A real sleeper

Having used all matter of LDCs for Voice Over and Audiobook recording, there are always issues that prevent me from using them and reverting back to dynamic standbys SM7b or RE-20. Cheaper condensers just don't have the sound quality suitable for the professional product that big clients demand, whereas u87s or similar (and the required pop filters and stands) are too big for ideal placement in a small booth. Unfortunately, with quieter voices, the dynamic mics require loads of gain from the preamp, which can introduce noise from a variety of places.

The BCM-104 solves all these issues flawlessly. The sound seems to be tailored perfectly for the human voice, and the tight cardioid polar pattern rejects reflections rather well. Compared with the similarly priced TLM-103, the BCM-104 simply works better on every source I've tried it on, and compares very favorably to the u87i on cardioid setting in most applications. While the mount might be awkward for some instruments in a music setting, I've found that the frequency response is far, far more musical than any other microphone in its price range.

Matching this mic with the right pre for the source bodes very well in post production. The "air" and "body" seem to remain intact even after heavy limiting and EQ.

This mic gets very little attention on the online boards, as it's been marketed mainly to broadcast and voiceover professionals. No one I know uses one in a music application OR in broadcast/VO. That might be a shame, but I'll be using this for years to come, and will likely pick up a few more before they catch on and get expensive after they're discontinued.

BCM 104 "REVIEW"

The Neumann BCM 104 is the ultimate Vocal Microphone for its price range!
This microphone looks spectacular and it sounds amazing.
“If you ask me the Microphone is under priced…”

Carlos A. Gonzalez
carlos@carlosgonzalezmusic.com