Neumann KM 86, a vintage small-diaphragm condenser microphone manufactured by Neumann between the late 1960s and mid-1980s.

Key Technical Features

• Dual Built-in Capsules: Unlike other small-diaphragm microphones with a fixed polar pattern (such as the classic KM 84), the KM 86 uses two small-diaphragm capsules (type KK 84) mounted back-to-back.
• Switchable Polar Patterns: It features a selector switch at the base of the headbasket (visible in the photo with the pickup pattern icons) to toggle between three polar patterns:
• • Omnidirectional (\circ)
  • Cardioid (\heartsuit)
  • Figure-8 / Bidirectional (\infty)
• Solid-State Electronics (FET): Belonging to Neumann's prestigious fet 80 series, it operates via 48V phantom power.
• Attenuation Pad: Includes a -10\text{ dB} attenuation switch on the microphone body to handle sources with high sound pressure levels (SPL).

Sound and Studio Applications

Due to the size and design of its headbasket, the KM 86 delivers a very balanced, detailed sound with a slightly smoother character than the famous KM 84.

• Acoustic Instruments: It is exceptional for acoustic guitars, strings, pianos, backing vocals, as well as room and drum overhead miking.
• Recording History: It was one of the staple microphones at Abbey Road Studios in the 1970s, famously used by engineer Alan Parsons on guitars, pianos, and drums for Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon.