A handheld mic can be a great asset once you know how to control your voice with the right tool. The Behringer XM8500 is a dynamic cardioid handheld microphone built to deliver strong value alongside quality audio recording.
This review covers the XM8500’s features, specs, performance, pros, cons, and how it compares to the Shure SM58.
Quick verdict: the XM8500 is a strong pick if you want a warmer, slightly louder alternative to the Shure SM58 on a budget. It’s not the right choice if you need USB plug-and-play, since it requires an XLR connection along with an interface or preamp.
Behringer XM8500 Detailed Review
The XM8500 is a strong pick if you’re looking for a low-cost dynamic microphone, with solid, proficient construction across the board.
Build Quality
The all-metal construction gives this mic real sturdiness. At 8 ounces, the XM8500 feels substantial in hand without being awkward to carry, and it can comfortably be used two-handed for more deliberate vocal takes. The gold-plated XLR connection point feels thick and durable.
Body and Grip
A dark matte finish covers the metal body, giving it a comfortable width that tapers toward a reasonable headrest for the mic. The matte finish resists scratches well and provides a solid grip in hand.
That same finish extends to the mic head, wrapping carefully around the cardioid polar mesh. A metal ring separates the upper and lower sections of the head, finished in the same attractive matte style. This also helps the mic reflect less light in studios or live settings with a lot of stage lighting.
Performance
The XM8500 includes a built-in suspension system for noise reduction and an internal shock mount that handles handling noise effectively. You get your voice recorded clearly without much interference. A two-stage pop filter reduces vibration, mechanical noise, and air disturbance, so you can speak or project without picking up unwanted plosive sounds. For more on how this kind of filter works, see our guide on what does a pop filter do.
Frequency Range
The frequency range sits between 50Hz and 15kHz, covering most of the human hearing range and lining up well with the core vocal range. This frequency response is a key factor in how this mic shapes your voice overall.
Behringer XM8500 Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Audio frequency bandwidth | 50Hz to 15,000Hz |
| Connector | XLR |
| Sensitivity | 28mV/Pa |
| Weight | 240 grams |
Pros and Cons of the Behringer XM8500
Pros
- Two-stage pop filter for reducing pop noise and breath sounds
- Cardioid polar pattern with strong noise reduction
- Shock mount system to reduce handling noise
- Frequency range of 50Hz to 15kHz
- Sturdy construction
- Reliable metal build
Cons
- Doesn’t include a cable
Behringer XM8500 vs Shure SM58
Behringer and Shure are both well-established companies producing genuinely useful microphones. The Shure SM58 is a strong cardioid pattern mic that records voices well, but there are some clear differences worth knowing if you’re comparing the two.
The Behringer XM8500 sounds warmer than the SM58 and is marginally louder. It’s also less prone to feedback issues, meaning you can push gain a bit higher without running into problems, and it’s less sensitive to mic positioning in the room compared to the SM58.
The SM58 has a slight dip in the mid and high-mid range. The XM8500 takes the opposite approach, with a scoop in the mids and high-mids relative to the SM58, paired with a slight lift in the lower mids.
The XM8500 also delivers a clearer top end above 6kHz, which isn’t necessarily better or worse, just a different tonal character.
Together, these qualities give the Behringer XM8500 a distinct sound profile compared to the SM58, and many users find it genuinely competitive for the price. For a closer look at the SM58 specifically, see our full Shure SM58 review.
FAQ
Which mic is better than the Behringer XM8500?
The Shure SM48 is considered somewhat more versatile than the XM8500, performing well for both vocals and instrument recording.
How do you set up the Behringer XM8500?
You’ll need an XLR cable connected to a 3-pin to quarter-inch adapter, plugged properly into the microphone. From there, a 20dB preamp helps adjust your levels appropriately for recording.
How do you connect the Behringer XM8500 to a PC?
The XM8500 uses an XLR cable, which typically connects through an audio interface rather than directly into a computer’s 3.5mm jack. Once connected through an interface, the mic should be recognized automatically by your operating system. For more on how this hardware works, see our guide on what an audio interface is.
How do you fix fuzzy sound on the Behringer XM8500?
Fuzzy or unclear sound is often caused by using an improper cable or connection method. Using a proper XLR cable through a dedicated audio interface, rather than a basic adapter, typically resolves this issue.
Conclusion
The Behringer XM8500 offers a lot of value at a low price point, with solid build quality, effective noise reduction, and a distinct, warm tonal character that holds up well against pricier competitors like the Shure SM58.
Before buying, check the latest price and availability, since pricing and product availability can change over time. For more dynamic mic options and comparisons, see our reviews of the Shure WH20XLR and Fifine K669B.
