The Behringer ECM8000 is an inexpensive electret condenser measurement microphone with a genuine (frequency-independent) omnidirectional pattern and a broad linear frequency response for high measurement precision. It will work perfectly in combination with the Behringer DEQ2496 Ultracurve master processor, but can also be used with other suitable software and hardware analysers to establish a specific space's acoustic characteristics. For safe transport, the ECM8000 is supplied in a padded plastic case, which also contains a microphone clip and a foam wind shield.
In contrast to vocal and instrument microphones, which are designed to contribute positively to a musician's sound, measurement microphones function neutrally, i.e. without aesthetic colouration. According to the manufacturer, the Behringer ECM8000 promises deviations of less than 2dB in the frequency range between 20Hz and 20kHz. Another important feature of measurement microphones is their omnidirectional polar pattern, and the Behringer ECM8000's is relatively stable over the given frequency range. Like any other condenser microphone, this measurement microphone requires phantom power, specified by Behringer at between 15V and 48V.
The Behringer ECM8000 is less a high-precision measuring instrument for professional applications – especially as the manufacturer does not provide a calibration file – and more an inexpensive yet well-made tool for delivering reliable measurements when used with suitable analysis tools. For this reason, the Behringer ECM8000 is primarily aimed at beginners who want to tackle spatial acoustic problems themselves and are looking to start optimising their recordings without spending a lot of money on expensive equipment.
The company, which was founded in Germany by Uli Behringer and now manufactures its products in China, has been known for affordable and great-value equipment since its very first product, the Studio Exciter F. An array of mixing consoles (such as the Eurodesk MX8000), signal processors, and later sound amplification and monitoring equipment, has made it possible for countless musicians to fit out their home studios, practice rooms, and mobile PAs within budget limits that were previously unthinkable. The acquisition of other companies, including Midas, Klark Teknik, and TC Electronic, meant that new product groups were added - and also resulted in the technical expertise of these companies being incorporated into product development.
The Behringer ECM8000 is the ideal device for putting a cost-effective measurement setup into place, when used in combination with an appropriate – freely available – software package, such as REW (Room EQ Wizard). In this scenario, the ECM8000 is placed on a mic stand in the monitoring position, connected to an audio interface via an XLR cable, and supplied with phantom power. Once the necessary measurements have been taken, users can draw their own conclusions on a space's acoustic characteristics, and subsequently determine where they want to install absorbers, diffusers, and other acoustic components.