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

Overview of the Behringer BC1200 and Shure BETA 56A

The Behringer BC1200 is a 7-piece drum microphone set priced at $129.00, while the Shure BETA 56A is a single snare and tom microphone available for $170.00. The price difference of $41.00 indicates that the Behringer option is about 24% cheaper, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious musicians seeking a comprehensive solution for drum recording.

The Behringer BC1200 offers a full set of microphones designed specifically for drum kits, including a kick mic, tom/snare mics, and overheads. In contrast, the Shure BETA 56A focuses on delivering high-quality sound for close miking of snare drums and toms, emphasizing its specialized capabilities. Each product is tailored to different needs, with the Behringer set providing versatility and the Shure mic delivering superior performance in specific applications.

Quality of Sound Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the Shure BETA 56A has a tailored frequency response that is designed specifically for drums and instruments, ensuring professional-level audio capture. This microphone's supercardioid pattern allows for high gain before feedback, making it effective in live and studio environments.

The Behringer BC1200, while more economical, also aims to deliver studio-quality recordings with its various mics. The kick mic is designed to produce a rich bass sound, and the overhead mics capture cymbals effectively. However, the overall performance may not match the precision and clarity of the Shure microphone, particularly in a close-miking scenario where detail is critical.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Behringer BC1200 shines in versatility, offering seven different microphones, including dedicated mics for kick, snare, toms, and cymbals. This makes it an excellent choice for drummers who want a complete setup without needing to purchase additional gear. The inclusion of clamps and windscreens adds to its usability across various scenarios.

On the other hand, the Shure BETA 56A is tailored for close miking of snare and toms, making it less versatile than the Behringer set but highly effective in its niche. Its compact design and built-in locking stand adapter allow for easy placement and stability, particularly in live settings. Musicians looking for a dedicated solution for specific instruments might find the Shure BETA 56A more suitable.

Build Quality and Durability

In terms of build quality, the Shure BETA 56A is designed with a hardened steel mesh grille that resists wear and tear, indicating a focus on durability during performances. Its advanced pneumatic shock mount system minimizes mechanical noise and vibration, which is crucial for maintaining sound integrity in dynamic environments.

The Behringer BC1200, while it comes with a sturdy case for storage and transport, may not boast the same level of ruggedness as the Shure microphone. However, the inclusion of various accessories suggests that Behringer has considered the practical needs of users, even if the individual microphones might not match the durability of Shure's offerings.

Setup and Portability

The setup process can be significantly different between these two options. The Shure BETA 56A features a built-in dynamic locking stand adapter, which simplifies the installation and provides greater flexibility when positioning the mic. This feature is particularly useful for live performances where quick adjustments are often necessary.

The Behringer BC1200 includes multiple microphones, which may require more time to set up initially. However, its case makes it convenient for transport, allowing drummers to bring the entire set to gigs or recording sessions without hassle. For those who frequently travel with their gear, the portability of the Behringer may be a strong selling point.

Price and Value

At $129.00, the Behringer BC1200 offers a compelling value considering it includes seven microphones, making it an economical choice for drummers looking to equip their studio or live rig without breaking the bank. The average price over the past 90 days has been $132.46, indicating stability in its pricing.

In contrast, the Shure BETA 56A is priced at $170.00, which reflects its specialized design and high-quality sound performance. The average price over the last 90 days has been $186.83, suggesting it holds its value well in the market. While the Shure microphone may offer superior sound quality, the Behringer set provides a broader range of uses for a lower overall investment.

Target Audience

The Behringer BC1200 is ideal for beginner to intermediate drummers or those who need a budget-friendly solution for recording sessions. Its comprehensive microphone set caters to a variety of applications, making it suitable for home studios, small venues, and educational settings.

Conversely, the Shure BETA 56A targets professionals who require high-quality sound for specific instruments. This microphone is well-suited for live performances and studio recordings where detail and clarity are paramount. Musicians who frequently play gigs and need reliable equipment might find the Shure option more aligned with their needs.

Which should you buy?

The decision between the Behringer BC1200 and the Shure BETA 56A ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a versatile, economical solution that covers a wide range of recording needs, the Behringer BC1200 is the clear choice at $129.00. However, if you prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest a bit more for a specialized microphone that excels in close miking, the Shure BETA 56A at $170.00 may be worth the additional cost. Each product serves different purposes, making it essential to consider your individual requirements when making a purchase.