Neumann KM 185 Black

The 180 Series: Neumann's DNA in a straightforward and accessible format

The KM 185 is part of the Neumann 180 Series, a family designed to offer a faithful capture signature and high-quality manufacturing, with a simple and effective daily approach. Within this range, the KM 185 stands out for its hypercardioid directivity, particularly appreciated when controlling bleed and precise placement are paramount, both in the studio and on stage.

A microphone tailored for stage and studio whenever isolation becomes critical

Thanks to its tight directivity and lack of marked off-axis coloration, the KM 185 excels on acoustic instruments (guitar, piano, strings, winds) as well as on percussion. It is also a formidable choice for close miking a drum kit, for example capturing the snare drum while limiting hi-hat bleed. Its compact size makes it discreet, including for TV and radio sets, and its transparency suits contexts where authenticity is a priority, including classical singing.

Controlled directivity, generous dynamics, and transformerless electronics

Stable hypercardioid and reliable stereo image

The KM 185 offers frequency-independent directivity: the rear rejection at 120 degrees remains very effective, including in the low frequencies. The result: a more predictable capture, easier placement in multi-mic setups, and a cleaner stereo or surround image, with fewer comb-filter effects caused by colored off-axis responses.

Subtle brilliance and wide headroom before saturation

Its frequency response is deliberately smooth and linear, with a slight boost around 10 kHz to add air and detail without harshness. The transformerless head amplifier aims to preserve capsule integrity, with a wide dynamic range (127 dB) and excellent handling of high levels, up to 142 dB SPL (THD 0.5 percent).

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	Directivity	hypercardioid
Frequency response - end	20 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	studio microphone	Color	Black

Type	small diaphragm condenser microphone	Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted	79 dB
Frequency response	20 Hz - 20 kHz	Maximum output voltage	10 dBu
Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm	10 mV/Pa (+/-1 dB)	Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938)	48 V (+/-4 V)
Nominal impedance	50 ohms	Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938)	3.2 mA
Nominal load impedance	1 kohm	Connector type	XLR 3 F
Equivalent noise level, CCIR	24 dB	Diameter	22 mm
Equivalent noise level, A-weighted	15 dB-A	Length	107 mm
Max SPL for 0.5% THD	142 dB	Weight	80 g
Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR	70 dB