The modular concept permits the capsule to be detached and used at a distance from the output stage of up to 100 m (330 ft), connected via a special cable. For usual applications, the LC 4 cable is available with a length of 5 or 10 meters (ca. 16½ or 33 ft.). Alternatively, capsule extensions of various lengths, swivel capsule joints, and swivel stand mounts, etc. may be used for a flexible microphone setup. The analog and digital output stages have identical dimensions (diameter: 22 mm, length: 93 mm). All accessory parts may thus be combined with both output stages.

A lot of examples for using the accessory portfolio can be found here.

THE OUTPUT STAGES

The analog, transformerless output stage KM A operates with P48 phantom power. A switchable -10 dB preattenuation allows for sound pressure levels of up to 152 dB (depending on capsule type) without distortion artifacts.

The digital output stage KM D is compliant to the AES 42 standard and opens entirely new possibilities, unattainable in the analog domain. The integrated DSP permits remote control of microphone parameters, such as digital gain, preattenuation (6, 12, 18 dB) and low cut (0, 40, 80, 160). An integrated peak limiter and a compressor/limiter with an additional de-esser function protect the audio signal from overload. Neumann’s patented A/D-converter technology ensures a very high dynamic range of up to 122 dB-A across the entire digital production chain.

At any time the user may opt to work in the analog or digital domain, without the expense of a complete system change, simply by using the KM A or KM D output stage. More information on Neumann’s digital microphone technology is available here.

Two popular combinations are available as complete sets with capsule, output stage and swivel mount: KM 183 A nx and KM 184 A nx. Any other components are offered separately.

COMPABILITY WITH THE NEUMANN KM 100 SYSTEM

On special request, a mechanical adapter (AR 100 KA) can be supplied for use of older KM 100 capsules (AK series) with the KM A and KM D output stages.

CAPSULE KK 133

The KK 133 is a diffuse-field equalized pressure transducer with a free-field treble boost (4-5 dB at 12 kHz). Based on the technical design concept of the legendary Neumann M 50 microphone and its successor, the M 150, its ultra thin diaphragm is made of titanium and is spaced only a few microns from the backplate, also made of titanium. The KK 133 capsule attains an incredibly fast transient response with unprecedented accuracy. Its detachable sound diffraction sphere creates an earlier and gentler increase in sound pressure for mid to high frequencies. Directivity, thus, increases in the upper frequencies, as with a cardioid capsule, yet as a pressure transducer the KK 133’s bass transmission is linear down to the lowest frequencies, with no proximity effect.

The digital Neumann microphone technology (Solution-D) will no longer be part of the Neumann product portfolio from 2021. Last order date for dealers will be 31 July 2020. After that, the products will be available as long as stock lasts. Service for all Solution-D hardware products is guaranteed until 31 Dec 2030.

The Remote Control Software (32 Bit, available also as VST plug-in) for the digital Neumann microphones is compatible with Windows 98SE – Windows 10 and Mac OS 8.6 – Mac OS X 10.14.6. There will be no further updates of the RCS software.