Neumann KM 184 Stereo Set Nickel

The 180 Series: Neumann's DNA in a format tailored for stage and studio

The KM 184 is part of the Neumann 180 Series, designed to deliver faithful reproduction of the acoustic event without unnecessary coloration. While some microphones deliberately seek a "signature," the KM 184 aims for transparency: a smooth and linear frequency response, controlled directivity, and modern electronics designed to preserve the capsule's integrity. The result: a standard that has become indispensable both in studios and live settings.

For whom and for what uses? A universal microphone for acoustic instruments and stereo recordings

This pair of KM 184 microphones is intended for sound engineers, studios, composers, and demanding musicians who want to capture detail, attack, and space realistically. It excels on piano, acoustic guitar, strings (violin, cello, double bass), percussion, drum overheads, woodwinds, and brass. Thanks to its excellent off-axis behavior, it also shines in stereo and surround applications, especially when phase coherence and precise placement in the sound image are essential. Its discreet size is a real advantage for TV, radio, and stage use.

Transparency, dynamics, and off-axis control: what sets the KM 184 apart

Truly controlled cardioid directivity

The uniform cardioid directivity, independent of frequency, ensures effective rear rejection, including in the low frequencies. In practice, you get fewer surprises when the source moves, and above all minimal coloration over a wide pickup angle, which secures multi-mic setups (overheads, ensembles, quartets) and enhances stereo precision.

Transformerless electronics and high headroom

The innovative transformerless microphone amplifier offers a wide dynamic range (125 dB) and a low-impedance output. The KM 184 handles high levels (up to 138 dB SPL at 0.5% THD) while maintaining very low self-noise, and can power long cable runs up to 300 meters without transmission losses, which is practical on sets, control rooms, or complex stages.

Technical specifications

Frequency response	20 Hz - 20 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	studio microphone	Color	Grey
Directivity	cardioid	Nominal mode power consumption (Wh)	0 W

Type	matched small diaphragm condenser microphones	Nominal impedance	50 ohms
Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm	15 mV/Pa +/- 1 dB	Nominal load impedance	1 kohm
Wide dynamic range	125 dB	Power supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938)	48 V +/- 4 V
Equivalent noise level, CCIR	22 dB	Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938)	3.2 mA
Equivalent noise level, A-weighted	13 dB-A	Corresponding connector	XLR 3-pin female
Maximum SPL for 0.5% THD	138 dB	Diameter	22 mm
Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR (ref. 94 dB SPL)	72 dB	Length	107 mm
Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted (ref. 94 dB SPL)	81 dB	Weight	80 g
Maximum output voltage	10 dBu