iCON M4 — an affordable condenser microphone with a 25 mm capsule
Continuing our look at iCON ProAudio microphones, today we review the iCON M4.
Among the many condenser models, the M series consists of affordable studio microphones in a compact form factor. We previously tested the most affordable model in this series, the iCON M1, which has an inexpensive 16 mm capsule. Today's iCON M4 uses a larger 25 mm capsule. It is still not a true condenser microphone, but its capsule is a more interesting design. The M series also includes a model with a 34 mm capsule, which we will cover another time. For now, we will find out what this intermediate model, the iCON M4, can offer.
The iCON M4 is also interesting because it can work with different phantom power voltages. A separate +48 V/+5 V switch disconnects power from one of the pins. In +5 V mode, this allows direct connection to a standard headset input. However, a special cable must be bought or made separately, because no cables are supplied with the microphone.
iCON M4 specifications
| Capsule | 25 mm electret |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency range | 20 Hz–20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | -37dBV/Pa |
| Nominal impedance | 50 ohms |
| Nominal load impedance | 600 ohms |
| Recommended load impedance | >500 ohms |
| Maximum SPL | 130 dB |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 80 dB |
| Dynamic range | 123 dB |
| Required power supply | 5 V/48 V |
| Connections | XLR |
| Dimensions | 44 × 161 mm |
| Weight | 253 g |
| Package contents | Elastic shock mount, foam windscreen, wooden case |
Like the basic model, the iCON M4 belongs to the affordable category. It is intended mainly for recording speech, vocals, and acoustic instruments.
Compared with full-size studio models, the iCON M4 is very small, at only 16 centimeters tall. Its compact size does not stop it from looking attractive. An all-black microphone with a traditional design usually fits well into a room and looks natural on camera.
The microphone housing is metal and finished entirely in black. The metal grille protecting the capsule has a classic tapered shape.
The microphone has a fixed cardioid polar pattern. The active side of the capsule faces the manufacturer's logo. The phantom power mode switch is on the same side.
The photo with the grille removed shows the capsule. The iCON M4 uses an electret capsule with a 25 mm diaphragm. As in any good microphone, a rubber base isolates the capsule from housing vibration. Apart from the metal grille, the diaphragm has no covering, so a pop filter is needed for close voice recording.
The electronics also look good. The microphone uses a full circuit built from large discrete components. The stated specifications are fairly good: maximum SPL is 130 dB, signal-to-noise ratio is 80 dB, and sensitivity is -37 dB.
The supplied elastic shock mount has a strong metal structure. Unlike cheap mounts, the iCON M4 mount grips the microphone firmly and allows any orientation. A very stiff spring surrounds the microphone housing, preventing slipping or falling out of the mount.
The wooden storage case is another useful addition. Such accessories are usually supplied only with expensive microphones. Here, the manufacturer includes a convenient case with magnetic lid catches.
To assess recording quality, we recorded voice with the iCON M4 in studio conditions. As usual, our reference was a Neumann TLM 102. We recorded both microphones at the same time for a more accurate and fair comparison. The audio interface was a TASCAM UH-7000. Its microphone preamps allow the tested microphones to show their full potential.
The direct comparison with a microphone known to be better gave us a clear picture of the iCON M4's capabilities. Considering its price and capsule type, recording quality is quite good. We can confidently say that the M4 records a more attractive sound than the basic iCON M1. The larger capsule improves recording quality: voice sounds more pleasant and natural. The iCON M4 is still an entry-level microphone, but its sound is more interesting than that of many competing models. In our view, a comparison with microphones using full-size 34 mm capsules would not be fair. Those are a different class of product in a different price range.
Conclusions
The iCON M4 is a successful entry-level option with everything needed for professional use. The improved sound fully justifies the small price increase over the basic iCON M1. The alternative +5 V phantom power mode also greatly expands its possible uses. In our view, the only drawback is the lack of a special XLR-to-mini-jack cable for this connection. For many users, the ability to connect this studio microphone directly in place of a headset microphone will be a deciding factor.
Note. This is an adapted machine translation into English. It follows the “In simple terms” approach. Read the original article at https://prosound.ixbt.com/microphones/icon-m4.shtml.