Overview

The Neumann KM 185 is a premium small-diaphragm condenser microphone from the acclaimed Series 180 family. Equipped with a precision hypercardioid capsule, it delivers exceptional clarity, accurate transient response, and outstanding rejection of off-axis sound. Its transformerless electronics, compact design, and low self-noise make it an excellent choice for professional studio recording, broadcast production, live sound reinforcement, and classical music applications where maximum source isolation is required.

Precision Hypercardioid Performance

The KM 185 features a pressure-gradient transducer with a highly consistent hypercardioid polar pattern, providing greater isolation than a cardioid microphone while maintaining natural frequency response. Its focused pickup minimizes ambient noise and feedback, making it ideal for close-miking individual instruments and performers in acoustically challenging environments.

Exceptional Audio Quality

Built with Neumann's transformerless output circuitry, the KM 185 delivers an extended frequency response, low distortion, and excellent dynamic range. With an ultra-low self-noise of only 15 dB-A and the ability to handle sound pressure levels up to 142 dB SPL, it accurately captures everything from delicate acoustic performances to high-output percussion and brass instruments.

Professional Applications

The KM 185 is widely used for orchestral recording, woodwinds, brass, percussion, drum overheads, acoustic instruments, broadcast production, theatre, houses of worship, television studios, and live sound applications where superior isolation and feedback rejection are essential.