Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Shure SM-57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone

Overview of the Behringer BC1200 and Shure SM-57

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, while the Shure SM-57 retails for $98.00, making it about 24% cheaper. The Behringer BC1200 is a comprehensive seven-piece drum microphone set, specifically engineered for capturing full drum kit nuances in both studio and live settings. In contrast, the Shure SM-57 is a single cardioid dynamic microphone renowned for its versatility, making it suitable for various instruments. Understanding the differences between these two products can help you choose the right microphone for your needs.

Target Applications

The Behringer BC1200 is designed explicitly for drummers and performers, featuring a complete collection tailored for studio recordings and live performances. It includes a large diaphragm dynamic microphone for the bass drum and four dynamic percussion microphones for snare and toms. On the other hand, the Shure SM-57 is a single microphone that excels in capturing amplified and acoustic instruments, making it a popular choice for vocal performances and instrument miking. If your focus is on drums, the Behringer BC1200 is the better choice, while the Shure SM-57 offers versatility for various applications.

Microphone Configuration

The Behringer BC1200 consists of seven microphones, offering a comprehensive solution for drummers. This includes one large diaphragm microphone and four dynamic mics for snare and toms, plus two matched condenser microphones for overhead stereo imaging. The Shure SM-57, however, is a single microphone, primarily designed to provide a balanced frequency response for rich vocal pickup. The choice between these two products will largely depend on whether you need a full drum microphone setup or a versatile single microphone for multiple instruments.

Price Comparison

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, while the Shure SM-57 costs $98.00. This $31 difference signifies that the Shure microphone is approximately 24% less expensive than the Behringer set. While the Shure SM-57 is easier on the wallet, it's essential to consider that it serves a different purpose. For those needing a complete drum mic setup, the Behringer BC1200 offers greater value despite its higher price point.

Sales and Popularity

The Behringer BC1200 has a sales rank of 6408, while the Shure SM-57 ranks at 8727. This indicates that the Behringer BC1200 is currently more popular among consumers, likely due to its comprehensive seven-piece configuration appealing to drummers. However, the Shure SM-57 has a long-standing reputation for reliability and performance, which has contributed to its enduring popularity in the audio industry. The sales rankings suggest that if you are looking for a well-regarded microphone for various applications, the Shure SM-57 might still be a solid choice.

Sound Quality and Performance

The Behringer BC1200 is designed to capture the complete range of a drum kit, ensuring that every nuance is picked up effectively. With its dynamic and condenser microphones, the set allows for rich sound reproduction in both studio and live environments. Conversely, the Shure SM-57 is known for its contoured frequency response, which helps in delivering clean sound reproduction for vocals and instruments alike. If sound quality for a complete drum setup is your priority, the Behringer BC1200 is the clear winner. However, if you need versatility for different instruments, the Shure SM-57 excels in that regard.

Build Quality and Durability

Both the Behringer BC1200 and Shure SM-57 are built with performance in mind, but they cater to different needs. The Behringer set is designed for the rigors of live performances, ensuring durability across various settings. The Shure SM-57, on the other hand, is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability over years of use, making it a staple in studios and on stage. While both options are durable, the choice may depend on whether you’re committed to a specific application like drumming or looking for a microphone that can withstand varied environments.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Behringer BC1200 and the Shure SM-57 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are a drummer or involved in live performances requiring a complete microphone setup, the Behringer BC1200, with its seven-piece collection, provides excellent value for $129.00. However, if you seek a versatile and reliable microphone for various instruments and vocals, the Shure SM-57 at $98.00 is a strong contender, offering quality performance and durability. Consider your application, budget, and sound requirements carefully before making a choice.