Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Shure BETA 56A Snare and Tom Microphone -

Overview of the Behringer BC1200 and Shure BETA 56A

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, making it about 24% cheaper than the Shure BETA 56A, which retails for $170.00. Both microphones are designed for professional use, targeting drum applications in studio and live settings. The Behringer model offers a comprehensive 7-piece set, while the Shure BETA 56A is a single, specialized microphone. This article will explore their features, performance, and overall value to help you decide which option suits your needs better.

Design and Build Quality

The Behringer BC1200 offers a complete microphone set designed for versatility, including a large diaphragm dynamic microphone and four dynamic percussion mics. Its robust design is aimed at both studio settings and live performances. In contrast, the Shure BETA 56A is engineered specifically for close miking of snare and toms, featuring a compact and pivoting design. It has a hardened steel mesh grille that resists wear and abuse, ensuring durability even under demanding conditions. Both microphones exhibit high build quality, but the Shure model stands out for its compact design that reduces stage clutter.

Sound Quality

The Behringer BC1200 is tuned to capture the full nuances of a drum kit, with microphones specifically designed for bass drums, snare, toms, and overhead stereo imaging. This makes it an excellent choice for comprehensive drum recording. On the other hand, the Shure BETA 56A features a tailored frequency response that provides studio-quality sound for drums, amplified instruments, and horns. Its supercardioid pattern ensures high gain before feedback and superior rejection of off-axis sound, making it ideal for live setups. While both microphones deliver quality sound, the Behringer excels in versatility, whereas the Shure focuses on precision.

Setup and Usability

The Behringer BC1200 comes as a complete set, which might require more time for setup due to the number of microphones involved. However, its comprehensive nature allows for extensive coverage of a drum kit, making it suitable for various recording scenarios. The Shure BETA 56A, with its built-in stand adapter and dynamic locking system, simplifies setup and offers greater flexibility during performances. Users can quickly secure the microphone in place, which is particularly beneficial in fast-paced environments. For those who prioritize quick and easy setup, the Shure BETA 56A may be the more appealing choice.

Versatility

The Behringer BC1200 shines in terms of versatility due to its 7-piece configuration, which includes multiple microphones for different drum components and instruments. This makes it suitable for a wide range of musical applications, both in the studio and live performances. In contrast, the Shure BETA 56A is optimized for specific uses, particularly for close miking of snare and toms. While it offers excellent sound quality for those applications, its versatility is limited compared to the Behringer set. If you require a microphone that can handle a variety of instruments and setups, the Behringer BC1200 is the better option.

Performance in Live Settings

In live performances, the Shure BETA 56A's uniform supercardioid pattern provides high gain before feedback, making it a reliable choice for handling loud environments. Its advanced pneumatic shock mount system minimizes mechanical noise and vibrations, ensuring clarity in sound. On the other hand, while the Behringer BC1200 is designed for live applications, its performance may be less optimized for individual miking situations. Thus, for those primarily focused on live sound applications, the Shure BETA 56A could offer a more reliable and tailored performance.

Target Audience

The Behringer BC1200 is aimed at musicians and sound engineers who need a comprehensive drum mic setup for both studio and live applications. Its affordability and multiple microphone options make it suitable for those starting in music production or for larger bands. Conversely, the Shure BETA 56A is targeted towards professionals looking for high-quality sound in specific applications, such as close miking for snare and toms. This makes it ideal for professional drummers and sound technicians who prioritize sound quality and reliability. Depending on your needs, either option serves a distinct audience effectively.

Price Comparison

The Behringer BC1200 is currently priced at $129.00, while the Shure BETA 56A costs $170.00, making the Behringer about 24% cheaper. This price difference could be a significant factor for budget-conscious musicians or producers. While the Shure model offers premium features and sound quality, the Behringer delivers a complete set that may provide better value for those needing a range of microphones. When considering your budget and requirements, the pricing will play a crucial role in your decision.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Behringer BC1200 and the Shure BETA 56A ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek versatility and a complete drum mic solution at a lower price point, the Behringer BC1200 is an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a specialized microphone that offers superior sound quality and performance in live settings, the Shure BETA 56A may be worth the investment. Both microphones excel in their respective areas, making them valuable tools for any musician or sound engineer.