The Behringer C-1U is a USB version of the hugely popular Behringer C-1 studio condenser microphone. Designed for digital home recording and podcasting, you don’t need any additional equipment to connect the C1-U to your computer and start recording. It certainly feels like a robust microphone but what does it sound like?
And how does it compare with the other USB mics we tested?
Here is our review of the Behringer c-1U complete with video and full resolution audio recording.
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Behringer C-1U Features
Mic: Behringer C-1U Studio Condensor USB Mic
Type: Large Diaphragm Condenser
Pickup Pattern: Cardioid
Dual Format: No
Headphone Port: No
Accessories: Swivel Stand Mount
Recording Resolution: Not specified
Frequency Response: Ruler-flat frequency response from 40 Hz to 20 kHz, handles extreme dynamics, all the way up to 136 dB
Additional Features: Includes podcasting/audio editing software (Tracktion) plus ASIO drivers for Windows
Pros: Good recording quality; Free software included.
Cons: Need additional purchases (mic stand + pop filter); Very quiet recording levels – have to get up close.
Buy: Buy Behringer C-1U Studio Condensor USB Mic on Amazon
Behringer C-1U Video Review – See it in Action
Behringer C-1U Original Uncompressed Audio Recording – Hear What It Sounds Like
Behringer C-1U In More Detail
Ease of Use: This is a plug and play device, so you can connect the C1-U straight up to your computer and turn your PC or Mac* computer into a recording system without the need for any other hardware
ASIO Drivers: Unusually for a USB mic, you can download an ASIO driver for Windows audio optimization – this should help drive down latency when recording.
Free Software: Another nice touch is the free audio recording, editing and podcasting software that you can download from Behringer, plus a range of effect plug-ins.
Recording Levels: In tests we found the C1-U made good quality recordings, but the level was very quiet. Was it just the model we tested? This was quite noticeable compared to the other USB microphones we tested in exactly the same setup.
Value For Money: The microphone comes with a swivel mount, however it was the only USB mic we tested that did not come with some kind of microphone stand. This is something you would definitely need to purchase in addition to the C1-U mic. All the other USB mics we tested came complete with a desktop stand.
No Headphone Port: Another weakness of the microphone is a lack of headphone port for direct monitoring. The C1-U is a recording microphone only.
Verdict: A robust low-noise mic with a solid feel, but we really struggled with the recording levels. You need to have the mic very close to your sound source – which may really restrict how you can use it.
Buy Here: Buy Behringer C-1U Studio Condensor USB Mic on Amazon
