NEUMANN KM 184 A NX

The combination of the capsule KK 184 with the output stage KM A is only one of the numerous options within the Neumann KM A/D small diaphragm microphone system.

The Neumann system KM A/D is a modular microphone system for even the most demanding applications. Eight different small diaphragm capsules (KK 120 … KK 185) may be combined with either an analog output stage (KM A) or a digital AES 42 output stage (KM D). All components are available in nickel or Nextel black (nx). A comprehensive range of accessories ensures adaptability to the most diverse fields of application.

Compared to its predecessor, the Series KM 100, the new system KM A/D works with passive capsules, which are considerably smaller while retaining the proven acoustic design.
New and advanced electronic components allow for many electroacoustic and operational advantages, such as reduced self-noise, an extended dynamic range, and very high electromagnetic immunity.

The modular concept permits the capsule to be detached and used at a distance from the output stage of up to 100 m (330 ft), connected via a special cable. For usual applications, the LC 4 cable is available with a length of 5 or 10 meters (ca. 16½ or 33 ft.). Alternatively, capsule extensions of various lengths, swivel capsule joints, and swivel stand mounts, etc. may be used for a flexible microphone setup. The analog and digital output stages have identical dimensions (diameter: 22 mm, length: 93 mm). All accessory parts may thus be combined with both output stages.

The analog, transformerless output stage KM A operates with P48 phantom power. A switchable -10 dB preattenuation allows for sound pressure levels of up to 152 dB (depending on capsule type) without distortion artifacts.

The digital output stage KM D is compliant to the AES 42 standard and opens entirely new possibilities, unattainable in the analog domain. The integrated DSP permits remote control of microphone parameters, such as digital gain, preattenuation (6, 12, 18 dB) and low cut (0, 40, 80, 160). An integrated peak limiter and a compressor/limiter with an additional de-esser function protect the audio signal from overload. Neumann’s patented A/D-converter technology ensures a very high dynamic range of up to 122 dB-A across the entire digital production chain.

At any time the user may opt to work in the analog or digital domain, without the expense of a complete system change, simply by using the KM A or KM D output stage.

Two popular combinations are available as complete sets with capsule, output stage and swivel mount: KM 183 A nx and KM 184 A nx. Any other components are offered separately.

On special request, a mechanical adapter (AR 100 KA) can be supplied for use of older KM 100 capsules (AK series) with the KM A and KM D output stages.

The KK 184 is a pressure gradient transducer with cardioid characteristic. The frequency curves are very even and parallel to 0° sound incidence. In typical usage, there is no coloration of sound over a wide pickup angle.