Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500 are affordable dynamic microphones that can suit pretty much any purpose without requiring a significant chunk of money. They are perfect for vocals, but people sometimes also use them for recording choirs and guitars. Below, you can read the comparison between Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500 to help you determine which mic will serve you better.
Our discussion below will cover all you need to know about Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500:
- What accessories come included with Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500
- The design and build quality of Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500
- The built-in features that set Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500 apart
- The sound quality of Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500
- Whether you should get Shure SM48 or Behringer XM8500
Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500: What’s Included
Despite being affordable microphones, Shure and Behringer are generous enough to include a few useful accessories with these products. Yet, Behringer XM8500 scores better in this aspect due to having a tougher, more durable carrying case.
Shure SM48 comes with the A25D swivel adapter that will allow you to use the mic on pretty much any floor stand, boom arm, or desktop stand. In addition, Shure SM48 also includes the 26A13 storage bag, which looks nice. This storage bag can protect the microphone from dust and scratches. However, it won’t be able to shield the microphone against hard bumps, so keep that in mind in your travels.
Behringer XM8500 also includes an adapter that ensures the microphone can be placed on a stand or boom arm. But the carrying case that comes with it is of a higher quality.
This carrying case has a fairly tough cover, and the interior is nicely padded. As a result, this carrying case can protect the mic from not only dust and scratches, but also hard bumps that may happen during transport. It adds a decent value to the microphone. Read also: Shure SM57 vs Sennheiser E609 here.
| Behringer XM8500 | Shure SM58 | |
|---|---|---|
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| Product Dimensions | 10.4 x 4.9 x 3.4 inches | 1.97 x 1.99 x 0.63 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 10.2 ounces | 11.4 ounces |
| Shop now at Amazon | click here | click here |
Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500: Build Quality
How about the build quality of the microphone itself? Truth to be told, both Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500 have excellent build quality, even though they don’t have many bells and whistles to amaze you. They can easily last for years as long as you don’t abuse them.
Shure SM48 arguably has a better design because it is available in a variant that features an on/off switch. You can get the model with an -S suffix if you need this on/off switch for quick, easy control of the microphone.
Shure has always been known for their exceptional build quality. The SM48 microphone is not an exception. It has a very rugged construction, and behind the metallic grille is a cartridge that is mounted on a shock mount to minimize vibrations.
Behringer is also a great brand, and the build quality of XM8500 is really good. It has a sturdy and durable metallic construction. It even has an electromagnetic shielding to prevent interference with other devices. This will allow you to work with the microphone easily in various environments.
Unfortunately, Behringer XM8500 does not have an on/off switch. This may be a problem for some people, such as those that work in live events and choirs. You won’t be able to quickly mute the mic to avoid capturing unwanted noise. Nevertheless, this is probably less of a problem for home studio users.
Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500: Features
Shure SM48 is really designed to be ready for use right out of the box. It has a built-in pop filter that is really effective for minimizing wind noise, breath noise, and sharp plosive sounds.
We have also mentioned above that it comes with an internal shock mount to prevent the cartridge from picking up handling noise. The Shure SM48 microphone has a strict cardioid polar pattern, which means it really focuses the sound capture from the front side. It rejects signals coming from the sides and rear, so it has good resistance against environmental noise.
The frequency response is specifically optimized for vocals. It has a mild bass roll-off to minimize the proximity effect. At the same time, it is slightly boosting the mid-range to make your voice soar.
Behringer XM8500, similarly, comes with a built-in pop filter and an integrated shock mount. So, it is also quite capable in combatting wind noise, breath noise, and handling noise. This mic also has a cardioid polar pattern.
The special feature that sets Behringer XM8500 apart is the incredibly high signal output. Some people consider it a hot mic because it can easily capture weak voices and subtle sounds, and produce a loud output. Of course, there is a drawback; while it can deliver incredible details, it is also more prone to picking up environmental noise.
Shure SM48 vs Behringer XM8500: Sound Quality
If we compare the sound quality between Shure SM48 and Behringer XM8500, there is a fairly obvious difference. One is not necessarily better than the other; they simply have different characteristics.
Shure SM48 delivers more bass. This makes the sound warmer, and generally more pleasing. It is particularly great for vocals, as the output feels natural with a nice sense of depth. The subtle emphasis on the mid-range frequencies is really helpful in making vocals soar without exaggerating.
Shure SM48 is fairly loud, and it can work with normal conversation-level voice volume just fine. But it will require more gain when used by someone with a quiet voice. It is also great for people with a low, deep voice. But it is not really great for bright musical instruments.
Behringer XM8500, on the other hand, is brighter and generally more detailed. It can work for most vocals just fine. It is especially great for capturing a quiet voice, as it can pick up all the fine details and deliver a loud output.
However, Behringer XM8500 does not give as much warmth. It is more accurate and detailed, but somewhat less pleasing. On the positive side, it is slightly more versatile, as the transparent sound is suitable for use with guitars, drums, and other musical instruments really well.
Conclusion
If you specifically need a microphone for vocals, Shure SM48 is the better choice. It makes vocals sound warm and pleasing. It is available in a variant that has an on/off switch, which can be really useful for live events. However, if you need a versatile mic for recording not only vocals but also musical instruments, Behringer XM8500 can be your choice.