Neumann KK 14

An MCM Capsule Designed to Elevate Electret to Neumann Standards

The KK 14 fits into Neumann's modular MCM (Miniature Clip Mic) system approach: offering a miniature solution that is professional, coherent, and reliable over time. While some electret capsules may suffer from sensitivity or tonal variations from one unit to another, the KK 14 emphasizes tonal consistency and repeatability to achieve a stable result from the first take, without needing to "correct" systematically with equalization.

Its design also aims for a reduced long-term operating cost: the MCM format is built to last and to be easily maintained thanks to the system's modularity, while preserving a sound signature faithful to Neumann's expectations.

For Which Recordings Is the KK 14 Ideal?

The Neumann KK 14 is a cardioid capsule head dedicated to close-miking acoustic instruments. It is particularly suited to contexts where a natural and detailed sound is sought, while maintaining good control over bleed: concerts, live sessions, quick recordings, TV sets, or supplementary studio recordings when discreet and repeatable placement is essential.

Thanks to its ability to handle very high acoustic pressure levels, it performs well on instruments with strong dynamics and sharp attacks, while retaining finesse and neutrality on more delicate nuances.

Design and Performance: Precision, Consistency, and Robustness

Cardioid directivity: a cleaner stage image

With its cardioid configuration, the KK 14 prioritizes the targeted source and helps limit the influence of room acoustics or neighboring instruments. The result: a clearer sound, easier to integrate into a live mix, and a more consistent foundation from one event to another when positioning needs to be reproducible.

Layered structure: an approach focused on "consistency"

Neumann has redesigned the manufacturing around a layered structure: rather than an overly integrated design where compromises can accumulate, each module is optimized and then the entire assembly is hand-assembled in Germany. This approach aims to overcome the historical limitations associated with some electrets, especially regarding capsule uniformity and stability of the sound signature.

Wide dynamic range: from pianissimos to fortissimos

The KK 14 is designed to remain open to detail, even when the instrument moves from very nuanced playing to strong peaks. Depending on power supply conditions, it can handle up to 153 dB SPL (THD below 0.5%), ensuring safe recordings without having to "play it safe" to protect the microphone.

Titanium housing: a capsule built to last

The choice of a titanium housing is not only about robustness: it contributes to a design intended for years of intensive use. Within the MCM ecosystem, the idea is to invest in a durable, reliable tool on the field, and consistent from one mounting to another, supporting fast and professional recording.

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	Directivity	cardioid
Frequency response - end	20 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	instrument microphone	Color	Black

Acoustic operating principle	pressure gradient transducer	Maximum output voltage	12 dBu
Polar pattern	cardioid	Power supply	max. 10 V, with Rfeed = 20 kOhms
Frequency response	20 Hz to 20 kHz	Current consumption	0.22 mA
Sensitivity	3.6 mV/Pa; -49 dBV	Weight	2.3 g
Nominal impedance	10 ohms	Diameter	12 mm
Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR	63 dB	Length	11 mm
Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted	71 dB	Permissible atmospheric conditions	values for non-condensing humidity
Equivalent noise level, CCIR	31 dB	Operating temperature	0 degC to +40 degC
Equivalent noise level, A-weighted	23 dB-A	Operating humidity	0% to 90% relative humidity
Max. SPL (THD below 0.5%)	153 dB SPL with Usupply = 10 V and Rfeed = 20 kOhms	Storage temperature	-20 degC to +70 degC
Amplifier dynamic range, A-weighted (THD below 0.5%)	130 dB	Storage humidity	0% to 95% relative humidity