What type of microphone is the Behringer B-5?

The Behringer B-5 is a small-diaphragm studio condenser microphone. It uses a pressure-gradient transducer and requires phantom power to operate.

What polar patterns does the B-5 support?

The B-5 supports both cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns. These are achieved by switching between the two included interchangeable capsules.

What is the benefit of a gold-sputtered diaphragm?

Gold-sputtering provides a highly conductive and durable surface for the diaphragm. This results in accurate sound reproduction and a long-lasting component that resists environmental wear.

How does the transformerless FET input affect the sound?

The transformerless FET input is designed to eliminate low-frequency distortion. This produces a cleaner signal and a more transparent audio representation compared to microphones with output transformers.

What kind of output connector does the B-5 use?

It uses a professional gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector. The gold plating ensures maximum signal integrity and prevents oxidation over time.

What materials are used in the construction of the B-5?

The B-5 features a rugged design with a satin nickel-plated brass body. This provides durability for both studio and field recording environments.

Does the Behringer B-5 require phantom power?

Yes, as a condenser microphone with FET circuitry, it requires +48V phantom power from a mixer or audio interface. It cannot function without this power source.

Is the B-5 suitable for recording vocals?

While primarily used for instruments, it can be used for vocals if a detailed, bright sound is desired. However, a pop filter is recommended as small-diaphragm condensers are sensitive to plosives.

How do you change the polar patterns on this microphone?

The polar patterns are changed by physically unscrewing the current capsule from the top of the microphone body and screwing on the alternative capsule. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the threads.

What is the typical price of the Behringer B-5?

The Behringer B-5 typically retails for approximately £47. This makes it a very accessible option for those needing a professional-style condenser.

How does the B-5 compare to the Shure SM7B?

The B-5 is a condenser microphone designed for high-frequency detail and sensitivity, whereas the Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone known for its warmth and rejection of background noise. They serve different primary purposes in the studio.

What is included in the B-5 package?

The package includes the B-5 microphone body and two interchangeable capsules (cardioid and omnidirectional). It is designed to provide versatility right out of the box.

Gear article

Behringer B-5 Condenser Microphone

The Behringer B-5 is a gold-sputtered diaphragm studio condenser microphone designed for accurate audio capture at an accessible price point. It features interchangeable capsules and a transformerless FET input circuit, making it a versatile tool for various recording environments.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Behringer B-5 is a professional-grade studio condenser microphone that utilises a pressure-gradient transducer. A defining physical characteristic is its rugged satin nickel-plated brass body, which houses a low-noise transformerless FET (Field Effect Transistor) input circuit. This electronic design is specifically intended to eliminate low-frequency distortion, ensuring the signal remains clean even when capturing high-pressure sources.

To ensure signal integrity over time, the microphone incorporates a gold-plated 3-pin XLR output connector. This resists corrosion and maintains a reliable electrical connection, which is vital for the sensitive low-voltage signals produced by condenser capsules.

Key Features and Capsules

One of the most notable features of the B-5 is its modularity. The microphone comes supplied with two separate interchangeable capsules, allowing the user to switch between different pickup patterns:

Cardioid: This pattern focuses on sound sources directly in front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the rear, making it ideal for isolating specific instruments in a room.
Omnidirectional: This pattern captures sound equally from all directions, providing a natural, open response that includes the ambient character of the recording space.

The capsules themselves feature gold-sputtered diaphragms, a manufacturing technique that ensures high-fidelity reproduction and durability.

Neumann TLM 103 Studio Set Microphone Nickel

Sound Character and Performance

The B-5 is engineered for accuracy. The combination of the gold-sputtered diaphragm and the FET circuitry results in a transparent audio profile. Because the FET input is transformerless, it avoids the saturation and 'smearing' of low frequencies often found in vintage-style microphones, leading to a punchier and more modern sound. The interchangeable capsules allow the user to accent the sound in a way that best suits the source material, whether seeking the directness of cardioid or the spatial depth of omnidirectional recording.

Target User and Comparisons

Given its typical price range of approximately £47, the B-5 is aimed at home studio enthusiasts and professional engineers who require a 'pencil' style condenser without a high financial barrier.

When compared to industry standards like the Neumann KM series or the Shure SM7B, the B-5 offers a different value proposition. While the Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone preferred for broadcast vocals, the B-5 is a condenser meant for capturing the high-frequency detail of acoustic instruments. Compared to high-end alternatives like the Neumann TLM 102 or TLM 103, the B-5 provides a modular capsule system at a fraction of the cost, making it a highly flexible alternative for budget-conscious setups.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What type of microphone is the Behringer B-5?: The Behringer B-5 is a small-diaphragm studio condenser microphone. It uses a pressure-gradient transducer and requires phantom power to operate.
What polar patterns does the B-5 support?: The B-5 supports both cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns. These are achieved by switching between the two included interchangeable capsules.
What is the benefit of a gold-sputtered diaphragm?: Gold-sputtering provides a highly conductive and durable surface for the diaphragm. This results in accurate sound reproduction and a long-lasting component that resists environmental wear.
How does the transformerless FET input affect the sound?: The transformerless FET input is designed to eliminate low-frequency distortion. This produces a cleaner signal and a more transparent audio representation compared to microphones with output transformers.
What kind of output connector does the B-5 use?: It uses a professional gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector. The gold plating ensures maximum signal integrity and prevents oxidation over time.
What materials are used in the construction of the B-5?: The B-5 features a rugged design with a satin nickel-plated brass body. This provides durability for both studio and field recording environments.
Does the Behringer B-5 require phantom power?: Yes, as a condenser microphone with FET circuitry, it requires +48V phantom power from a mixer or audio interface. It cannot function without this power source.
Is the B-5 suitable for recording vocals?: While primarily used for instruments, it can be used for vocals if a detailed, bright sound is desired. However, a pop filter is recommended as small-diaphragm condensers are sensitive to plosives.
How do you change the polar patterns on this microphone?: The polar patterns are changed by physically unscrewing the current capsule from the top of the microphone body and screwing on the alternative capsule. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the threads.
What is the typical price of the Behringer B-5?: The Behringer B-5 typically retails for approximately £47. This makes it a very accessible option for those needing a professional-style condenser.
How does the B-5 compare to the Shure SM7B?: The B-5 is a condenser microphone designed for high-frequency detail and sensitivity, whereas the Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone known for its warmth and rejection of background noise. They serve different primary purposes in the studio.
What is included in the B-5 package?: The package includes the B-5 microphone body and two interchangeable capsules (cardioid and omnidirectional). It is designed to provide versatility right out of the box.