Neumann is building on the legacy of its well-known KM series of miniature microphones with the introduction of three new digital models with integrated DSP. The modular KM 183 D, KM 184 D and KM 185 D combine omnidirectional, cardioid and supercardioid capsules with the KM D output stage to offer three different directional characteristics.

The proven Neumann A-to-D converter is located immediately next to the capsule in the new microphone models. The converter supports a dynamic range far exceeding that of the capsule, with no coloration and absolute transparency.

Two versions of the new digital miniature microphones are available in classic nickel and black Nextel finish. All standard sampling frequencies, from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, are supported.

The integrated DSP functions – including gain, a compressor/limiter with de-esser and a peak limiter – can be configured and controlled remotely via the DMI-2 digital microphone interface and the RCS remote control software. The fully digital system permits the peak limiter to operate across the entire available dynamic range even in stressful recording situations.

Neumann is additionally offering attractively priced “Connection Kits” to permit easy connection of the digital KM series microphones to S/PDIF and AES/EBU interfaces without the DMI-2. An upgrade to the DMI-2, with its configuration capabilities and DSP functions, is possible at any time. A plug-in power supply is included as a standard feature. A battery pack to permit outdoor operation is available as an option.

The DMI-2 digital microphone interface has recently been updated with discreet visual enhancements, support for the 192kHz sampling rate, AES 11 synchronization capability and greatly improved jitter performance. Data exchange with the microphone in accordance with the AES 42 standard and the supply of the data stream from the microphone in AES/EBU format remains a key feature of the DMI-2.

Two budget-oriented starter sets that package a Neumann KM 184 D microphone with a Connection Kit for S/PDIF or AES/EBU connection offer a straightforward introduction to digital microphone technology at a very attractive U.S. retail price of $3,495. Since the microphone includes an A-to-D converter and does not require a preamplifier, these starter sets provide all of the necessary components for capturing the Neumann microphone sound onto the digital recording medium with no coloration.

For more information, visit their web site at www.neumann.com.

Advanced tube technology enables musicians to capture the full range of their sound.

Sterling Audio — working closely with Aspen Pittman of Groove Tubes fame, legendary researcher and designer of audio tubes and microphones — has announced recent additions to Sterling Audio’s line of professional microphones:

ST66 (Class-A tube, large diaphragm condenser mic)
ST55 (Class-A FET, large diaphragm condenser mic)
ST44 (Class-A tube, mid-size diaphragm condenser mic)
ST33 (Class-A FET, mid-size diaphragm condenser mic)
ST31 (low-noise FET, mid-sized condenser mic) With the exception of the ST31, all models feature an attenuation switch (ST55/ST66 -10dB; ST33/ST44 -15dB), a 75Hz, 12dB/octave low frequency roll-off switch, cardioid polar pattern, and transformer-isolated output. The ST31 uses a hypercardioid polar pattern and transformerless output design.

All Sterling microphones feature high-SPL handling. Available accessories are the STSM3 and STSM4 shockmounts and the STPF1 professional pop filter.

One of the features of Sterling Audio’s large capsules is the exclusive Disk Resonator™ system. With it, they have been able to compensate for the 14kHz frequency roll-off that is inherent in large diaphragm mics. This deficiency translates to a lack of sparkle from high-frequency sound sources.

Other manufacturers have typically solved this problem with corrective EQ circuits after the capsule; “boosting” the high frequency which unfortunately results in increased noise and other negative sonic artifacts from this band aid circuit approach.

Disk Resonator Technology incorporates a gold-plated brass “umbrella” that protrudes from the center of the diaphragm in Sterling Audio’s ST55 and ST66 mics. It gently boosts the diaphragm sensitivity to shorter sound waves, allowing it to respond more accurately to those all-important higher frequencies. The result is optimal sensitivity, full frequency response, and a low signal-to-noise ratio.

While most modern condenser diaphragms are 6 to 12 microns in thickness, Sterling Audio, in association with Dupont, has produced a highly resilient Mylar that measures a mere 3 microns. This allows the ST55 and ST66 to deliver a degree of sensitivity unparalleled in the industry.

The ST66 and ST44 use triode wiring on specially selected pentode tubes to yield low noise and a more realistic dynamic response than their competitors. Its power supply is designed with a load-balancing circuitry that allows cable runs of more than 200 feet with no deviation from optimal performance.

For more information, visit their web site at www.sterlingaudio.net.

CAD recently introduced Trion, its most highly evolved line of studio microphones distinguished by the brand’s heritage of design, innovation and quality. The Trion 8000 is a multi-pattern, externally biased, large dual diaphragm studio tube condenser mic, the Trion 7000 is a dynamic, dual-element ribbon mic and the Trion 6000 a multi-pattern, externally biased, large dual diaphragm studio condenser mic.

Flagship for the new line, the Trion 8000 incorporates a sophisticated, precision-machined, hand-assembled capsule with low mass 1.12″ gold vapor-deposited, hand dampened diaphragms to produce the warm, rich and open classic tube sound ideal for studio vocal recordings in the digital realm. A 3-position polar pattern switch provides selection of omnidirectional, cardioid or figure-8 polar patterns for the versatility required by today’s professional recording situations.

In addition to exceptional sensitivity, low distortion and an extended frequency response, the Trion 8000 features discrete Class A electronics for transparent sound reproduction. Its transformer-coupled output ensures excellent RF immunity, cancellation of cable capacitance, and rejection of induced line noise. Its rugged metal housing and construction ensure long-term durability and reliable performance. Featuring a distinctive heritage design, the Trion 8000 delivers a smooth, accurate frequency response and high SPL capability. It comes supplied with a shock mount, heavy-duty aluminum carrying case, 25ft 6-pin connector cable, and power supply.

The Trion 7000 incorporates a sophisticated, precision-machined, hand-assembled aluminum ribbon capsule to produce a classically rich, warm sound ribbon mics are known for. It is ideal for recording vocals, brass and woodwinds, cello, acoustic bass, as well as guitar and bass amps. The 7000 is equally effective in live and studio applications when a full-bodied sound is desired.

With a natural figure-8 pickup pattern, the Trion 7000 is most sensitive in the front and the back of the microphone and least sensitive at the sides. Its pronounced proximity effect allows the user to achieve a strong “fattening” effect at close distances. Rugged and durable, the 7000′s metal housing and construction enable it to withstand the harsh demands of live and studio applications. It comes supplied with shock mount and heavy-duty aluminum carrying case.

Incorporating a sophisticated, precision-machined, hand assembled capsule, the Trion 6000 features low mass 1″ gold vapor deposited, hand-dampened diaphragms. Combined, these produce a warm, open and detailed sound for studio vocals, choir, classical stringed instruments, piano and acoustic guitar.

A 3-position polar pattern switch allows the user to select omnidirectional, cardioid, or figure-8 polar patterns. Coupled with the high pass filter and attenuation switches located on the rear of the mic body, the 6000 delivers exceptional versatility and flexibility in a variety of recording situations.

Exceptional sensitivity, low distortion and an extended frequency response make the Trion 6000 an ideal performer in digital recording situations. Discrete Class A electronics ensure transparent, accurate sound reproduction, while the 6000′s transformer-coupled output provides excellent RF immunity, cancellation of cable capacitance, and rejection of induced line noise. The rugged metal housing and construction provide exceptional durability Featuring a heritage design, the microphone offers an aesthetically pleasing industrial profile and comes equipped with shock mount and heavy-duty aluminum carrying case. 48V phantom power is required.

For more information, visit their web site at www.cadmics.com.