Behringer SL 85S Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

Behringer SL 85S Microphone Review: A Budget-Friendly Performer

The Behringer SL 85S dynamic microphone offers a compelling package for those looking for a reliable microphone at an affordable price. With an extensive range of applications, from live performances to studio recordings and podcasts, this microphone is designed to deliver professional-level audio quality while remaining accessible to a wide range of users. In this review, we will break down its features, performance, and value, offering you a detailed understanding of why the Behringer SL 85S could be the perfect addition to your gear collection.

Detailed Specs & Features

The Behringer SL 85S is a dynamic, handheld microphone that makes a strong first impression due to its straightforward design and solid build quality. Weighing just 0.71 lbs and measuring 6.5 inches in height, it's lightweight and easy to handle for extended use without causing discomfort. The handheld form factor ensures flexibility for both beginners and professionals working in various environments.

Under the hood, this mic boasts a cardioid polar pattern, which focuses on sound from the front, reducing unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This is an essential feature for live performances and studio recordings, ensuring clarity and precision. The frequency response spans from 50 Hz to 16 kHz, which covers a broad range of sound frequencies, making it suitable for vocals, instruments, and more. Additionally, its sensitivity of -54 dBV/Pa ensures that even subtle sounds are captured clearly without distortion, delivering a natural and full-bodied audio experience.

The microphone operates with a 300-ohm output impedance, offering a balanced output for high-quality, noise-free audio. It's designed to work seamlessly with a variety of devices such as mixers, audio interfaces, PCs, and Macs, which enhances its versatility. The XLR connectivity ensures a secure connection, while the mounting options (including a stand or boom arm) allow for convenient placement in different settings.

User Experience & Performance

Design & Build

The Behringer SL 85S is constructed with a durable metal body that feels solid and sturdy in hand. Its matte finish not only gives it a sleek, professional look but also helps reduce glare under stage lights. The microphone comes equipped with a shock mount to minimize vibrations and handling noise, ensuring that only the purest audio is captured. Additionally, a pop filter is included, which helps in eliminating plosives that can disrupt recording or live performance audio.

Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the SL 85S doesn't disappoint. With a maximum SPL of 150 dB, it can handle loud sound sources without distortion, making it ideal for live sound applications and loud instruments. The pressure gradient acoustic principle ensures a fast transient response, capturing sharp details and nuances in the sound. This feature is particularly beneficial when recording instruments or vocals that require precise and dynamic audio capture.

Extra Features

While the SL 85S lacks some of the advanced features seen in higher-end microphones, such as built-in DSP processing or multi-pattern switching, its performance is solid for its price range. The lack of a proximity effect control or voice isolation feature means that it may not be the best option for very specific recording environments that demand advanced noise filtering. Nevertheless, the fast transient response and transformerless design still provide impressive audio quality across a range of use cases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable price point for solid performance
• Versatile connectivity with XLR
• Includes shock mount and pop filter for enhanced audio capture

Cons

• Lacks advanced noise isolation features
• No multi-pattern switching for flexible sound capture

Price & Value for Money

The Behringer SL 85S is available for around $20.9 at B&H Photo Video, which places it firmly in the budget category for dynamic microphones. Given its solid feature set, including the cardioid polar pattern, high SPL handling, and inclusion of accessories like a pop filter and shock mount, it's an excellent choice for those seeking value without breaking the bank. For most users, the SL 85S offers good quality and versatility at a price that won’t stretch the budget.

Quick Take

If you're looking for a cost-effective dynamic microphone that delivers solid performance across a variety of applications, the Behringer SL 85S is a great option. Its build quality and audio capture features punch above its price class, making it a smart choice for hobbyists, podcasters, and performers alike.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe the Behringer SL 85S deserves 4.2 out of 5.

• Winner Feature → Affordable price with good performance for beginners and intermediates.
• Needs Improvement → Lacks advanced features like multi-pattern switching or enhanced noise isolation.