Bang & Olufsen BM5
Little is documented about the Bang & Olufsen BM5 in the standard reference record. The fact sheet for this model is entirely empty - no identity, specifications, design notes, or history were found in the research provided. What can be established comes from period trade coverage instead of spec sheets. Studio Sound (August 1970, p.34) described the BM5 as a figure-of-8 stereo ribbon microphone, coaxial up to 90°, with a frequency response of 30 Hz to 13 kHz ±2.5 dB, sensitivity of 85 dB below 1 V/µB, and hum sensitivity of 146 dB. The same publication's coverage in January 1971 confirms it was part of a ribbon microphone family from Bang & Olufsen. The BM6 was the mono sibling. The BM5 was a 150-ohm model.
The period reviews also note a quirk. The stand thread is a coarse 1-inch thread, not the standard 3/8-inch fitting, so many stands need an adaptor. B&O supplied these. The locking 5-pin plug/socket arrangement for the lead was singled out as well made.
That is the extent of the documented record. No pricing, no production years, no user reception, and no collectibility data have surfaced. If you own one or have come across period advertising, the archive would welcome the contribution.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.