The Neumann KMS 104 is The Best Hand Held Microphone In The World.
What makes it the best? Incredible, open, accurate sound quality, and rugged, innovative design. Its Neumann heritage and incredible sound quality have made it an instant hit with vocalists and live sound engineers. The KMS 104 has a microphone capsule with a cardioid directional characteristic which provides the best possible suppression of sounds originating from behind the microphone. Other features include extremely low handling noise and specially-designed, no foam pop screen make it highly stage-friendly. Specs include 132 dB dynamic range 150dB maximum SPL, low self noise of 18 dB-A, and 20Hz - 20kHz frequency range. Requires 48V phantom power.Neumann KMS 104 FeaturesNeumann sound on stageExcellent transparency for vocals/speechCardioid polar pattern with excellent feedback rejectionWithout off-axis coloration   Effective pop shielding without any side effectAcoustic Features
The studio condenser capsule used in the KMS 104 microphones provide the basis for transmitting all the nuances of the human voice. In comparison with other handheld microphones, which operate mostly with dynamic capsules, the KMS series has a particularly high acoustic transparency, a wide frequency range and a fine resolution of transients.The KMS 104 has carefully adjusted acoustic filters that can handle very high sound pressure levels prevent the microphones from being overloaded even by strong plosive sounds.In spite of excellent pop protection, sibilants and S sounds are transmitted with their natural accentuation, as is possible only with condenser microphones. Furthermore, the above-mentioned acoustic filters are designed so that the distinctive directional characteristics of the capsules are preserved even in the bass range. The filters thus ensure a very high level of feedback protection for the KMS 104 vocalist microphone when used with a stage sound system.Neumann KMS 104 ApplicationsVocals and speech on stageAnnouncer’s mic for broadcasting/dubbingEspecially suited for in-ear-monitoringFor feedback-prone environmentThese are just some of the most common applications. Neumann recommends additional experimentation to gain maximum use from this microphone.Electrical Features
Since vocalist microphones are typically addressed at close range, for the bass frequency response of the microphones, electronic compensation is used for the proximity effect in the respective capsules.In addition, each microphone has an invariable, built-in high-pass filter with a cutoff frequency of 120 Hz (–3 dB, measured in a free sound field). The dynamic range of the KMS 104 is 132 dB, and the maximum sound pressure level is 150 dB.The low self-noise level of only 18 dB-A permits both microphones to be used at high gain levels without the risk of additional noise. Even at large distances, the microphones thus operate with a high signal-to-noise ratio, facilitating the freedom of movement and creativity that are important to the artist.Due to the transformerless output circuit, the microphone signals can be transmitted even through long cables without loss of sound.Mechanical Features
Microphones designed for use on stage require a particularly robust construction. The KMS 104 has a thick-walled metal housing, which also provide effective protection against handling noise.The microphone headgrilles are made of hardened steel. If required, they can easily be unscrewed to permit cleaning of the interior acoustic filters.Delivery
The KMS 104 microphone supplied in an attractive padded nylon bag that is sufficiently durable for touring.