Sennheiser 3 Sennheiser E604 Dynamic Cardioid Instrument vs Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum

Overview of Sennheiser E604 and Behringer BC1200

The Sennheiser E604 is a comprehensive kit designed for professional drummers, while the Behringer BC1200 offers a broader selection of microphones at a significantly lower price. The Sennheiser kit is priced at $429.00, making it about 230% more expensive than the Behringer BC1200, which retails for $129.00. This price difference highlights the premium quality and specialized features of the Sennheiser kit compared to the more budget-friendly Behringer option.

Features and Capabilities

The Sennheiser E604 kit includes three dynamic cardioid microphones, along with drum rim clips and XLR cables, making it a complete solution for serious drummers. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, capturing frequencies between 40 Hz and 18 kHz, ensures it performs exceptionally well in live and studio settings. In contrast, the Behringer BC1200 set consists of seven microphones, including a large diaphragm dynamic mic for the bass drum and four dynamic mics for various percussion instruments. This variety allows users to capture every nuance of a full drum kit, which can be attractive for both studio recordings and live performances.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Sennheiser E604 is specifically engineered to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for percussion and brass instruments. It can capture sound pressure levels exceeding 160 dB without distortion, which is crucial for high-energy performances. The Behringer BC1200, while also capable of delivering quality sound, focuses on versatility with its matched condenser microphones for overhead stereo imaging. This design is excellent for capturing detailed audio, especially in studio settings, but it may not match the specialized performance of the Sennheiser kit in loud environments.

Build Quality and Durability

The Sennheiser E604 is known for its rugged design, which is particularly vital for drummers who often transport equipment to various venues. The microphones are built to withstand the physical demands of live performances. In comparison, the Behringer BC1200, while a complete set, may not be as durable as the Sennheiser kit. The inclusion of a large diaphragm microphone enhances its capability for low-frequency instruments, but the overall build quality may not match the premium materials used in the Sennheiser microphones.

Application Versatility

The Sennheiser E604 is primarily designed for drums and certain brass and woodwind instruments, making it an excellent choice for dedicated percussionists. Meanwhile, the Behringer BC1200 offers a diverse range of microphones that can be used for various applications, including studio recordings and live settings. With four dynamic percussion microphones and two matched condensers, it provides flexibility for different musical styles and recording techniques, appealing to a broader audience.

Pricing and Value

The Sennheiser E604 is priced at $429.00, which places it in the higher end of the market for drum microphones. The Behringer BC1200, on the other hand, is priced at $129.00, making it about 70% cheaper than the Sennheiser kit. For those on a budget or just starting with drum miking, the Behringer set offers great value, especially considering it includes seven microphones to cover an entire drum kit. However, the Sennheiser kit's price reflects its specialized features and superior sound capabilities.

Brand Reputation and Sales Rank

Sennheiser is renowned for producing high-quality audio equipment, and the E604 is no exception, as evidenced by its sales rank of 46,034. This rank indicates a solid reputation among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Conversely, the Behringer BC1200 holds a better sales rank of 6,408, suggesting it is a popular choice among users seeking a more economical solution without compromising too much on quality. Both brands are respected in the audio industry, but their target markets differ significantly.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Sennheiser E604 and the Behringer BC1200 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a serious drummer looking for high-quality, specialized microphones that can handle intense sound levels, the Sennheiser E604 is the better option despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for versatility and a complete microphone setup for a variety of recording scenarios at a budget-friendly price, the Behringer BC1200 is an excellent choice.