Neumann KH 80 DSP Ultra-Compact Two-Way DSP Studio Monitor Anthracite

Neumann KH 80 DSP: Ultra-Compact DSP Reference in Anthracite

The Neumann KH 80 DSP is an ultra-compact two-way DSP-controlled nearfield studio monitor that delivers reference accuracy from a remarkably small cabinet. Its 4-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter, driven by dedicated amplifiers and processed by onboard DSP, punch far above the footprint they occupy. This A G version wears the standard anthracite finish, at home on a desktop or small mix room. Where a compact monitor usually means compromise, MA 1 room correction lets this one behave like a much larger reference. For a project studio or a cramped desk, it is a serious monitor that actually fits.

Two Drivers and an MMD Waveguide

A 4-inch woofer with a protective grille handles the low and midrange while a 1-inch tweeter carries the highs, each set behind a protective grille. The tweeter sits in a Mathematically Modeled Dispersion waveguide that controls directivity so the off-axis sound tracks the direct response. That controlled dispersion widens the usable sweet spot, which matters at the short listening distances of a desktop. Frequency response reaches 57 Hz within three decibels, low for a cabinet this size. The design is what lets a tiny monitor still resolve real detail.

Bi-Amplification With Reserves

Each driver runs from its own amplifier rather than sharing power through a passive crossover. The woofer draws on 120 watts and the tweeter on 70 watts, giving both bands independent headroom. That direct amplification lets peaks reach 108.8 dB SPL half-space, surprising output for so small a box. Bi-amping also keeps transients clean because the drivers never fight over shared power. The reserves are what keep the monitor composed when a mix gets loud.

DSP and MA 1 Room Correction

Onboard 24-bit DSP with FIR phase correction manages the crossover and prepares the monitor for automatic alignment. Networked to Neumann's MA 1 software, it is measured with a calibrated microphone and corrected for the room, phase included. Because compact monitors often sit on cluttered desks against walls, that correction removes much of the resulting response error. IP control handles setup and alignment across a pair or larger system. For an untreated room, MA 1 is the feature that makes the KH 80 trustworthy.

Analog Hookup and Desktop Placement

A single electronically balanced input accepts both XLR and 6.3 mm jack connections, so the monitor interfaces with almost any interface or console. The compact cabinet and included self-adhesive feet suit desktop, stand, and shelf placement close to the listener. Its small footprint leaves room on a crowded desk while still delivering a full reference. Balanced connection keeps the signal quiet even in electrically busy rooms. That simple hookup makes the KH 80 quick to drop into any workspace.

Who the KH 80 DSP Anthracite Is For

This monitor suits the desktop and nearfield engineer, the home and project studio, and portable or mobile rigs that need reference accuracy in a small space. Buyers praise its reference sound from a tiny box, its output for the size, effective MA 1 correction, and neutral, detailed voicing. Buy a matched pair for stereo, add a KH-line subwoofer for extension, and align the system with MA 1. In the box are the KH 80 DSP monitor, four self-adhesive feet, a US mains cable, a safety guide, and a getting-started supplement. For small-room reference on a budget of space, it is a benchmark.