The KMS 104 is a studio quality vocal microphone for the stage. Its precision-engineered condenser capsule offers true Neumann sound quality, combined with all the virtues of a rugged stage microphone: excellent pop protection, low handling noise, enormous SPL capability, and high resistance to feedback, thanks to its tight cardioid pattern. *Studio quality for stage vocals The KMS 104 brings studio sound quality to the stage. Unlike conventional stage microphones, which use dynamic capsules, the KMS 104 is equipped with a true condenser microphone capsule, offering the superior clarity that has made Neumann studio microphones famous around the world. At the same time, the KMS 104 has the robustness required of a stage microphone, disproving the myth that condenser microphones must be "fragile".The KMS 104 can stand enormous sound pressure levels of up to 150 dB without clipping, and its tight, frequency-independent cardioid pattern ensures high gain before feedback. The KMS 104 has a much smoother frequency response than dynamic microphones and an airy top-end. Compared to dynamic microphones, the Neumann KMS 104 has a vastly superior transient response resulting in a more immediate and more 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 is optimized for close miking; a fixed low-cut filter compensates for the proximity effect and ensures clear bass, even if the singer's lips touch the microphone. The grille is made of hardened steel and has a highly effective internal pop screen that also keeps moisture away from the capsule. Thanks to Neumann's careful engineering, these acoustic filters do not cause any sibilance problems. The head amp is protected by a thick-walled enclosure. Its transformerless output minimizes electromagnetic interference, such as hum. Due to its low output impedance of only 50 ohms, the KMS 104 can conduct very long cables up to 300 m (1000 ft) without transmission losses. The KMS 104 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: percussion, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, harmonica, acoustic guitar and guitar cabinets. Thanks to its superior sound quality, the KMS 104 is also an excellent microphone for home recording and broadcasting applications. Because it is optimized for close mic placement, the KMS 104 will capture a dry sound with very little ambience, which is a great advantage in untreated rooms. Tight cardioid pattern with no off-axis coloration. -Not affected by extreme sound pressure levels. -Robust construction. -Resistant to feedback, high rearward sound rejection (180°). -Built