The Best Overhead Mics For Drums - Matched Pairs
Author & Contributors
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings, and also I play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
Rode M5 Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser
Rode started life as Freedman Electronics all the way back in 1967, and was founded by Henry and Astrid Freeman. Freedman Electronics gradually became a leader in the Australian audio industry, going on to become one of the premier companies in the industry. After a financial downturn, Freedman Electronics began investing in creating their own line of microphones. This line of microphones went on to establish the brand's reputation. And the M5 is a good example of why this company continues to be of good repute.
The cool thing about this microphone set is how seriously Rode takes their sound matching process, making them a great option if you’re going to be using these mics to record in stereo exclusively.
As far as their response is concerned, these microphones are regarded to be a great fit for everything from drums to violins. In fact, many say that they actually have a tonal quality that’s surprising for their low cost.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 to 20000 Hz
- Sensitivity: -34.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (20.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 140 dB
- Dynamic Range: 121 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 19dBA (A-weighted)
- Power Requirements: 24V or 48V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 2.8oz (80g)
- Extras: Microphone Clips and Wind Screens
Pros
Outstanding and amazing are just two of the many positive adjectives that people use to describe the Rode M5. Even drummers who have access to more expensive overhead mics find the Rode NT5 to be more than satisfying. Many are pleased with how good it captures cymbals, but there are also reports of the M5 mic working well with guitars and other acoustic instruments. Reliability also gets a lot of thumbs up.
Cons
There are a few users who wish that the mic was quieter, while others are hoping for extra features.
Overall
It's hard to go wrong this reasonably priced stereo condenser mic pair from Rode. Very few mics have the honor of being requested by musicians and the M5 is a favorite of many drummers in the community especially for cymbals.
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
sE Electronics sE7
The sE Electronics sE7 is a back-electret small diaphragm condenser microphone designed with versatility in mind. It features a transformerless design and class-A circuitry.
The matched pair makes it great for recording stereo sound sources as overhead, room or binaural mics. It can also be used on drum shells thanks to high SPL handling and built in pad.
Aside from drums, the sE7 also works great with acoustic guitars, miking up a cab, and field recordings thanks to its compact size.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 136dB SPL, 156dB (with pad)
- Sensitivity: 19mV/Pa (-34.5dBV)
- Maximum SPL: 136dB SPL, 156dB (with pad)
- Dynamic Range: 121 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 16 dB(A)
- Power Requirements: 48V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 0.28 lbs.
- Extras: Microphone Clip and Wind Screen
Pros
Notable praise for the sE7 includes its price to performance ratio. Many users say the sound quality is beyond what they paid for. As overhead mics, they favor a more natural sounding capture. This is great for drums with brilliant sounding cymbals.
Cons
No case is included with the package.
Overall
For a great value for money mic pair, the sE7 is hard to beat. If your cymbals border more on the bright side, the more natural tonality of the sE7 will be a lifesaver when you start mixing the raw tracks recorded with it..
Frequency Response and Polar Pattern
Lauten Audio LA120
The Lauten Audio LA120 is a premium small diaphragm FET condenser microphone with interchangeable pressure-gradient capsules. This feature lets each capsule be properly tweaked instead of making compromises with one capsule.
Switches on the side of the mics enable low and high cut filters for more versatility. Its small size also enables easier placement especially in more complicated drum setups.
The versatility of the capsules plus the available filters makes it ideal for spaced pair, XY, and ORTF stereo mic techniques not just for overheads but for acoustic guitar, ambient mics and more.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni (switchable capsules)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: -34.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (20.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 130 dB SPL (@0.5%)
- Dynamic Range: 121 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level:
- Power Requirements: 48V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 2.8oz (80g)
- Extras: Wooden Case, Windscreens
Pros
Rave reviews not only come from experienced ears, but even people new to the craft of recording noticed the sound quality of the LA120. The transformerless design adds to the accuracy of the captured sound while preserving dynamics extremely well. Piercing cymbal highs can be filtered out easily with the built in high cut filters which make it a great choice for modern rock recordings that use a lot of bright and fast crash cymbals.
Cons
There were no reported major cons relevant to the mic as a matched pair. The user ratings we saw that scored it below 5 stars have no other description as to why they chose that rating.
Overall
If you want a premium level mic pair without a spending stratospheric amount, the Lauten Audio LA120 is a a versatile pick, do-everything pick beyond use as overheads.
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
Rode NT5 Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser
A fun fact about the Rode NT series is that it’s actually named from the way the company’s microphone initially took off, described as “like a rat up a drain pipe”. The unofficial title of Rode’s first microphone was the Rodent-1, which was later changed to Rode NT-1.
The most notable feature of this microphone is that it’s one of the most affordable microphones to feature gold sputtering. Gold is a very effective conductor of electricity and is highly resistant to corrosion so that it retains its conductivity for long periods, which is why you often see it on high-end audio equipment. Gold sputtering uses a thin layer of gold which helps to maintain conductivity while still keeping costs relatively low. This is especially beneficial on microphone capsules (which is where the sputtering is used on the Rode NT-5) as it allows the material to still move quickly while retaining conductive properties.
This goes a long way in increasing a microphone's performance, and is likely a part of the reason why the NT-5 pair is so highly reviewed.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 to 20000 Hz
- Sensitivity: -38 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (12 mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 143 dB
- Dynamic Range: Not specified
- Equivalent Noise Level: 16dBA (A-weighted)
- Power Requirements: 24V or 48V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 3.56oz (101g)
- Extras: RM5 stand mount, Wind Shield, RC5 case
Pros
The Rode NT5 is highly regarded for its versatility, and this is corroborated by the many reports of it working well with cymbals, guitars, and even wind instruments. Many describe the sound as being very detailed, while others are impressed by how smooth the overall response is. While it's not cheap per se, most owners feel that they got more than what they paid for.
Cons
There are some who feel that the mic is a little too bright when used on other sound sources. There are also a few who wish that it had a carrying case.
Overall
If you're looking for a versatile overhead mic set that could serve as your main mics, then the Rode NT5 matched pair is highly recommended.
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
sE Electronics sE8
"Huge sound" is usually achieved from giving as much dynamic range as possible to a given element. The sE8 is a small mic that has a wide dynamic range for a small diaphragm "pencil" condenser mic.
These pairs are individually matched in their factory for best stereo imaging and best phase correlation.
Its low noise enables it to be used on quieter, more nuanced sound sources while its high headroom with two selectable pads gives you leeway to mic even the most aggressive drummer without compressing or distorting at the circuitry level.
Two low cut filters effectively reduce stage noise, or if you want to reduce the capture of the kick drum on the overheads.
Key Features
- 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
Pros
Users applaud how well-matched the mics are. For overheads, this results in accurate and balanced stereo placement between shells and cymbals without losing the upper end sheen due to phase issues. For room mics, the pair accentuates the snare reverb in the room, making for natural sounding drums in the mix. In addition to overheads, a few reviewers note that the pair is well suited for ORTF ambient recordings and capturing great sounding acoustic guitars.
Cons
Nothing major that we can find aside from a complaint about the mic clip being too loose, but it seems to be an isolated case.
Overall
The sE Electronics sE8 is a well-loved stereo pair that never disappoints. It competes with mic pairs costing higher than itself. 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.
Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
Rode NT1-A-MP
The Rode NT1-A-MP is not a separate model from the NT1-A (The MP stands for "Matched Pair"). On its own, the NT1-A has earned a reputation for one of the most quiet mics in the industry. This makes it perfect for capturing intimate nuanced performances.
As a pair of overheads or room mics, recorded tracks get a better noise floor, thus not adding to the collective noise when using multiple mics.
Their high SPL handling can keep up with even the loudest of drummers without internally distorting.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: -31.9dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (25.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 137dBSPL
- Dynamic Range: 121 dB
- Equivalent Noise Level: 5dBA
- Power Requirements: 24V or 48V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 0.72 lbs.
- Extras: 2 x 20' cables, 2 x windscreens, 2 x shockmounts (may vary per retailer)
Pros
As overheads, many users note that the NT1-A has a neutral, but wide range sound signature that benefits brighter, more aggressive cymbals without making them sound too shrill or brittle. Hand-hammered darker cymbals don't lose richness and "zing" when using the NT-1A-MP as overheads. As room mics, they get a lot of mileage in forum discussions. Users cite the frequency balance, range and low noise to be great for layering multiple room mics at varying distances without adding more hiss to the mix.
Cons
The only negative reviews we could dig up were about how they were not sent the matched pair as indicated by the listing. To make sure you get the correct item, only order from reputable sellers.
Overall
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The NT1-A already has a stellar reputation as an industry standard microphone for its low noise and balanced response. Get a pair if you have a great sounding kit in a great sounding room, these are sure to capture every nuance.
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
AKG C214 Stereo Pair Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser
The AKG C214 Stereo Pair is an interesting option in this list because it is a popular vocal mic, yet it versatile enough to work as overheads, and does so with much acclaim.
While the 20dB pad may seem a simple enough feature, it allows the C214 to go from capturing the nuances of vocals and acoustic instruments, to handling loud cymbals.
Another cool feature of this mic is its high-pass filter, which can filter out unnecessary low frequency content, complementing its overhead use.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 to 20000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV)
- Impedance: 200 ohms, Recommended load impedance 1000 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 136 / 156 dB SPL (0 / 20 dB Pad)
- Dynamic Range: 123 / 143 dB-A (0 / 20 dB Pad)
- Equivalent Noise Level: 13dB (A weighted)
- Power Requirements: 12V to 52V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 9.87oz (280g)
- Extras: Carrying Case, Shock Mount, Metal Carrying Case, Pad -20 dB, Low cut filter 160 Hz (6 dB/Octave)
Pros
Sound quality gets the most positive mention in reviews, seconded by the many kudos for its versatility. Even experts agree, like Mix Online’s 2009 review, in addition to doing an excellent job miking stringed instruments it has the clarity necessary to produce a great drum recording.
Cons
There are a few who are turned off with what they describe as "brittle" sound, while others express caution with its SPL handling capability, given that it is a large-diaphragm mic.
Overall
Most owners agree that the AKG C214 is definitely worth the look if you're looking for a versatile pair of mics that do just as well for the odd orchestral/choral recording as they do with overheads.
Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
Beyerdynamic MC 930 Stereo Set Small-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser
Like many of the mics here, the Beyerdynamic MC 930 is engineered with versatility in mind, following the tried and tested formula of combining a small diaphragm condenser capsule with high SPL handling features.
Beyerdynamic chose to equip this mic with a cardioid polar pickup pattern, which makes it easy to work with. This is complemented by the built-in pad that provides 15dB attenuation, and bass roll-off filter for taming the excess lows.
Some retailers are shipping the MC 9300 with two shock mounts, two windscreens, and a carrying case, all of which add to its overall value and longevity.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 40 to 20000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 30 mV/Pa (-30.5 dBV)
- Impedance: 180 ohms, load impedance 1000 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 135 / 140 dB SPL (0 / -15 dB Pad) @ 1 kHz
- Dynamic Range: Not specified
- Equivalent Noise Level: 16dB (A weighted)
- Power Requirements: 11V to 52V Phantom Power
- Connection Material: Not specified
- Weight: 4oz (115g)
- Extras:Carrying Case, Mic Clips, Wind Screens, Low cut filter (switchable, 6 dB/octave at 250 Hz), Pad ( -15 dB)
Pros
Most owners of this matched pair are happy with their purchase, citing transparency and overall sound quality as its best traits. While it does shine when used as overheads, there are reports of it working well with many different instruments, including vocals. There are also plenty of users who appreciate the mic's overall build quality with an aesthetic that just screams "premium".
Cons
Not many negatives to write about, aside from a few who wish for a discounted price tag, and more bottom end.
Overall
While it does require a pretty hefty investment, those who own the Beyerdynamic MC 930 say that it is well worth the cost. It definitely wows clients both aesthetically and sonically.
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
Budget Option
LyxPro SDPC-2 Stereo Pair Pencil Condenser Microphone
The LyxPro SDPC-2 is an affordable pair of condenser mics with interchangeable capsules. They let you mechanically switch between 3 polar patterns, omni, cardioid and super cardioid.
This adds to the LyxPros versatility and overall usage, making the already affordable price, even more attractive.
Finally, the set comes bundled with 2 custom fit foam windscreens, 2 microphone clips and a nifty aluminum storage case.
Key Features
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Switchable (Omni, Cardioid, Super Cardioid)
- Frequency Response: 30Hz to 18 kHz
- Sensitivity: -38dB ± 3dB (0dB=1V/Pa at 1 kHz)
- Impedance: 100 Ω ± 30% (at 1 kHz)
- Maximum SPL: 135 dB (at 1kHz)
- Equivalent Noise Level: 24dB (A weighted)
- Power Requirements: 9V to 52V Phantom Power
- Weight: 2.55 lbs. (Bundle)
- Extras: 2 custom fit foam windscreens, 2 microphone clips and a nifty aluminum storage case.
Pros
Value for money is easily the best trait of the LyxPro SDPC-2, some tout it as the best budget stereo pair for home studios. But it's not just about its cheap price, because many also appreciate the sound quality, describing it as flat and transparent. There are reports of these working well with cymbals, choirs, acoustic guitars and more, all of which attest to their versatility.
Cons
Some users note that the sound can be a bit too bright, but then again this is to be expected with small diaphragm mics. There are also some reports of minor cosmetic issues, and a few reviews that point to build quality as a minor concern.
Overall
Budget doesn't mean mediocre. For the price, the LyxPro outperforms a few big name brands. For bright, modern attack and frequency response, this affordable pair will definitely make your kit stand out.
Polar Pattern and Frequency Response
Things to Consider When Buying Overhead Mics
Why You Want Matched Microphones When Recording Stereo
Mismatched microphones in stereo may result in what is known as "comb filtering" where notches in the frequency response occur due to conflicting distance, diaphragm type, transient response and other factors. These will result in stereo recordings that are uneasy to listen to and is known to cause nausea for some people.
For a more in-depth look at this topic read this article at Sound On Sound.
Mic Versatility
What You Need To Know About SPL Rating
Understanding dB Pads
Overhead Mic Positioning
Best Overhead Mics Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2017 and latest edition was published on June 25, 2021.
For this edition we looked at all the matched pairs of microphones that are being sold by major music gear retailers with a street price of $1,000 or less. We ended up with an initial shortlist of 21 promising options for detailed analysis. We then collected the most current feedback and ratings from online retailers, music gear publications, discussion forums, videos and review publications (up to late June of 2021). Over 10,300 rating sources were then processed using the Gearank Algorithm to produce a rating score out of 100 for each set of mics. Finally we selected the highest rated options to recommend above. For more information about our methods please read How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings, and also I play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
Aside from endlessly window shopping and watching hours of gear reviews for leisure, he enjoys playing competitive FPS games, MMORPGs and caring for his 5 cats. He is primarily influenced by guitarists like Kurt Ballou and Paul Gilbert. His favorite pieces of gear are his Ibanez RG550RFR, Orange Brent Hinds Terror amplifier and EQD Acapulco Gold fuzz.
Contributors
Alden Acosta: Product research.
Mason Hoberg: Supplemental writing.
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Photograph by chrisjtse and reproduced here under a Creative Commons CC BY-ND 2.0 license.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
Comments
Hello!
Submitted by Oleg (not verified) on
Hello!
I recently started broadcasting my bell ringing concerts using RODE NT5 microphones. Sound pressure at the bell tower is 115-120 dB.
You can listen to the first results here - https://youtu.be/1o3veTiE3yI - broadcast and no post-processing. The video from the laptop's camera is rather poor, but the sound is quite decent.
The recorder used was a Focusrite Scarlett 18i8.
Publication of our June 2021
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Publication of our June 2021 Edition resulted in the following pairs coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
''Another cool feature of
Submitted by Adam Nesbitt (not verified) on
''Another cool feature of this mic is its high-pass filter, which can tame excessive high frequencies''
This is not what a HPF does.
Hi Adam,
Submitted by Raphael Pulgar on
Hi Adam,
Thanks for catching that. We have edited the article to amend the factual error.
-Raphael
Your 3 SDPC-2 F plots are all
Submitted by Anon (not verified) on
Your 3 SDPC-2 F plots are all for omni.
Good day,
Submitted by Raphael Pulgar on
Good day,
I'm glad you noticed the frequency chart. The Frequency charts are from second page of the unit's official manual at manualslib.com
It may be an error in part of the author of the technical manual though for information's sake, we chose to include the charts on our guide.
-Raphael
As a result of our June 2020
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our June 2020 update the following came off the recommended list above: Shure KSM137 Stereo Matched Pair.
Hey there!
Submitted by Stefan (not verified) on
Hey there!
Great recommendations, I was actually looking into the Rode M5 at some point. However, the Samson C02 pair seems to be what I'll be going with.
Why has it been removed from the list, is there something wrong with them?
Also, how do you create your frequency-response/polar patter graphics? Do you use some kind of software?
I'd be really interested in making some of my own!
Thanks in advance.
- Stefan
Hi Stefan,
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Hi Stefan,
There's nothing wrong with the Samson mics, they only came off the recommended list because there were more highly rated options when we updated the guide, but only by a small amount in the case of the Samson C02 Stereo Pair.
The frequency response charts were created by the mic manufacturers.
Cheers,
Jason.
As a result of our December
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our December 2018 update, the following mic pairs came off our recommended list above: