BC10
The BC10 is our flagship large-diaphragm condenser microphone. Engineered from the ground up in Norway, it delivers studio-grade clarity with a warmth and presence that brings every performance to life.
Origin & Development
The Symfon BC10 (also referred to as Symfon Model BC10 or "Blue Condenser") is a rare Norwegian prototype condenser microphone from the early 1990s. It was developed by Thorleif Holm-Glad under the company Symfon of Norway, based in Oslo. It never entered full-scale commercial production, which makes surviving examples highly sought-after collector's items in professional audio circles.
It was built in Norway using high-tech military radar components for its capsule and electronics. A predecessor model, the Amphon BL-9, existed earlier, and the BC10 represented a refined version backed by new ownership. The company invested heavily in development and production equipment but ultimately lacked resources for marketing and promotion, leading to bankruptcy before it could reach the market.
Design
Described as a "blue condenser," the BC10 was engineered with a focus on high-quality professional use. Its construction emphasized premium, specialized components uncommon in consumer or standard studio microphones of the era — including military-grade radar technology repurposed for acoustic precision.
Sound Characteristics
Users and owners praise its sonic qualities. It reportedly sounds somewhat similar to the AKG C535 but "better" in some respects — offering clarity with a slight softening of the top end. This makes it particularly suited for:
- •Opera-style vocals
- •Bass drum
- •Double bass
- •East-European string instruments
- •Instruments or voices that benefit from a less aggressive high-frequency response
One owner noted using the predecessor (Amphon BL-9) successfully for amplifying a jazz singer's voice.
Features
Gold-Sputtered Diaphragm
34mm capsule with precision gold sputtering for optimal sensitivity and durability.
Transformerless Design
Ultra-clean signal path with minimal coloration — hear the source, not the microphone.
Handcrafted in Norway
Each BC10 is assembled, tuned, and tested by hand in our Norwegian workshop.
Why It's Legendary
Symfon of Norway positioned the BC10 as a high-end professional microphone, and a 1991 presentation by Thorleif Holm-Glad to the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and NRK (Norwegian Broadcasting) covered its history, philosophy, and results.
Because only a handful were made, it has gained a mythical status among audio enthusiasts — sometimes called "the mic you'll never own." Occasional mentions appear in vintage audio discussions, and owners of the related Amphon BL-9 describe it as "very well designed and manufactured." Values for surviving units are unclear but likely high due to rarity.