Neumann KM 184 Review
The KM 184 is a standard in all professional recording studios and is a must for any audiophile.
A first physical encounter of the KM 184 can be deceiving. It’s a small and lightweight microphone, unlike its sound. Based on the legendary KM 84 from 30+ years ago, the KM184 continues the legacy of Neumann’s professional and ear-pleasing products. Based on the same capsule design and size as the KM 84, the KM 184 is a perfect addition to any home or professional recording studio, as well as the touring musician. This microphone is renowned for drum overhead and hi-hat applications. The frequency response is flat and smooth. Despite being a +48V Phantom-powered tubeless microphone, it still retains tube warmth and fullness. It is detailed and clear across its frequency spectrum.
Hearing this microphone for the first time on acoustic guitar just flat out blew me away. It sounded so huge and warm, yet accurate and detailed. It requires little to no EQ, even on a less than stellar instrument. As a stereo pair in an X/Y application on drum overheads, the KM 184 reproduces an outstanding stereo image and clarity to a drum set, capturing every nuance of the slightest crash and accent.
The KM 184 is an outstanding upgrade at an even better price point for the home studio owner. This will definitely take your tracking and finished products up exponentially in quality. The KM 184 is a standard in all professional recording studios and is a must for any audiophile.
