Overhead mics for drummers

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Basically, the higher the better, especially if you are looking to record louder sounds, from loud sources such as drums. This weight gets affected by how heavy the bag or case is that holds the condenser mics.

Large-diaphragm mics are always the heaviest options, especially if you have a matched pair of them. sE does a very good job at matching their mics in house so if you’re looking for a consistent matched pair for stereo recordings, the sE8 is it.

Specifications

  • Type: Condenser
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Frequency Response: 20 to 20000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: 25 mV/Pa (-32 dBV)
  • Impedance: 110 ohms
  • Maximum SPL: 139 / 149 / 159 dBSPL (0/10/20 dB pad) (0.5% THD @ 1kHz)
  • Dynamic Range: 121 dB
  • Equivalent Noise Level: 13dB (A weighted)
  • Power Requirements: 48V phantom power
  • Connection Material: Gold-plated XLR connector
  • Weight: 4.97 oz.
  • Extras: Mic clips, windscreens, stereo bar, and metal storage case

Polar Pattern and Frequency Response

Excellent for detailed overhead and acoustic recordings

Gearank Opinion

Known for their precision and warmth, these mics capture a full, balanced sound, making them ideal for detailed drum and percussion work.

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While omnidirectional mics capture sound from all directions, they’re typically problematic for overhead applications since they pick up excessive room noise and can create phase issues when combined with other drum mics, ultimately compromising the clarity you’re trying to achieve.

Frequency Response Range

Understanding frequency response proves absolutely critical when selecting overhead mics, since you’ll need equipment capable of capturing the complete tonal spectrum that drums and cymbals produce across their wide dynamic range.

By recording from above, these microphones inevitably get a bit of everything when they pick up the hi-hats. A lot of these mics come with clips for connecting to mic stands, as this is pretty standard as additions go.

Other mics include accessories such as cases, which can be used for safely storing and transporting, the Beyerdynamic MC930 is a good example of this.

overhead mics for drummers

You may expect it to feel quite heavy, but you’ll be surprised when you pick it up. Otherwise, the extra length and weight won’t be an issue.

Overall, the sE7s are solid microphones that work equally well in live and stage settings.

Polar pattern: Cardioid

Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz

Max SPL: 156dB

Weight: 0.28 lbs.

Rode NT5

The Rode NT5 Microphones (compare price on Sweetwater and Amazon) have been popular overhead drum microphone options for decades.

The brand mainly offers luxury microphones that are more expensive than the common choices in the market.

With that being said, you’ll get some of the best drum sounds you’ve ever had with Earthworks overhead mics, so they’re well worth the higher prices.

Behringer

Behringer is a fantastic brand to consider if you want affordable microphones.

This model also comes with windshields, which means that if you are recording outside, you can protect the mics from gusts of wind. I love how this mic sounds when using a single one, but you’ll find mixing and EQing to be a bit easier when using two.

Large-diaphragm mics wouldn’t be my first suggestion for live gigging, but this one is definitely the exception.

These mics feature cardioid pickup patterns that effectively isolate your kit while rejecting unwanted feedback, plus they include a 4 dB boost in the 1-8 kHz range that’ll make your cymbals sparkle with enhanced brightness and clarity. The SPL handling, pickup pattern, frequency response, and overall build quality will affect how good the overhead mics sound when recording your drums.

If you’re new to using drum mics, you won’t be able to distinctly hear how one mic is better than another.

Greater distances create spacious, airy tones but risk introducing unwanted room noise that’ll muddy your mix. This can restrict versatility in capturing ambient sounds or broader spatial recordings, where switchable polar patterns might be advantageous. Learn more.

Notable Insights

  • Look for condenser microphones with wide frequency response (20 Hz – 20 kHz) to capture the full spectrum of drum kit sounds.
  • Choose microphones with cardioid or super-cardioid polar patterns to minimize bleed from other instruments and focus on overhead capture.
  • Ensure your audio interface provides 48V phantom power, as most quality overhead condenser microphones require it to operate.
  • Consider matched pairs like the Samson C02 for accurate stereo imaging with sensitivity matched within ±0.5dB between microphones.
  • Select microphones with high SPL handling capabilities and switchable pads to manage loud drum transients without distortion.

G7 7-Piece Wired Dynamic Drum Mic Kit (Whole Metal)

The G7 7-Piece Wired Dynamic Drum Mic Kit stands out as the all-encompassing solution for drummers who need complete mic coverage without breaking the bank, delivering everything from kick drum punch to overhead cymbal clarity in one metal-constructed package.

Some more affordable mics like the Samson C02 pair will also need power.

Power sometimes comes from a battery source but in the majority of circumstances it is actually run to the mic through a mixing desk or audio interface using something called phantom power. The brand has a large range of high-quality mixers and interfaces, but many of their mics are aimed at budget buyers.

It’s a good brand to consider if you’re buying overhead drum mics for the first time.