The digital version has integrated Solution-D circuit technology which is already familiar from other Neumann microphones. This includes an A/D converter that is specifically adapted to the capsule, and the option of using numerous signal processing features that have proved very helpful, particularly in an electronic news gathering (ENG) environment. The rapidly operating peak/compressor limiter has been found to be especially beneficial, says the company.
In addition to the parameters of the dynamics processor, all of the other settings that can be adjusted via the remote control software, such as filter settings and gain, can be stored directly in the microphone. During production, the pre-programmed KMR 81 D can then be connected directly to a field recorder with an appropriate AES 42 input.
The KMR 81 D can be combined with the KK 120 from the Neumann miniature microphone system, with a figure-eight directional characteristic, to obtain a compact, completely digital MS stereo configuration.
The KMR 81 D was presented as a prototype at the IBC, and will be available from spring 2010. Neumann has likewise announced a portable version of the DMI Digital Microphone Interface, powered by rechargeable batteries, also to be available in 2010. Wolfgang Fraissinet, president of marketing/sales says, "These two products will greatly facilitate the realisation of a completely digital workflow and the utilisation of associated advantages, even for users in the ENG and film audio areas."
(Jim Evans)
