Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $842
High-end/Boutique
$100
$401+
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Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Neumann KM 184". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Neumann KM 184, an esteemed member of the musical instrument family, specifically designed to transform your studio recording experience. This small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone is the epitome of sonic perfection, balancing robust build quality with an impeccably space-saving design. Perfect for amplifying the authentic sounds of acoustic instruments, percussion, strings, and vocals, the KM 184 is a trusted companion in both professional and project studios, capturing sound with stunning realism, sensitivity, and clarity.
The KM 184's lifelike sound emanates from the heart of the Neumann's handcrafted condenser capsule, meticulously engineered to convert sonic nuances into electrical signals with unmatched precision. This transformerless circuitry and pressure-gradient transducer contribute to a frequency response devoid of coloration and distortion, even off-axis. This allows the mic to handle an incredible sound pressure level up to 138 dB.
Despite its formidable capabilities, the KM 184 retains a low-profile chassis, making it ideal for location recording. Its rugged yet lightweight design enables engineers to capture professional-grade audio wherever inspiration strikes. The transformerless output stage provides a clear, uncolored signal path from capsule to converter, allowing the mic to exhibit an extended frequency range, great transient response, and lower self-noise. As a result, you can expect audio of stunning depth, openness, and realism.
Key Features:
- Handcrafted condenser capsule for precise sound translation
- Transformerless circuitry and pressure-gradient transducer for accurate frequency response
- Handles sound pressure levels up to 138 dB
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for location recording
- Clear, uncolored signal path from capsule to converter for enhanced sound quality
- Exceptionally low inherent self-noise (16dB A-weighted)
- Exceptionally high overload capacity (up to 138dB SPL before overload)
- Exceptionally clear sound reproduction free of coloration
- Very smooth frequency curves parallel to 0 degrees sound incidence
- Requires +48V phantom power
Owner's manual
Neumann KM 184 User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 138dB |
| Output Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 81dB (A weighted) |
| Self Noise | 13dB (A weighted) |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 0.18 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the primary application for the Neumann KM 184 microphone?
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The Neumann KM 184 is ideal for recording acoustic instruments such as piano, acoustic guitar, violin, and brass. Its transparent sound and cardioid polar pattern make it suitable for both solo and ensemble performances, in studio and live settings.
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Does the Neumann KM 184 require phantom power?
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Yes, the Neumann KM 184 requires +48V phantom power to operate. This is standard for most condenser microphones and ensures optimal performance across a wide frequency range.
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How does the Neumann KM 184 handle high sound pressure levels?
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The Neumann KM 184 can handle sound pressure levels up to 138 dB, allowing it to capture loud instruments without distortion. This makes it well-suited for close miking applications, such as on drums or brass instruments.
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What is the difference between the Neumann KM 184 and the KM84?
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The Neumann KM 184 is a modern update of the classic KM84, featuring a slightly different tonal response. While both are small-diaphragm condenser microphones, the KM 184 offers a brighter sound, making it preferable for certain recording applications.
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What type of connector does the Neumann KM 184 use?
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The Neumann KM 184 uses a standard XLR connector, which is compatible with most professional audio equipment, ensuring reliable connectivity for studio and live sound applications.
Videos
Paul Davids
5 Mics, 1 Song | Cheap vs Expensive | Stereo vs Mono COMPARISON
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent sound reproduction across low, mid, high frequencies
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Quiet operation, minimal noise interference
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Performs well across a variety of instruments, including acoustic guitar and drums
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Detailed, clean high end without being overly boosted
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Minimal off-axis coloration for a neutral sound image
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Versatile usage, from studio recording to live gigs
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Can be used effectively in a stereo pair
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Fast transient response ideal for pianos and classical guitars
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Good build quality and durability
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Provides a distinct shimmer to acoustic instruments
CONS
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Pricey compared to some alternatives
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Does not include a carrying case
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Nickel plated version prone to scuffing easily
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Sensitive to wind/plosives, requiring careful placement and additional pop filters
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Included mic clip can be tight and may scratch the microphone
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Packaging could be improved, lacks a premium case
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann KM 184.
Comparisons
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Some users describe the Neumann KM 184 as having a "velvety" and "silky" sound, while the Rode NT5 is noted for a "pleasant brightness".
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Josephson C42 microphones are noted for being punchier and better at capturing transients than the KM 184s, with a brighter sound profile compared to the Beyerdynamic MC930.
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The Audio-Technica 4051b is mentioned as providing clearer and more detailed sound than the Beyerdynamic MC930, another alternative to the KM 184.
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Build quality
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It's noted that Neumann KM 184s offer better manufacturing quality control and consistency than Rode NT5s, making it easier to find an exact match in stereo pairs.
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Use cases and applications
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Neumann KM 184 is preferred for situations where off-axis and transient response are critical, such as high-end classical recordings.
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The KM 184 is effective for capturing stereo atmosphere and ambience, especially in challenging setups with multiple talents spread out.
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While not ideal for distant dialogue, the KM 184 excels in wide shots with multiple subjects when positioned close enough.
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Users frequently recommend the KM 184 for drum overheads, acoustic guitar, and piano recordings, highlighting their suitability for bright and detailed captures.
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The KM 184 is described as having a high-end bump with a gentle roll-off below 200Hz, making it less ideal for low-end focused recordings.
Source
User experience
Features and functionality
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings
92
Stereo pair
A very nice mic to be used in stereo pairs. Often used in classical music for close miking. It's, fast transient response makes it a go to mic for pianos, acoustic and classical guitar.
Artist usage
Add artist
At 5:25 Mac is showing his echo-chamber, and says that he uses a pair of Neumann KM-184 for recording in it.
This article on the making of Marr's 2018 Call the Comet album by MixOnline.com touches on some of the gear used during the recording process. "The Beyer is mainly placed outside drummer Jack Mitchell’s kick drum. An SM57 is placed at the top of the snare, with Coles 4038 and Neumann KM 184 as overheads, equidistant from the snare. These might have some compression through a UREI 1178, all going through the Neve 1081 preamp, with a few of the microphones going into a UA 2-610." (While the engineer is providing this feedback, the gear is housed in Marr's own Crazy Face studios, which contains gear he's collected over his decades in the music industry.)
In his 2023 studio tour video titled "I turned my house into a studio," Tim Henson explains that he uses the Neumann KM 184 microphones for his personal drum kit.
Erik Rutan lists the Neumann KM 184 microphone on the MANA Recording Studios equipment list, indicating its use in his studio setup.
Used on the Elephant Tour for the hi-hats and as an overhead, as stated by monitor engineer Eric Baecht in this July 1, 2003 Mix Online interview.
Drum mics include Neumann KM184s for overheads and hi-hat, Sennheiser 604s on toms and snare, and a ne602 on kick.
"For Slayer, Quinby notes that “kick drum is the main source for Slayer.” His approach is to outfit drummer Dave Lombardo’s kit with two Shure Beta 91As for the interior and two Heil PR 48s for the exterior of the kick drum. Heil PR 31s (top) and PR 22s (bottom) are the choice for snare, with dual Sennheiser e609s and PR 31s for toms and PR 40s for floor toms. KM 184s do hi-hat and ride duty"
In a TikTok video posted by Keshi on his account "keshibeats," he is seen using the Neumann KM 184 microphone during a home studio tour. The video, captioned "home studio tour except it’s gone in a week rip," provides visual confirmation of this equipment in his setup.
I’m using a Neumann KM 184 in front of a sound hole as well. But we keep it flat so we can have it for the recording, ‘cause we have to remix this whole thing for film.
Guitar World interview, 2014.
Album Usage
The Neumann KM 184 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Neumann KM 184, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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