Neumann - KK 104 A Nickel

The KK 104 A is a condenser microphone capsule for Sennheiser wireless transmitters, designed for on-stage vocal applications. Its technology, derived from the KMS stage microphones, prioritises transparent reproduction, a fast transient response and natural intelligibility, without relying heavily on equalisation adjustments.

Its narrow cardioid polar pattern maintains consistent pickup across the entire spectrum, with significant attenuation of sounds coming from the rear at 180°. This polar pattern also makes it easier to position the singer and is more tolerant of head movements than a supercardioid pattern, whilst maintaining high resistance to feedback.

For close-mic vocal recording, the capsule incorporates a fixed high-pass filter that compensates for the proximity effect and preserves clear bass response when the distance between the mouth and the grille is short. The extended high-frequency response provides greater airiness and definition, whilst the ability to handle high sound pressure levels prevents distortion during particularly powerful passages.

The mechanical design reinforces its suitability for live performance with an integrated suspension and a hardened steel grille fitted with an internal pop filter. The latter also limits moisture reaching the capsule and helps control sibilance, whilst the reduction in handling noise improves signal stability during successive takes. The KK 104 A is therefore compatible with the Spectera, EW-D, EW-DX and Digital 6000 or 9000 systems.