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Neumann SKM 185 Stereo Mic Set (Nickel) - Used From Neumann
Stereo pair of hypercardioid small diaphragm microphone with a huge, warm sound. In Used, Excellent condition
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What We Think
The Neumann KM 185 is one of those microphones that does exactly what you want a small-diaphragm condenser to do—and then a little more.
At its core, it’s all about accuracy. The KM 185 captures detail in a way that feels effortless, with fast transient response and a top end that’s open and clear without ever getting harsh. It’s the kind of mic that gives you a true picture of what’s in front of it, which makes it incredibly reliable when you’re working on sources where nuance matters.
What really sets it apart is the hypercardioid pattern. That extra focus makes a big difference in real-world situations—whether you’re dealing with bleed on a live session or just trying to tighten up the image in a busy arrangement. It lets you zero in on the source without losing the natural feel.
In practice, it’s a go-to for acoustic instruments. Guitar, piano, strings, percussion—it handles all of it with clarity and consistency. It’s also a great problem-solver in less-than-perfect rooms, where that tighter pickup pattern can help keep things clean and controlled.
There’s no hype here, and that’s the point. The KM 185 doesn’t try to flatter—it translates. And when the source is right, that honesty pays off in a big way.
For engineers who want precision, focus, and a microphone they can trust across a wide range of applications, the KM 185 is a modern classic that earns its place again and again.
One mic in this pair has a worn logo but theyare otherwise pristine.
Manufacturer's Description from Neumann
The Neumann SKM 185 is a premium small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for precise, transparent audio capture in both studio and live environments.
Part of Neumann’s respected KM 180 series, the SKM 185 features a hypercardioid polar pattern that provides excellent off-axis rejection and focused pickup. This makes it especially effective in complex recording situations where isolation and control are critical, such as close-miking drums, orchestral sections, or live ensembles.
Built around a transformerless FET circuit, the SKM 185 delivers a clean, uncolored signal with high output and extremely low noise. Its wide frequency response (20 Hz–20 kHz) and high SPL handling (up to 142 dB) allow it to capture everything from delicate acoustic detail to high-energy transients with accuracy and consistency.
Sonically, the SKM 185 is known for its natural, transparent character. The frequency response is smooth and linear, with a subtle presence lift in the upper frequencies that adds clarity without harshness. This makes it well suited for acoustic instruments such as piano, guitar, strings, and percussion, as well as broadcast and stereo recording applications.
Its compact, rugged design allows for easy placement in tight spaces, while its consistent off-axis response ensures accurate imaging in stereo and multi-microphone setups.
Designed and built to Neumann’s exacting standards, the SKM 185 offers a combination of precision, reliability, and versatility that has made it a trusted choice for engineers worldwide.
The result is a highly accurate, professional-grade microphone that excels wherever detail, isolation, and faithful reproduction are essential.
About Manufacturer
Specializing in some of the finest microphones in the world, Neumann has developed a top name in the industry for consistency, reliability, and sonic excellence. With microphones suited for the entire range of studio recording (and more recently live application), Neumann microphones are often a first choice for uncompromised acoustic reproduction.
Specifications
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KM 183 / 184 / 185 |
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Acoustical operating principle |
Pressure/Pressure gradient transducer |
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Directional pattern |
omnidirectional/cardioid/hypercardioid |
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Frequency range |
20 Hz ... 20 kHz |
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Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1 kohm |
12/15/10 mV/Pa |
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Rated impedance |
50 ohms |
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Rated load impedance |
1 kohms |
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Equivalent noise level, CCIR1) |
24/22/24 dB |
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Equivalent noise level, A-weighted1) |
13/13/15 dB-A |
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Signal-to-noise ratio, CCIR1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) |
70/72/70 dB |
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Signal-to-noise ratio, A-weighted1) (rel. 94 dB SPL) |
81/81/79 dB |
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Maximum SPL for THD 0.5%2) |
140/138/142 dB |
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Maximum output voltage |
10 dBu |
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Supply voltage (P48, IEC 61938) |
48 V ± 4 V |
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Current consumption (P48, IEC 61938) |
3.2 mA |
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Matching connectors |
XLR 3F |
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Weight |
approx. 80 g |
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Diameter |
22 mm |
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Length |
107 mm |
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