Behringer BC1200 Drum Microphone Set Review Affordable Quality for Studio and Live Performances

Description

A Complete Drum Mic Set for Every Occasion

The Behringer BC1200 Professional 7-piece Drum Microphone Set landed in my hands recently, and as someone who frequently flirts with home studio setups and live gigs, I was intrigued. The description promised “studio-quality recordings” and a durable case with latches, which immediately caught my attention. Testing this set felt like stepping into a drummer’s dream toolkit.

Build Quality and Design

Straight out of the box, I noticed the sturdy construction of the microphones. The set includes seven mics: one KM1200 kick mic, four TM1200 mics for snare and toms, and two CM1200 overhead mics. Each mic feels solid in hand, and the windscreens and clamps are surprisingly robust. The case itself is a nice touch, with secure latches and a handle that makes portability a breeze.

The compact design of the TM1200 mics is perfect for drum kits that demand snug placements. While the sleek black finish might not scream “fancy,” it gets the job done without attracting unwanted attention. If you’re someone who values function over form, you’ll appreciate the practicality here.

Sound Performance

Using this kit during a recording session, I was floored by the KM1200 kick mic’s ability to capture that deep, punchy kick drum sound. It didn’t just deliver thump; it offered warmth and clarity, which is often hard to find in more budget-friendly sets.

The TM1200s do a commendable job capturing the snare and toms. They provide a balanced sound profile, though I did notice a slight lack of high-end detail on the snare, depending on placement. That said, these mics are quite forgiving with positioning, so even beginners can achieve great results without pulling their hair out.

What truly impressed me were the CM1200 overhead mics. They picked up cymbals beautifully, offering a crisp and natural tone. Whether it was the shimmering crash or the subtler ride nuances, these mics delivered an impressive stereo image.

Key Benefits

• Affordable professional-grade microphone set suitable for both studio and live applications.
• KM1200 delivers a rich, full kick drum sound, perfect for modern players.
• Compact TM1200 mics provide clean and balanced snare/tom recordings.
• CM1200 overhead mics excel at capturing cymbal details and stereo imaging.
• The durable case and included windscreens make it a convenient and portable solution.

Areas of Concern

While this set brings incredible value, it’s not without its quirks.

• The TM1200s could use a bit more high-end clarity, particularly for snares.
• Clamps feel slightly rigid, making precise mic placement a bit challenging at times.
• The corded electric setup isn’t as flexible as wireless alternatives, though this is expected in this price range.

Competing Brands

Considering competing drum mic sets, it’s clear that this set holds its own. Compared to higher-end brands like Shure or AKG, the Behringer BC1200 set offers a more budget-friendly option while still delivering surprisingly good sound quality.

For instance, the Shure PGADRUMKIT7 is a common competitor, but it’s typically priced higher. While the Shure set might edge out in terms of overall clarity and build, the BC1200 provides an unbeatable cost-to-performance ratio. On the other hand, entry-level sets like the Pyle-Pro kits don’t quite measure up in terms of sound fidelity or durability.

Where the BC1200 shines is in its KM1200 kick mic, which rivals those in far more expensive kits. However, if you prioritize features like wireless convenience or ultra-premium sound for professional studios, you may need to look elsewhere.

Quality for Price

From my perspective, this set represents tremendous value for the price. It’s not every day you find a 7-piece drum mic set that includes overhead mics and still fits into a budget-conscious category. Sure, there are minor trade-offs, but for the average drummer or home studio enthusiast, this set delivers more than enough.

Testing this set made me realize how much quality Behringer packed into an affordable package. It’s a solid investment for those wanting to level up their drum recordings without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a live gig or working on your next big single in a home studio, this kit is worth considering.

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