern: Maximum isolation without off-axis coloration.

• High Side/Rear Suppression: Excellent rejection of unwanted sound at 120°.

• Linear Frequency Response: Natural sound with a slight treble lift for detail.

• Extreme SPL Handling: Distortion-free performance up to 142 dB.

• Transformerless Circuitry: High signal integrity and ultra-low self-noise.

• Premium Storage: Comes in a professional-grade wooden jeweler’s box.

Applications

• Drums & Percussion: The perfect solution for recording a snare drum while suppressing hi-hat spill in a stereo setup.

• Acoustic Instruments: Exceptional for stereo piano, acoustic guitar, and orchestral ensembles.

• Classical Vocals: Often utilized for choirs when sonic authenticity is the primary requirement.

• Broadcast & TV: Visually unobtrusive for high-end studio dialogue and musical performances.

Technical Specifications