The modular concept permits the capsule to be detached and used at a distance from the output stage of up to 100 m (330 ft), connected via a special cable. For usual applications, the LC 4 cable is available with a length of 5 or 10 meters (ca. 16½ or 33 ft.). Alternatively, capsule extensions of various lengths, swivel capsule joints, and swivel stand mounts, etc. may be used for a flexible microphone setup. The analog and digital output stages have identical dimensions (diameter: 22 mm, length: 93 mm). All accessory parts may thus be combined with both output stages.
A lot of examples for using the accessory portfolio can be found {% link_external href=/km-a-d | title= KM A-D | text= here%}.
##The Output Stages
The analog, transformerless output stage KM A operates with P48 phantom power. A switchable -10 dB preattenuation allows for sound pressure levels of up to 152 dB (depending on capsule type) without distortion artifacts.
The digital output stage KM D is compliant to the AES 42 standard and opens entirely new possibilities, unattainable in the analog domain. The integrated DSP permits remote control of microphone parameters, such as digital gain, preattenuation (6, 12, 18 dB) and low cut (0, 40, 80, 160). An integrated peak limiter and a compressor/limiter with an additional de-esser function protect the audio signal from overload. Neumann’s patented A/D-converter technology ensures a very high dynamic range of up to 122 dB-A across the entire digital production chain.
At any time the user may opt to work in the analog or digital domain, without the expense of a complete system change, simply by using the KM A or KM D output stage. More information on Neumann’s digital microphone technology is available {% link_external href=/product_files/59/download | title= KM A-D | text= here%}.
Two popular combinations are available as complete sets with capsule, output stage and swivel mount: KM 183 A nx and KM 184 A nx. Any other components are offered separately.
##Compability with the Neumann KM 100 System
On special request, a mechanical adapter (AR 100 KA) can be supplied for use of older KM 100 capsules (AK series) with the KM A and KM D output stages.
