Neumann is synonymous with high-end studio microphones, but over the past decade, the German audio giant has also cemented its reputation in monitoring with the acclaimed KH series. The KH 120 quickly became a mainstay in professional and project studios, lauded for its clarity, balanced tonal response, and robust build. Now, Neumann aims to push those standards even higher with the KH 120 II—an upgraded version that promises improved performance in virtually every department. Does it live up to its celebrated lineage? Let’s take a detailed look.
Design & Build Quality
- Signature Aesthetic, Subtle Upgrades
At first glance, the KH 120 II looks strikingly similar to its predecessor. The compact, matte-gray cabinet remains, with gently rounded edges for reduced diffraction. A closer inspection, however, reveals small but important refinements. Neumann has further optimized the waveguide design, and the enclosure now features even tighter tolerances to minimize resonance. - Rugged Construction
The aluminum enclosure is a hallmark of Neumann’s KH series, offering durability and inertness that helps lower cabinet-induced coloration. The overall heft communicates a sense of professional build quality, fitting for a monitor designed to work as a nearfield solution in high-end recording studios, broadcast suites, and post-production facilities. - Rear Panel Controls & Connectivity
Around back, you’ll find a well-organized set of acoustic and level controls, including low- and high-frequency trim switches, output level selection, and ground lift to help tackle potential hum or buzz in tricky environments. The KH 120 II accepts both XLR and RCA inputs—an increasingly rare feature—ensuring it can integrate seamlessly into a variety of studio setups.
Technical Improvements
With the KH 120 II, Neumann set out to refine rather than reinvent. Key enhancements include:
- Newly Designed Waveguide
Neumann’s Mathematically Modeled Dispersion™ (MMD) waveguide has been re-engineered for even more consistent off-axis response. This means smoother frequency response whether you’re sitting directly in the sweet spot or moving around in the control room. - Upgraded Amplification
The original KH 120 used bi-amplified Class AB amps; the new model employs next-generation amplifiers (Class D for the woofer and refined amplification for the tweeter), delivering higher efficiency, lower heat generation, and additional headroom. This helps maintain distortion-free output at louder monitoring levels. - Deeper Low-End Extension
One of the most common requests from KH 120 users was extended low-frequency reach. In the KH 120 II, the internal architecture and driver improvements deliver tighter, more authoritative bass, allowing you to detect subtleties in kick drums and bass lines without needing a separate sub (provided your control room is adequately treated). - Enhanced Electronic Components
Thanks to the updated circuitry, Neumann claims reduced self-noise and increased long-term reliability. The lowered noise floor is especially beneficial for quieter listening sessions or for engineers dealing with delicate acoustic recordings.
Sound & Performance
Frequency Response & Tonal Balance
Neumann’s monitors have always been known for neutrality—an unflinching accuracy that helps reveal every detail in a mix. The KH 120 II maintains that tradition. The midrange is exceptionally open, allowing vocals, guitars, and dialogue to come through clearly without harshness. The top end offers a refined sparkle, never brittle or fatiguing. The upgraded low-frequency response is especially impressive, extending deeper than you’d expect from a compact 5.25-inch woofer, yet remaining tight and controlled.
Imaging & Soundstage
One of the standout features of the original KH 120 was its pinpoint stereo imaging. The KH 120 II improves upon that via the updated waveguide, which yields a wide sweet spot and stable phantom center. Panning decisions become more intuitive because instruments and effects are precisely placed in the stereo field.
Headroom & Dynamic Range
Whether you’re checking the punch of a rock mix or the nuance of orchestral passages, the KH 120 II provides ample headroom. The enhanced amplifiers ensure minimal distortion, even when pushed to higher volumes. For moderate-sized control rooms, the KH 120 II can project enough SPL to fill the space with accurate monitoring without straining.
Mixing & Mastering Applications
While nearfield monitors are primarily intended for mixing, many engineers also rely on them for mastering tasks or final checks. The KH 120 II’s neutral response and low distortion make it a valid tool for referencing mixes, performing detailed edits, and ensuring translation across various playback systems.
Room Integration & Setup
- User-Friendly Acoustic Controls
On the rear panel, you’ll find 4-position switches for low-frequency and high-frequency adjustments. These allow you to tailor the monitor’s output if you’re forced to place it close to walls or corners, or if your room acoustics emphasize certain frequencies. - Placement & Stands
For the best results, position the KH 120 IIs on sturdy, decoupled stands at ear level, forming an equilateral triangle with your listening position. The wide horizontal dispersion means they’re relatively forgiving if you move off-center, but symmetrical placement and acoustic treatment still benefit imaging and frequency consistency. - Subwoofer Integration
If your work demands even deeper bass extension, the KH 750 DSP subwoofer (or another high-quality sub) can seamlessly integrate with the KH 120 II. This can be especially helpful for music styles with heavy low-end content, or for post-production environments dealing with cinematic sound effects.
Comparisons & Alternatives
Neumann KH 80 DSP
Slightly smaller and with built-in DSP correction, the KH 80 DSP might appear to compete with the 120 series. However, the KH 120 II offers a larger woofer, higher SPL capability, and a more extended low end—making it a better fit for rooms requiring a bit more punch and full-range response.
Genelec 8030/8040 Series
Genelec’s renowned 8000 series is a common alternative in this price and size category, known for excellent imaging and integrated DSP in some models. Sonically, Genelecs can be slightly brighter and more forward, whereas the KH line typically leans toward a neutral to slightly warm midrange character. Preference often comes down to personal taste and specific workflow needs.
Adam A7V / A7X
Adam’s nearfield monitors feature ribbon tweeters that impart a distinct air and transient detail. While Adam offers a different flavor of high-end reproduction, many engineers appreciate the KH 120 II’s more compact form, consistent off-axis response, and close to textbook neutrality.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Clarity & Accuracy
The neutral frequency response and uncolored midrange help reveal every detail, making them ideal for critical listening. - Improved Low-Frequency Extension
A welcome update for users wanting more robust bass handling without sacrificing clarity. - Enhanced Amplification
Additional headroom and minimal distortion ensure a clean sound even at higher volume levels. - Wide Sweet Spot
The refined waveguide delivers smooth off-axis response, aiding precise stereo imaging. - Solid Build Quality
Neumann’s aluminum enclosures and premium electronics promise durability and consistent performance.
Cons
- Price Point
High-end nearfields often command premium pricing. The KH 120 II may be out of reach for budget-conscious studios. - Room Requirements
Like all accurate monitors, they benefit significantly from good acoustic treatment. In suboptimal rooms, you may not hear the full advantage of the KH 120 II’s fidelity. - No Built-In DSP Correction
Some competitive models incorporate advanced DSP for room calibration; the KH 120 II retains an analog approach, which may require external solutions if thorough room correction is desired.
Final Verdict
The Neumann KH 120 II successfully carries forward the lauded reputation of its predecessor, offering next-level clarity, wider frequency extension, and refined off-axis response in a compact nearfield format. Whether you’re mixing music, editing dialogue, or working on detailed sound design, these monitors deliver an honest and balanced sonic canvas. They might not be the cheapest in their range, but the investment is well-justified for professionals and serious project studios seeking absolute accuracy and engineering excellence.
If you require a small-footprint studio monitor that upholds the Neumann standard—neutral, revealing, and impeccably built—the KH 120 II stands among the top contenders. With its updated waveguide, improved low-end performance, and robust headroom, it represents a premium audio experience that can elevate your workflow for years to come.
Leave a Reply