Neumann KM185

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Neumann KM185

Neumann

KM185

4.9 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 143625
Brand: Neumann
Model: KM185
Price: $779.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The KM185 is Neumann's compact workhorse, delivering incredibly detailed and transparent recordings. Its hypercardioid pickup makes it ideal for drum overheads, acoustic guitars, and vocals in controlled environments where isolation is key. If you need surgical precision and a signature Neumann sound without the larger body of their flagship mics, this is a fantastic choice.

Product Description

  • Neumann KM185
  • Compact Condenser Microphone
  • Characteristics: Hyper-Cardioid
  • Acoustic operation: Pressure/Pressure gradient transducer
  • Frequency range: 20-20
  • 000 Hz
  • Peak SPL: 142 dB
  • Requires 48 V Phantom power
  • Diameter: 22 mm
  • Length: 107 mm
  • Weight: approx. 80 g
PROS
  • • Exceptional transient response for detailed acoustic instruments
  • • Robust, all-steel construction ensures lasting reliability
  • • Hypercardioid pattern minimizes bleed and room noise
  • • Neutral, clean sound signature with subtle warmth
CONS
  • • Hypercardioid pattern demands precise mic placement
  • • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many users
  • • Limited versatility compared to multi-pattern mics

Product Video

Key Features

Mic Type Small Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern Hyper-Cardioid
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Max SPL 142 dB
Sensitivity –33 dBV/Pa (11 mV at 1 kHz)
Connector XLR-3
Weight 80 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

The KM185 has a more neutral and less hyped sound than the C451 B, offering greater clarity and detail, but the C451 B's wider polar pattern can be more forgiving.
While the KM185 sounds phenomenal, its hypercardioid pattern will amplify room imperfections; a well-treated room is highly recommended for optimal results.
Clean, transparent preamps like those from Millennia or Avalon will best preserve the KM185's neutrality; avoid overly colored or noisy preamps.

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