Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-Piece Drum vs Superlux PRA628MKII Professional Dynamic

Overview of the Behringer BC1200 and Superlux PRA628MKII

The Behringer BC1200 is a comprehensive 7-piece drum microphone set, while the Superlux PRA628MKII is a single dynamic microphone optimized for guitars and other instruments. The BC1200 is priced at $129.00, making it significantly more expensive than the PRA628MKII, which retails at $49.95. This price difference is about 74%, reflecting the extensive kit offered by Behringer.

The Behringer BC1200 is designed specifically for capturing a full drum kit's sound, featuring a collection of microphones tailored for various drum components. In contrast, the Superlux PRA628MKII is a versatile microphone primarily intended for electric guitar and bass amplification, making it suitable for both studio and live settings.

Intended Use: Studio vs. Live Performance

The Behringer BC1200 is ideal for both studio recordings and live performances, specifically targeting drummers and percussionists. The set includes a variety of microphones, such as a large diaphragm microphone tailored for bass drums and dynamic microphones for snare, toms, and other percussive instruments. This variety allows for a comprehensive capture of the drum kit's nuances, making it a perfect choice for those who require a full drum mic setup.

On the other hand, the Superlux PRA628MKII is also versatile, but it focuses on capturing sound from guitar amplifiers and brass instruments. Its super-cardioid pattern helps reject background noise, making it suitable for live sound environments. While it excels in its niche, it may not provide the same breadth of usage as the BC1200 for those needing a complete drum mic solution.

Microphone Design and Features

The Behringer BC1200 features a set of seven microphones, including dynamic and condenser types, which are optimized for various drum components. This arrangement ensures that every nuance of the drum kit is captured, from the low frequencies of the bass drum to the overhead sounds from the cymbals. The inclusion of two matched condenser microphones for overhead stereo imaging enhances its versatility for use outside of just drums.

In comparison, the Superlux PRA628MKII is designed with a super-cardioid polar pattern, which provides focused sound pickup while minimizing background noise. This microphone can handle high sound pressure levels up to 150 dB, making it suitable for loud environments. However, it lacks the range of microphones that the BC1200 offers, which may limit its effectiveness for users seeking to mic an entire kit.

Sound Quality and Performance

The Behringer BC1200 is engineered to deliver high-quality sound reproduction for an entire drum kit setup. The combination of dynamic microphones for percussive elements and condenser mics for overhead capture ensures a balanced and detailed sound profile. Its sales rank of 6408 reflects its popularity among users, indicating a solid reputation for performance in both studio and live settings.

The Superlux PRA628MKII, priced at a much lower $49.95, offers a tailored frequency response of 80Hz to 18kHz, which captures rich midrange and crisp highs. While it is recognized for its effective sound capture, as indicated by its sales rank of 19279, it may not match the overall versatility and sound quality of a complete drum mic set like the BC1200.

Portability and Convenience

The Behringer BC1200, being a set of seven microphones, can be less portable than the single Superlux PRA628MKII. However, it is designed for convenience, coming as a complete solution for drummers who need multiple mics for their setup. The microphones are specifically tailored for use with drum kits, which may make transporting them more cumbersome than a single, compact microphone.

In contrast, the Superlux PRA628MKII is compact and rugged, featuring a low-profile design that allows for close mic placement. It also comes with a clamp and pouch, making it easy to transport and set up for performances. This portability makes it a great choice for musicians who frequently move between venues.

Price Comparison and Value

The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, while the Superlux PRA628MKII is available for $49.95. This represents a price difference of about 74%, with the BC1200 being a more significant investment. However, for that price, users receive a full set of microphones designed for an entire drum kit, which could be seen as a better value for drummers.

On the other hand, the Superlux PRA628MKII offers a more budget-friendly option for those who only need a single microphone, particularly for guitar or bass amplification. The lower price point may appeal to individual musicians or those just starting, who may not require a full drum microphone setup.

User Experience and Feedback

Users of the Behringer BC1200 often commend its comprehensive nature and effective sound capture capabilities, particularly for drummers needing a full kit setup. The popularity indicated by its sales rank shows that many have found it to meet their needs for both studio and live applications successfully.

Conversely, the Superlux PRA628MKII is praised for its focused sound pickup and durability, making it a favorite among guitarists and performers who need reliable equipment. While it may not have the same breadth of functionality as the BC1200, it serves its intended purpose well, as demonstrated by its consistent user feedback.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Behringer BC1200 and the Superlux PRA628MKII ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are a drummer seeking a comprehensive microphone solution for both studio and live applications, the Behringer BC1200 offers a complete set of tailored microphones at $129.00. However, if you are a guitarist or performer looking for a high-quality, portable microphone at a more budget-friendly price, the Superlux PRA628MKII at $49.95 is a solid choice. Each product brings its unique strengths to the table, making them suitable for different types of users in the music industry.