Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Sennheiser E602 II Cardioid Instrument Microphone

Overview of Both Microphones

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Sennheiser E602 II, which costs $159.00. This price difference of about 17% may influence your decision, especially if you're looking for a cost-effective solution for microphone needs. The Behringer set offers a comprehensive 7-piece collection tuned specifically for drums, while the Sennheiser model is tailored for various instruments with a focus on low frequencies.

Intended Use: Studio vs. Live Performance

The Behringer BC1200 is designed for both studio recordings and live performances, featuring a complete collection of microphones that cover a full drum kit. Its versatility makes it suitable for different environments, whether you're in a professional studio or at a live gig. On the other hand, the Sennheiser E602 II is specifically engineered for problematic bass signals, making it ideal for direct use in scenarios where low-frequency response is crucial. While both microphones can serve various applications, the Behringer may appeal more to drummers and live sound engineers.

Microphone Configuration and Features

The Behringer BC1200 includes a total of seven microphones, which consists of one large diaphragm dynamic microphone specifically for bass drums, four dynamic microphones for snare and toms, and two matched condenser microphones for overhead stereo imaging. This comprehensive setup ensures that every nuance of a drum kit is captured effectively. In contrast, the Sennheiser E602 II features a rugged, lightweight aluminum body and is built for stability on long boom arms, while its fast transient response and low-frequency extension make it particularly effective for bass instruments. The choice here depends on whether you need a full drum mic setup or a specialized instrument microphone.

Durability and Build Quality

The Sennheiser E602 II boasts a rugged and lightweight aluminum body, designed for stable positioning even when mounted on long microphone boom arms. This durability is essential for musicians who frequently transport their gear and need reliable equipment. Conversely, the Behringer BC1200, while designed for professional use, does not emphasize material quality in its description. If durability is a primary concern for you, the Sennheiser may have the edge due to its robust construction.

Performance and Sound Quality

The Behringer BC1200 is engineered to capture every nuance of a full drum kit, making it an excellent choice for drummers who want to ensure their performance is accurately recorded. The inclusion of both dynamic and condenser microphones in the set allows for a range of sound capture, from the punchy attack of the snare to the delicate overheads that capture cymbals. On the other hand, the Sennheiser E602 II is designed with a low-frequency extension that makes it particularly effective in capturing deep bass sounds, which could be beneficial for bass guitars and kick drums. If your priority is sound quality tailored to specific instruments, the Sennheiser's design may serve you better.

Price Comparison

The Behringer BC1200 is available for $129.00, which is significantly less than the Sennheiser E602 II's price of $159.00. This price difference of about 17% makes the Behringer a more attractive option for those on a budget or for those who need multiple microphones for their setup. However, the increased price of the Sennheiser may reflect its specialized design and build quality, which could justify the investment for serious musicians or sound engineers.

Sales Rank and Popularity

In terms of market presence, the Behringer BC1200 holds a sales rank of 6408, indicating a steady level of interest among consumers. Meanwhile, the Sennheiser E602 II has a lower sales rank of 49783, suggesting it may not be as popular in the same category. This difference in sales rank could influence your decision, as a higher rank often correlates with customer satisfaction and proven performance in real-world scenarios.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Behringer BC1200 and the Sennheiser E602 II ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for a comprehensive set of microphones for drums or live performances, the Behringer BC1200 at $129.00 is a compelling choice, especially given its versatility and lower price. However, if you require a specialized microphone with a rugged design and excellent low-frequency response, the Sennheiser E602 II at $159.00 may be worth the extra investment. Consider your use case, budget, and the type of sound you're aiming to capture before making your final decision.