Name: Neumann KM 185 Nickel Hypercardioid Microphone - Microphone
Brand: Neumann

Neumann KM 185 Nickel Hypercardioid Microphone makes a striking debut as a professional-stage microphone designed for precise sound capture and reliable performance.

This Neumann KM 185 features a hypercardioid polar pattern and a wide frequency response from 20 to 20,000 Hz, making it ideal for capturing vocals and instruments with clarity and minimal off-axis noise. Its nickel finish gives it a durable, professional look that stands out on stage.

With an input impedance of 50 Ω and a sensitivity of 10 mV/Pa (measured at 1 kHz), the KM 185 delivers a transparent, natural sound suitable for studio and live environments. The microphone’s equivalent noise level is 24 dB while the quoted self-noise is 15 dB, producing a clean signal with an SNR of 70 dB when used with proper preamplification.

The wired XLR-3 connectivity and 48 V operating voltage make the KM 185 compatible with most professional mixing consoles and phantom-powered preamps. Power consumption is modest at 3.2 mA, and the mic’s rugged nickel body is built for touring and frequent handling.

Compact and lightweight, the KM 185 measures 107 mm in height, has a 2.2 cm diameter and weighs only 80 g, which makes it easy to position on stands or clip to instrument mounts without affecting balance. Each package includes one microphone unit.

Typical use cases include close miking of acoustic guitars, stringed instruments, brass, and percussion on stage or in the studio, as well as vocal reinforcement when a hypercardioid pickup pattern is preferred to reduce bleed and maintain focus on the sound source.

The KM 185’s key selling points are its wide frequency range, focused hypercardioid pattern, solid XLR connectivity, lightweight construction, and the trusted Neumann build quality that professionals expect.

For touring musicians, sound engineers, and studio professionals seeking a reliable, high-fidelity stage microphone, the Neumann KM 185 Nickel Hypercardioid Microphone is an excellent choice that balances sonic fidelity with practical robustness.

Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
Hypercardioid polar pattern for focused pickup
Connectivity: Wired XLR-3, 48 V phantom power
Lightweight: 80 g, compact dimensions
SNR 70 dB, sensitivity 10 mV/Pa