Product Overview

The Neumann KK 185 is the hypercardioid member of the KM A/D Series, Neumann's elite modular small-diaphragm system. This passive capsule, finished in classic Satin Nickel, is a pressure gradient transducer designed to offer significantly higher directivity than a standard cardioid. It threads directly onto the KM A (Analog) or KM D (Digital) output stages, allowing for a flexible workflow that can adapt to any studio, stage, or broadcast requirement.

Product Description

Surgical Focus & High Rejection:

The KK 185 is designed for problem-solving. Its hypercardioid pattern is exceptionally uniform across all frequencies, providing approximately $10\text{ dB}$ of attenuation for sound arriving from the sides ($90^{\circ}$) and rear ($180^{\circ}$). The point of minimum sensitivity occurs at $120^{\circ}$, allowing you to position the microphone to null out unwanted sound sources—such as a hi-hat bleeding into a snare mic or loud stage monitors.

Natural Transparency with Subtle Detail:

Despite its tight focus, the KK 185 maintains a remarkably natural and uncolored sound. The frequency response is smooth and linear, featuring a slight treble lift around $10\text{ kHz}$. This subtle "air" adds clarity and brilliance to acoustic instruments, ensuring they cut through a mix without sounding artificially bright or harsh.

Modular & Remote Versatility:

As part of the KM A/D ecosystem, the KK 185 is a "head" only. It can be detached from the output stage and mounted up to $100\text{ meters}$ away via specialized extension cables (like the LC 4). This makes it nearly invisible on camera or when suspended from concert hall ceilings. Whether you are using a traditional analog signal path (P48) or an AES 42 digital workflow, the KK 185 remains the constant reference point for high-definition audio.

Elite Performance Specs:

With an ultra-low self-noise of $15\text{ dB-A}$ and the capability to handle Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) up to $152\text{ dB}$ (when using the -10 dB pad on the KM A output stage), the KK 185 offers a massive dynamic range. It is built to Neumann’s industry-leading standards in Germany, ensuring that every unit is acoustically identical for perfect stereo or surround matching.

Key Features

• Hypercardioid Polar Pattern: Maximum isolation and high gain-before-feedback.

• Modular Compatibility: Threads directly onto KM A (Analog) and KM D (Digital) output stages.

• Uncolored Off-Axis Sound: Rejects unwanted sound without changing its tonal character.

• $152\text{ dB}$ Max SPL: Distortion-free performance even on the loudest drums and brass.

• Integrated Shielding: High immunity to electromagnetic interference (RFI).

• Classic Nickel Finish: Professional and timeless aesthetic for any environment.

Applications

• Drums & Percussion: Ideal for snare or toms to minimize spill from cymbals.

• Acoustic Instruments: Perfect for guitar, violin, or wind instruments in loud ensembles.

• Broadcast & TV: Compact size and high directivity are ideal for on-camera speech.

• Indoor Dialogue: A favorite for film sets to capture clear voice in reverberant rooms.

Technical Specifications