Neumann BCM 104From real comments

Verdict distilled from 21 mentions across 11 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment63%
PROS 63%
CONS 37%

Rank based on 21 mentions across 11 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You want a natural, balanced broadcast/VO sound with less proximity effect than TLM102/103
  • You like the all-in-one design without needing a separate shock mount or pop filter
  • You do close-mic radio-style or storyline VO work and want a Neumann-quality option

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You're on a tight budget, since $400 dynamics like the SM7B or RE20 satisfy some listeners just as well
  • You want maximum plosive protection without adding extra foam/metal pop protection
  • You're wary of build/QC issues, as a couple of buyers needed repairs or replacements

What users complain about

Compare in seconds

Based on user comments

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Versatile across instruments
Strong, non-boomy low end
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Lacking low-mid presence on some vocals
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Strong overall sound quality
Versatile onboard EQ switches
Built-in gain boost
High price for some buyers
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Fiddly dip switches
6Mid
Shure Beta 57A
Smoother, clearer vocal sound than SM58/SM57Excellent on acoustic guitarDurable, long-lasting buildCan sound harsh in some applicationsAppearance not universally likedInconsistent noise rejection vs SM57
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Smoother, clearer vocal sound than SM58/SM57
Excellent on acoustic guitar
Durable, long-lasting build
Can sound harsh in some applications
Appearance not universally liked
Inconsistent noise rejection vs SM57
7Mid
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Excellent sound on drums and vocals
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Recognizable, notable reputation
8Premium
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Smooth, warm characterCompetitive with top-tier micsFull-bodied, rich low endHard to distinguish from cheaper alternativesVery high pricePositioning-sensitive
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Smooth, warm character
Competitive with top-tier mics
Full-bodied, rich low end
Hard to distinguish from cheaper alternatives
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9Premium
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10Mid
Neumann TLM 193
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Low sibilance / smooth highs
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You are here
31Premium
Neumann BCM 104
Natural, balanced soundPreferred over dynamic mics for VO/broadcastClear vocal presence with less harshnessOccasional QC/defect issuesPlosive handling needs extra protectionHigh price relative to alternatives
Neumann BCM 104
Natural, balanced sound
Preferred over dynamic mics for VO/broadcast
Clear vocal presence with less harshness
Occasional QC/defect issues
Plosive handling needs extra protection
High price relative to alternatives

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

Sound quality draws consistent praise for being natural and balanced. Multiple commenters describe the BCM 104's midrange as impressive and its overall tone as more natural than the TLM 102, which some call cheap or hifi-sounding by comparison. Others say it's clearer than the TLM 103 for understanding speech without being harsh. A few even want to try it on non-vocal material after hearing its midrange response.

It stacks up favorably against Neumann's own TLM series and popular dynamics. Users report less proximity effect and bass than the TLM 102, less mouth noise than the TLM 103, and cleaner results than the TLM 102 in direct comparisons. Some prefer it over long-used RE20s and SM7Bs for VO work, calling it their new go-to, while a couple of listeners still found the RE20/SM7B preferable or better value in blind comparisons.

Practical quirks include plosive handling and occasional QC hiccups. Working close to the mic can create plosive problems despite the built-in pop filter, with one user adding external foam/metal protection; another notes no mic is fully plosive-resistant. Two commenters had units arrive with defects (a loose grill, and one needing Neumann repair), though this wasn't described as widespread.

Outdated / Not-accurate data?