Neumann Intros Three Digital Mics and a Portable, Two-Channel Digital Interface

Neumann has just announced four new digital products: the KMS 104 D and KMS 105 D vocal microphones, the KMR 81 D shotgun microphone and the portable DMI-2 digital converter.

The KMS 104 D and KMS 105 D (MSRP: $1,398) are the digital counterparts to Neumann’s KMS 104 and KMS 105 dynamic vocal microphones.

Neumann KMS 104 D digital microphones in nickel and matte black

Equipped with the core features of the existing models, the KMS 104 D (with its cardioid pattern) and the KMS 105 D (with its super-cardioid pattern) reportedly offer additional digital advantages such as an extended dynamic range, more robust operation and integrated peak limiters that prevent clipping.

When used alongside either the new DMI-2 or DMI-2 portable digital microphone interfaces and the Remote Control Software (RCS), pre-programmed settings can reportedly be stored inside the microphones, making it flexible and adaptable to different performance applications.

Neumann specs out the sound characteristics and features of the KMS 104 D and KMS 105 D as follows:

– Exceptionally clean sound transmission
– Very low self-generated noise (16 dB-A) and exceptionally high dynamic range (125 dB)
– Handles high sound pressure levels (141 dB SPL/159 dB SPL with 18 dB pre-attenuation/RCS)
– Optimized for speech and vocal miking at extremely close proximity
– Built-in high pass filter (-3 dB @ 80 Hz)
– Effective isolation from structure-borne sound
– Distinctive directivity of the capsule even in the bass range
– Integrated peak limiter/compressor/de-esser prevents overloads and/or clipping

Neumann’s new KMR 81 D digital shotgun microphone has been designed to deliver “stunning audio quality that complements the detailed visuals of HD and widescreen formats while, at $2,298 MSRP, being sensitive to broadcasters’ budgets.”

Neumann KRM 81 D digital shotgun microphone

Suitable applications for the KMR 81 D include recordings for broadcasting/ENG, film and video productions, long-distance recordings requiring high directivity (such as nature recordings and sports games) and medium-length shotgun spot mic applications in noisy surroundings

According to Neumann: The KMR 81 D is equipped with the features of its non-digital counterpart — the successful KMR 81i — that have made it a favorite of sound engineers in movie and documentary productions. Its digital advantages include an extended dynamic range, more robust operation and integrated peak limiters that prevent clipping. The settings for all functions can be recalled, set and stored in the microphone by using one of Neumann’s digital microphone interfaces making it extremely adaptable and flexible.

Sound characteristics and features of the Neumann KMR 81 D:

– Exceptionally transparent and high detailed sound transmission
– Very low self-generated noise (9 dB-A) and high dynamic range (114 dB)
– Handling of high sound pressure level (123 dB SPL/141 dB SPL with 18 dB pre-attenuation (RCS)
– Integrated peak limiter/compressor/de-esser prevents overloads and/or clipping
– Extremely light weight of just 3.2 oz., ideal for handheld and boom/fishpole operations
– High lateral and back attenuation
– 90-degree recording angle (independent from frequency)

Finally, the DMI-2 portable is suitable for ENG and other field recording applications such as creating professional-quality sound recordings for sport, film and documentary. It is also an ideal tool for journalists, camera operators, directors and producers.

Neumann DMI-2 portable digital interface

The unit supports two digital microphones and allows adjustment of gain, pre-attenuation and low cut filter settings at the device. The front panel display shows the selected gain, current signal level and any gain reduction; microphone presets can be stored inside the DMI-2 portable and recalled for use in the field, making it extremely adaptable for different applications.

Sound characteristics and features of the Neumann DMI-2 portable:

– Offers direct access to GAIN, PAD and low-cut microphone settings
– Stores up to 8 presets for all digital microphone parameters
– Power supplied via DC 10-18 V or AC/DC converter
– Integrated peak limiter prevents overloads and/or clipping
– Includes (2) AES 42 inputs, (1) AES EBU output, word clock
– Menu-driven control of the connected digital microphone via two push-switch rotary encoders with a data display (permitting the setting of microphone parameters like gain, pad and pre attenuation and the uploading of preset parameters)

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