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

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we will look at the Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-piece Drum Microphone Set and the Shure SM-57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone. The Behringer BC1200 is priced at $129.00, while the Shure SM-57 comes in at $98.00, making the Shure model about 24% cheaper than the Behringer set. Both microphones cater to different needs in the audio recording space, appealing to diverse users from drummers to vocalists.

Target Audience

The Behringer BC1200 is designed primarily for drummers and recording engineers who require a comprehensive solution for capturing drum sounds. This set includes seven microphones tailored for various drum components, ensuring a complete setup for those who want to achieve studio-quality recordings. In contrast, the Shure SM-57 is more versatile, suitable for both amplified and acoustic instruments, making it an excellent choice for musicians and vocalists alike. The distinct target audiences highlight the different functionalities and applications of each microphone.

Features and Accessories

The Behringer BC1200 comes equipped with seven microphones, including a kick mic, four tom/snare mics, and two cymbal mics, along with clamps and windscreens. This comprehensive setup allows users to capture a full range of drum sounds effectively. Additionally, the set includes a sturdy case for safe storage. On the other hand, the Shure SM-57, while a single microphone, offers a contoured frequency response and a pneumatic shock mount system, which enhances its performance in reducing background noise. The inclusion of various accessories in the Behringer set gives it an edge for users needing a complete package.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Behringer BC1200 is engineered to deliver a fat and full bass drum sound, thanks to its KM1200 kick mic. The other microphones in the set, such as the TM1200s, are designed to capture snare and tom sounds beautifully, making it ideal for drum recordings. Conversely, the Shure SM-57’s cardioid dynamic design provides clean reproduction for both amplified and acoustic instruments, which is crucial for live performances and studio work. While both microphones promise quality, the Behringer set is specifically tailored for drums, whereas the Shure mic excels in versatility across different applications.

Price Comparison

At $129.00, the Behringer BC1200 is a complete drum mic set, while the Shure SM-57 is priced at $98.00. This makes the Shure model approximately 24% less expensive than the Behringer set. While the price of the Behringer may seem justified given the quantity and specificity of the microphones, the Shure offers a cost-effective option for users who may not need an entire set but still want reliable sound quality. The price difference is significant for budget-conscious musicians or those looking to invest in a single mic rather than a full kit.

Popularity and Sales Rank

The Behringer BC1200 holds a sales rank of 27,569, indicating a moderate level of popularity in its category. In contrast, the Shure SM-57 enjoys a better sales rank at 8,727, suggesting that it is a more sought-after product among consumers. This difference in popularity could be attributed to the Shure's established reputation in the industry and its versatile application across various instruments. The higher sales rank of the Shure mic may also reflect a broader appeal to musicians who need a reliable, high-quality microphone without requiring a complete drum mic set.

Ease of Use

The Behringer BC1200 is designed for easy setup, with all necessary microphones included for capturing drum sounds right out of the box. Its case also aids in portability and protection, making it user-friendly for gigging musicians. The Shure SM-57, while simpler, is also straightforward to use, featuring a robust build that can handle the rigors of live performance. Both microphones are user-friendly, but the comprehensive nature of the Behringer set may require a bit more setup time, especially for those unfamiliar with microphone placements for drums.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-piece Drum Microphone Set and the Shure SM-57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone comes down to your specific needs. If you are a drummer or a recording engineer looking for a complete solution to capture the intricacies of drum sounds, the Behringer BC1200 is a solid investment at $129.00. However, if you seek versatility and quality in a single microphone, the Shure SM-57 at $98.00 may be the better choice, especially given its popularity and broader application across different instruments. Each product has its merits, so consider what best fits your recording or performance requirements.