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Review: Behringer C1 condenser microphone

Feb. 16, 2017

Price

Modified: 06/19/19

Behringer C1 condenser microphone product breakdown

Author’s Rating:

Consumer Rating: 4.3 / 5 Stars

Price: $49.99

Recommended?: Yes

Specifications:

  • Color: Gold/Silver
  • Type: Condenser
  • Ports: 1 Male XLR
  • Weight: 14.9 oz
  • Dimensions: 2.1 in x 2.1 in x 7 in
  • Power: 48v Phantom

Key Features

  • Professional, large-diaphragm condenser microphone for unsurpassed audio quality
  • Cardioid pickup pattern for outstanding sound source separation and feedback rejection
  • Ultra-low noise, transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion

Preferred Usage

  • Home audio recording
  • Podcasting

Pros:

  • Extremely affordable
  • Great quality for value
  • Ease of use

Cons:

  • Lacks clarity and sensitivity of higher quality mics
behringer c1 condenser microphone front view

Behringer C1 Condenser Microphone

Full review: Behringer C1 condenser microphone

The Behringer C1 condenser microphone has been an unexplainably effective resource in my home recording projects. With a small budget, I was able to produce professional audio with ease. The Behringer C1 is easily portable in its included case and travels with me everywhere. With only a USB preamp to supply power, I can connect to my laptop and make any location a sound studio.

With a price point of less than $50 on Amazon.com, the Behringer C1 microphone immediately peaked my curiosity.

After reading several reviews gushing with the C1’s accolades, the purchase was a no brainer. I have used the microphone for vocal recording in a less than perfect environment for a studio (bedrooms, living rooms, etc). Very little noise and a suprisingly decent clarity make the C1 a great choice for podcasting and recording hip hop vocals. In comparison to the competition, the C1 outperforms with a better price tag.

behringer c1 condenser microphone case view

The Behringer C1 Microphone Comes With A Case

The Behringer C1 microphone sets up quickly

Removing the Behringer C1 from the durable hard plastic case, I notice it comes already mounted on an easily connected stand. There is no hassle with a shock mount. A connection to an XLR cable after mounting the C1 completes the setup. Some slight tweaks to the pre-amp gain and options in my software enabled to me to bring out a solid, clear sound from the Behringer C1. A small complaint I have is the quality is best from relatively close to the mic (8 – 10 inches). Any farther than that, and the levels become unpredictable and quality suffers. It is not an ideal mic for “full band in a room” type of recording.

behringer c1 condenser microphone frequency response polar pattern

Behringer C1 Polar Pattern And Frequency Response

As it has a standard XLR male connector, it is compatible with almost all recording gear. Just supply the aforementioned phantom power, and you’re golden. I noticed that quite a high gain was needed to get the desired signal. That isn’t really a problem, but it is a reminder of the C1’s price and limits. You get a little more than you pay for in my opinion, but we can’t expect a miracle for $49.99. So the C1’s greatest attribute (great price for overall quality) becomes its downfall (limits because of price).

I would recommend the Behringer C1 to any home producers on a budget.

For less than $200 you can start recording almost anywhere and learn how to record and mix on your own time. No appointments or hourly rates. A one time flat fee and a little motivation will have you releasing tracks or podcasts in no time. A beginner could easily setup and operate the Behringer C1 with ease. I do recommend checking Amazon for accessories like a preamp, stand, cables, etc. You can usually find a great discounted bundle. The Behringer C1 condenser microphone definitely gets my stamp of approval and a firm recommendation to beginners on a budget.

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