Three Way Midfield Monitor

KH 420 + DIM 1

Powerful tri-amplified midfield studio monitor – high-precision dispersion with tremendous sound level reserves.

  • Computer-modeled cabinet design using Low Resonance Integral Molding (LRIM™) materials
  • Extraordinary bass depth (26 Hz) with high sound pressure (122.4 dB)
  • Precise dispersion in the midrange and high frequencies
  • As a stereo system with KH 750 DSP and optional tools, controllable and alignable to the room*

COLORS AND VARIANTS

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Suited for:

The gold standard in the midfield range

The KH 420 is designed for a working distance of 1.5 to 3 m (5’ to 9’). It handles this space effortlessly thanks to great power reserves and precisely concentrated dispersion. Even in diverse acoustical environments the KH 420 remains neutral and clear in every detail down to the subtlest nuances. No subtlety is lost; every sound element can be localized.

Dealer Description

The KH 420 is a three-way tri-amplified monitor with thermally protected Class AB amplifiers (330 W and two times 140 W). Just like the drivers, its Mathematically Modeled Dispersion™ (MMD™) waveguide is engineered for optimum precision. Sound distributed in a horizontally precise manner ensures flexibility in the listening position; the narrower vertical dispersion reduces the negative effects of nearby reflections, for example from a desk or mixing console. The dispersion of the KH 420 is deliberately designed to be narrower, to guarantee reference sound at longer working distances.

Best working environment: Close to professional ears

The KH 420 is designed for midfield applications and as main monitor in project, music, broadcast and post-production studios for recording, mixing and mastering. And in a multi-channel system, it can also be freely combined with all other Neumann studio monitors.

Ports and high dynamics: No longer a contradiction

With its tri-channel amplifiers the KH 420 also realizes sound pressures of up to 122.4 dB. And it thereby retains high-resolution and neutral representation across the entire frequency response. This also includes an exceptional bass response down to 26 Hz. Despite using ports, there is no “overhang” or audible resonance in the low frequency range and the transient response is precisely controlled at all times.

The computer modeled chassis is constructed of LRIM™ materials which eliminates standing wave resonances and suppresses intermodulation distortion, especially in the midrange.

For demanding treble, our own specially developed, powerful alloy fabric dome ensures distortion-free reproduction. The fabric dome captures the midrange with utmost precision. Its ultralight material and the powerful neodymium magnet enable a significantly better transient response with considerably less distortion than comparable midrange drivers.

Digital input and delay option

The Digital Input Module DIM 1 expands the loudspeaker electronics by a digital XLR input, a digital BNC input and a digital BNC output (192 kHz/24 Bit) for flexible digital signal links. With the delay function (adjustment range 0 - 400 ms) of the DIM 1, the audio signal can be delayed to ensure audio-visual synchronization (lip sync). In addition, the high resolution of the delays (0.1 ms) allows equalization of the propagation delays. The delay can be added to both inputs (digital and analog). The KH 420 can be retrofitted with a DIM 1.

The KH 750 DSP subwoofer

In addition to its outstanding acoustic properties this subwoofer offers functions for non DSP-based Neumann monitors connected (analog) to its outputs regarding the interplay with the following tools:

  • Automatic Monitor Alignment – Automatic room correction of stereo systems using the Neumann MA 1 measurement microphone (software for Mac/PC)
  • Neumann.Control – Free iPad®-App for setup, operation, and room correction of stereo systems via guided and/or manual alignment

Hundreds of good reasons from the Neumann philosophy

The KH 420 has also been developed true to the Neumann philosophy for monitor loudspeakers. Every component, every shape, every signal and every wave motion is a consequence of this philosophy. No form or component is there without reason. There are hundreds of tangible reasons built into the KH 420, which all stand for exceptionally pure and neutral sound. These include, for example, curvatures of the housing that reduce edge diffraction. Also included is the pistonic output of the bass driver which does not give rise to harmonic distortions, even with the highest sound peaks. Some of these reasons are obvious in the KH 420. Others Neumann prefers to keep to itself. But together, each can be heard – sound professionals in both large and small studios all around the world can testify to this. You can read more about the Neumann philosophy for studio monitors here.

*When using the analog inputs only.

(1) In-house simulated tweeter with alloy fabric dome and robust metal grille

  • Latest modeling techniques used to minimize non-linear (harmonic and intermodulation) distortion
  • Low-distortion high frequency reproduction
  • Grille protects against mechanical damage

(2) Rotatable elliptical Mathematically Modelled Dispersion™ (MMD™) waveguide

  • Smoother off -axis response
  • More forgiving of diverse acoustical environments

Wide horizontal dispersion

  • Freedom of movement across the mixing console

Narrow vertical dispersion

  • Reduces reflections off the mixing console

(3) Two-color + dimmable Neumann logo

  • Displays operation status and activation of the extensive protection system
  • Dimmable for low lighting level conditions or behind the screen applications

(4) In-house simulated, neodymium magnet, fabric dome, midrange driver with optimized low stray magnetic field

  • Dedicated driver reproduces important midrange frequencies, which is especially important for speech and vocals
  • Latest modeling techniques used to minimize non-linear (harmonic and intermodulation) distortion
  • Low-distortion midrange reproduction
  • Light-weight dome has better transient response and less breakup modes than cone designs
  • High power magnet reduces harmonic and intermodulation distortion

(5) In-house modelled long-throw composite sandwich cone bass driver with Extremely Linear Force Factor™ (ELFF™), magnetic shielding and flow optimized die cast basket

  • Damping of break up modes brings low distortion at high sound levels
  • Linear pistonic motor gives a very low harmonic distortion even at high excursions
  • Reduced air noise and improved rocking modes

(6) Large high-capacity flow-optimized bass reflex ports with pipe resonance damping

  • Fast bass transient response
  • Reduced bass compression at high output levels
  • No coloration from organ pipe resonance
  • Can be flush mounted

(7) Computer mechanically modeled three-way cabinet design using Low resonance Integral Molding™ (LRIM™) materials

  • No standing wave resonances inside cabinet
  • Reduced intermodulation distortion in midrange for a more transparent sound
  • Reduced cabinet resonances

(8) 4-position bass, low-mid and treble acoustical controls

  • More control in diverse acoustical environments
  • Repeatable acoustical settings after moving loudspeakers

(9) Parametric equalizer

  • More control in diverse acoustical environments
  • Bypassable if not needed
  • Three frequency ranges gives very fine control of equalization

(10) Wide range input gain and output level controls

  • Easier interfacing with signal sources

(11) Display dimmer

  • For low lighting level conditions or behind the screen applications

(12) XLR electronically balanced analogue input with ground lift

  • Standard interfacing to professional equipment
  • Reduced noise in electrically noisy environments and over-comes ground loops

(13) Universal dual (bass and mid/treble) switched-mode power supplies (100 … 240 V)

  • One version works in any country and robust to poor quality mains supply
  • Dual supply improves transient response

(14) Fully documented extensive mounting hardware range

  • More flexibility in mounting cabinets in more diverse locations and backwards compatible to previous products
  • Easy advanced planning for installations

(15) Electronics panel with generously dimensioned integrated Accelerated Heat Tunneling™ (AHT™) heat sink

  • Improved heat dissipation leading to increased electronics reliability

Installation flexibility

  • Remoteable electronics (REK 4) for ease of installation, less cabling, and convenience of use

(16) Powerful amplifiers with large headroom and overheat limiting

  • Improved transient response
  • Assured reliability and safety

Separate fast acting thermo limiters for woofer, midrange and tweeter to protect the voice coils and power amplifiers

  • Woofer soft clip and excursion limiters
  • Increases system reliability
  • Allows extraction of the maximum performance from the system

(17) Optional (DIM 1) digital XLR/BNC inputs and buffered BNC output

  • For flexible and trouble-free digital interconnectivity (24 bit, 192 kHz, AES3 and S/P-DIF)

(18) Delay (0 … 409.5 ms)

  • Lip-sync: To align audio and video signals up to 10 frames (40 ms frames) or 12 frames (33 ms frames)
  • Time-of-flight: To compensate for listening distance differences up to 141 m (460 ft.)
  • Delay can be applied to analog and digital signals

More Features

Production consistency due to individual hand alignment in final testing

  • Any KH 420 is “pair matched” to any other KH 420

Optional robust metal grille

  • Can be used, if required, to protect the drivers
Free field frequency response ±6 dB 25 Hz … 22 kHz
Free field frequency response ±3 dB 26 Hz … 22 kHz
Free field frequency linearity deviation between 100 Hz and 10 kHz ± 1.2 dB
Self-generated noise at 10 cm (with input gain set to 100 dB SPL for 0 dBu) <20 dB(A) SPL
Sine wave output with a THD < 0.5 % at 1 m in half space 95 dB SPL (>100 Hz)
Max. SPL calc. in half space at 3% THD at 1m (averaged between 100 Hz and 6 kHz) 122.4 dB SPL
Max. SPL in full space at 3% THD at 1m (averaged between 100 Hz and 6 kHz) 116.4 dB SPL
Bass capability: Max. SPL in half space at 3% THD at 1m (averaged between 50 Hz and 100 Hz) 109.9 dB SPL
Max. short term SPL with IEC-weighted noise (IEC 60268-5) at 1 m, in typical listening conditions 109 dB(C) SPL
Reproduction accuracy between 100 Hz and 10 kHz: 100%, 80%, 50% of loudspeakers produced ±0.78; ±0.36; ±0.22 dB
Max. short term SPL with music material at 2.3 m in typical listening conditions (pair / full range) 103 dB(C) SPL
Max. short term SPL with music material at 2.3 m, in typical listening conditions (pair with subwoofer) 109 dB(C) SPL
Max. long term SPL with pink noise at 2.3 m, in typical listening conditions (single / pair full range) 90 / 96 dB(C) SPL
Dynamic range A-D-A >116 dB(A)
Dynamic range D-A >123 dB(A)
THD+N: analog delayed, digital < -104 dB; < -106 dB
Digital sensitivity -18 dBFS = 100 dB SPL at 1 m
Latency 0.22 … 1.85 ms (digital A, B or A+B); 0.54 ms (analog delayed)
Max. long term SPL with pink noise at 2.3 m, in typical listening conditions (single / pair with subwoofer) 90 / 96 dB(C) SPL
Equalization: Mid 0; -1.5; -3; -4.5 dB
Equalization: Parametric EQ: Gain +4 ... -12 dB
Equalization: Parametric EQ: Frequency Bypass, 25 ... 80 Hz; 50 ... 160 Hz; 100 ... 320 Hz
Equalization: Parametric EQ: Q 1 ... 8
Display Brightness White: 100%/60%/30%/off; Red: 100%/60%/30%
Output power midrange amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 10%) 140 W
Output power midrange amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 0.1%) 130 W
Midrange 75 mm (3") with magnetic shielding
Cabinet weight when electronics remote located 30.3 kg (66 lbs 13 oz) (+ 100 g (3 oz) with DIM 1 fitted)
Bass Extension (Hz, -6 dB) 25
Maximum output level (dB SPL) 116.4
Max. Listening Distance up to (m) 11
Analog input(s) XLR: analog electronically balanced
Analog input impedance >14k Ohms
Max. input level +24 dBu (DIM 1: 18 dBu for analog delayed)
Common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) >56 dB @ 15kHz
Digital input(s) BNC (75 Ω): AES3; S/P-DIF
Digital output(s) BNC (75 Ω): AES3
Digital converter: resolution; design 16 … 24-bit DAC; Δ∑
Digital converter: sampling rate 22.05; 24; 32; 44.1; 48; 64; 88.2; 96; 176.4; 192 kHz
Digital internal sampling rate 96 kHz
Delay: User adjustable delay range 0 … 409.5 ms
Delay: Resolution: time; distance 0.1 ms; 3.44 cm (1 3/8”)
Delay: Max. frames Audio-video synchronisation (lip sync) 10.2 (40 ms) frames; 12.3 (33 ms) frames
Delay: Time-of-flight maximum distance 140.1 m (462' 2")
Input gain control (sensitivity) 0 dB ... -15 dB
Output level control (output level in 1 m based on 0 dBu input level) 94; 100; 108; 114 dB SPL
Equalization: Bass 0; -2.5; -5; -7.5 dB
Equalization: Treble +1; 0; -1; -2 dB
Controller design Analog; active
Crossover frequency 570 Hz and 2.0 kHz
Crossover slope 24 dB/oct; 4th order
Protection circuitry Independent thermo limiters for woofer, midrange dome and tweeter. Woofer soft clip and excursion limiters. Amplifier overheat.
Infrasonic filter: frequency; slope 9 Hz; 18 dB/oct.
Display: On; Normal Operation Neumann logo “White”
Display: Limit / Clip / Errors / Protection /Boot Mute / Shut Down Mute Neumann logo “Red”
Output power woofer amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 10%) 330 W
Output power tweeter amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 10%) 140 W
Output power woofer amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 0.1%) 295 W
Output power tweeter amplifier (THD+N with limiter deactivated: 0.1%) 130 W
Mains Power Supply: input voltage; frequency 100-240V; 50/60 Hz
Power consumption (230 V / 100 V): Idle 60 W (+5W when DIM 1 fitted)
Power consumption (230 V / 100 V): Full output 800 W
Cabinet material Wood cabinet, polyurethane waveguide, aluminum electronics panel
Cabinet surface finish; color (front / back) Painted; metallic anthracite (RAL 7021) / black (RAL 9005)
Operating conditions +10° C to +40° C (+50° F to +104° F); <90% RH, non-condensing
Transport/storage conditions -25° C to +70° C (-13° F to 158° F); <90% RH; non-condensing
Woofer 265 mm (10") with magnetic shielding
Tweeter 25 mm (1") with protecting black metal grille
Mounting points 8 x M5 on rear panel
Product dimensions (height x width x depth) 645 x 330 x 444 mm (25 3/8" x 13" x 17 1/2")
External net volume 93 liters
Packed dimensions (height x width x depth), mm (inches) 775 x 610 x 590 mm (23 1/4" x 15" x 14 1/8")

Diagrams

KH 420 - Parametric - EQ

KH 420 - Parametric - EQ

KH 420 - Group Delay

KH 420 - Group Delay

KH 420 - Cumulative Spectral Decay

KH 420 - Cumulative Spectral Decay

KH 420 - Vertical Directivity Plot (vertical cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Vertical Directivity Plot (vertical cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Horizontal Directivity Plot (vertical cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Horizontal Directivity Plot (vertical cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 100 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 100 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Bass, Mid and Treble Acoustical Controls

KH 420 - Bass, Mid and Treble Acoustical Controls

KH 420 - Maximum SPL at 1m (Green: 10% THD, Red: 3% THD, Blue: 1% THD)

KH 420 - Maximum SPL at 1m (Green: 10% THD, Red: 3% THD, Blue: 1% THD)

KH 420 - Free-Field Response

KH 420 - Free-Field Response

KH 420 - Horizontal Directivity Plot (horizontal cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Horizontal Directivity Plot (horizontal cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 90 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 90 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 95 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Harmonic Distortion at 95 dB SPL (Purple: THD, Red: 2nd harmonic, Green: 3rd harmonic)

KH 420 - Vertical Directivity Plot (horizontal cabinet orientation)

KH 420 - Vertical Directivity Plot (horizontal cabinet orientation)
TLM 49 Set

GKH 420 B

Metal Grille black

GKH 420 B
TLM 49 Set

LH 28

Tripod Stand Adaptor

LH 28
TLM 49 Set

LH 29

TV-Spigot

LH 29
TLM 49 Set

LH 36

Tilting Adaptor

LH 36
TLM 49 Set

LH 37

Mounting Flange Adaptor

LH 37
TLM 49 Set

LH 41

Base Plate

LH 41
TLM 49 Set

LH 42

Ceiling System

LH 42
TLM 49 Set

LH 43

Surface Mounting Plate

LH 43
TLM 49 Set

LH 45

Wall Bracket

LH 45
TLM 49 Set

LH 46

Adjustable Ceiling Drop Adapter

LH 46
TLM 49 Set

LH 48

Tripod Adaptor Plate

LH 48
TLM 49 Set

REK 4

Remote Electronics Kit

REK 4
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a K&M stand (1)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a K&M stand (1)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a K&M stand (2)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a K&M stand (2)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a lighting stand (1)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a lighting stand (1)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a lighting stand (2)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a lighting stand (2)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a floor stand (1)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a floor stand (1)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a floor stand (2)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a floor stand (2)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (1)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (1)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (2)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (2)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (3)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (3)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (4)

Mounting Example

KH 420 on a KH 870 sub (4)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 on a wall

Mounting example

KH 420 on a wall
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 off a ceiling (1)

Mounting Example

KH 420 off a ceiling (1)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 off a ceiling (2)

Mounting Example

KH 420 off a ceiling (2)
TLM 49 Set

KH 420 off a horiz. truss

Mounting Example

KH 420 off a horiz. truss
TLM 49 Set

MA 1

MA 1 - Automatic Monitor Alignment

MA 1

KH 420 G

Color anthracite

CAT. NO. 505988

  • 1 x KH 420 Studio Monitor
  • 3 x Mains cables (European, UK and US version)
  • 1 x Operating manual
  • 1 x Supplement “Getting Started Quickly”

KH 420 G CCC

Color anthracite

CAT. NO. 506792

  • 1 x KH 420 Studio Monitor
  • 2 x Mains Cables (CCC + KC)
  • 1 x Operating manual
  • 1 x Supplement “Getting Started Quickly”

DIM 1

Color

CAT. NO. 502251

  • DIM 1 Digital Input Module

Suited for:

Reviews

KH 420 review
Sound&Recording 10/14, English
Download PDF

KH 420 review
Sound&Recording 10/14, German
Download PDF

WHAT OTHERS SAY

Video-Link

Five Minutes with Simon Franglen

Video-Link

WARNING (for California residents only): This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects and other reproductive harm. For more information go to: www.p65warnings.ca.gov.

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