Behringer microphones: features, types and models, selection criteria

Among the large number of microphone manufacturing companies, the Behringer brand can be distinguished, which is engaged in the production of these products at a professional level. The company began its activities in 1989 and since then has established itself as serious manufacturer... That's why her products are very popular among customers.

Behringer microphones are of good quality and low cost... It is a great choice for your own recording studio at home, for novice performers or bloggers looking for quality recording and clear sound. The main use of these devices is working and recording in the studio.

They are often used to sound programs or videos. All models have a USB input, allowing you to use them from a laptop or computer. The company also specializes in the production of accessories that are needed to use the microphone. These are amplifiers, phono stage and much more.

Behringer microphones are of the following types: condenser and dynamic. By type of power supply - wired and wireless.

• Phantom Power goes through the cable that connects the device and the equipment. The convenience of using the microphone depends on the length of the wire.
• Rechargeable provided by a battery, the device requires periodic recharging. It is rare in capacitor versions.
• Battery / Phantom - a universal method that works from 2 power sources.

The model overview includes several popular products.

• Behringer XM8500. The model is made in black with a classic design. A dynamic-looking microphone, used for vocals in studios or concert halls. The device has an operating frequency range from 50 Hz to 15 kHz. Due to the cardioid directionality of the sound, it is accurately received from the source, and the shades of the voice are perfectly reproduced. The output signal is very strong. There is a low impedance XLR output with a high signal level. The microphone is used in conjunction with concert and professional studio equipment.

Dual filter protection reduces unpleasant sibilant consonants. Thanks to the suspension of the microphone head, there is no possibility of mechanical damage, and low-frequency noise is minimized. The microphone capsule is protected from damage by a metal housing. The studio microphone has an interesting packaging in the form of a plastic suitcase.

• The C-1U microphone has excellent performance. Cardioid model with large diaphragm and built-in 16-bit / 48kHz USB audio interface. The model is made in golden color, has a stylish design, can be used as a main or additional device for working in a studio or at a concert. The delivery set includes special programs Audacity and Kristal. A thin gold plated 3-pin XLR connector ensures flawless signal transmission. The model has a distinctive packaging in the form of an aluminum case.

The kit includes a moving adapter and programs. The operating frequency range is 40 G - 20 kHz. The highest sound pressure for operation is 136 dB. Case circumference 54 mm, length 169 mm. Weight 450 g.

• Microphone Behringer B1 PRO is a device for working in a studio, made in a stylish design. Has a resistance of 50 ohms.The circumference of the diaphragm of the pressure gradient receiver made of gold-plated foil with a diameter of 2.5 cm. The device is used for working sessions and conferences both in the studio and outside. The model is capable of working with high sound pressure levels (up to 148 dB).

Due to its low noise level, the microphone can be used even in the closest contact with the sound source. The microphone body has a low-cut filter and a 10 dB attenuator. The set includes a suitcase for transportation, soft suspension and wind protection made of polymer material. The microphone body is made of nickel-plated brass. The microphone measures 58X174 mm and weighs 461 g.

To select a suitable model, you need to take into account some indicators.

• First you need to decide on the scope. If you're looking for a microphone for studio use, go for the condenser model. If for performing at concerts or in the open air, then for these cases it is better to purchase a dynamic version.
• Choice by type of food depends on the need for freedom of movement with a microphone.
• Sensitivity... The indicator is measured in decibels (dB), the smaller it is, the more sensitive the device. It can be measured in millivolts per pascal (mV / Pa), the higher the value, the more sensitive the microphone is. For professional singing, choose a microphone model with a high sensitivity.
• Frequency response Is the span of frequencies in which the sound is formed. The lower the sound, the lower the lower range should be. For vocals, a microphone model with a frequency of 80-15000 Hz is suitable, and for performers with low baritone or bass, models with a frequency of 30-15000 Hz are recommended.
• Body material. It can be metal and plastic. Plastic is cheaper, but very fragile and subject to mechanical stress. The metal is more expensive and stronger, but it has a significant weight and corrodes.
• The ratio of noise to signal. Consider this figure to select a good microphone model. The higher the ratio, the less likely it is to distort the sound. A good indicator is 66 dB, and the best is from 72 dB and above.

For the microphone to reproduce sound well, it needs to be configured correctly. To do this, you must, first of all, hold it correctly, that is, at a distance of 5–10 cm from the sound source in a straight line. The microphone has a MIC input, to which you need to connect a wire. If after connection the sound went off, then proceed to adjusting the sensitivity.

To do this, set all the controls for high, middle and low frequencies to neutral, that is, you need to close the channel fader. Any dashes on the controls should be facing up. The GAIN knob must be turned to the left as far as it will go. Starting the tincture, you should speak test words into the microphone and turn the GAIN knob little by little to the right. The task is for the red PEAK indicator to start blinking. As soon as it starts blinking, we slowly weaken the channel sensitivity and turn the GAIN knob slightly to the left.

Now you need to adjust the timbre... This should be done while singing. To do this, set the master fader and microphone channel fader to the nominal level marks. We determine which frequencies are missing: high, medium or low. If, for example, there is not enough low frequencies, the high and medium frequencies should be reduced.

Then it is necessary go back to adjusting the sensitivity because it might have changed. To do this, we make loud sounds into the microphone and observe the sensor. If he stopped blinking, then need to add GAIN... If the red button is constantly on, then GAIN is weakened.

In the next video, you will find an overview of the Behringer C-3 microphone.