Neumann KH 80 DSP Aims to Raise the Standard in Monitor Sound

January 24 2017, 03:10
With the new KH 80 DSP, Neumann launched its first studio monitor with digital signal processing. “Our DSP engine is an in-house development that primarily takes a formerly unknown variable and makes it calculable: the room. Expect clear, high-precision sound wherever you are monitoring,” explains Wolfgang Fraissinet, President of Neumann. The two-way active bi-amplified near field monitor is now also the most compact in the brand's portfolio.
 

Thanks to the upcoming “Neumann.Control” software, in the future the new KH 80 DSP two-way near-field studio monitor will be able to fully calibrate itself to the room. This can be performed either automatically (Precision Alignment), with some simple questions (Guided Alignment), or adjusted with complete flexibility using the built in 8-band fully parametric equalizer (Manual Alignment). The control network uses standard Ethernet components only and no additional special equipment is needed.

“In the KH series we have always been obsessed with the details when it comes to the calculation and modeling of the drivers, waveguide and cabinet,” emphasizes Fraissinet. The result is a frequency response with such neutrality that it defines a whole new reference class – and at a price that was previously unthinkable for a Neumann Studio Monitor. Using mathematical models, the two drivers were calculated to a degree of depth, “which is unusual even for our industry,” explains Fraissinet. "Nonlinear distortion is thus minimized from the very beginning. The MMD Waveguide (Mathematically Modelled Dispersion) optimizes the frequency response on- and off-axis, and enables more movement within the listening area and more consistency even in the most varied acoustic environments."
 
The KH 80 DSP is designed as an ideal monitor solution for recording, mixing and mastering in project, music, broadcasting and post-production studios. Every mechanical and electronic element – from the driver to the amplification – is handpicked and harmonized in accordance with Neumann standards. The DSP engine also ensures a linear frequency response with a FIR filter. This makes sure that in every environment all frequencies are precisely timed.
 
Key specifications include:
Drivers: 4” and 1”
Amplifiers: 120 + 70 W
Frequency response: 57 Hz … 21 kHz, +/-3 dB
Maximum SPL: 108.8 dB
Dimensions: 233 x 154 x 194 mm
Volume: 7 liters
Weight: 3.4 kg - 7 lbs 8 oz
Input: XLR/Jack
Universal switched-mode power supply (100 … 240 V)

Noticeable features for the new Neumann KH 80 DSP monitors include a new powerful alloy fabric tweeter dome allowing for low-distortion in high-frequency reproduction, and a long throw composite sandwich cone bass driver with Extremely Linear Force Factor (ELFF), allowing for increased sound levels and very low harmonic distortion even at high excursions. The compact polycarbonate composite cabinet eliminates standing wave resonances, and allows for faster bass transient response and reduced intermodulation distortion in midrange. The two large front panel ports reduce bass compression and make the new monitors easier to mount in tight spaces such as OB vans and small studios.
 
Detail of the KH 80 DSP rear panel showing the operating controls of the loudspeaker.

Neumann also states that production consistency due to individual alignment in final test for the series, allows any one KH 80 DSP unit to be “pair-matched” to any other KH 80 DSP unit.

The KH 80 DSP will be available from February 2017. Neumann.Control will be available from Q2 2017.
www.sennheiser.com | www.neumann.com
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