Here is a list of common drums and cymbals in a typical drum kit with their typical frequency ranges and suggested microphones:
- Kick drum (20-100 Hz) – Kick drum mic or large diaphragm condenser
- Snare drum (200-1000 Hz) – Small diaphragm condenser
- Toms (100-400 Hz) – Small or large diaphragm condenser
- Floor tom (80-200 Hz) – Small or large diaphragm condenser
- Hi-hats (2-8 kHz) – Small diaphragm condenser
- Crash cymbal (4-8 kHz) – Small diaphragm condenser
- Ride cymbal (4-8 kHz) – Small diaphragm condenser
Some key things to note:
- Kick drum and floor tom require mics that can handle low frequencies well. Condensers work if placed properly.
- Overheads should be condenser mics that can capture cymbals clearly. Small diaphragms help avoid abrasive highs.
- Close miking with condensers helps capture the attack and intricacies of drums and cymbals.
- Room mics can help blend the kit together in a space. Condensers or dynamics work well.
- EQing each mic to accentuate desirable frequencies and compressing helps get sounds that cut through a mix.