Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $5,200

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash the sound of precision with the Neumann KM 84 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Stereo Pair, a true gem in the world of professional audio recording. Originally conceived in the 1960s, the KM 84 set a new standard with its innovative use of phantom power, a groundbreaking feature that has since become a staple in modern microphone technology. This stereo pair offers unmatched clarity, capturing the intricate nuances of your performance with stunning accuracy.

The KM 84's famed KK 64 capsule delivers a near-ideal cardioid pickup pattern, ensuring consistent frequency response even at wide angles. This makes it a versatile choice for a variety of recording scenarios, from capturing the subtlety of acoustic instruments to managing the dynamics of a close-mic'd snare drum. The microphone's FET and transformer-output amplifier provide impressive headroom, while the switchable -10dB pad allows you to handle high-output sources with ease.

Designed for the discerning musician and audio engineer, the KM 84's robust build and exceptional performance make it an enduring choice for both studio and live environments. Whether you're part of a bustling musician community or an individual artist perfecting your craft, this stereo pair offers the reliability and sonic excellence that Neumann is celebrated for.

Key Features:

  • Stereo pair of small diaphragm cardioid condenser microphones
  • Phantom power innovation
  • KK 64 capsule for consistent cardioid pattern
  • High headroom with FET and transformer-output amplifier
  • Switchable -10dB pad for handling hot signal sources
  • Robust construction suitable for both studio and live use

Product specs

Brand Neumann
Model KM 84 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Stereo Pair
Year 1966 - 1992
Made In Germany
Categories Microphones
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Microphone Type Small-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary application of the Neumann KM 84 microphone stereo pair?

The Neumann KM 84 stereo pair is ideal for recording acoustic instruments like guitars, pianos, and drum overheads. Its natural sound and cardioid pattern make it perfect for capturing detailed and accurate stereo images in studio recordings.

How does the Neumann KM 84 handle high sound pressure levels?

The Neumann KM 84 is known for its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it suitable for recording loud sources such as drums and brass instruments.

What distinguishes the Neumann KM 84 from other small diaphragm condenser microphones?

The Neumann KM 84 is renowned for its smooth, natural sound and precise transient response. Its high-quality build and consistent performance have made it a staple in professional studios for capturing detailed recordings.

Is the Neumann KM 84 suitable for live sound applications?

While primarily designed for studio use, the Neumann KM 84 can be used in live settings for acoustic instruments where high fidelity and detailed sound capture are required. However, its delicate nature means careful handling is necessary.

What is the polar pattern of the Neumann KM 84, and why is it important?

The Neumann KM 84 features a cardioid polar pattern, which effectively captures sound from the front while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear. This makes it excellent for isolating the desired sound source in a recording environment.

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Microphone Shootout: Vintage Neumann KM84 vs Neumann KM184 vs Peluso P84

Video thumbnail for Microphone Shootout: Vintage Neumann KM84 vs Neumann KM184 vs Peluso P84 by soundpurestudios

Microphone Shootout: Vintage Neumann KM84 vs Neumann KM184 vs Peluso P84

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Video thumbnail for Upright Piano Mic Shootout 2/5 - Pencil Mics: Neumann KM84, KM184, Sontronics STC-1S, Calrec 1050 by repmusic

Upright Piano Mic Shootout 2/5 - Pencil Mics: Neumann KM84, KM184, Sontronics STC-1S, Calrec 1050

repmusic

repmusic

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann KM 84 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Stereo Pair.

Comparisons

  • The Neumann KM 84 is highly praised compared to the SM57 for recording classical guitar, offering greater clarity and detail preferred by professionals.

    Source
  • Oktava MK-012 mics are noted to be darker and warmer compared to Neumann mics, with some users applying EQ adjustments to enhance brightness.

    Source
  • Warm Audio 84 lacks the lower midrange 'Neumann' sound and silky highs when compared to the original Neumann KM 84.

    Source
  • Warm Audio mics are noted to mimic form factor well but miss the tonal character of the original Neumann models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • A stereo pair of Neumann KM 184s is recommended for capturing detailed and ambient sound in classical guitar recordings.

    Source
  • Using three mics, including a close mic and two for room ambiance, is suggested for a fuller sound when recording classical guitar.

    Source

User experience

  • Neumann KM 84 and KM 184 are associated with many famous guitar recordings, suggesting their effectiveness in professional settings.

    Source
  • Owners of Warm Audio mics find them functionally satisfactory but note they lack the 'magic' of Neumann sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The precision of pickup patterns is a standout feature in high-quality mics like the Neumann KM 84, often underrated when comparing to replicas.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Warm Audio mics are considered more than half the quality of vintage Neumanns at half the price, according to some users.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • MXL990 can be modified using parts from Microphone Parts to build a similar-sounding mic to vintage models in a 990 body.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Neumann Condenser Microphones

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides