
When Neumann introduced its KH 120 compact nearfield monitor, studio professionals took notice. As one of the most respected names in pro audio transducer manufacturing, Neumann has a legacy dating back to 1928, when the company introduced its first microphone, the CMV 3.
The KH 120 II builds on the success of its predecessor with significant upgrades, including increased power, onboard DSP processing, deeper bass response, higher SPL capability, and enhanced resolution. Advanced DSP enables linear-phase crossovers and room-adaptive alignment using Neumann’s MA 1 Automatic Alignment system, delivering the precise monitoring accuracy and long-term reliability expected from Neumann.
The magnetically shielded aluminum cabinet houses a long-throw 5.25-inch composite-sandwich woofer and a 1-inch titanium-fabric dome tweeter. Power is delivered by a 145-watt amplifier for the woofer and a 100-watt amplifier for the tweeter. The front baffle features Neumann’s Mathematically Modeled Dispersion (MMD) waveguide, creating a wide sweet spot and smooth off-axis response for precise, stable stereo imaging with impressive depth.
The KH 120 II delivers a smooth, natural frequency response with bass performance that exceeds expectations for its compact size. Its detailed and revealing midrange is carefully balanced, while comprehensive onboard controls allow seamless integration into a wide range of acoustic environments. The KH 120 II is a true reference monitor, enabling confident critical mixing decisions and proudly continuing the legacy of excellence associated with the Neumann name.
The KH 120 II builds on the proven concept of its acclaimed predecessor but has been completely re-engineered for enhanced performance across all parameters. Improvements include deeper bass response, higher SPL capability, and even greater resolution. Powerful internal DSP enables phase-linear crossovers and room-adaptive alignment via Neumann’s revolutionary MA 1 Automatic Alignment system.
Since the release of the KH 120 A in 2010, Neumann monitors have become a global studio reference. The KH 120 II follows the same core philosophy of extreme linearity, minimal distortion, zero coloration, and adaptability to any acoustic environment. With improved performance and an advanced DSP engine, the KH 120 II delivers increased clarity and efficiency, helping mixes translate seamlessly across all playback systems.
The KH 120 II offers an exceptionally linear frequency response from 44 Hz to 21 kHz (±3 dB) and also linearizes phase response. This results in clear, transparent mids, precise impulse reproduction, and finely resolved reverbs. DSP-controlled electronics enable advanced crossover design without the phase distortion associated with analog filters, while extremely tight manufacturing tolerances of ±0.5 dB ensure outstanding stereo imaging and tonal consistency.
Optimized for a recommended listening distance of 1–2 meters (3–6 ft.), the KH 120 II is ideal for home and project studios, mixing and editing suites, and multichannel surround applications. Its compact size and exceptional linearity also make it an excellent choice for creating professional-quality temporary control rooms when working on location.
Neumann’s Mathematically Modelled Dispersion™ (MMD™) waveguide delivers a wide sweet spot while minimizing desk reflections. Going further, the KH 120 II’s internal DSP supports room calibration via Neumann’s MA 1 Automatic Monitor Alignment system (sold separately), ensuring optimal adaptation to your room and listening position—even in acoustically treated spaces.
Tonal compatibility with other KH-series monitors allows seamless integration into mixed or immersive setups. For connectivity flexibility, the KH 120 II includes both analog and S/PDIF inputs.
The KH 120 II AES67 variant features integrated redundant AES67 network ports, fully compliant with broadcast standards such as ST 2110, ST 2022-7 redundancy, and RAVENNA. It is also compatible with DANTE®-generated AES67 network streams.
A patent-pending amplifier design combines high-end audio performance with Class D energy efficiency. The amplifiers deliver up to 145 W to the 5.25” woofer and 100 W to the 1” tweeter while consuming just 17 W at idle. Auto-standby further reduces power usage to 0.3 W when inactive and can be disabled if required.
| Monitor Type & Configuration | Active 2-Way |
|---|---|
| Enclosure | Bass-Reflex / Ported, Shielded |
| Total Power Output | 245 W Peak |
| Tweeter | 1x 1" / 25.4 mm Dome |
| Woofer | 1x 5.25" / 13.33 cm Composite Cone |
| Amplifiers | LF: 120 W / 145 W Peak, HF: 80 W / 100 W Peak |
| Frequency Range | 41 Hz to 21.4 kHz ±6 dB |
| Frequency Response | 44 Hz to 21 kHz ±3 dB |
| Maximum SPL | 111 dB |
| Dynamic Range | 121 dBA |
| Maximum Input Level | +24 dBu |
| Analog Input Sensitivity / Gain | 0 dB to -15 dB |
| Protections & Limiting | Excursion Limiter, Peak Limiter, Soft Limiter, Thermal Limiting |
| EQ | HF Shelf, Mid Notch/Peak, LF Shelf |
| Crossover Frequency | 1700 Hz, 48 dB/Octave |
| App-Based Signal Processing | Yes |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 48 kHz / 24-Bit |
| Audio I/O | 1x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Balanced Input |
| Digital Audio I/O | 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Input, 1x RCA Coaxial S/PDIF Output |
| Network I/O | 1x RJ45 Ethernet |
| USB | No |
| Wireless | No |
| Mobile App Compatible | No |
| Color | Anthracite Gray |
| Monitor Orientation | Vertical |
| Enclosure Material | MDF |
| Mounting Points | 2x M6 (Rear Panel) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 7.1 x 11.3 x 8.9" / 180.3 x 287 x 226.1 mm |
| Weight | 11.9 lb / 5.4 kg |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 509122 UPC: 615104355804 |