Behringer Dynamic Microphone (SL 85S) Review: Affordable Audio Quality in UAE
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Behringer SL 85S is a dynamic microphone aimed at budget-conscious musicians, podcasters, and content creators. It promises decent audio quality at an affordable price point. After putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts on its performance and whether it’s worth your hard-earned dirhams.
Features
The Behringer SL 85S is a simple yet effective microphone with the following features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz – 15kHz |
| Sensitivity | -54dBV (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz) |
| Impedance | 300 Ohms |
| Connector | XLR |
Performance
The SL 85S delivers on its promise of affordability, but how does it sound? I tested it with both vocal and instrument recordings, and here’s what I observed:
Vocals
For vocals, the SL 85S provides a clear and present sound. It captures a good amount of detail, and while it’s not the warmest microphone, it does a decent job of handling sibilance. The cardioid pickup pattern effectively minimizes background noise. However, it lacks the depth and richness you’d expect from a higher-end dynamic microphone.
Instruments
When recording acoustic guitar, the SL 85S produced a fairly accurate representation of the instrument. It captured the strumming patterns clearly and had a natural sound. For electric guitar, the microphone worked well for direct recordings, capturing the nuances of the instrument’s tone. However, for amplifier mic’ing, you might need a more robust microphone with a wider frequency response.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the SL 85S’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Good vocal clarity
- Effective cardioid pickup pattern
- Solid performance for acoustic instruments
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Lacks the warmth and richness of higher-end microphones
- Might struggle with loud sound sources
- Limited frequency response
Final Verdict
The Behringer SL 85S is a solid choice for beginners and budget-conscious users who need a microphone for recording vocals or instruments. Its affordability and decent audio quality make it a good entry-level option. However, if you’re looking for professional-level sound or need a microphone for demanding applications, you’ll likely want to consider a more premium option.
Overall, the Behringer SL 85S is a decent dynamic microphone that offers a lot of value for the price. If you’re looking for a microphone to start recording vocals or instruments, it’s worth considering. However, if you have the budget, there are better microphones available with more nuanced sound and wider applications.
