Neumann KM 184 Review: Unveiling Luminescence Of The Microphone For Studio And Live Acoustic Guitar Capture

When it comes to capturing the delicate nuances and pristine sound of acoustic guitars in both studio and live environments, the Neumann KM 184 microphone has earned a reputation as a go-to choice among audio professionals. Renowned for its exceptional transparency, accurate frequency response, and robust build quality, the KM 184 has become a staple microphone for acoustic guitarists and recording engineers alike. In this review, I’ll delve into the features, performance, and benefits of the Neumann KM 184. Specifically, I’ll consider the context of recording studio and live acoustic guitar applications.

Neumann KM 184

The Neumann KM 184 is a highly regarded small-diaphragm condenser microphone known for its exceptional clarity, detailed sound reproduction, and versatile performance in a wide range of recording applications.

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Design and Build Quality

The Neumann KM 184 microphone has exceptional design and build quality. It is a reliable choice for professional recording and live sound applications. I can attest to both and the following details are what make it a great design and build.

Compact Size and Lightweight

The KM 184 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that features a compact size and lightweight design. Its dimensions and weight make it highly portable and easy to handle. This makes it suitable for various recording and live sound applications. The microphone’s small form factor allows for versatile placement options, especially in situations of limited space.

Nickel Finish

There is just something about the finish of the Neumann KM 184. The KM 184 microphone’s elegantly finished nickel, gives it a sleek and professional appearance. The nickel finish not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to the microphone’s durability and resilience. This robust build quality ensures that the microphone can withstand the rigors of studio and live environments, providing long-lasting reliability.

Solid Construction

Neumann is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship, and the KM 184 is no exception. The microphone is built to the highest manufacturing standards, utilizing top-quality materials and components. Its solid construction minimizes the risk of internal vibrations and resonances, ensuring accurate sound reproduction and reducing unwanted handling noise.

Internal Shock Mounting

To further enhance its performance, the KM 184 incorporates an internal shock mounting system. This system effectively isolates the microphone’s capsule from handling noise and vibrations. This results in cleaner recordings and a more focused sound. The internal shock mount helps maintain the microphone’s accuracy, even when used in challenging recording or live scenarios.

Ruggedness

The KM 184 withstands the demands of professional use. Its rugged construction makes it resistant to impacts and ensures longevity even when subjected to regular transportation and handling. This durability shines in live sound applications where the microphone endures rougher conditions, such as touring or outdoor performances.

Integrated Windscreen

The KM 184 features an integrated windscreen, which provides some protection against plosive sounds (such as “p” and “b” sounds) and light wind noise. While the windscreen helps in moderate wind conditions, I recommended using an external pop filter or additional wind protection when recording in more challenging outdoor environments.

Overall, the Neumann KM 184 microphone’s design and build quality exemplify Neumann’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Its compact size, nickel finish, solid construction, and internal shock mounting ensure durability, reliability, and optimal sound reproduction. This makes it a trusted choice for recording studios and live sound applications around the world.

Frequency Response and Sound Quality

As I’ve stated before, the Neumann KM 184 microphone has accurate frequency response and exceptional sound quality. This contributes to its versatility and ability to capture accurate and detailed audio.

Flat Frequency Response

The KM 184 boasts a remarkably flat frequency response. This means it captures sound with a consistent level across the entire audible frequency range. It reproduces frequencies from 20Hz to 20kHz with excellent accuracy. This allows it to faithfully capture the full spectrum of sounds, including the low, mid, and high frequencies. This flat frequency response ensures that the recorded or amplified sound remains true to the original source. In turn, making it ideal for capturing acoustic instruments like guitars.

Natural Sound Reproduction

One of the standout qualities of the KM 184 is its ability to accurately reproduce the natural sound of acoustic instruments, including acoustic guitars. The microphone’s transparent and uncolored sound reproduction ensures that the subtle nuances, harmonics, and tonal characteristics of the instrument capture faithfully. This natural sound reproduction makes it a popular choice among recording engineers and musicians. Especially those who seek an authentic representation of their acoustic guitar’s tone.

Detailed and Articulate

The KM 184’s accurate frequency response and transient response contribute to its ability to capture intricate details and nuances of acoustic guitars. It excels at capturing the delicate nuances of fingerpicking, the resonance of the guitar body, and the attack and sustain of each note. The microphone’s precise and articulate sound reproduction allows for clear and defined recordings. Further, it provides ample room for mixing and post-processing while retaining the natural character of the instrument.

Low Self-Noise

The KM 184 exhibits low self-noise, which means that it captures sound with minimal inherent noise. This low-noise floor ensures that recordings remain clean and free from unwanted artifacts. This allows the natural subtleties of the acoustic guitar to shine through. The low self-noise of the microphone is particularly important when recording softer passages or when capturing the dynamic range of the instrument.

Versatile Applications

The KM 184 is highly regarded for its performance in recording acoustic guitars. Further, its accurate frequency response and natural sound reproduction make it a versatile microphone for various other applications as well. It can capture other acoustic instruments, such as pianos, strings, and percussion, as well as vocals and ensemble recordings. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels also makes it suitable for close-miking drums and amplifiers.

In summary, the Neumann KM 184 microphone’s flat frequency response, natural sound reproduction, detailed articulation, and low self-noise contribute to its exceptional sound quality. Its ability to accurately capture the nuances and tonal characteristics of acoustic guitars makes it a highly regarded choice for both professional recording studios and live sound applications.

Studio Performance

The Neumann KM 184 microphone excels in studio environments and is highly regarded for its performance. This is particularly true when it comes to acoustic instruments like guitars. I actually prefer it to the Shure SM81 in the studio.

Transparency and Accuracy

The KM 184 has exceptional transparency and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for studio recording applications. Its flat frequency response and natural sound reproduction ensure that the recorded sound remains faithful to the source. This transparency allows for precise capturing of acoustic guitars. In turn, enabling engineers to accurately reproduce the instrument’s tonal characteristics and subtle nuances.

Versatile Placement Options

The KM 184’s compact size and precise directional characteristics provide flexibility in placement options. Positioning it close to the acoustic guitar, it captures the instrument’s detailed sound with clarity and precision. The microphone’s small diaphragm size allows for close-miking techniques. These are particularly useful for capturing the transient response and intimate details of acoustic guitar performances. Additionally, using two KM 184 as a stereo pair to create a natural stereo image and capture the spatial aspects of the instrument.

Controlled Polar Pattern

The KM 184 features a cardioid polar pattern well-suited for studio recording. This polar pattern offers focused pickup from the front while attenuating sound from the sides and rear. This results in reduced room ambiance and better isolation of the acoustic guitar. This controlled polar pattern helps in capturing a clean and direct sound, allowing for greater control during the mixing and post-processing stages.

Low Self-Noise

The KM 184 has low self-noise, which is crucial for studio recordings where capturing the smallest details and low-level signals is essential. The microphone’s low noise floor ensures that the recordings are clean and free from unwanted artifacts. It provides ample headroom for post-processing and maintaining the integrity of the acoustic guitar’s natural dynamics.

Compatibility with Preamps and Interfaces

The KM 184 is known for its compatibility with a wide range of preamps and audio interfaces commonly found in professional studio setups. It has a standard XLR connector, making it easy to integrate into existing studio configurations. Its balanced output and high-quality transformerless design result in a clean and accurate signal transmission, ensuring that the microphone performs optimally with various recording equipment.

Durability and Longevity

Neumann is renowned for its build quality, and the KM 184 is no exception. The microphone is designed to withstand the demands of professional studio use, providing durability and longevity. Its solid construction and reliable components make it a trusted choice that can withstand the rigors of frequent studio sessions and ensure consistent performance over time.

In summary, the Neumann KM 184 microphone’s transparency, accurate sound reproduction, versatile placement options, low self-noise, and compatibility with studio equipment make it an excellent choice for studio recording. Its ability to capture the detailed nuances of acoustic guitars, combined with its durability, makes it a trusted tool for recording engineers seeking pristine sound quality in their studio productions.

Live Performance

The Neumann KM 184 microphone is a versatile option for live performances, offering exceptional sound quality and reliable performance.

Transparent Sound Reproduction

The KM 184 is renowned for its transparency and accurate sound reproduction, which makes it well-suited for live performances. It captures the natural tonal characteristics of acoustic guitars with clarity and fidelity. This ensures that the instrument’s nuances and subtleties are preserved in a live sound reinforcement scenario. This transparency allows the audience to experience the true sound of the acoustic guitar without coloration or distortion.

Robust Build Quality

The KM 184 microphone is built to withstand the rigors of live sound environments. Its solid construction and durable components make it resilient against the challenges of touring, stage setup, and handling during live performances. The microphone’s robust design ensures reliability, reducing the risk of technical issues during crucial live moments.

Resistance to Handling Noise

Live performances often involve movement and handling of microphones. The KM 184 incorporates an internal shock mounting system that effectively isolates the microphone’s capsule from handling noise and vibrations. This feature helps to minimize unwanted sounds caused by handling, ensuring cleaner and more focused sound reproduction during live performances.

High SPL Handling

The KM 184 can handle high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for capturing the dynamic range of acoustic guitars in live scenarios. Whether it’s capturing gentle fingerpicking or powerful strumming, the microphone can handle the transient peaks without distortion or overload. This high SPL handling capability ensures that the acoustic guitar’s full range of dynamics is accurately reproduced. This allows for a more expressive and impactful live performance.

Versatile Placement Options

The KM 184’s compact size and precise directional characteristics make it adaptable to different placement options on stage. It can be positioned close to the soundhole, fretboard, or bridge of the acoustic guitar. This helps capture specific tonal characteristics or emphasize certain frequencies. Additionally, the microphone can be used as a stereo pair to capture the stereo width and depth of the instrument, adding a spatial dimension to the live sound.

Feedback Rejection

The KM 184’s cardioid polar pattern helps in minimizing feedback issues on stage. The polar pattern provides focused pickup from the front while attenuating sound from the sides and rear. This reduces the chance of feedback caused by stage monitors or other sound sources. This helps in achieving a clean and controlled sound reinforcement for the acoustic guitar in live performances.

In summary, the Neumann KM 184 microphone’s transparent sound reproduction, robust build quality, resistance to handling noise, high SPL handling, versatile placement options, and feedback rejection make it a valuable tool for live performances. Its ability to accurately capture the acoustic guitar’s sound, combined with its durability, ensures reliable and high-quality performance in various live sound scenarios.

Recordings Featuring the Shure SM81

Here are a few notable albums where the KM 184 has been reported or rumored to have been used:

John Mayer – “Continuum”: The Neumann KM 184 is said to have been used on John Mayer’s critically acclaimed album “Continuum” (2006). The microphone was reportedly used to capture the intimate and detailed sound of Mayer’s acoustic guitar on songs like “Stop This Train” and “Gravity.”

Bon Iver – “For Emma, Forever Ago”: The KM 184 is believed to have been used in the recording of Bon Iver’s debut album “For Emma, Forever Ago” (2007). The microphone is said to have been used to capture the warm and intimate sound of Justin Vernon’s vocals and acoustic guitar, contributing to the album’s raw and emotive atmosphere.

James Taylor – “Before This World”: The KM 184 has been reported to have been used in the recording of James Taylor’s album “Before This World” (2015). The microphone is said to have been used on Taylor’s acoustic guitar, capturing the rich tonal qualities and intricate details of his playing.

Chris Thile and Brad Mehldau – “Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau”: The KM 184 is known to have been used in the recording of the collaborative album “Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau” (2017). The microphone was reportedly used to capture the sound of Thile’s mandolin and Mehldau’s piano, delivering a detailed and natural representation of their instruments.

Norah Jones – “Come Away with Me”: While specific details are not readily available, it is known that the KM 184 has been used on Norah Jones’ highly successful album “Come Away with Me” (2002). The microphone is believed to have been used on her vocals and possibly on accompanying acoustic instruments, helping to capture the album’s intimate and atmospheric sound.

My Neumann KM 184 Likes and Dislikes

Likes:

1. Exceptional Clarity: The Neumann KM 184 microphone delivers outstanding clarity and transparency, capturing audio with remarkable detail and precision.
2. Versatile Recording: With its wide frequency response and switchable attenuation pad, the KM 184 microphone is well-suited for a variety of recording applications, from vocals to acoustic instruments.
3. Compact Design: The compact and lightweight design of the KM 184 microphone allows for easy placement and positioning, making it ideal for tight spaces or complex microphone setups.

Dislikes:

1. Higher Price Range: The Neumann KM 184 microphone falls into a higher price range, making it a significant investment for those on a limited budget.
2. Fragility: While the KM 184 microphone offers exceptional audio quality, it is relatively delicate and requires careful handling and protection to avoid damage.

Specifications

Alternatives to the Neumann KM 184

Shure SM81

The Shure SM81 is a versatile and reliable condenser microphone renowned for its accurate sound reproduction and exceptional build quality, making it an ideal choice for capturing the rich tonal nuances of acoustic instruments.

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AKG C451B

The AKG C451B is a versatile small-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers exceptional clarity and precision, making it a reliable choice for capturing detailed sound in various recording scenarios.

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Wrap Up

The Neumann KM 184 stands as a remarkable microphone choice for capturing the beauty and complexity of acoustic guitars. This includes the controlled environment of a recording studio and the dynamic atmosphere of live performances. With its transparent sound reproduction, accurate frequency response, and versatile placement options, the KM 184 excels in faithfully capturing the true essence of acoustic guitars. This further empowers musicians and audio engineers to create captivating recordings and unforgettable live experiences.

Looking for other options for microphones? Check out my post on finding the Best Mic For Acoustic Guitar, including ribbon microphones.

Editorial Process:

My reviews are made by a team of one, myself, before being written and come from real-world experience. Read my editorial process here.

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.