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Description

The Neumann KMS 140 is a professional condenser microphone designed for discerning vocalists and studio engineers seeking unparalleled sound fidelity. Known for its exceptional acoustic precision, this microphone captures every nuance of a performance with crystal clarity, making it an ideal choice for live stage settings and high-stakes studio recordings alike. With its cardioid polar pattern, the KMS 140 effectively minimizes feedback and isolates the primary sound source, ensuring your vocals shine through even in challenging acoustic environments.

Engineered with Neumann's renowned attention to detail, this microphone features a robust build and a sleek design that feels as good as it sounds. The KMS 140 incorporates advanced technologies for superior transient response, providing a natural sound profile that faithfully reproduces your voice's subtleties. Whether you're a touring musician or a studio professional, the KMS 140 offers the quality and reliability that Neumann microphones are famous for.

Key Features:

  • Condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern for precise sound capture
  • Tailored for vocal performance with minimized feedback
  • Advanced transient response for natural sound reproduction
  • Robust construction ideal for live and studio settings
  • Renowned Neumann quality and reliability
Tan Truong

Tan Truong

MJE-47H, M147, KM140, and the Globe mic tests.

Video thumbnail for MJE-47H, M147, KM140, and the Globe mic tests. by Tan Truong

MJE-47H, M147, KM140, and the Globe mic tests.

Tan Truong

Tan Truong

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Neumann KMS 140.

Comparisons

  • KM 140s are sonically similar to KM 184s but may not perform well for soundboard matrix recordings compared to KM 185s favored for hypercardioid sound.

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  • The KM140, similar to KM184, may lack reach for dialogue compared to hyper-cardioid models like the KM150, but offers excellent width and sound for stereo atmospheres.

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  • The KM140 is considered outdated compared to the KM184, which has better resistance to RF interference.

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  • Users find the KM140's noise performance superior to the sE8, which reportedly has a significant high-frequency noise.

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  • Some users suggest looking for used MKH40 mics, which offer better self-noise performance and sensitive low end compared to the KM140.

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Features and functionality

  • The KM 140 allows for changeable capsules, unlike the hardwired KM 184, offering flexibility for different recording needs.

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  • It's noted that the KM140's cardioid pattern is more suited for musical applications rather than interior dialogue without close proximity.

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Use cases and applications

  • KM 140s may not be ideal for soundboard matrix recordings but could excel in other situations, such as live venue recordings with poor acoustics.

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  • The KM140's modular design with AK40 capsule can be suitable for stereo field recordings when paired with a proper windshield like a Rycote zeppelin.

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  • The KM140 is praised for its low self-noise, making it ideal for quiet ambience recording.

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  • The KM140, when paired with active cables, can fit a stereo setup in a small blimp, enhancing its portability for compact recording environments.

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User experience

  • Users find the KM140's size smaller than expected, making it adaptable for setups in tight or unusual recording situations.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest using a stereo mount inside a Rode Blimp for effective outdoor use, highlighting the KM140's compact size for adaptability.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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aegmusic

Unmatched Quality!

Basic fact: This is a high end studio recording condenser microphone that has been designed for the stage and live application. Unfortunately, the KMS 140 has been discontinued. It's a real shame they do not make these anymore. Neumann's current version the KMS 104 / 105 doesn't even come close to this.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Neil Young uses Neumann KMS 140

Neil Young

Singer, Guitarist

Crazy Horse

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, we can see Young singing into Neumann KMS 140 microphone.

See how Elvis Costello uses Neumann KMS 140

Elvis Costello

Singer, Guitarist

Elvis Costello & The Imposters

...
Verified via YouTube

David Letternman Late Show

Elvis & Burt Bacharach performance Minute: 33:59

See how Norah Jones uses Neumann KMS 140

Norah Jones

Singer, Guitarist

Billie Joe Armstrong & Norah Jones

...
Verified via EMusician

Used for vocals on the Not Too Late Tour, as stated by production manager and FOH engineer Lee Moro in this August 1, 2007 Electronic Musician interview.

Jones sings from three different locations onstage — from behind an acoustic piano, a Wurlitzer electric piano, and front-and-center with an electric guitar. “I have the 104 on two positions and one with a Neumann KMS 140,” Moro shares. “The 104s sound great, so we might switch that third mic to keep things consistent. Plus, it’s easy if we have a problem with any of them out on the road. It’s easier to find a 104 or 105 than a 140.”

See how Tori Amos uses Neumann KMS 140

Tori Amos

Singer, Keyboardist

Y Kant Tori Read

...
Verified via Mixonline

In an article by Mark Frink for Mixonline, it is noted that Tori Amos uses the Neumann KMS 140 microphone.

See how Diana Krall uses Neumann KMS 140

Diana Krall

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via VoiceCouncil Magazine

Diana Krall – Neumann KMS 140 (Live in Rio DVD, 2008)

See how Kenny Mehler uses Neumann KMS 140

Kenny Mehler

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Kenny Mehler can be seen using his Neumann KMS 140 in several online videos and live concert images. Examples of this can be easily found with any search engine you prefer.

Below is a video reference taken from the artist's youtube channel. (https://youtube.com/kennymehler)

Video Link: https://youtu.be/BwPC-ySiXDI

This vintage condenser microphone was handmade in Germany (Neumann KMS 140) and has a initial appearance around 2:05 into this video.

Album Usage

The Neumann KMS 140 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 KMS 140, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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