Behringer B1 Condenser Microphone

Behringer B1

The single-diaphragm B-1 microphone is a home recording enthusiast’s dream come true! This professional-quality condenser microphone is designed to capture your sounds with incredible realism, sensitivity and accuracy. With its cardioid pickup pattern, frequency filters and input pads, the B-1 condenser mic is an excellent choice for any recording scenario – and rugged enough to go the distance! With a heavy duty suspension mount and windscreen included in the sleek aluminum case, the Behringer B-1 just may be the only microphone your studio will need.

The Behringer B-1 studio microphone is an affordable, high-quality way to get what you really hear down on tape (or in bits). Thanks to the pressure gradient transducers and shock-mounted 1.0″ gold-sputtered dual-diaphragm capsules, the B-1 mic delivers an open, transparent sound with excellent transient response, and ruler-flat frequency response from 20 Hz – 20 kHz with a slight boost in the presence range. The B-1’s cardioid pattern is ideally-suited for picking up your source signal while rejecting off-axis sound – eliminating any bleed from the sides.

The Behringer B-1 is an affordable, high-quality way to put this essential studio tool to work for you. Thanks to its 1.0″ capsule, it captures sound with incredible realism and sensitivity. It boasts a wide frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, enhanced by a pronounced presence boost. With its excellent transducer and gold-plated XLR output, the B-1 phantom microphone truly delivers on the promise of noise-free transmission. The Behringer B-1 also gives you a switchable -10dB attenuator to capture high-volume signal sources without distorting, as well as a low-cut filter to eliminate infra-sonics caused by floor rumble and other turbulence.

Thanks to its exceptional transducers and gold-plated XLR outputs, the Behringer B-1 truly delivers on the promise of noise-free transmission, with the utmost transparency.

Features:

• Professional 1” gold-sputtered large-diaphragm condenser microphone for unsurpassed audio quality
• Ideal as main and support microphone for studio and live applications–perfect for acoustic instruments and overhead etc.
• Cardioid pickup pattern for outstanding sound source separation and feedback rejection
• Pressure-gradient transducer with shock-mounted gold-sputtered large-diaphragm capsule
• Switchable low-frequency roll-off and -10 dB input attenuation
• Ultra low-noise transformer-less FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion
• Ultra-rugged construction with nickel-plated brass body
• Gold-plated 3-pin XLR output connector for perfect signal transmission
• Heavy-duty suspension mount, windscreen and aluminum transport case included

Design and Build Quality

Physical Attributes

The Behringer B-1 is a visually striking microphone with a solid and robust design. It features a cylindrical body made of durable metal, giving it a sturdy feel that can withstand regular use in different recording settings. The microphone’s dimensions are approximately 2.1 inches (53 mm) in diameter and 6.5 inches (165 mm) in length, making it a relatively compact large-diaphragm condenser microphone. Its silver finish adds to its professional appearance, and the overall build quality suggests longevity and reliability.

Capsule and Components

At the heart of the B-1 is its gold-sputtered large-diaphragm capsule. The 1-inch (25.4 mm) diaphragm is designed to capture sound with exceptional detail and clarity. The gold-sputtering process enhances the diaphragm’s conductivity and sensitivity, allowing it to pick up subtle nuances in the audio source. This makes the B-1 an excellent choice for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments with precision.

The microphone also features a high-quality transformerless FET input, which helps reduce distortion and ensures a clear signal path. The internal components are carefully selected to provide a low noise floor, which is crucial for high-fidelity recordings.

Shock Mount and Accessories

The Behringer B-1 comes with a variety of accessories that enhance its usability and value. Included with the microphone is a custom shock mount that helps isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise. This is particularly useful in studio environments where any unwanted noise can affect the quality of the recording. The package also includes a windscreen, which helps reduce plosive sounds and wind noise, and a sturdy carrying case for easy transport and storage.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Response

One of the standout features of the Behringer B-1 is its wide frequency response range, which spans from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This range ensures that the microphone can accurately capture both low and high frequencies, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications. The frequency response curve of the B-1 is relatively flat, with a slight boost in the high frequencies to add presence and clarity to vocals and instruments.

Polar Pattern

The B-1 features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for studio recording applications. The cardioid pattern is designed to pick up sound primarily from the front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This helps to isolate the desired sound source and reduce the pickup of ambient noise and room reflections. The result is a cleaner and more focused recording, especially in untreated or less-than-ideal recording environments.

Sensitivity and Signal-to-Noise Ratio

The sensitivity of the Behringer B-1 is rated at -33 dB (0 dB = 1 V/Pa at 1 kHz), which is relatively high for a condenser microphone. This means that the B-1 can capture quiet sounds with great detail, making it suitable for delicate vocal performances and acoustic instruments. The signal-to-noise ratio is 78 dB, which ensures that the microphone produces a clean and clear signal with minimal background noise. This is particularly important for professional recording applications where a high level of detail and clarity is required.

Maximum SPL and Dynamic Range

The Behringer B-1 can handle a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 138 dB, making it capable of recording loud sound sources without distortion. This high SPL handling is particularly useful for recording instruments with high dynamic ranges, such as drums and electric guitars. The microphone also has a wide dynamic range of 113 dB, allowing it to capture both the quietest and loudest sounds with precision.

Pad and Low-Cut Filter

The B-1 includes a switchable -10 dB pad, which can be engaged to reduce the microphone’s sensitivity. This is useful when recording extremely loud sound sources, as it prevents distortion and ensures a clean recording. Additionally, the microphone features a low-cut filter that can be activated to reduce low-frequency rumble and handling noise. The filter has a cutoff frequency of 75 Hz, making it effective for eliminating unwanted bass frequencies while preserving the clarity of the recording.

Applications

Vocal Recording

The Behringer B-1 is an excellent choice for vocal recording, thanks to its detailed and accurate sound reproduction. The large-diaphragm capsule captures the full range of vocal nuances, from subtle whispers to powerful belting. The slight high-frequency boost adds presence and clarity to vocals, helping them stand out in the mix. The cardioid polar pattern isolates the vocalist from background noise, making the B-1 suitable for use in both treated studios and less-than-ideal recording spaces.

Acoustic Instruments

The B-1’s wide frequency response and high sensitivity make it well-suited for recording acoustic instruments such as guitars, pianos, and strings. The microphone captures the natural tone and resonance of these instruments with precision, ensuring a faithful reproduction of their sound. The cardioid polar pattern helps focus on the instrument while minimizing the pickup of ambient noise and room reflections.

Drums and Percussion

With its high SPL handling and wide dynamic range, the Behringer B-1 is capable of recording drums and percussion with clarity and detail. The microphone can capture the transient attacks and dynamic nuances of drum hits, making it suitable for close-miking individual drums or using as an overhead microphone to capture the entire drum kit. The -10 dB pad is particularly useful when recording loud drum hits, preventing distortion and ensuring a clean recording.

Amplifiers and Electric Instruments

The B-1 can also be used to record electric guitars, basses, and other amplified instruments. Its high SPL handling allows it to capture the powerful sound of guitar and bass amplifiers without distortion. The microphone’s wide frequency response ensures that the full range of the instrument’s tone is captured, from the deep bass frequencies to the high harmonics. The cardioid polar pattern helps isolate the amplifier from other sound sources, providing a focused and detailed recording.

Podcasting and Voice-Over

The detailed and accurate sound reproduction of the Behringer B-1 makes it a great choice for podcasting and voice-over work. The microphone’s high sensitivity captures the full range of vocal nuances, ensuring clear and professional-sounding recordings. The cardioid polar pattern helps reduce the pickup of background noise, making the B-1 suitable for use in home studios and other environments where ambient noise may be a concern. The included shock mount and windscreen further enhance the microphone’s performance in these applications by reducing handling noise and plosive sounds.

Maintenance and Care

Handling and Storage

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the Behringer B-1, it is important to handle and store the microphone properly. The microphone should be kept in its included carrying case when not in use, and exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity should be avoided. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth can help maintain the microphone’s appearance and functionality.

Phantom Power Considerations

As a condenser microphone, the B-1 requires phantom power to operate. Most modern audio interfaces and preamps provide phantom power, but it is essential to ensure that the power supply is stable and within the recommended voltage range (usually 48V). Using an unstable or incorrect power source can damage the microphone.

Regular Maintenance

The Behringer B-1 requires minimal maintenance, but regular checks can help ensure its continued performance. Inspect the microphone and its accessories for any signs of wear or damage, and replace any worn components as needed. Keeping the microphone clean and free from dust and debris will also help maintain its performance over time.