This publication’s information radar was down for upkeep when Neumann introduced its second-generation KH120 in April of this 12 months. As we speak we right that oversight, not least as a result of this German producer is among the nation’s oldest, is famed for its vinyl-cutting lathes and microphones and its headquarters is inside spitting distance of Darko.Audio’s Berlin pad.
The KH120 II is a 2-way lively monitor that builds on the 2010 unique with deeper bass response (-3dB at 44Hz), decrease distortion and better SPL capabilities (116.8dB). Inside every cupboard, a 145-watt amplifier powers the 5.25″ mid/bass driver and a 100-watt amplifier the 1″ wave-guided tweeter. Stitching the 2 collectively is a DSP-based crossover that not solely divvies up the sign between the 2 Class D amplifier modules however linearises the drivers’ part response so that every one frequencies above 120Hz depart the loudspeaker on the similar time — the intent of which is to offer the listener with a better-focussed take a look at the phantom centre channel taking part in between the audio system. Moreover, in accordance with Neumann, superior imaging can also be assisted by the second-generation mannequin’s tighter tolerances: “The KH 120-II is made to extraordinarily low tolerances of not more than ±0.5 dB.”
On the again panel, we discover RCA sockets for single-ended analogue and digital hook-ups in addition to XLR sockets for balanced connections. That trio of connectivity – in addition to bass/mid/treble shelf attenuators – are 4 the reason why the KH120 II are marketed predominantly to studio heads whose speak of mixes ‘translating’ and audio plugins has little to do with the hi-fi world. However isn’t the ‘neutrality’ pitched by Neumann right here additionally what many audiophiles say that they crave when listening to music for pleasure? Pair the KH120 II with an Eversolo DMP-A6 or FiiO R7 working as streaming supply / quantity attenuator and you’ve got an entire hi-fi system, nothing extra so as to add. In truth, what we subtract is having to pay for the costly casework that wraps our outboard DACs and amplifiers.
However there may be extra so as to add if we wish it.
Neumann’s MA1 Computerized Alignment room compensation microphone equipment (out there individually) permits us to tune the KH120 II’s output to our room in each frequency and time domains. Utilized accurately, the MA1’s time area maths will right for part errors that current on the listening place, once more for a cleaner take a look at the stereophonic phantasm dancing between the loudspeakers. And since the MA1’s room compensation calculations dwell contained in the KH120 II, they may also be utilized to analogue sources.
The KH120 II sells for €1798/pair with a alternative of black or white finishes. The MA1 Computerized Alignment equipment is an additional €299.
Additional data: Neumann
