7 Best Drum Mic Kits For Recording Live 2023

An essential tool in delivering a natural, clear sound, AKG Drum Set Session mic set has been designed to capture every nuance of your drumming, from the snare roll to the cymbals’ crash.

Providing you with a way to create and develop your musical experience, this is the ideal set to take your drumming skills to the next level. With the power of AKG’s advanced technology, you’ll have every drum piece and rhythm cutting through your mix.

From rock and roll to jazz, you’ll have the tools to accurately create any sound and feel you desire. Traveling to the studio and needing to set your rig again every time becomes needless, as with Drumset Session I, you’ll have it all from the comfort of your own home.

Designed for home recording and live performances, this kit includes seven high-quality microphones and all the necessary accessories to get the most out of your drum set.

The set records the whole spectrum of your drum kit’s sound with mics made specifically for the dynamics of the kick drums, toms, snare drums, and overheads for cymbals.

Tailored to provide a genuine, natural sound that you can use to enhance recordings or broadcast to the crowd via the club’s sound system.

Key Features:

P2 Mic (x1)
A dynamic microphone with a potent low-frequency response, the P2 Bass Drum Microphone is designed to capture bass drum sounds. It is robust with durable, all-metal construction and a cardioid polar pattern that offers superior feedback rejection. The P2 can withstand sound pressure levels of up to 157dB SPL and has a frequency response of 20Hz to 16kHz.
P4 Mic (x4)
P4 Tom/Snares Mics are dynamic microphones with a compact design and a cardioid polar pattern. These microphones capture the snares, toms, and other small percussion instruments. They can handle sound pressure levels of up to 152dB SPL and responds to frequencies between 40Hz and 18kHz.
P17 Mic (x2)
Boasting a cardioid polar pattern, these small diaphragm condenser microphones have a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and the ability to handle sound pressure levels of up to 155dB SPL. P17 microphones are ideal for being positioned as overheads for capturing cymbals.
H440 Mounting Hardware
A set of H440 Mounting Hardware is included with the Drumset Session I to make it simple and secure to mount the microphones. The hardware’s flexible gooseneck design enables precise microphone positioning, and an integrated rubber shock absorber helps to lessen unwelcome vibrations and noise.
Carrying Case
It also comes with a durable, lightweight aluminum carrying case, making transporting and storing the kit’s microphones easy. The case features custom-designed foam inserts that ensure the microphones remain secure and protected during transport.

Pros:

Including a range of microphones designed for specific drum elements, the Drum Set Session I features seven mics well-distributed between the kick drum, snare, toms, and overheads. It makes it versatile for recording or live sound applications, providing high-quality sound capture comparable to much more expensive microphone sets.

Additionally, it comes with various accessories, such as drum mounts and clips, that make it easy to position the microphones precisely and achieve the best possible sound.

Cons:

Although boasting many great specs, it appears to show some inconstancies in its quality control. Users have reported receiving faulty microphones or accessories, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to resolve with the dealer.

2. Shure DMK57-52 Drum Microphone Kit

With solid sonic clarity and sensitivity, the DMK57-52 is a powerful tool for drum recordings and live performances.

In today’s world of entertainment and communication, captivating your audience has become a crucial necessity for any successful business or individual. Whether for live performances or studio recordings, connecting your audience to your proposed atmosphere is more important than ever.

This bundle ensures you can get a clear and detailed sound of your drum kit with accuracy and tone fidelity, becoming the go-to choice for many of the world’s top musicians and recording engineers.

Shure microphones have become a staple in the music industry, enabling numerous musicians to express themselves by capturing their instruments and vocals. The DMK57-52 bundle offers a quality solution that boasts a versatile range of microphones for drums and other percussion instruments.

With its notable sound quality, this dynamic microphone kit set new standards in the business. Its multi-purpose design, impressive frequency response, and durable construction make it ideal for various applications.

The SM57 microphone captures the sharp attacks of snare drums and cymbals, while the Beta 52A microphone provides powerful bass tones from kick drums. Together, they create a balanced and cohesive sound that awes any audience.

But what sets it apart is its noise reduction technology. With its Cardioid pickup pattern, this mic bundle effectively isolates sound sources and reduces ambient noise.

Key Features:

Beta 52A (x1)
A dynamic microphone made primarily for recording the sound of kick drums and other bass instruments. It can capture the low-end frequencies of a kick drum due to its frequency response range of 20Hz to 10kHz. This microphone has a super-cardioid polar pattern, which means it is even more directional than the SM57, making it ideal for close-miking a kick drum, as it will capture the sound of the kick drum without picking up too much sound from other instruments or the room.
SM57 Mic (x3)
The SM57 microphone is a dynamic microphone known for its versatility and durability. It has a frequency response range of 40Hz to 15kHz, which makes it ideal for capturing the sound of drums. This microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which means that sounds originating from the front are the ones that it picks up the best, and those coming from the sides and back are less sensitive.
A56D Drum Mounting System
It comes with a range of mounting accessories designed to make it easy to mount microphones onto drums the Shure DMK57-52 bundle includes drum mounts for the SM57 microphones, which allow the microphones to be securely mounted onto the rim of a drum, and a stand adapter for the Beta 52A microphone, making it possible to be mounted onto a microphone stand.
High SPL Handling
One of the key features of the Shure DMK57-52 product bundle is its ability to handle high sound pressure levels (SPLs). This is essential for capturing the sound of drums, as drums can produce very loud sounds. The SM57 microphones have a maximum SPL handling of 149 dB, while the Beta 52A microphone has a maximum SPL handling of 174 dB. This means that these microphones can handle even the loudest drums without distortion.
Carrying Hard Bag
It comes with a hard bag designed to provide a light, secure way to transport and store the kit’s microphones and accessories, which helps protect them from damage and ensure they remain in good working order for many years. The case has a custom foam interior to securely hold the microphones and mounting accessories, helping prevent the microphones from moving around during transport.

Pros:

SM57 microphones included in the Shure DMK57-52 kit are known for their versatility and can be used for various instruments besides drums. This makes the kit a good asset for musicians who need microphones for multiple purposes.

Overall, the Shure DMK57-52 kit represents a good value for musicians who need high-quality drum microphones and might as well need a more versatile rig.

Cons:

Including only four microphones, the kit does not include overhead microphones, which may not be sufficient for some drummers or recording situations; additional microphones may need to be purchased separately.

Additionally, while these mics can handle high sound pressure levels, they may not be ideal for capturing the full range of a drum kit due to their narrower dynamic range, which may be necessary for capturing a drum kit’s cymbal dynamics.

3. Audix DP7

With seven meticulously crafted capsule designs, this powerhouse mic package can capture every dynamic of your performance with unparalleled accuracy and clarity.

As musicians, we all want to deliver the best possible performances that capture the essence of our artistry. That’s where the Audix DP7 comes in a high-quality microphone set that unlocks your audio potential.

Made from selected fine materials that enhance durability and reduce unwanted handling noise. Dynamic mics built with neodymium magnets produce a powerful output and contribute to the set’s superior transient response.

Meanwhile, the DP7’s condenser mics have gold-sputtered diaphragms for wide frequency response and clarity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, this kit promises to take your recordings to new heights.

From the smooth and warm tones captured during a live studio session to crisp and clear renditions of a full band performance, its innovative percussion mics offer a unique attack, providing a nuanced and full-bodied sound.

The seven-piece set includes a wide range of condenser and dynamic mics, making it suitable for recording everything from vocals to drums with high fidelity.

Meanwhile, its versatility makes it a noteworthy tool; its dynamic range and accuracy deliver quality sound that is second to none, whether you’re recording in a studio or out on stage.

Key Features:

D6 Mic (x1)
Including a dynamic microphone for kick drums with a cardioid polar pattern, it provides great off-axis rejection and reduces feedback. The D6 has a frequency response of 30Hz to 15kHz and a high SPL handling capability of up to 144 dB, making it perfect for capturing the low-end punch of a kick drum.
i5 Mic (x1)
Developed to focus on the more opened mid-tones, it includes an i5 dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. This mic has a frequency response of 50Hz to 16kHz and a high SPL handling capability of up to 140 dB, which makes it perfect for capturing the attack and clarity of a snare drum.
D2 Mic (x2)
Another mic present in this set is the D2 dynamic microphone which boasts a hypercardioid polar pattern, providing excellent off-axis rejection as it has an even more focused response range. The D2 has a high SPL handling capability of up to 144 dB and a frequency response of 68Hz to 18kHz, which makes it ideal for capturing the natural resonance and tonality of mid-range drums.
D4 Mic (x1)
D4 dynamic microphones feature excellent off-axis rejection and minimal bleed from other sources thanks to their hypercardioid polar pattern and are ideal for capturing the floor toms. It features a frequency response range of 40Hz to 18kHz, and it is ideal for recording the rich, full-bodied sound of floor toms due to its high SPL handling capacity of up to 144dB.
ADX51 Mic (x2)
It also includes an ADX51 condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response of 40Hz to 18kHz. The ADX51’s high SPL handling capability of up to 132dB makes it perfect for it to be used as overhead for capturing the shimmer and clarity of cymbals.
Mounting Hardware
The DP7 kit includes DVICE rim mounts to provide microphones with a secure, stable attachment point. It also comes with DCLIP mic clips, designed to attach the ADX51 overhead microphones to your drum kit, and an MC1 mic clip, designed to attach the i5 microphone to the snare drum.
These mounts are all adjustable, so you can position the microphones exactly where you need them to capture the best possible sound.
WS81C Windscreen
Designed to reduce wind noise and plosives when recording, it also includes a WS81C windscreen. Made from high-quality materials and designed to fit snugly over the D6 microphone, this windscreen helps to ensure that your recordings are free from unwanted noise and distortion.
Aluminum Carrying Case
To ensure that the microphones and accessories are protected during transport, the Audix DP7 kit comes with a sturdy road case. The case is made from rugged aluminum and features custom foam inserts designed to securely hold each microphone and accessory while boasting a built-in handle and wheels, making it easy to transport the kit from one location to another.

Pros:

Audix DP7 drum microphone kit includes five different microphones and a range of accessories, making it a comprehensive solution for recording drums.

Additionally, this kit is built to last; the included road case provides safety during transport, while the microphones are designed to withstand the rigors of touring and live performance.

Cons:

One potential drawback of the DP7 kit is that it is relatively expensive compared to other drum microphone kits. While the quality and comprehensiveness of the kit may justify the price for some users, others may find it outside of their budget.

4. Behringer BC1200

When it comes to recording drums, finding the right balance can be tricky. But this task is made much easier with the BC1200 Drum Mic Kit.

With its advanced technology and high-quality components on its microphones, this kit can capture the nuances and dynamics of every hit, tap, and roll, helping drummers sound their best.

It includes everything you need to start: a bass drum mic, three tom mics, one snare mic, and two condenser mics. Each mic is precisely engineered to ensure every sound is captured with clarity and definition.

The dynamic range of this kit allows for complete control over the tone, volume, and texture of your drum sound, so you can customize your sound to fit any genre or style.

Whether you are playing jazz, rock, or pop, the BC1200 is essential for any drummer who wants to take their drumming recording experience to the next level.

It comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, making it a great solution for easily positioning your set. Whether recording in a studio or performing live, these microphones pack a punch with high SPL handling and wide frequency response.

Key Features:

KM1200 Mic (x1)
A dynamic microphone that captures low-frequency sounds, such as a kick drum sound. It has a frequency response optimized for this purpose, with a range of 50Hz to 14kHz and a maximum SPL rating of up to 148 dB. This means it can handle loud sound sources without distortion or damage to the microphone’s diaphragm.
TM1200 Mic (x4)
TM1200 is a dynamic microphone designed for toms, snare drums, and other percussion instruments. With a range of 70Hz to 14kHz with a maximum SPL handling of up to 147 dB, it has a frequency response optimized for capturing these instruments’ midrange and high frequencies.
CM1200 Mic (x2)
Boasting a unidirectional cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source, reduce unwanted noise, and bleed from other sources, the CM1200 is a condenser microphone that has a frequency response range of 70Hz to 18kHz and a maximum SPL rating of up to 136 dB, which allows it to capture subtle details and nuances in sound.
Adjustable Drum Mounts
In addition to the microphones themselves, the kit also includes a set of four adjustable drum mounts, which allow for easy positioning and placement of the microphones on various types of drums and percussion instruments. The mounts are designed to securely attach the microphones to the drum shells while reducing unwanted vibrations and noise from the drum heads.
Carrying Case
The carrying case included with the kit is made of sturdy materials and features a custom foam insert designed to securely hold and protect the microphones and mounts during transport.
Its included accessories and carrying case make the kit convenient and practical for studio and live sound applications.

Pros:

A cost-effective solution for drum and percussion recording that offers a set of three different microphones specifically designed for this purpose. These are well-made and sturdy, with a durable metal construction and an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise and vibration.

Cons:

While the carrying case is durable and protective, some users have reported that it is relatively bulky and may not fit easily into smaller transport bags or cases.

Also, some have reported that the included mounts are unsuitable for all drums or percussion instruments and may require additional modifications or accessories to achieve the desired placement and positioning.

5. PreSonus DM-7

PreSonus DM-7 Drum Mic Kit is a powerful tool that, with its durable and reliable design, is built to withstand the rigors of the road and the studio, ensuring that your sound is always at its best.

If you’ve been a drummer for a while, you know that drums are the backbone of any live performance or recording. Investing in quality drum mics is crucial for capturing every nuance and detail of your playing.

With seven high-quality mics designed specifically for capturing the unique tonality of drums, the DM-7 is an ideal tool to get this task covered, and it’ll enable you to achieve a pristine drum sound that’s both full and well-defined.

Its sleek, sturdy design ensures that each mic stands up to the rigors of recording and live performance, while the included hardshell carrying case keeps them safe during transport.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your drumming journey, this drum mic kit is essential to elevate your sound quality and presence.

Equipped with seven dynamic microphones, each designed to capture the unique nuances of each part of the drum set, this mic kit provides clear and precise sound, on every cymbal crash and drum hit, with a solid response.

Key Features:

BD-1 Mic (x1)
A dynamic microphone designed to capture a bass drum’s deep and powerful sound, the BD-1 microphone features a cardioid polar pattern that helps to isolate the sound of the bass drum from other drum components and environmental noise, with a frequency response range of 50Hz to 15kHz and a maximum SPL of up to 145 dB.
ST-4 Mic (x4)
Presonus ST-4 is a dynamic microphone designed to capture the sound of drum overheads, acoustic guitars, and other instruments requiring a clear and detailed high-frequency response. It has a cardioid polar pattern that rejects unwanted sound from the sides and rear, and its small size makes it easy to position in tight spaces. This microphone has a frequency response range of 50Hz to 14kHz and a maximum SPL of up to 132 dB.
OH-2 Mic (x2)
This small diaphragm condenser microphone is designed to capture cymbals’ sound and other high-frequency drum kit components. It has a wide frequency response that captures the full range of high-end overtones produced by cymbals while also providing an excellent transient response for capturing the quick attack of a drumstick hitting a cymbal.
The microphone has a frequency response range of 30Hz to 18kHz and a maximum SPL of up to 135 dB allowing for maximum clarity and definition.
Drum Mounts and Mic Clips
Included with the kit are the drum mounts for each microphone, allowing them to be easily attached to a drum kit. These are designed to be easily adjustable and tightened securely to prevent the microphones from moving or slipping during a performance.
It also includes mic clips designed to attach to a standard mic stand or boom arm, allowing the microphones to be positioned in a wide range of positions and angles.
Windscreen
To further protect the included two OH-2 microphones, each comes with a windscreen. When recording or amplifying audio, these reduce wind noise and plosives (popping sounds). They are particularly useful when using the OH-2 as overheads, where they can help to capture a clear and natural sound of cymbals and drums without unwanted noise.
Hardshell Case
It’s sturdy and durable carrying hardshell case is designed to protect the microphones during transport and storage. The case is made from tough molded plastic and features a custom foam interior, which holds each microphone securely in place; and also boasts a handle and lockable latches, making it secure and easy to carry.

Pros:

The DM-7 kit includes seven high-quality microphones designed to capture different aspects of drum nuances, delivering clear and accurate sound with minimal interference or background noise.

Additionally, this kit is priced competitively, offering good value for money compared to other drum mic kits on the market.

Cons:

Some have reported that the kit’s overhead microphones lack sufficient bass response, which may require additional EQ or processing to achieve a desired sound.

While the microphones are generally durable, users have reported issues with the build quality of certain components, such as the drum mounts, noting they are prone to become loose over time.

6. Sennheiser evolution Drum Set

With its advanced technology and remarkable sound quality, this drum mic set is a powerful tool for any drummer who wants to unleash their potential.

There’s an energy that comes with drumming, a cadence that taps into something within us. For many, it’s an experience that allows us to unleash ourselves and connect to the world.

Evolution Drum Set mic kit is key to unlocking your percussive feel and truly amplifying all of the nuances of your performance. With clear, vivid sound and a durable build that can stand up to even the wildest drumming sessions, it’s the perfect tool for anyone looking to tap into their musical potential.

With pristine sound quality, this drum mic set is sure to deliver a powerful, raw, and nuanced sound that captures every subtle nuance of your rhythm.

From the hands on the cymbals and hi-hats to the thump of the bass drum, every beat is crystal clear, making your drumming truly shine.

Designed to cater to drumming enthusiasts of all levels, its plug-and-play features make it easy to use; it comes with everything you need, including microphone clips, cables, and a carrying case.

Key Features:

e602-II Mic (x1)
E602-II is a dynamic bass drum microphone with a cardioid microphone designed to capture the low-end frequencies of the bass drum. This mic has a frequency response range of 20Hz to 16kHz and a maximum SPL handling of up to 155 dB.
e604 Mic (x4)
With a compact design that makes it easy to mount on the rim of your drums without interfering with your playing. This dynamic microphone has a frequency response of 40Hz to 18kHz and can handle sound pressure levels of up to 160 dB. These features allow it to capture the sound of your toms and snare drums accurately and without distortion.
e614 Mic (x2)
For overhead microphones, two e602-II are included in the set; these are condenser microphones that can capture the sound of your cymbals and the overall sound of your drum set. With a super-cardioid pickup pattern, it captures sound from the front while rejecting any ambient noise from the sides and rear. The e614 has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and can handle sound pressure levels of up to 139 dB.
MZH 604 Drum Rim Clips
Designed to securely mount the e604 microphone on the rim of your drum, these drum rim clamps are made from durable materials, and they can withstand the pressure of the drum’s tension rods, while the rubber lining of the clamp protects the rim of your drum from scratches and damage. With the MZH 604, you can position the e604 microphone accurately to capture the desired sound of your drum.
Hardshell Carrying Case
Its case’s exterior is made from a durable and lightweight plastic material coated with a scratch-resistant finish. This finish protects the case from scratches and other superficial damage and gives it a sleek and professional appearance. At the same time, the interior is lined with high-density foam custom-cut to fit each microphone in the set precisely. The foam is designed to absorb shock and prevent the microphones from moving around during transport, providing great protection against damage from impact.

Pros:

The microphones in the Sennheiser Evolution Drum Set are designed to isolate the sound of individual drums and cymbals, resulting in a cleaner and more focused audio recording.

Additionally, the drum rim clamps make it easy to position the microphones exactly where you need them without requiring additional hardware.

Cons:

One drawback of the Sennheiser Evolution Drum Set and its carrying case is that they are relatively heavy compared to other drum mic kits, which may concern drummers who travel frequently.

7. Beyerdynamic TG Drum Set Pro

Thanks to the work of the skilled engineers at Beyerdynamic, playing drums with the TG Drum Set Pro is an immersive experience delivered with hi-fi sound.

All drummers long to achieve the perfect drum sound that is faithful to their performance’s dynamics and tones, and the Beyerdynamic’s TG Drum Set Pro is designed to meet this task.

It includes one bass drum mic, two overhead mics, and four dynamic mics for the toms and snares, all tailored specifically for the nuances of drumming.

Thanks to its wide frequency response and high sensitivity, the TG Drum Set Pro sets itself apart, capturing every detail of the drum sound with clarity, from the gentle cymbal washes to the sharp snare crack.

Moreover, the TG Drum Set Pro is also easy to set up and use, making it an ideal tool for any drummer, whether recording in the studio or playing live on stage.

Its sound quality and responsive sensitivity add an exciting layer to your music. At the same time, their sleek and modern design makes them a stylish addition to any studio or performance venue.

If you’re looking for a versatile drum mic set for different projects, this kit is a great ally on your rig. This set was designed to suit various musical styles, from classical smooth jazz dynamics to heavy metal’s powerful expression.

Key Features:

TG D71 Mic (x1)
A dynamic mic that has a hypercardioid polar pattern, which helps to isolate the bass drum sound from other drum components and ambient noise. It boasts a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 14 kHz and a maximum sound pressure level of up to 150 dB, which covers the full range of bass drum sounds, from the drumhead’s low thump to the drum shell’s resonances.
TG 153 Mic (x2)
TG 153’s hypercardioid polar pattern offers great isolation from background noise and other percussion sounds. This dynamic microphone can record the entire spectrum of snare drum sounds, from the snare wires’ sharp snap to the drum shell’s lower tones, thanks to its frequency response range of 50 Hz to 14 kHz and maximum sound pressure level up to 146 dB.
TG D57 Mic (x2)
Due to the 30 Hz to 19 kHz frequency response range and maximum sound pressure level of up to 133 dB of the TG D57 condenser microphone, tom drum sounds can be recorded in their entirety, from the attack of the drumhead to the lower frequencies of the drum shell.
TG D58 Mic (x2)
With a cardioid polar pattern that improves isolation from other drum sounds and ambient noise, the TG D58 is a condenser microphone designed for toms and percussion instruments.
Its frequency response range of is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which means it can capture the full range of tom and percussion sounds, from the higher-pitched cymbals to the lower-pitched toms. This mic has a maximum sound pressure level of up to 132 dB.
Hard Transport Bag
Featuring a hard bag thas a durable exterior and features lockable latches for added security. The foam inserts are designed to keep the microphones organized and secure, ensuring they are ready to use whenever needed.
Inclination-Adjustable Microphone Mounts and Windscreens
Additionally it includes two patented microphone mounts, the MKV 87 and the EA 19/25, that allow for precise and stable positioning of the microphones on the drum kit. These mounts are inclination-adjustable, enabling the drummer to adjust the angle of the microphones according to the drum component’s size and shape.
It also features the WS 53 AZ and the WS 97 windscreens for further improving the kit’s noise-cancellation capabilities.

Pros:

Including kick drums, snare drums, toms, and cymbals mics, the TG Drum Set includes a range of microphones and accessories designed to cover all aspects of drum recording.

What makes the TG Drums Set a convenient and comprehensive option for drummers who want to capture high-quality drum recordings with minimal fuss; also, it is designed to be easy to set up and use, with many users reporting that the included mounting systems and accessories make it simple to get it set and ready.

Cons:

Some users have reported difficulty with positioning the TG I53c small-diaphragm condenser microphones in a way that captures the desired cymbal and high-frequency sounds without picking up too much bleed from other drum elements.

Bonus:

sE Electronics V Pack Club Drum Mic Package