Neumann
Neumann BCM 104
Best professional condenser for high-end broadcast and podcast studio setups.
The Neumann BCM 104 is a professional large-diaphragm condenser broadcast microphone, meticulously engineered for demanding studio environments. It boasts a functionally optimized design that seamlessly integrates superior pop protection and effectively suppresses structure-borne noise. Utilizing a cardioid polar pattern, this microphone excels at isolating vocals, delivering a smooth, full response. It offers an exceptionally low self-noise of 7 dB(A) and handles high sound pressure levels up to 138dB SPL, ensuring a wide dynamic range for pristine audio capture. The easily removable head grille simplifies maintenance and ensures compatibility with standard broadcast arms.
$1195.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
105
/ 3337
#105 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+135%
Above average
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
/ Cardioid
Who it's for
- Professional broadcasters seeking pristine, studio-grade vocal clarity
- Studio engineers needing streamlined setups without external accessories
- Station managers requiring reliable gear for 24/7 heavy usage
Who should skip it
- Hobbyists or independent creators on a limited budget
- Field recordists using gear lacking reliable phantom power
- Musicians looking for a versatile microphone for general studio tasks
Performance breakdown
Broadcast Clarity
Delivers the signature, polished vocal presence required for professional radio work.
Noise Floor
Exceptionally quiet operation ensures pristine audio even in demanding studio environments.
Vocal Isolation
Cardioid pattern effectively rejects off-axis sound for focused, distraction-free recording.
Maintenance Ease
Twist-off head grille makes cleaning and hygiene routines remarkably simple.
SPL Handling
Robust dynamic range captures loud sources without unwanted distortion or clipping.
Mechanical Stability
Integrated suppression effectively minimizes rumble and structure-borne vibrations during use.
Key Specs
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Maximum SPL
138dB SPL
Self-Noise
7 dB(A)
Dynamic Range
131dB (DIN/IEC 651)
Sensitivity
-14dB (switchable)
Diaphragm Size
Large-diaphragm
Build Material/Color
Satin Nickel
Model Number
008483
Features
- Superior broadcast sound quality
- Integrated pop screen for clear vocals
- Excellent structure-borne noise suppression
- Large-diaphragm condenser for detailed capture
- Switchable proximity effect compensation
- Switchable sensitivity for flexibility
- Easy-to-clean, twist-off head grille
- Advanced 3D simulation design
What customers say
The Neumann BCM 104 is celebrated for its pristine audio quality, delivering authoritative and clear vocal reproduction through exceptional clarity and a smooth midrange. Professionals value its robust design, which includes an integrated shock mount and effective pop filter, simplifying setup in demanding broadcast settings. Reviewers consistently describe this microphone as a reliable workhorse, offering consistent performance that justifies its premium cost. While it requires quality preamplification to reach its full potential, the combination of sonic excellence and durable build quality establishes the BCM 104 as essential, high-value infrastructure for serious voice professionals.
Know before you buy
No, the microphone features an integrated pop screen inside the head grille, which is designed to effectively handle plosives during broadcast or vocal recording.
The microphone includes switchable proximity effect compensation, allowing you to adjust the frequency response to maintain a natural, balanced sound even when you are positioned very close to the capsule.
Yes, its cardioid polar pattern is excellent at isolating your voice while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. Additionally, its advanced internal structure-borne noise suppression helps minimize vibrations from desk mounts or boom arms.
Yes, the head grille is designed to be easily removed with a simple twist. This makes it straightforward to clean or replace, which is particularly useful in shared studio environments.
As a condenser microphone, it requires 48V phantom power, which is standard on almost all professional audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
The microphone features a switchable sensitivity setting that allows you to adjust the output level by -14dB. This is helpful when recording very loud sources to prevent clipping at the input stage of your interface.
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