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An introduction to Behringer XM8500, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
The cardioid pattern locks onto the singer and turns its back on stage monitors, drum bleed, and crowd noise.
— Behringer official site
What is XM8500?
The XM8500 is a dynamic vocal microphone from Behringer with a cardioid pickup pattern. The maker presents it for singers in live and rehearsal situations.
The maker says the cardioid pattern favors the singer and rejects stage monitors, drum bleed and crowd noise. A tuned midrange lift is intended to help vocals sit in the mix.
An internal shockmount reduces handling noise, and a spherical pop filter reduces plosives and breath noise. The body is metal with a steel mesh windscreen.
It ships with a mic clip and an impact-resistant case.
Cardioid pattern
The cardioid pattern favors sound from the front and rejects monitors and drums from the sides and rear. It matters where multiple sources are close together.
Tuned presence lift
Frequency response is 50 Hz – 15 kHz with a presence lift for vocals, according to the maker.
Internal shockmount
An internal shock-absorbing structure reduces handling noise, relevant for handheld singers.
Spherical pop filter
The spherical head structure reduces plosives and breath noise, useful when singing close.
Metal body and steel mesh
A metal housing and steel mesh windscreen give a rugged build intended for stage use.
Clip and case included
A mic clip and an impact-resistant case are included, ready for transport and storage.
Cardioid pattern rejects rear sound
The cardioid pattern is designed to reject sound from behind, such as stage monitors and crowd noise.
Gold-plated XLR connector
Retailer information lists a gold-plated XLR connector.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Element | Dynamic |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 50 Hz – 15 kHz with vocal presence lift |
| Impedance | 150 ohm |
| Included | Mic clip, impact-resistant case |
| Weight | Approx. 240 g (retailer and spec sheet) |
| Sensitivity | -70 dB (technical specification sheet) |
| Connector | Gold-plated XLR |
What is included and system requirements
- Mic clip
- Impact-resistant case
How to use it
- Mount it on a stand with the clip, or hold it.
- Connect it to a mic input with an XLR cable.
- Power up with the gain turned down.
- Adjust the gain while singing.
- Change the distance to hear how the voice changes.
- Angle the mic slightly if breath is strong.
- Check the monitor positions.
- Store it in the case after use.
Live singing
The cardioid pattern may matter where monitors and drums are nearby.
Band rehearsal
It may work as a vocal mic when several people play together.
Karaoke or streaming
With an XLR-equipped interface, it may also be used for singing or talking.
Rehearsals and small gigs
It may suit bands that need to equip several singers without spending much.
Backup or portable vocal mic
With a shock-resistant case in the box, it may also work as a portable backup microphone.
Who it may suit
- People looking for a vocal mic for live and rehearsal
- People wanting to try a dynamic mic first
- People who want a case included for transport
Good to know before you buy
- XLR output requires an audio interface to connect to a computer
- The page does not show a price
- The sensitivity and weight figures come from a retailer and the technical specification sheet rather than the product page.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See XM8500 on the product page
Sources: behringer.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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