Top 5 Best Overhead Drum Mics for Crisp and Clear Audio Recording
Discover the top overhead drum microphones for capturing the perfect sound. Enhance your drumming experience with these top picks.
Drums are the backbone of any band or musical ensemble, and capturing their sound is crucial for a successful live performance or recording. While there are various types of microphones available for drum recording, overhead drum mics are the most essential ones that can make or break the sound quality. These mics are designed to capture the overall tonality and ambiance of the drum kit, including cymbals, hi-hats, and toms. In this article, we will explore the best overhead drum mics currently available in the market and their unique features that set them apart from the rest.
First on our list is the Shure KSM137/SL Stereo Pair Condenser Microphones. These mics are renowned for their exceptional clarity and sensitivity, making them ideal for capturing the nuances of a drum kit. The KSM137/SL pair is also versatile enough to be used for other instruments like acoustic guitars or pianos. Moreover, these mics come with a switchable low-frequency filter and a -15dB pad, allowing for greater control over the sound.
Next up is the Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone. This mic boasts a hypercardioid polar pattern, which means it focuses on capturing the sound from a specific direction and rejects unwanted noise and bleed from other sources. This feature makes it perfect for drum recording in a noisy environment or a live setting. The AT4053B also has a high SPL handling capacity, ensuring that it doesn't distort even at high sound pressure levels.
The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Multipattern Condenser Microphone is another popular choice among sound engineers and producers. This mic has nine polar patterns to choose from, allowing for greater versatility and flexibility when recording drums. The C414 XLII also has a switchable bass-cut filter and a -6dB pad, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Additionally, this mic has a robust construction and comes with a shock mount and a metal carrying case for easy transportation.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent sound quality, the Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones are worth considering. These mics have a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, ensuring that they capture the full range of frequencies from a drum kit. The M5-MP pair also comes with a stereo bar and a windshield, making them ideal for outdoor recordings or gigs.
The Neumann KM 184 MT Cardioid Microphone is a compact and lightweight option that packs a punch in terms of sound quality. This mic has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, making it suitable for drum recording and other instruments. The KM 184 MT also has a high SPL handling capacity and a low self-noise, ensuring that it captures the sound accurately and without any distortion.
The Sennheiser e614 Super-Cardioid Electret Condenser Microphone is a go-to choice for many drummers and sound engineers. This mic has a super-cardioid polar pattern, which means it isolates the sound source and reduces the bleed from other instruments. The e614 also has a high SPL handling capacity and a switchable bass-cut filter, making it ideal for recording drums in a live setting. Moreover, this mic has a rugged construction and comes with a pouch and a mic clip for easy mounting.
The Beyerdynamic M160 Double Ribbon Microphone is a unique option that offers a warm and vintage sound to drum recordings. This mic has a double ribbon design, which means it captures the sound from both sides of the ribbon. The M160 also has a hypercardioid polar pattern, enabling it to focus on the sound source while rejecting the noise and bleed from other instruments. Additionally, this mic has a high SPL handling capacity and a unique design that makes it stand out from other overhead mics.
The Electro-Voice RE20 Dynamic Cardioid Microphone is a popular choice for capturing the kick drum sound. This mic has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 45Hz to 18kHz, making it ideal for recording low-frequency instruments like kick drums or bass guitars. The RE20 also has a variable-D technology that reduces proximity effect and ensures consistent sound quality, even when the mic is moved around. Moreover, this mic has a robust construction and a built-in pop filter that minimizes plosives and breath noises.
The Audix ADX51 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is another affordable option that delivers excellent sound quality. This mic has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 40Hz to 18kHz, making it suitable for drum recording and other instruments. The ADX51 also has a high SPL handling capacity and a low self-noise, ensuring that it captures the sound accurately and without any distortion. Additionally, this mic has a compact design and comes with a mic clip and a carrying pouch.
Finally, the AKG Pro Audio C12 VR Tube Condenser Microphone is a high-end option that offers a classic and vintage sound to drum recordings. This mic has a large-diaphragm capsule and a nine polar patterns selector, allowing for greater control over the sound. The C12 VR also has a switchable -10dB pad and a low-cut filter, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Additionally, this mic has a tube circuitry that adds warmth and character to the sound, making it a favorite among many producers and engineers.
Introduction
Overhead drum mics are an essential tool for capturing the sound of a drum kit. They are used to capture the cymbals and the overall sound of the drums. In this article, we will discuss some of the best overhead drum mics that are available in the market.
Shure KSM137
The Shure KSM137 is a versatile microphone that can be used for a variety of applications. It has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Shure KSM137 is a great option if you want a microphone that can be used for both live performances and recording sessions.
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII
The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is a high-end microphone that is used by many professionals in the music industry. It has a large diaphragm that helps to capture the nuances of the sound. The microphone has nine polar patterns, which means it can be used for a variety of applications. It also has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is a great option if you want a microphone that can capture the sound of your drum kit with great precision.
Sennheiser e914
The Sennheiser e914 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is used for a variety of applications. It has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Sennheiser e914 is a great option if you want a microphone that is versatile and can be used for a variety of applications.
Neumann KM 184
The Neumann KM 184 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is used for a variety of applications. It has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Neumann KM 184 is a great option if you want a microphone that can capture the nuances of your drum kit with great precision.
Rode NT5
The Rode NT5 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is used for a variety of applications. It has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Rode NT5 is a great option if you want a microphone that is affordable and can be used for a variety of applications.
Audio-Technica AT4053B
The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is used for a variety of applications. It has a hypercardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a great option if you want a microphone that can capture the sound of your drum kit with great precision.
Shure SM81
The Shure SM81 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is used for a variety of applications. It has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to reduce unwanted noise and feedback. The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which means it can capture a wide range of frequencies. It also has a high SPL handling capability, which makes it suitable for use with loud instruments like drums. The Shure SM81 is a great option if you want a microphone that is affordable and can be used for a variety of applications.
Conclusion
Choosing the right overhead drum mic is important if you want to capture the sound of your drum kit with great precision. The above-mentioned microphones are some of the best options that are available in the market. Each microphone has its own unique features and characteristics, so it is important to choose the one that suits your specific needs. Regardless of which microphone you choose, make sure to use it properly and experiment with different placements to get the best results.
Introduction to Overhead Drum Mics
Overhead drum mics play a crucial role in capturing the sound of the entire drum kit. They are responsible for picking up the cymbals, hi-hats, and overall ambiance of the drums. Choosing the right set of overhead drum mics can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to know which ones will suit your needs.In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best overhead drum mics for your recording or live performances. We will also discuss the different types of overhead drum mics available and their placement techniques for different drum kits.What to Look for When Choosing Overhead Drum Mics
Before diving into the best overhead drum mics, it's essential to know what to look for when selecting one. Here are some factors to consider:1. Type of Microphone:
There are two types of microphones that are commonly used as overhead drum mics: Condenser and Dynamic microphones. Condenser microphones are more sensitive and capture a broader frequency range, making them ideal for recording. Dynamic microphones, on the other hand, are more durable and suitable for live performances.2. Polar Pattern:
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to its directional sensitivity. Overhead drum mics with a cardioid polar pattern are ideal as they pick up the sound from the front and reject sounds from the sides and rear. This helps to reduce unwanted sound bleed from other instruments.3. Frequency Response:
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can pick up. Overhead drum mics with a flat frequency response are preferable as they capture a more accurate representation of the drum kit's sound.4. Sensitivity:
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to how well it can pick up low-level sounds. Overhead drum mics with high sensitivity are ideal as they can capture the subtle nuances of the drum kit's sound.Best Condenser Mics for Overhead Drum Recording
Condenser microphones are commonly used for recording overhead drums as they are more sensitive and capture a broader frequency range. Here are some of the best condenser mics for overhead drum recording:1. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII
The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is a versatile condenser mic that is ideal for recording overhead drums. It has a flat frequency response and a switchable polar pattern, allowing you to tailor the sound to your liking. The mic also features a high-pass filter and a -20dB pad, making it suitable for loud drummers.2. Audio-Technica AT4053B
The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the cymbals and hi-hats. It has a cardioid polar pattern, making it less susceptible to sound bleed from other instruments. The mic also has a flat frequency response, ensuring a natural and accurate sound.3. Neumann KM 184
The Neumann KM 184 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is widely used in professional studios. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it ideal for overhead drum recording. The mic also has a low self-noise level, ensuring a clean and clear recording.Top Dynamic Mics for Overhead Drum Recording
Dynamic microphones are commonly used for live performances as they are more durable and less susceptible to feedback. Here are some of the top dynamic mics for overhead drum recording:1. Shure SM81-LC
The Shure SM81-LC is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is widely used for overhead drum recording. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it ideal for capturing the natural sound of the drums. The mic also has a high SPL handling, making it suitable for loud drummers.2. Sennheiser e614
The Sennheiser e614 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the cymbals and hi-hats. It has a super-cardioid polar pattern, making it less susceptible to sound bleed from other instruments. The mic also has a flat frequency response and a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and accurate sound.3. Electro-Voice ND44
The Electro-Voice ND44 is a dynamic mic that is ideal for live performances. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it suitable for overhead drum recording. The mic also has a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and distortion-free sound.Affordable Overhead Drum Mics for Home Recording
If you're on a budget, there are still plenty of affordable overhead drum mics that can deliver great results. Here are some of the best affordable overhead drum mics for home recording:1. Behringer C-2
The Behringer C-2 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for home recording. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it suitable for overhead drum recording. The mic also has a low self-noise level, ensuring a clean and clear recording.2. Samson C02
The Samson C02 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the cymbals and hi-hats. It has a cardioid polar pattern, making it less susceptible to sound bleed from other instruments. The mic also has a flat frequency response and a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and accurate sound.3. CAD Audio GXL2200SP Studio Pack
The CAD Audio GXL2200SP Studio Pack includes two large diaphragm condenser mics that are ideal for overhead drum recording. They have a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, ensuring a natural and accurate sound. The mics also come with shock mounts and a carrying case, making them easy to transport.Overhead Drum Mic Placement Techniques for Different Drum Kits
The placement of overhead drum mics is crucial in capturing the sound of the entire drum kit. Here are some overhead drum mic placement techniques for different drum kits:1. Standard Drum Kit
For a standard drum kit, the overhead drum mics should be placed above the drummer's head, pointing towards the center of the kit. The distance between the mics should be equal to the distance between the drummer's ears. This helps to capture a balanced and natural sound.2. Jazz Drum Kit
For a jazz drum kit, the overhead drum mics should be placed slightly higher than usual to capture the cymbals and hi-hats. The mics should be angled downwards towards the center of the kit to capture a tight and focused sound.3. Rock Drum Kit
For a rock drum kit, the overhead drum mics should be placed slightly lower than usual to capture the sound of the kick and snare drums. The mics should be angled downwards towards the center of the kit to capture a powerful and punchy sound.How to Mix Overhead Drum Mics with Close Mics
Mixing overhead drum mics with close mics can be challenging, but it's essential in achieving a balanced and natural sound. Here are some tips on how to mix overhead drum mics with close mics:1. EQing
Use EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies and to balance the sound between the overhead and close mics. High-pass filtering the overhead mics can also help to remove any low-end rumble.2. Compression
Use compression to even out the levels between the overhead and close mics. This helps to create a more cohesive sound and reduces the risk of one instrument overpowering the others.3. Panning
Pan the overhead mics slightly left and right to create a wider stereo image. This helps to create a more immersive listening experience.Best Overhead Drum Mics for Live Performances
Choosing the right overhead drum mics for live performances is crucial in delivering a clear and powerful sound. Here are some of the best overhead drum mics for live performances:1. Audix ADX51
The Audix ADX51 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for live performances. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it suitable for capturing the natural sound of the drums. The mic also has a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and distortion-free sound.2. Shure KSM137/SL
The Shure KSM137/SL is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the cymbals and hi-hats. It has a cardioid polar pattern, making it less susceptible to sound bleed from other instruments. The mic also has a flat frequency response and a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and accurate sound.3. Beyerdynamic M 160
The Beyerdynamic M 160 is a dynamic mic that is ideal for live performances. It has a hyper-cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it suitable for overhead drum recording. The mic also has a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and powerful sound.Overhead Drum Mics for Jazz and Acoustic Music
Jazz and acoustic music require a more subtle and natural sound, making the choice of overhead drum mics crucial. Here are some overhead drum mics for jazz and acoustic music:1. Audio-Technica AT4051b
The Audio-Technica AT4051b is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for jazz and acoustic music. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, ensuring a natural and accurate sound. The mic also has a low self-noise level, ensuring a clean and clear recording.2. AKG Pro Audio C480B
The AKG Pro Audio C480B is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is widely used in professional studios. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, making it ideal for overhead drum recording. The mic also has a high SPL handling, ensuring a clear and distortion-free sound.3. Neumann KM 184
The Neumann KM 184 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for jazz and acoustic music. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, ensuring a natural and accurate sound. The mic also has a low self-noise level, ensuring a clean and clear recording.Overhead Drum Mics for Heavy Metal and Rock Music
Heavy metal and rock music require a more powerful and punchy sound, making the choice of overhead drum mics crucial. Here are some overhead drum mics for heavy metal and rock music:1. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII
The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is a versatile condenser mic that is ideal for heavy metal and rock music. It has a flat frequency response and a switchable polar pattern, allowing you to tailor the sound to your liking. The mic also features a high-pass filter and a -20dB pad, making it suitable for loud drummers.2. Shure SM81-LC
The Shure SM81-LC is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is widely used for overhead drum recording in heavy metal and rock music. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, ensuring a natural and accurate sound. The mic also has a high SPL handling, making it suitable for loud drummers.3. Electro-Voice ND44
The Electro-Voice ND44 is a dynamic mic that is ideal for live performances in heavy metal and rock music. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a flat frequency response, ensuring a clear and distortion-free sound. The mic also has a high SPL handling, making it suitable for loud drummers.Conclusion
Choosing the right set of overhead drum mics can be challenging, but with the right knowledge, it can be an enjoyable process. Whether you're recording or performing live, the choice of overhead drum mics is crucial in delivering a clear and powerful sound. Consider the type of microphone, polar pattern, frequency response, and sensitivity when choosing your overhead drum mics. Don't be afraid to experiment with different placement techniques and mixing strategies to find the perfect sound for your drum kit and music genre.The Best Overhead Drum Mics: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
When it comes to recording drums, getting the right overhead mics can make all the difference. Overhead drum mics are responsible for capturing the overall sound and character of the drum kit. They can help to balance out the individual drum sounds and provide a cohesive mix. In this guide, we will explore the best overhead drum mics available on the market, their pros and cons, and provide a comparison table.Top Overhead Drum Mics
1. Shure KSM137 - This is a condenser microphone that provides a bright and clear sound. It has a low noise floor and a wide frequency response range, making it a versatile choice for recording drums. Pros: Bright and clear sound quality, low noise floor. Cons: Expensive.
2. Audio-Technica AT4053B - This is also a condenser microphone that provides a warm and natural sound. It has a high SPL handling and excellent off-axis rejection, making it ideal for capturing cymbals. Pros: Warm and natural sound quality, high SPL handling. Cons: Slightly bulky.
3. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII - This is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that provides a detailed and accurate sound. It has multiple polar patterns and a switchable pad and high-pass filter, making it a versatile choice for recording drums. Pros: Detailed and accurate sound quality, versatile polar patterns. Cons: Expensive.
Comparison Table
| Microphone | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Shure KSM137 | Bright and clear sound quality, low noise floor. | Expensive. |
| Audio-Technica AT4053B | Warm and natural sound quality, high SPL handling. | Slightly bulky. |
| AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII | Detailed and accurate sound quality, versatile polar patterns. | Expensive. |
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best overhead drum mics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. However, the Shure KSM137, Audio-Technica AT4053B, and AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII are all excellent choices that provide high-quality sound. Consider your recording needs and budget when making your final decision.The Best Overhead Drum Mics: Elevate Your Drumming Experience
Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on the best overhead drum mics. We hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding of the importance of overhead drum mics and how they can elevate your drumming experience.
As we have discussed throughout the article, overhead drum mics are essential for capturing the full sound of your drum kit. They pick up the cymbals, hi-hats, and other high-frequency sounds that close-miking techniques cannot capture. Therefore, they are crucial for achieving a balanced and full drum sound in your recordings or live performances.
We have highlighted some of the best overhead drum mics available in the market, from budget-friendly options to high-end ones. Each microphone has unique features that make them stand out, such as frequency response, polar patterns, and sensitivity.
One of the most important factors when choosing an overhead drum mic is its polar pattern. It determines the direction from which the microphone picks up sound. Some microphones have a cardioid pattern, which means they pick up sound from the front and reject sounds from the back. Others have a figure-eight pattern, which means they pick up sound from the front and back while rejecting sounds from the sides.
Another crucial factor to consider is the frequency response of the microphone. Overhead drum mics with a wide frequency range can capture a broader spectrum of sound, resulting in a more natural and accurate representation of your drum kit's sound.
We have also discussed the importance of microphone placement when using overhead drum mics. Placing the microphones at the correct angle and distance from the drum kit can have a significant impact on the overall sound quality. Experimenting with different placements can help you find the sweet spot that works best for your drumming style and kit.
It is worth noting that investing in high-quality overhead drum mics can significantly improve your drumming experience. They can help you achieve a professional sound that will make your recordings or live performances stand out.
In conclusion, overhead drum mics are a crucial component of any drummer's gear. They capture the full sound of your drum kit and help achieve a balanced and professional sound. We hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding of the importance of overhead drum mics and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Remember to experiment with microphone placement and take advantage of the unique features of each microphone to achieve the best possible sound. Happy drumming!
People Also Ask About Best Overhead Drum Mics
What are overhead drum mics used for?
Overhead drum mics are used to capture the overall sound of a drum kit. They are typically placed above the kit, pointing down towards the drums and cymbals. This allows them to pick up the full range of frequencies produced by the kit and create a well-balanced mix.
What should I look for in an overhead drum mic?
When choosing an overhead drum mic, it's important to consider factors such as frequency response, sensitivity, and polar pattern. Look for mics with a flat frequency response that accurately capture the full range of frequencies produced by the kit. High sensitivity is also important, as it allows the mic to pick up subtle nuances in the sound. Finally, consider the polar pattern of the mic - cardioid or supercardioid patterns are typically best for capturing the kit without picking up unwanted background noise.
What are some of the best overhead drum mics on the market?
There are many great overhead drum mics available, but some of the most highly recommended include:
- Shure SM81-LC: This high-quality condenser mic offers a wide frequency response and excellent sensitivity, making it ideal for capturing the full range of sounds produced by a drum kit.
- AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS: The AKG C414 is a versatile and reliable microphone that can be used for a variety of applications, including overhead drum miking. Its wide frequency range and selectable polar patterns make it a great choice for capturing the nuances of a drum kit.
- Sennheiser e965: The Sennheiser e965 is a high-end condenser microphone that offers exceptional clarity and detail. Its wide frequency response and low self-noise make it perfect for capturing the full range of sounds produced by a drum kit.
Do I need multiple overhead drum mics?
While it is possible to capture a decent sound with just one overhead drum mic, using two or more can significantly improve the overall sound quality. By placing multiple mics at different angles above the kit, you can capture a more detailed and nuanced sound, with greater separation between the individual drums and cymbals.