Scott: I have a pair of KM183s and a matched pair of Schoeps CMC62h omnis
and there
is a definite deference in the sound. The Schoeps have a more natural sound
and very smooth top and bottom end
where the Neumann's have as you say a more etched top end but the bottom end
seems ok

Yes, and the KM83 sounds almost muffled in comparison with the Schoeps.
--scott

I set up Schoeps CMC5-MK5's and Neumann U63 (U64 Nuvistor amp with
KK-83 capsule) in sound checks for the American Brass Quintet in the
Harris Hall, Aspen, CO.

They had a tough time deciding which they liked better. They also felt
the 83's were 'darker' or warmer sounding. I noticed the Neumann mic
recorded more reverberant sound in the hall. The Hall is very warm
sounding, so that could be part of it. In the end, the Schoeps were
used.

Mike