Best Overhead Mics For Drums 2023

It’s safe to say that overhead mics are more commonly used than most other drum mics, but that doesn’t mean they’re always used correctly. It’s important to select the right type of overhead mic for the type of drums you’re playing and the sound you’re going for. Here, we’re highlighting the best overhead mics for drums and describing how to use them correctly.

Read on for more information on the best overhead mics for drums.

Table of Contents

Our Editor’s Best Overhead Mics For Drums Reviews


CAD Audio Stage7 7 Piece Drum Mic Pack – Includes Kick Mic, Snare Mic, 3 Tom Mics and 2 Overhead Condenser Mics

 CAD Audio Stage7 7 Piece Drum Mic Pack - Includes Kick Mic, Snare Mic, 3 Tom Mics and 2 Overhead Condenser Mics

Key Features:

  • The product is a set of seven custom-made drum microphones. These microphones are designed to provide high-quality sound reproduction of drums, and are therefore ideal for recording and live performance applications.

  • The integrated clips on these overhead mics for drums help save on the expense of having to buy separate stands. This makes them a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.

  • The heavy-duty soft-sided zippered carry case is designed to protect your drums and keep them in good condition. The case is made of durable materials and has a strong zipper to keep your drums secure.

  • The AKG C 414 XLII is a professional microphone used by touring bands and artists all over the world. It is known for its clear and accurate sound reproduction, making it an ideal choice for capturing drums in a live setting.

  • The D19 Snare mic is designed for capturing the sound of a snare drum, the D29 Tom mic is designed for capturing the sound of tom-toms, the D10 Kick mic is designed for capturing the sound of a bass drum, and the C9 Overhead mic is designed for capturing the sound of cymbals.


Heimu Professional Condenser Microphone (Condenser Mic)

 Heimu Professional Condenser Microphone (Condenser Mic)

Key Features:

  • The UNIDIRECTIONAL overhead mics for drums are designed to capture the source signal from a guitar amplifier or vocalist while minimizing the background noise and feedback. These mics reproduce the audio without interference from instruments or speakers on stage, making them ideal for a shopper who wants the clearest possible sound.

  • The DYNAMIC microphone is designed for clarity and punch, and is resistant to moisture. It is ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments.

  • The Rode NT5 Matched Pair is a great choice for overhead mics for drums, offering ultra-wide frequency response for brilliant and transparent sound. The integrated pop filter and windscreen help to minimize breath and pop noises, making it a reliable choice for live gigs and studio applications.

  • The overhead mics for drums are designed for maximum reliability and feature a zinc die-cast case and steel mesh windscreen with an anti-dent ring. They are perfect for all-purpose use on stage or in the studio.


Samson DK707 7-Piece Drum Microphone Kit with 2 Tripod-Base Mic Boom Stands, Low Profile Microphone Stand with Telescoping Boom, and 7 Premium XLR Mic Cables

 Samson DK707 7-Piece Drum Microphone Kit with 2 Tripod-Base Mic Boom Stands, Low Profile Microphone Stand with Telescoping Boom, and 7 Premium XLR Mic Cables

Key Features:

  • The Samson DK707 7-Piece Drum Microphone Kit is a collection of microphones designed for professional close-mic performance and recording environments. The kit includes seven quality microphones, each designed to provide excellent sound capture for drums.

  • This six-piece drum kit includes four Q72 instrument mics, a Q71 kick drum mic, two CO2 pencil condenser mics for overhead miking, seven swivel-style mic adapters, four tension-mounted rim clips, and a hardshell carrying case.

  • The Samson DK707 is a 7-piece drum mic kit that is designed for full-range drum recording. It is a budget-friendly option that offers superb off-axis noise rejection and effectively captures loud sources.

  • The overhead mics for drums are designed to be portable and easy to use. The swivel-style mic adapters and tension-mounted rim clips allow you to place the mics on the drums without affecting your performance. The deluxe hardshell carrying case is provided for portability and easy storage.

  • The overhead mics for drums come with a bundle of 7 pieces, including 2 tripod base mic stands and 1 low profile mic stand. The kit also comes with 7 XLR mic cables specifically designed for microphones, so the shopper can set up and play hands-free.


Professional Heavy Duty Studio Overhead Boom Stand with Wheels by AxcessAbles| Telescoping Arm | Folding Tripod Legs| Mic Boom Stand | Shotgun Video Mic Stand | (MB-W)

 Professional Heavy Duty Studio Overhead Boom Stand with Wheels by AxcessAbles| Telescoping Arm | Folding Tripod Legs| Mic Boom Stand | Shotgun Video Mic Stand | (MB-W)

Key Features:

  • This is a studio boom mic stand with an extending boom arm that can be used for studio condenser, video shotgun, or overhead drum microphones. It has a 4′ 5″ – 8′ 2″ extending boom arm that can be used to reach different areas in the studio.

  • The wheel joint on this overhead mic for drums allows you to rotate the boom pole in any direction and lock it in place.

  • This is a stand for a microphone. It is adjustable from 50 inches to 82 inches, so it can be used for different heights.

  • This is a set of overhead mics for drums that are full metal construction with a weighted base for securing microphones. The 1.5″ and 1″ metal tube construction is for stability and durability.

  • The boom arm comes with a 2.5 lb moveable counterweight, making it easier to adjust the position of the microphone. The stand is also tall and made of heavy duty materials, with a telescoping extension arm that allows you to position the microphone closer to the drums.


Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones Stereo Pair for Overhead Drums, Piano, Strings and Vocals, with Mic Stand, Mic Clip, Mic Cable, and Mic Attachment Bar, Bundle

 Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones Stereo Pair for Overhead Drums, Piano, Strings and Vocals, with Mic Stand, Mic Clip, Mic Cable, and Mic Attachment Bar, Bundle

Key Features:

  • The C02 Microphones are designed to capture the nuances of your production perfectly. They are small-diaphragm mics that are matched within ±0.5dB sensitivity of each other.

  • The C02’s are overhead mics for drums that have a tight super-cardioid polar pattern. This means that they will pick up audio in front of the microphone while minimizing pickup from the side and back of the mics. This will increase isolation and reduce feedback.

  • The overhead mics for drums require +48 volt phantom power, and do not have a battery power option.

  • The C02 overhead mics for drums are able to handle sound pressure levels of up to 134dB SPL without noise or distortion, making them great for accurately reproducing signals at high sound pressure levels.

  • This item includes two Samson C02 pencil condenser microphones, an On-Stage low profile drum rim mic clip, an On-Stage stereo mic attachment bar, two XLR cables (10 ft each), and an Ultimate-Support tripod mic stand with fixed-length boom.


AKG Acoustics Drum Set Concert 1 Professional Drum Microphone Set with D112 MkII Bass Drum, 2X C430 Overhead and 4X D40 Microphones, Model:2581H00160

 AKG Acoustics Drum Set Concert 1 Professional Drum Microphone Set with D112 MkII Bass Drum, 2X C430 Overhead and 4X D40 Microphones, Model:2581H00160

Key Features:

  • The D112 MKII is a bass drum microphone, the C430 is an overhead microphone, the D40 is a snare and tom microphone, and the mounting accessories are used to mount the microphones.

  • The Drum Set Concert I professional drum microphone set is a complete collection of mics designed to withstand even the toughest stage environments.

  • The product is a set of seven microphones designed for drums, bass guitar, and other instruments. The microphones are packed into a durable carrying case.

  • Overhead mics for drums are designed to capture the sound of the entire drum set from above. This particular collection includes the latest version of the legendary D112 bass drum mic, the compact C430 overhead mic, and the popular D40 drum microphone.

  • The overhead mics for drums are designed to handle high sound levels and are encased in metal for durability.


Rockville PRO-D7 7 Mic Drum Kit w/Bass+Snare+Condenser Overhead Microphones

 Rockville PRO-D7 7 Mic Drum Kit w/Bass+Snare+Condenser Overhead Microphones

Key Features:

  • The PRO-D7 KIT is a set of overhead microphones designed for drums that features a steel grill, aluminum body, and zinc alloy hardware. The microphones have a cardioid polar pattern and are engineered to have a perfect frequency response for kick drums. They are also designed to reject unwanted noises and have an XLR output. The kit includes integrated flexible mounting hardware.

  • The overhead mics for drums have a frequency response of 30Hz – 12KHz and a sensitivity of -58dB 5dB. The output impedance is 600Ω 30%(at 1kHz) and the microphone length is 4. 72 inches. The microphone max. diameter is 2. 01 inches and the microphone weight is 0. 77 Lbs. The snare drum microphone has a steel grill, aluminum body, and zinc alloy hardware. The microphone fits any mic stands and has an anti-wind filter inside the grill. The element is dynamic and the polar pattern is cardioid. The large diaphragm delivers accurate frequency response. The frequency response is engineered to be perfect for tom-toms and snare drums.

  • These overhead mics for drums are perfect for recording or live shows, as they sound great even at high SPL levels. They have an XLR output and the mounting hardware has a swivel joint with quick release latch for easy and flexible positioning. The frequency response is 60Hz-13KHz and the sensitivity is -54dB 3dB (0dB=1V/Pa at 1KHz). The output impendence is 600Ω 30% (at 1kHz) and the microphone length is 4. 53 inches. The microphone max. diameter is 1. 61 inches and the microphone weight is 0. 44 Lbs.

  • These are overhead condenser microphones that are great for recording or live shows. They have a flat frequency response and are designed to be perfect for cymbals and other drums. They can handle high SPL levels and have an amazing sound.

  • The overhead mics for drums reject unwanted noises, have an XLR output, and the mounting hardware has a swivel joint with quick release latch for easy and flexible positioning. The low mass diaphragm and frequency response of 70Hz-20KHz make this mic ideal for drums, while the sensitivity of 13mV/Pa and output impedance of 2000 Ohms (at 1kHz) give it great sound quality. The max SPL of 127dB(at 1kHz=1% T. H. D) and S/N ratio of 96dB make this mic perfect for live performances. The phantom 48V or DC1. 5V power supply makes it easy to use, and the microphone length of 8. 46


DRUM MIC MICROPHONE FOR CYMBALS Hi-HATS RIDE CRASH DRC100 OVERHEAD CONDENSER

 DRUM MIC MICROPHONE FOR CYMBALS Hi-HATS RIDE CRASH DRC100 OVERHEAD CONDENSER

Key Features:

  • This is a condenser microphone designed for cymbals, hi-hats, and overhead drums. It has a wide frequency response and a high sensitivity, making it ideal for capturing the nuances of these instruments.

  • The Pyle PDMIC78 is a great choice for overhead mics for drums, as it is designed for both live shows and studio use. It has a cardioid pick-up pattern that minimizes background noise and feedback, and the mic is also resistant to popping and handling noise.

  • The microphone is made of high-quality materials that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also designed to pick up the sound of drums very well.

  • The overhead mics for drums are great for shopppers who want to get the best sound out of their mandolin, banjo, or high string instruments. These mics are designed to capture the natural sound of the instrument, making it sound its best.

  • This is a type of microphone that requires a power source in order to work. Phantom power is often provided by a mixing console or a dedicated power supply. These microphones are often used in studios and live music venues.


Audio-Technica PRO-DRUM7 7-Piece Drum Microphone Pack with Case

 Audio-Technica PRO-DRUM7 7-Piece Drum Microphone Pack with Case

Key Features:

  • The PRO 25ax is a hypercardioid dynamic instrument microphone that is tailored for use on kick drums. It is a professional quality microphone that will give you a clear, accurate sound.

  • The PRO 63 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone is a tailored for use on snare drums. It is a cardioid microphone that is designed to pick up sound from the snare drum while rejecting other instruments and noise in the room. It includes a mic clip and a carrying case.

  • The Pro 23 is a cardioid dynamic instrument microphone that is tailored for use on toms. It comes with three microphones.

  • The AT2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a tailored for use on cymbals. It is a small diaphragm condenser microphone that is designed to be used on overhead mics for drums. It has a cardioid pick-up pattern and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. It is a great choice for a shopper looking for an overhead mic for drums.

  • The carrying case is hard and has die-cut foam on the inside to protect the mics.


Cad Audio Stage7 Premium 7-Piece Drum Instrument Mic Pack with Vinyl Carrying Case + 7 On Stage Microphones Cables, 20 Feet

 Cad Audio Stage7 Premium 7-Piece Drum Instrument Mic Pack with Vinyl Carrying Case + 7 On Stage Microphones Cables, 20 Feet

Key Features:

  • The CAD Stage7 is a seven-piece drum mic pack that includes one D10 cardioid dynamic mic, three D29 dynamic tom mics, one D19 dynamic snare drum mic, and 2 C9 instrument condensers for high hats, cymbals or overheads. This is a great option for someone looking to mic their drums for a performance or recording.

  • The D10 is a kick drum microphone that is designed to be used on stage. It is a cardioid, moving-coil dynamic microphone that is specifically designed and carefully equalized for kick drum capture and reinforcement. The D10 is also an excellent choice for floor toms, electric guitar, and electric bass cabinets.

  • The D19 is a microphone specifically designed for capturing and reinforcing the sound of a snare drum or other acoustic percussion instruments. It has a super-cardioid polar pattern that provides excellent off-axis rejection, making it ideal for use on stage. The integral drum clip is designed for quick and easy placement.

  • The D29 is a dynamic microphone designed for capturing tom-tom drums and other acoustic percussive instruments. It is a cardioid microphone, which means that it is most sensitive to sounds coming from directly in front of it, making it less likely to pick up unwanted background noise. It has a wide frequency response and a rugged construction, making it a good choice for use in live performance settings.

  • The C19 is a cardioid pattern microphone designed for drum overheads, but can also be used on other acoustic instruments. It has a focused sensitivity to the front of the microphone while minimizing sources from the rear.


Best Overhead Mics For Drums Buying Guide

Before choosing the best overheads microphone you should consider following options:

1. Stereo Pair vs. Mid-Side Pair: Overhead microphones are traditionally used to capture the stereo image of a drum kit.

However, you can also use them to capture a more specific stereo image of just the cymbals, or to capture a Mid/Side stereo image of the drum kit.

Using an Overhead pair to record a stereo image of only the cymbals allows you to process the image with a dedicated reverb to add some dimension to your drum tracks.

Using an Overhead pair to record a Mid/Side stereo image of the drum kit allows you to treat the cymbals differently from the rest of the kit in the mixing stage.

2. Capsule Choice: Different capsules will have different sonic characteristics.

For example, cardioid capsules will have a narrower stereo field, but will offer a higher degree of isolation from the source.

Hypercardioid capsules will have a wider stereo field but will have reduced isolation.

Omnidirectional capsules will offer the widest stereo field and will have the least amount of isolation.

Bear in mind that most stereo microphones will only have one capsule, so you will need to make sure that the capsule has the required tonal character you need.

3. Capsule Stereo Pair vs. Mid/Side Pair: As mentioned earlier, you can use an overhead capsule pair to capture a stereo image of only the cymbals, or you can use them to capture a Mid/Side stereo image of the drum kit.

Again, it’s worth mentioning that if you want the Overhead pair to record a stereo image of only the cymbals, then the capsules should be Cardioid, Figure 8, or possibly Stereo.

If you want the Overheads to record a Mid/Side stereo image of the drum kit, then the capsules should be Hypercardioid, Supercardioid, or possibly Binaural.

4. Polar Pattern Choice: You can choose from either a Wide or Narrow stereo image, depending on what you need.

A Wide stereo image will have a wider stereo field, but will have a reduced amount of stereo separation between the mics. A Narrow stereo image will have a narrower stereo field but will have a greater amount of stereo separation between the mics.

If you need to record cymbals, then you will want a Wide stereo image, whereas if you need to record a stereo image of the drum kit, then you will want a Narrow stereo image.

5. Distance Between the Capsules: The distance between the capsules can affect the stereo separation and overall tone of the microphones.

If you are tracking a drum kit and plan to put the Overhead microphone pair towards the top of the drum kit, then you will want to keep the capsules as close together as possible for a narrower stereo image.

However, if you are tracking a drum kit and plan to put the Overhead microphone pair towards the side of the drum kit, then you will want to keep the capsules as far apart as possible for a wider stereo image.

6. Angle of the Capsules: Depending on the angle at which the capsules are pointing, you can get a completely different stereo image.

For example, if the capsules are pointing straight down then you will get a Wide stereo image with reduced stereo separation between the capsules, whereas if the capsules are pointing straight up then you will get a Narrow stereo image with increased stereo separation between the capsules.

7. Mid


Overhead Mics For Drums FAQs

1. What are the best overhead mics for drums?

There is no one “best” overhead mic for drums, as the ideal mic depends on the specific drum kit, the room, and the style of music being played. However, some popular choices for overhead mics include the Shure SM57 and the AKG C414.

2. How do you mic drums with overhead mics?

There are a few different ways to mic drums with overhead mics. One popular method is to use a pair of condenser microphones in a spaced pair configuration. Another common method is to use a single large diaphragm condenser microphone placed above the drum kit.

3. What is the best way to position overhead mics for drums?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the best way to position overhead mics for drums will vary depending on the sound you are trying to achieve and the acoustics of the room. However, a good starting point is to position the mics approximately 3 feet above the drum kit and angled down towards the center of the kit.

4. How do you EQ overhead mics for drums?

When EQing overhead mics for drums, you’ll want to start by boosting the highs to help the drums cut through the mix. Next, you can add some midrange if the drums sound too thin, or if you want them to sit further back in the mix. Finally, you can add some low end if the drums sound too harsh or if you want them to sound fuller.

5. What are some common problems with overhead mics for drums?

The most common problems with overhead mics for drums are bleed from other instruments, phase cancellation, and proximity effect.


Conclusion

There are many great overhead mics for drums on the market. Our list of the best overhead mics for drums will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.