Picking the right mics for your drum kit can really shape your sound. Whether you’re recording in the studio or playing live gigs, the best drum mics are ones that can handle high sound pressure levels, are made by reputable brands, and ideally have cardioid, supercardioid, or hypercardioid polar patterns.
In this guide, you’ll find a list of the best drum mic packs on the market right now, with options to match different budgets, setups, and playing styles.
We’ll walk you through what each pack includes, how it performs, and who it’s best for, so you can find a setup that works for you.
In a hurry?
Need the best of the best? Check out our favourite drum mic packs at the moment:
| Shure PGADRUMKIT6 Drum Microphone Kit, 6-Piece | Pro sound for your kit. | Check the current price |
| SubZero 7-Piece Drum Microphone Set with Case and Clamps | A great budget-friendly option. | Check the current price |
| Lewitt BEATKIT 4-Piece Drum Microphone Set | Comes with all the accessories you need. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these drum mics
As a drummer, and working with a team of drummers in writing this article, I’ve chosen these drum mic packs for how accurately and precisely they pick up sound, how well each mic is tailored to its dedicated drum, and finally, how easy each mic is to set up and use.
To get specific, every bundle includes mics that can handle high sound pressure levels – ideal for capturing the punch and power of a drum kit. I’ve also made sure they’re built to last, which is especially important if you’re a gigging drummer.
You’ll also find packs that include a mix of dynamic and condenser mics – chosen for their versatility and ability to capture detail where it really matters. Some of these packs are great for beginners, while others deliver the kind of performance trusted by engineers and touring techs alike.
They all come from well-known, reliable brands with solid reputations in both live and studio settings. We’ve looked at how many mics you get in each pack, how they suit different drum setups, and how easy they are to expand or upgrade as your needs grow. In short, these are mic packs we’d happily use ourselves.
The best drum mic packs
1. Shure PGADRUMKIT6 Drum Microphone Kit, 6-Piece
Key features
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Enough mics to capture a four-piece kit and cymbals
- Includes drum mounts and carrying case
Pros
- Durable construction suited to regular use
- Balanced sound across the kit
- Comes with mic clips and cables included
Cons
- May not be suitable for all budgets
If you’re after reliable drum mics that get the job done without fuss, the Shure PGADRUMKIT6 is a solid place to start. It includes dedicated mics for kick, snare, and toms, each designed to bring out the character of the drum it’s pointed at.
The sound is clear and consistent, whether you’re playing live or tracking in a small home studio. Each mic uses a cardioid pickup pattern, so you’re getting less background noise and more of the drum itself. Plus, the kit includes clips, XLR cables, and a carry case to keep everything together.
Build-wise, they’re tough enough to handle travel, rehearsal rooms, and the odd stick hit.
2. SubZero 7-Piece Drum Microphone Set with Case and Clamps
Key features
- Five dynamic mics and two condenser mics
- Includes clamps and protective carry case
- Cardioid polar pattern across the set
Pros
- Full coverage for a standard drum kit
- Mics tuned for specific drum types
- Easy to set up and transport
Cons
- No attenuation switch on overhead condensers
If you’re after an affordable mic set, the SubZero 7-piece mic kit is ideal, especially if you’re new to miking up your kit. The pack gives you everything you need to get your drum recordings off the ground. You get five dynamic mics for your kick, snare, and toms, plus a pair of condensers for overheads – perfect for capturing cymbals and the overall room sound.
Each mic is designed for its specific job, so you’ll get that punchy kick, crisp snare, and clear cymbal detail super easily while the cardioid pickup patterns help keep things tight and focused in the mix.
Setting up is easy thanks to the included clamps, and the carry case makes it simple to keep everything organised between sessions or gigs. And the build quality is solid – these mics feel sturdy enough to handle regular use without any fuss.
It’s a great all-in-one option if you’re just starting out or need a practical setup for live shows or rehearsals.
3. Lewitt BEATKIT 4-Piece Drum Microphone Set
Key features
- Switchable kick mic voicing
- Dedicated dynamic snare mic with high transient detail
- Matched small diaphragm condensers for overheads
Pros
- Clear, punchy sound straight out of the box
- Solid build designed for touring and studio use
- Clips included for easy setup
Cons
- Limited to smaller drum setups without adding extra mics
Lewitt’s BEATKIT 4-piece set is great for getting a polished drum sound – with fantastic flexibility to match your tonal preferences. The DTP 340 REX kick mic gives you two voicing options, so you can tweak your sound depending on your playing style or the venue. The MTP 440 DM snare mic brings a tight, punchy attack that’s earned its place on plenty of big stages and studio sessions.
One of the best things about this drum mic pack, however, is the pair of LCT 040 MATCH condensers. They’re carefully matched for overhead use, giving you fast transient response and crisp high-end detail, without ever sounding harsh. All the mounting gear you need is also included, so you can get set up immediately.
If you’re after a drum mic setup that’s easy to use but feels a bit more premium, the BEATKIT is well worth checking out.
4. Audix DP7 Percussion Microphone Pack, 7 Pieces
Key features
- D6 dynamic kick mic with extended low-end response
- I5 snare mic with high SPL handling and cardioid pattern
- ADX51 condensers with pad and bass roll-off switch
Pros
- Clear, powerful sound across the whole kit
- Tough, road-ready construction
- Comes with clips and a robust carry case
Cons
- Modern microphone voicing might not suit all styles
I’ve been using the Audix DP7 microphone pack since 2017, and it’s still my go-to for both live gigs and studio sessions.
The D6 kick mic gives you a big, punchy low end without any hassle, while the I5 snare mic easily handles high sound pressure levels without breaking up. For toms, the D2 and D4 mics deliver natural, focused tones that stay clean and avoid any muddiness in your mix.
I also love the ADX51 condensers – they capture crisp cymbal detail and come with handy pad and bass roll-off switches for extra flexibility. Better still, you get all the clips you need and a solid carry case, making setup and transport easy.
If you’re after a tough, dependable set of mics, the DP7 is a brilliant choice.
5. Sennheiser e600 Drum Kit Microphone Set with Case
Key features
- E602 MKII kick mic with fast transient response and deep low-end
- E614 condenser overheads with wide frequency range and high SPL handling
- E604 tom/snare mics with a hum-compensating coil
Pros
- Excellent isolation and clarity across all microphones
- Tough, lightweight construction built for touring
- Includes integral mounts
Cons
- No dedicated snare mic
The Sennheiser e600 mic set is specifically designed to give you clean, punchy drum recordings without any hassle. You get a rugged e602 MKII for the kick, built to capture fast, precise bass with plenty of low-end punch. The e604 mics take care of your toms and snare, handling heavy playing without breaking a sweat. Their compact design also makes it much easier to position them around a tight kit.
For your cymbals and overheads, the e614 condensers deliver a natural, detailed sound, and they can easily cope with high sound pressure levels. As you’d expect from Sennheiser, the build quality tough and road-ready. The kit also comes with integrated mounts to make setup simpler, and everything packs neatly into a sturdy case.
6. Behringer BC1200 7-Piece Drum Microphone Set
Key features
- KM1200 large diaphragm mic tuned specifically for kick drums
- TM1200 dynamic mics with adjustable clamps for toms and snares
- CM1200 condenser mics with wind filters for cymbal capture
Pros
- Full kit coverage straight out of the box
- Sturdy, die-cast construction for stage and studio
- Includes clips, windshields, and a carry case
Cons
- No pad or high pass switch on overheads.
The Behringer BC1200 7-piece set gives you everything you need to mic up a full drum kit without breaking the bank. Each mic is tuned for a specific job, with the KM1200 covering the punch of the kick drum and the TM1200s designed to capture your snare and toms up close.
For your cymbals, the CM1200 condensers deliver smooth highs, and the included wind filters help keep things clean – which is great when you’re recording live. You also get all the clamps, adapters, and a tough carry case, so setting up and packing down is straightforward.
The build quality feels solid too, with a die-cast design that can handle plenty of gigs and recording sessions. Every mic uses a focused cardioid pattern to help cut down on unwanted bleed and keep your recordings tight. If you’re after a complete, practical mic setup, the BC1200 is worth considering.
7. sE Electronics V Pack Arena
Key features
- V KICK mic with four switchable voicings for flexible kick sounds
- V BEAT low-profile mics designed specifically for snare and toms
- sE8 small diaphragm condensers for ultra-detailed overhead capture
Pros
- Excellent sound detail with minimal setup hassle
- Rugged build quality with a robust flight case included
- Versatile voicing options to suit different drum and room sounds
Cons
- Premium price which may not be suitable for all budgets
If you want absolute control over all aspects of your drum sound, sE Electronics’ V Pack Arena is perfect. Its V KICK mic gives you the choice between classic and modern voicings – ideal for capturing deep, punchy lows with real clarity. The V BEAT mics are compact and easy to position on your snares and toms, with a smart design that keeps cables neatly out of the way.
Each mic is voiced to bring out the full character of your drums without adding any harshness. For cymbals and overheads, the sE8 condensers deliver a natural sound with ultra-low noise, making sure you catch every subtle detail.
Everything comes neatly packed in a heavy-duty flight case, and the V CLAMP system makes setup quick and hassle-free.
It’s worth noting that the V Pack Arena sits at the higher end of the price range, so it might not suit everyone’s budget. But if you’re serious about capturing every nuance of your kit and want gear that’s built to last, it’s a great investment.
8. Universal Audio Studio Drum Mic Set with Hemisphere Modeling (4pcs)
Key features
- Hemisphere mic modelling
- High-SPL handling microphones
- Includes stand mounts, protective pouches, and matched overhead mics
Pros
- Wide tonal flexibility through mic modelling software
- Durable all-metal construction ready for studio and live work
- Excellent isolation and clarity with cardioid pickup patterns
Cons
- Requires software setup to access full range of mic models
Thanks to Hemisphere mic modelling, the Universal Audio Studio Drum Mic Set lets you tap into a huge range of vintage and modern microphone tones – it’s the ultimate one-stop shop for everything dynamic mic-related.
The SD-3 and SD-5 dynamic mics are tuned for kick and toms, while the SP-1 pencil condensers give you clear, matched overhead coverage. Each mic can handle high SPLs without any trouble, and the cardioid pickup patterns help focus on your drums while cutting down on background noise.
Built with tough all-metal construction, these mics are ready for the demands of both studio sessions and live gigs. You also get stand mounts and protective pouches.
9. AKG Drum Set Session 1 Microphone Set
Key features
- P2 dynamic kick mic with cardioid pattern
- Four P4 dynamic mics for toms and snare
- Two P17 condenser mics
Pros
- Strong, clear sound across the full kit
- Robust build quality ideal for touring
- Includes mounts, clips, and an aluminium carry case
Cons
- Large snare and tom mics may interfere with playing
AKG’s Drum Set Session 1 gives you a ready-to-go drum mic setup with plenty of punch and clarity. Designed for both live performances and studio sessions, this kit covers your whole kit with a mix of tailored dynamic and condenser mics.
The P2 bass drum mic brings out deep, focused lows, while the four P4 dynamic mics handle your toms and snare with a tight, clean attack. For your overheads, the P17 condensers add a nice bit of space and sparkle, giving a natural stereo image to your cymbals and the full kit sound.
Every mic is built tough enough to handle life on the road, and with the included H440 adaptors and mic clips, setting up is quick and hassle-free. It all packs neatly into a rugged aluminium case.
How to choose the best drum mic pack for your setup
Choosing the right drum mic pack really depends on your setup, where you’re playing, and how much you want to spend. For live performances, we recommend choosing dynamic microphones – they’re tough, can handle high sound pressure levels, and are built to take a few knocks. In the studio, though, condenser mics tend to be the go-to, thanks to their detailed sound and wider frequency range.
If you’re just starting out or putting together a simple setup, a good place to begin is with a kick drum mic, a snare mic, and a pair of condenser overheads. This four-mic setup does a great job of capturing the core character of your kit, giving you enough clarity and punch for most situations.
Of course, you’ll also need to consider your budget. Luckily, there are good drum mic kits available at all sorts of price points, with trusted brands offering options for everyone, from beginners putting together their first setup to seasoned players who need something they can rely on night after night.
When you’re picking your mics, it’s also worth thinking about the specific jobs you want them to do. A dynamic mic inside the kick drum is great for capturing the attack, while placing a condenser outside can add a bit more openness and depth. For the snare, using a dynamic mic on top and a condenser underneath gives you the best of both worlds – the tone from the top and the snare sound from below.
Condenser overheads are ideal for picking up the full kit and cymbals, giving you a natural stereo image that ties everything together. For toms, you can go with either dynamics or condensers, depending on the sound you’re after – dynamics for a tighter, punchier tone, or condensers if you want a bit more detail.
Hi-hats and ride cymbals can be captured well with either type too, but mic placement and quality will make a big difference to how clean they sound in the mix.
How to set up your drum mic set
Once you have your mics, the next step is getting set up. The correct placement will give you that all-important great drum sound. Mount your mics securely using stands or the supplied clamps, especially for close-miking toms and snare. You’ll also need good-quality XLR cables. Keep them neat to avoid trip hazards and unwanted noise.
For the kick drum, place a mic inside, pointing at the beater for a sharp, punchy attack, or just outside the resonant head if you want a deeper, fuller sound. Some setups also use a boundary mic inside for an even tighter, more focused tone. Position the snare mic just above the head to catch the crack, and consider adding a second mic underneath for extra sizzle and sustain.
To capture an even stereo image, the overhead mics should be positioned equidistant from the snare, spaced evenly to capture a balanced stereo image. You can also experiment with X-Y placement for a tighter sound.
Toms are typically miked just above the drumhead. For the hi-hats, place the mic a few inches above, aiming towards the centre. To capture more detailed cymbal sounds – especially from the ride or crash – you can add extra condenser mics.
FAQs
How many mics does a drummer need?
A drummer typically needs four to eight mics to capture a full drum kit sound accurately and professionally. A minimal setup uses kick, snare, and two overheads, while larger kits often mic individual toms and hi-hats. The number depends on the style and performance needs.
What is the best placement for drum mics?
The best placement for drum mics is positioning each mic to capture the direct sound of its target drum while minimising bleed from others. Kick and snare mics should be close and angled precisely, with overheads and room mics placed for balanced stereo imaging. Proper placement ensures clarity and impact.
Should I use a condenser mic for drums?
Using a condenser mic for drums is highly recommended, especially for overheads and cymbals, due to their sensitivity and wide frequency response. Condenser mics capture detailed highs and natural room ambience, making them ideal for a complete and vibrant drum recording. Dynamic mics are better for close-miking loud sources like snares.
Final thoughts
Whatever your setup or goals, there’s a wide range of mic packs out there to suit different needs and budgets. We’ve highlighted some of the best drum mics for live performances and studio recording – but this is just the start! Check out our other drum guides on the blog to find out how else you can get the best, most powerful and crisp sound from your drums.
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