Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Shure SM57 & SM58 Microphone Set

Overview of the Behringer BC1200 and Shure SM57 & SM58 Microphone Sets

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, making it significantly cheaper than the Shure SM57 & SM58, which retails for $196.00. This price difference of $67 means that the Behringer set is about 34% less expensive. While the Behringer set includes a comprehensive collection of drum microphones, the Shure set features a pair of versatile dynamic cardioid microphones suitable for both instruments and vocals.

Targeted Applications

The Behringer BC1200 is specifically designed for capturing the nuances of a full drum kit in both studio and live settings. With a total of seven microphones, this set includes a large diaphragm dynamic microphone ideal for the bass drum and four dynamic percussion microphones tailored for snare and toms. In contrast, the Shure SM57 & SM58 set focuses on versatility, providing one microphone for instruments and another for vocals, catering to a wider range of audio applications.

Microphone Design and Functionality

The design of the Behringer BC1200 emphasizes a complete collection of drum microphones, allowing for detailed sound capture across different percussion instruments. Its large diaphragm microphone is engineered for low-frequency sounds, while the matched condenser microphones enhance overhead stereo imaging. Meanwhile, the Shure SM57 & SM58 features a dynamic cardioid design, which minimizes background noise while ensuring crisp sound capture, making it ideal for both studio recordings and live performances.

Sales Rankings and Popularity

In terms of sales rank, the Behringer BC1200 has a bestseller rank of 6408, indicating a strong market presence, especially in its specific category of drum microphones. On the other hand, the Shure SM57 & SM58 has a higher sales rank of 21805. While both products are popular, the Behringer's position suggests it is more frequently chosen by consumers looking for drum microphone solutions.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Behringer BC1200 serves a niche market, being tailored specifically for drummers and those needing a full drum microphone set. Its seven-piece kit includes a variety of mics designed for different parts of the drum kit. In contrast, the Shure SM57 & SM58 offers versatility, functioning effectively for both instruments and vocals. This makes it an excellent choice for musicians needing a reliable microphone for various performance settings, thus broadening its appeal beyond just drummers.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Behringer BC1200 is aimed at capturing the full dynamic range of a drum kit, which is essential for studio recordings. Its inclusion of matched condenser microphones ensures excellent overhead imaging, which can also be beneficial for recording stringed instruments. Conversely, the Shure SM57 & SM58 is renowned for its crisp sound and reliable performance in live settings, making it a favorite amongst vocalists and instrumentalists alike. Each product has its strengths in sound capture, tailored to different user needs.

Price Comparison

The price of the Behringer BC1200 is $129.00, while the Shure SM57 & SM58 is priced at $196.00. This makes the Behringer set approximately 34% cheaper than the Shure microphones. For budget-conscious musicians or those specifically in need of drum microphones, the Behringer BC1200 offers substantial savings without sacrificing essential features tailored for its intended use.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Behringer BC1200 and the Shure SM57 & SM58 depends on your specific needs. If you're a drummer or require a complete drum microphone set for studio and live applications, the Behringer BC1200 stands out as a cost-effective option. However, if versatility across instruments and vocals is your priority, the Shure SM57 & SM58 set offers superior adaptability for various audio scenarios. Consider your primary use case and budget to make the best decision for your audio recording needs.