Recording drums isn’t an easy job. Whether you’re a studio recording engineer or even a musician wanting to try your hands in home recording, then it’s a challenge. Overhead microphones are very important to the procedure for recording drums and locating the very best drum overheads is essential. Within the following guide, we explore the very best options such as match pairs, condenser, and dynamic microphones, and also look at the merits of various mics for live usage and studio usage.
Contents
- The Best Overhead Drum Mics
- 1. AKG 3185X00110 Matched Pair Stereo Set Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
- 2. Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones
- 3. Rode NT1KIT Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
- 4. Shure KSM137/SL Stereo Pair with (2) KSM137, (2) Foam Windscreens, A27M Stereo Microphone Adapter and Carrying Case
- 5. Neumann KM 184 MT Stereo Set Condenser Microphone
- 6. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Instrument Condenser Microphone
- 7. Shure KSM141/SL Dual-Pattern End-Address Condenser Studio Microphone
- 8. Audix D6 Dynamic Microphone, Cardioid
- 9. Sennheiser E604 Dynamic Cardioid for Snare and Toms
- 10. Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- Conclusion
The Best Overhead Drum Mics
1. AKG 3185X00110 Matched Pair Stereo Set Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
Perfect Twins for stereo recording of almost any acoustic instruments from the studio and on stage. Even the C214 large-diaphragm condenser mic was built as a low-cost alternative to the luxury C414 family. The C214 captures sound by mixing one among this mythical C414 dual-capsule platform along with the patented AKG Back-Plate Technology, leading to an outstanding performance near the famed C414 XLII.
2. Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones
Designed and produced in Australia, the M5 is a streamlined 1/2″ cardioid condenser mic with reduced noise and complete frequency response. Ideal for studio recording and live on point, the M5 is just as at home on a variety of acoustic instruments, choirs, or anyplace you’d use a small diaphragm condenser mic, either independently or as a stereo array. This matched set was carefully chosen to guarantee a variant of no longer than 1dB correlation involving the microphones.
3. Rode NT1KIT Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
The NT1 is a radical new 1-inch diaphragm condenser mic from RØDE. Even though the body of this brand new NT1 closely looks like the NT1-A, the mic was remodeled from the ground up, with all the only shared part being the mesh grille.
The NT1-KIT is provided with all the groundbreaking new RØDE SMR shock mount. With a distinctive double-Lyre suspension method, the SMR enriches the current exceptional vibration cancellation of Rycote’s Lyre method by using a smaller internal Lyre to function as a tensioning component.
This preserves each Lyre from the neutral position at which it’s most efficient at cancelling vibration. The SMR’s removable all-metal pop filter is equally as powerful because it’s visually stunning, giving an integrated option to plosive security that’s readily washable and made to last so long as the shock bracket and mic.
4. Shure KSM137/SL Stereo Pair with (2) KSM137, (2) Foam Windscreens, A27M Stereo Microphone Adapter and Carrying Case
The KSM137 is an end-address condenser mic with one cardioid polar pattern. Intended for studio use, yet strong enough for live applications, the KSM137 can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL). Its reduced self-noise and extended frequency response make it perfect for recording instruments. Versatile, durable, and accurate, the KSM137 is a superb microphone for devices which range from percussion to wind, strings to brass, and piano to guitar.
5. Neumann KM 184 MT Stereo Set Condenser Microphone
Another microphone that’s great at natural audio reproduction is that the KM 184 MT by Neumann. It’s acceptable for the near and distant recording of instruments, both the stereo, along with live recordings and produces a fantastic overhead microphone. This tiny mic could be very happy that it captures any device using an interesting depth of audio and sophistication.
The cardioid frequency layout ensures outstanding reception of this sound in the front of the mike and negation of all the further noises which shouldn’t be recorded. As a result of the exceptionally professional production process, these microphones generate a consistent sound.
This may be quite helpful once you need to have a stereo output audio. So two of those microphones may be utilized as a set to achieve an outstanding stereo harmony. No self-noise could be heard coming from such microphones, and the noise they create will be crystal clear.
6. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Instrument Condenser Microphone
The C 414 XLS provides nine pickup patterns that enable you to decide on the ideal setting for every single program. For live-sound programs and permanent installations, all controllers may be disabled readily for rotational use. Even a Peak Hold LED shows even the shortest jolt peaks.
It is predecessor, AKG’s legendary C 414 requires no introduction it’s a tool utilized in many recording studios also has been used on thousands of hit recordings; it has been online with artists of each genre and can also be employed by leading broadcast facilities around the world. The C 414 XLS was made to be equally as popular. The C 414 XLS maintains the sonic character of the legendary C 414 B-ULS, the longest-lived C 414 version.
Engineered for maximum linearity and neutral sound, it’s been among the very universal and flexible large-diaphragm mic for a long time. Widely used for precise, beautifully detailed pickup of any acoustic instrument that the new C 414 XLS joins demonstrated benchmark caliber, leading-edge technology, and advanced components.
7. Shure KSM141/SL Dual-Pattern End-Address Condenser Studio Microphone
The KSM141 is really a dual-pattern end-addressed condenser mic having a rotating collar, enabling easy switching between a constant cardioid or true omnidirectional polar pattern for both smooth and exceptionally focused audio reproduction. Intended for studio use, yet robust enough for live applications, the KSM141 can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL). Its reduced self-noise and extended frequency response make it ideal for recording musical instruments. In addition, it includes a rotating collar, enabling easy switching between an extremely consistent cardioid or accurate omnidirectional polar pattern for both smooth and exceptionally focused audio reproduction.
8. Audix D6 Dynamic Microphone, Cardioid
The D6 can be employed for studio, stage and broadcasting programs. Equipped using a cardioid pickup pattern for isolation and feedback controller, the D6 has a more vlm diaphragm for Natural, precise sound reproduction. The D6 is lightweight, streamlined and simple to position.
With a broad frequency response of 30 Hz – 15 kHz and also the capability to handle SPLs in excess of 144 dB, The D6 is a wonderful selection for producing instruments requiring prolonged low-frequency reproduction like kick drums, big toms and bass cabinets. The D6 is produced using a precision machined aluminum body, Black anodized finish, laser-etched version and serial number, steel mesh grill, and switch craft XLR connector and has a tension-fit heavy-duty nylon mic clip.
Transformerless layout, very low impedance and balanced output allow for interference-free functionality; despite long cable runs. Transducer type: Dynamic frequency response: 30 Hz – 15 kHz geological pattern: Cardioid output Impedance: 200 ohms sensitivity:. 8 mV/Pascal @ 1K off axis rejection: 20 db max SPL: 144 db.
9. Sennheiser E604 Dynamic Cardioid for Snare and Toms
Sennheiser’s uncompromising, rugged development e600 (instrument) and also e800 (vocals) series comprises a wide-range of dynamic and condenser microphones, each tailored to get clear and detailed audio with low handling noise and higher feedback rejection.
In live audio, there are not any second chances. The development wired 600/800 series provides consistent, reliable results with microphones renowned for their clarity, uniform and projection on-axis / off-axis reaction. Conceived of as a household, these highly technical vocal and instrument mics supply a finely calibrated, constant audio right from the box.
10. Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
The Shure SM57 is a fixture in the audio industry. You see it anywhere. In smallish clubs and 100,000 seat stadiums. This famous mic is utilized by legendary performers and the most recent up-and-comers. What you might not have seen are the countless SM57s on the job behind the scenes from professional recording studios across the globe. In actuality, you are probably going to discover it in much more studios than any other mic.
Not surprising. The unidirectional dynamic SM57 has set the industry standard by specifying how instruments should sound. That is why it’s used with almost any serious artist or recording specialist. Its warm, clean audio together with its carefully contoured presence rise ensure it is perfect for a vast array of instrument miking applications, especially guitar amplifiers and drums. The SM57 includes a uniform cardioid pickup pattern which isolates the main sound source and minimizes background noise.
Conclusion
The recording procedure is an intricate undertaking with several components that function together and several sound fundamentals which have to be well researched if you would like to find the best outcomes. A fantastic pair of overhead mics stands at the center of the procedure, playing a very important role in the shaping of your audio quality.
Each of the mics from this listing works well for their respective price tags and supply you with excellent choices to record your drum kit using less or more added capabilities. Study all of the specs, get knowledgeable about business conditions, and also make your decision wisely.
