Behringer C-1

This is the Behringer C-1. It’s a phantom powered, studio condenser microphone which has a red LED on the front to indicate when phantom power is applied. Unfortunately, this microphone represents a good example of inconsistent quality control. I tested two samples of this mic and one of them was so noisy I would have to characterize it as virtually unusable. The signal to noise ratio is so poor, and the noise floor so high that it leads me to believe that it’s a factory defect.

The second sample I tested was much better. The noise floor was much lower, but it was still noticeable. The frequency response seems to favor the mid-range with very little bottom end. Because of the less-than-stellar signal to noise ratio, I would not consider this microphone for any acoustic instrument that plays anywhere below mezzo forte. For pianissimo harp, piano, acoustic classical guitar, strings, etc. this microphone simply should not be considered.

It’s quite possible that the two samples I tested are “lemons,” but a cursory search of the web shows that Behringer, in general, has had issues with inconsistent quality control, so caveat emptor.

Update 1/19/2010:  I listened to both samples of these mics again and have concluded that the noise I heard was a result of the settings I used on my preamp.  I no longer feel these microphones are defective; however, the Behringer C-1 would still not be my microphone of choice for pianissimo acoustic instruments.