Behringer

Behringer is a German-based audio company that makes an extensive line of gear, including musical instruments, computer-based recording and DJ products, mixing consoles, loudspeakers/amplifiers, wireless systems, headphones, professional lighting systems, and, of course, microphones.  Their design, ergonomics and sound quality are better formulated for live stage than studio production, though they make products for both.

When established in 1989, founder Uli Behringer had value in mind.  He essentially bridged the gap between price and quality by offering higher quality products for less, thereby giving more people the ability to purchase professional audio equipment.  By offering high-tech equipment for less, Behringer developed a type of consumer all their own: the new Prosumer.  Behringer’s key to success was simply “Double the Features – Half the Price.’  Coupled with earlier efforts to outsource manufacturing to China (a decade before industry leaders caught on), the company owes its success to the Uli Behringer’s vital business decisions.

By the late 1990s, they had an impressive line of signal processors and mixers available at great prices.  Their mics started to pop up around the same time, but were basically overshadowed by their other products’ success.  Today, the company is located in 10 locations throughout the world and its products are sold in over 125 countries.

The Behringer microphone line includes a small selection of dynamic and condenser microphones.  The company also makes a few wireless models.  Behringer microphone prices are alarmingly low, starting at $29.99 and running up to $189, while their wireless systems range between $249.99 and $289.99.

The Behringer large diaphragm condenser microphone line includes the gold-sputtered Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphone B-1, priced at $129.99 USD and the gold-sputtered Dual Diaphragm condenser microphone B-2 Pro, priced at $189.99 USD.  The latter is a high performance microphone designed with an additional low cut filter that offers a “slightly pronounced 12 kHz range,” which reduces the need for high-frequency EQing.  It also features omnidirectional or figure-eight directivity pattern, selectable cardioid, built-in shielding and comes with a suspension mount and windscreen, all included in a rugged hard-shell case.

Behringer’s dynamic microphone line features the Ultravoice XM8500 ($29.99 USD), and the Ultravoice XM1800S, a vocal microphone 3-pack for $49.99.  The XM8500 microphone eliminates feedback as it rejects sound from both its sides and back with cardioid polar pattern.  This model features a noise-reducing shock-mount system, a two-stage pop filter, and strong mesh windscreen made of steel.  The XM1800S are designed with very high signal output and ultra-low distortion.  Feedback is virtually eliminated with these microphones’ off-axis rejection.  These rugged microphones are built to endure whatever you put them through.

The Behringer condenser microphone line currently includes the dual-diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone C-3, the gold-sputtered Single-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone B-5, two matched Studio Condenser Microphones C-2, Studio Condenser Microphone C-1, and the omnidirectional Measurement Microphone ECM8000.

For $79.99 USD, the Behringer C-3 is intended for high-quality studio recording and stage use.  It features selectable omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-eight pickup patterns.  It also comes with a pressure-gradient transducer, shock-mounted dual-diaphragm capsule, phantom power LED indicator, and gold-plated XLR output connector.

The Behringer B-5 is priced at $109.99 USD and works best with acoustic instruments, overhead miking, and vocals.  It comes with two interchangeable capsules for either cardioid or omnidirectional pickup. Low frequency distortion is minimized with the B-5’s low-noise transformerless FET input and floor rumble is reduced with its low-cut filter.

The C-2 consists of two matched studio condenser microphones that cost $79.99 USD, optimal for stereophonic recording.  Achieve ultra-wide frequency response with their low-mass diaphragm, reduce feedback with the cardioid pickup pattern and minimize low-frequency distortion with the ultra low-noise transformerless FET input.  The C-2 feature a gold plated 3-pin XLR connector and are idea for acoustic instruments, pianos, overhead applications, and more.

You can purchase the C-1 Studio Condenser Microphone for $49.99.  This microphone provides flat frequency response, low-noise transformerless FET input circuitry, gold-plated XLR output, and an LED light to indicate phantom power.  Use this mic for drums, acoustic/electric instrument miking, or vocals either live or in the studio.