STUDIO QUALITY FOR STAGE VOCALS
The KMS 104 plus brings studio sound quality to the stage. Unlike usual stage microphones, which use dynamic capsules, the KMS 104 plus is equipped with a true condenser microphone capsule offering the superior clarity that made Neumann studio microphones famous all over the world. At the same time, the KMS 104 plus possesses the ruggedness required of a stage mic, thus refuting the myth that condenser microphones must be “fragile”. The KMS 104 plus can stand enormous sound pressure levels of up to 150 dB without clipping, and its tight cardioid pattern ensures high gain before feedback. The KMS 104 plus has a much smoother frequency response than dynamic microphones and an airy top-end. Compared to dynamic microphones, the Neumann KMS 104 plus has a vastly superior transient response resulting in a more immediate and emotional vocal sound. In practical terms: effortless intelligibility, without the usual EQ boosts – which further improves feedback resistance.
As a stage microphone, the KMS 104 plus is optimized for close miking; a fixed low cut filter compensates for the proximity effect and ensures clear bass. Compared to the KMS 104 the KMS 104 plus gives added emphasis to the lower register (100-150 Hz) , thus lending more “weight” and “warmth” to voices which might sound too “light” with the KMS 104. The plus version is particularly popular with female singers.
The headgrille is made of hardened steel and features a highly effective internal pop screen which also keeps moisture away from the capsule. Thanks to careful Neumann engineering, these acoustic filters do not cause any sibilance problems. The head amplifier is protected by a thick-walled housing. Its transformerless output minimizes electromagnetic interference, such as hum. Because of its low output impedance of only 50 ohms, the KMS 104 plus can drive very long cable runs of up to 300 m (1000 ft) without transmission losses.
APPLICATIONS
The KMS 104 plus is primarily designed as a handheld vocal microphone but can be used for other stage applications as well, due to its high SPL capability and wide dynamic range. Examples include percussion, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, harmonica, acoustic guitar, and guitar cabinets. The KMS 104 plus is also a superb microphone for home recording and broadcast applications. As the KMS 104 plus is optimized for close mic placement, it will pick up a dry sound with very little ambience, which is a big advantage in untreated rooms.
- Balanced sound with extended bass for extra “warmth”
- Popular with female singers
- Tight cardioid pattern without off-axis coloration
- Unaffected by extreme sound pressure levels
- Feedback resistant
- Built-in pop screen
