Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Shure Beta 91A Kick Drum Microphone

Overview of the Products

When comparing the Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum Microphone Set and the Shure Beta 91A Kick Drum Microphone, price is a significant factor. The Behringer set is currently priced at $129.00, while the Shure microphone is listed at $242.00, making the Behringer option about 47% cheaper. This price difference may appeal to those looking for a cost-effective solution, especially when considering the features each product offers.

Features and Functionality

The Behringer BC1200 is designed as a complete collection of drum microphones, offering a total of seven microphones tailored for various drum kit elements. This includes one large diaphragm dynamic microphone for the bass drum, four dynamic microphones for snare and toms, and two matched condenser microphones for overhead recording. In contrast, the Shure Beta 91A is specifically engineered for kick drums, featuring a frequency response optimized for bass instruments and a cardioid pattern that excels in rejecting unwanted sounds. While the Behringer set covers a broader range of applications, the Shure focuses on producing high-quality sound in high SPL environments.

Design and Build Quality

The Behringer BC1200’s design is more versatile, with multiple microphone types that can accommodate different instruments and settings. However, the Shure Beta 91A boasts a low-profile design that eliminates the need for external mounting hardware, making it easy to set up in a kick drum. The Shure microphone is also known for its ruggedness and reliability, which is a hallmark of the brand. If durability and ease of use are paramount, the Beta 91A may have the edge despite the Behringer's more extensive microphone collection.

Target Audience

The Behringer BC1200 is ideal for both studio recordings and live performances, making it a well-rounded choice for musicians and sound engineers who work in various environments. With a sales rank of 6408, it appeals to a wide audience looking for affordable yet functional equipment. On the other hand, the Shure Beta 91A, with a sales rank of 57178, is targeted more specifically at those who primarily require a kick drum microphone. This specialization may limit its audience but makes it a top choice for users focused on kick drum performance.

Sound Quality and Performance

In terms of sound quality, the Behringer BC1200 is designed to capture every nuance of a full drum kit, providing a balanced and rich audio experience. It features microphones that are matched and tuned to work together, which is beneficial during recordings. Conversely, the Shure Beta 91A is known for delivering superior "attack" and "punch," especially within the demanding environment of a kick drum. Its boundary effect design ensures a strong low-end response, which is crucial for heavy bass applications. Depending on your specific needs, one set may outperform the other in its intended application.

Portability and Convenience

The Behringer BC1200 includes a complete set of microphones, which can be beneficial for those who need various mic options for different instruments. However, this can also make it bulkier compared to the Shure Beta 91A, which is compact and easy to transport. The detachable cable of the Beta 91A adds to its convenience, allowing for easy storage and setup. For musicians who frequently travel or perform live, the Shure's portability may be a deciding factor.

Price Consideration

Price plays a crucial role in the decision-making process between these two products. The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. In comparison, the Shure Beta 91A is significantly more expensive at $242.00, representing a price difference of $113.00. For those who may only need a kick drum microphone or are looking specifically for high-quality sound in that range, the investment in the Shure might be justified. However, for a more comprehensive microphone solution at a lower cost, the Behringer set stands out.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum Microphone Set and the Shure Beta 91A Kick Drum Microphone largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require a versatile set of microphones for various applications at a lower price, the Behringer BC1200 is an excellent choice. However, if you are focused on achieving superior sound quality for kick drums and are willing to invest more for that specialization, the Shure Beta 91A will serve you well. Ultimately, both products have their merits, catering to different users within the music and sound engineering fields.