From time to time I will be testing different budget microphones on Echolink and AllStar and provide feedback via this Blog. My previous review is available HERE. I recently acquired a Behringer BA 85A Dynamic Super Cardioid Microphone. Please note that I am no audio expert but I enjoy listening to good audio quality on all the different equipment that we use in Amateur Radio. Yes, I know I can buy one pricey microphone that will provide good audio but hey why pay more if you can find good budget microphones for use with different equipment? I enjoy playing around with low budget microphones and with a few mods and tweaks the budget microphone can sound just as good as some of the more expensive microphones which is in my opinion an overkill in Amateur Radio.
Looking around for low budget microphones I ran into the Behringer BA 85A and decided to purchase the microphone. Here are some info about this microphone.
The BA 85A Super Cardioid dynamic microphone is a home recording enthusiast’s dream come true! This professional-quality microphone is designed to capture your sounds with outstanding sensitivity and accuracy. With a Super Cardioid pick-up pattern for excellent sound source separation and feedback rejection, this ultra-wide frequency response microphone is an excellent choice and it’s rugged enough to go the distance! With an integrated shock mount system and spherical wind and pop noise filter and coming packaged with a microphone stand adapter and an impact-resistant carrying case, the BA 85A is a great budget microphone to be used with Amateur Radio VOIP aka Echolink, AllStar etc.
What is a Dynamic Microphone?
Dynamic microphones have several advantages that make them ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments. They’re robust, resistant to moisture and can achieve high gain before feedback. The BA Series’ Super Cardioid pick-up pattern captures the source signal, such as a guitar amplifier or vocalist, while shunning off-axis sound.
Why the Behringer BA 85A Microphone?
The BA 85A provides an amazingly flat frequency response while incorporating a smooth mid-frequency presence rise for excellent voice projection and includes a two-stage pop filter to minimize breath and pop noises. It features an extremely high output to get your voice out there! And with their tough metal construction and sturdy steel windscreen, you can count on the BA microphone to come through after countless contacts and studio applications. A rugged hard case with a microphone clip and stand adapter is included with the microphone.
Use of the BA 85A Microphone in Amateur Radio and my findings and conclusions: (Please note I base my findings and conclusions on using this microphone for VOIP amateur radio purposes only!)
In my opinion this microphone is worth every penny. It is a great microphone to be used with amateur radio VOIP aka Echolink, AllStar etc.
Pro's and Con's:
1. Price R600 ($25) (Might find it cheaper, scrounge around.)
2. It has a super cardioid polar pattern to increase background noise rejection.
3. Solid metal construction. (Microphone and Microphone Grid)
4. Suffers from bad plosive rejection, handling noise, and resonant frequencies. However this can easily be fixed for amateur radio use by installing a good pop filter and boom arm microphone stand.
5. This dynamic microphone does not require any phantom power, so all you need is your microphone and cable!
6. Ultra wide frequency response for brilliant and transparent sound.
7. Extremely high signal output that lets your voice easily cut through.
8. 3 Year Warranty Program
9. Designed and engineered in Germany
10. 3-pin XLR connector for highest signal integrity
Would I recommend the Behringer BA 85A Microphone to be used for Amateur Radio VOIP?
Absolutely!! For the price you getting a very good budget microphone to use with Amateur Radio VOIP. It is an incredible option amongst other low budget microphones. I am currently using this microphone with Echolink and AllStar in Amateur Radio. Give a call on Echolink ZS1I-R or AllStar 49355 if you want to hear what this microphone sounds like in a live configuration.
Audio Samples and Video:
Herewith an audio file recording for the Behringer BA 85A Microphone through the Behringer UMC22 Interface. (Normal recording with no processing and using no Phantom Power):
Herewith an audio file recording for the Behringer BA 85A Microphone through the Behringer UMC22 Interface and 1202 Behringer Mixer using Phantom Power with EQ:
Video: Behringer Dynamic BA 85A Mic Review / Test by Podcastage
