Behringer C2 -- Best Price; Great Review

2009-12-18T03:40:00.000-08:00

Perfectionism, or at least the pursuit of it, is an ideal shared by most musicians. A part of this is the need to perform or record the music with explicit definition and that is achieved by using quality audio components. Vocals, acoustic instruments and accents are captured most effectively with the use of cardioid microphones as they are decidedly more sensitive than dynamic mics.

German audio manufacturer Behringer has assisted artists in making quality recordings for decades and continues to do so. Their C2 condenser microphones are perfect for the task of catching sensitive audio signals without suffering signal degradation. They will pick up any and all of the most sensitive signals, and with their cardioid (heart-shaped) pattern they reject off-axis sounds that can a recording less than agreeable.

Their sensitivity requires that they be provided with phantom power as they feature active circuitry as compared to dynamic mics. Pairing them with a Xenyx mixer is perfect as the mixer sports +48 volt phantom and mic preamps that toast the sound beautifully.

The C2 condenser microphone has few peers in the biz. If you're an individual who includes finite sound reproduction as a "must-have", then these microphones should fill the bill nicely. The C2 distances itself from competitors with 3 particular characteristics, and uncompromising signal integrity is the first.

Its gold-plated XLR connectors insulate the signal against sub-standard sources that could jeopardize sound quality. The mic's low-frequency rolloff switch capably eliminates infrasonics (venue-specific threats to the signal.) A switchable 10 db input pad that accommodates hot signals, without distorting is a reflection of Behringer's like-minded sentiments regarding good sound.

Once these mics go live, you're free to bask in the Behringer C2 condenser microphone's inherent 4db boost found between the 1 and 8 Khz range. More simply, you'll be provided with a brighter and more clearly-defined sound and noticeably so with cymbals, overhead mic'ing applications, choirs and acoustic pianos. A low-mass diaphragm is at the heart of its quality, producing ultra-wide frequency response and the best in sound reproduction.

The fear of distortion can trouble both musicians and recording engineers alike during a performance or session. It's hard to be at ease when you're plagued with anxiety about an unwelcome squelch that will tarnish your sound. The Behringer C2 is as well-qualified to vanquish those fears as any condenser microphone. It features ultra-low noise transformerless FET input circuitry that can embrace extreme dynamics with a maximum sound pressure level of 136 bd. Regardless of what you subject it to, the C2 will not distort.

Any perceived drawbacks with the C2 condenser microphones are few and far between and the consensus is clearly that these mics provide some serious bang for the buck. However, some claim that they really only live up their billing in studio rather than live, where it has been stated they are "too thin" for some applications. Others have said that they tend to develop a "floor noise" over time but, in fairness this may be a result of individual maintenance of the microphone. All in all, these are fantastic condenser mics for the price and most purchasers seem to be pleased with them.

Behringer C2 mics can only be bought in a matched pair set as matched sets offer users greater uniformity of sound and thus satisfaction. As shown, they are decidedly versatile in being equally proficient on stage or in studio. Pairing the cardioid pattern of these mics with phantom power and the right preamp is known to add zest to vocals, acoustic instruments and cymbals.

Considering music is an art, optimum sound is truly a matter of taste but there are established trends. Behringer C2 microphones have shown themselves to be in line with these preferences, and having a price tag that’s right for the working musician is often the clincher.