.
facebook•••youtube•••contact•••index•••home

.

.

Neumann KM184

Small-diaphragm cardioid condenser mics

Peter Kun Frary

.


.

I was unhappy with my prior mics because they boosted the upper midrange, making my classical guitars sound bright and twangy. My ideal sound is an accurate guitar tone devoid of EQ boosts and added color. After some research and struggle, I landed on a matched pair of Neumann KM184.

Minuet in F (Haydn) | Peter Kun Frary | Kala Elite Doghair Tenor Ukulele | Neumann KM 184 mics, Tascam US 4x4, Logic Pro X.

Neumann KM184 | Available in nickel or matte black with impeccable fit and finish. Fingerprint resistant too! | Image courtesy Neumann


frequency Sound Characteristics

I’ve used these mics with DAWs and portables and they’re accurate and balanced with robust signal output. They’re also sensitive, quickly responding to subtle changes in dynamics and timbre. Indeed, small changes in nail angle and attack are faithfully reproduced. Artificial and natural harmonics have plenty of sparkle and air and the low noise of the KM184 allow delicate tones to shine in the track. On the other hand, because they are so responsive and sensitive, they force me to practice more carefully and focus on tone more.

Peter Kun Frary | Bach, Allemande | Tascam DR-60 MKII | Neumann KM184


I mainly use the KM184 as a pair on a stereo mount adapter in X/Y configuration. The cardioid pattern "hears" in a 180 degree sound field in front of them, but with reduced backwards sensitivity. When I record guitar ensembles with players on the extreme right and left of the mics, they sound just as vivid as the center players. I can hear the position of each player in the stereo field with pinpoint accuracy.

Walk, Don't Run | Johnny Smith | Kala Honduran Mahogany Doghair Tenor recorded with Neumann KM 184 mics, Tascam US 2x2 and Logic Pro X

My Video Set For Guitar Sessions | KM184 in X/Y configuration.


Neumann KM184 | The matched stereo pair comes in a wood box. I bring these mics to performances so a padded bag works better than a box.

These mics are well balanced and, thus, tracks need a minimum of post processing. There is a small presence peak in the lower highs (5kHz–10kHz). I usually need a little EQ boost in the lower midrange to get the classical guitar tone I prefer. For ukulele, they're just about perfect sans EQ!

Minuet in G (Bach) | Peter Kun Frary | Tiny Tenor 6 String Koa | Neumann KM 184 mics, Tascam US 4x4, Logic Pro X.

Frary Guitar Duo | Duo Op. 55 No. 3 (Sor) | Tascam DR-60D MKII (Wav 48K & 24-bit stereo) | Neumann KM184 (2X) | EOS 80D


Peter Frary | Sor's Etude Op. 60 No. 14 | 80D, EF-s 15-85 3.5-5.6 IS USM, Tascam DR-60D MKII (Wav 48K & 24-bit stereo) and Neumann KM-184 mics


The KM184 makes a great stage mic for acoustic and classical guitar. Unlike many recording mics, these are cigar sized, robust and have ample output. Bring your own clip as they are too small to fit most stage mic clips.

Malagueña | My Kremona Mari Tenor recorded with a Tascam US 2x2, Neumann KM184 (2X), small percussion and Logic Pro X

gecko_icon2 Final Blurb

Does it deliver a natural “what you hear is what you get” sound? For classical and acoustic guitars, they are extremely close. And, for ukulele, they're just about perfect. The KM184 are the first mics I reach for and I'm pleased with them: impeccable fit and finish, natural and balanced sound and clean output.

Finally, please help support this website by purchasing this item at Amazon.

Peter Kun Frary | Allemande | Tascam DR-60 MKII | Neumann KM184 (2X) | EOS 80D


specification_icon Features

• Cardioid pattern
• 20Hz to 20kHz response
• 50 ohms impedance
• SPLs of 138dB
• Transformerless circuitry

Included accessories

• Wood storage box
• Clips
• Windscreen

top

12/15/2015 | 01/06/2020 Update

©Copyright 2015-2024 by Peter Kun Frary | All Rights Reserved

.
facebook•••youtube•••contact•••index•••home

Flag Counter