Basic Concepts of Drum Miking
May 02, 2006 - Contributed By dB Masters
Drums can be a challenge to mic and record, learn some techniques that can help you get a better result. (rewritten 5-2-2006)
Drums are usually the first to be recorded, and, use the most mics. Often times this is done in the context of also recording bass guitar and rhythm guitar. The drums are generally the focus of that session, if the drums are off, the take is redone, if the drums are good, everything else can be fixed later.
In a home studio environment, a common, economical and effective way to get a decent sound is by using what is called the "triangle" miking style that was mentioned in the introduction to the miking section. This style requires three mics (hence, "triangle"). One in the kick drum, and one on either side of the kit. Using this method will allow you to catch a bit of the stereo image of the drum kit, while still only needing three mics and three open channels on your board. If you are happy with the take, this can also be mixed down to two tracks, or, if you don't mind mono drums, even mix it down to one. This, of course, works best with the average five or six piece kit, with bigger kits or double kicks require a little more work. Drum mics can also be bought in a set to cover your whole drum kit without having to buy a bunch of individual mics and you get them all a little cheaper too! There are some very reasonably priced kits out there if you look. Read more at
HomeRecordingConnection.com
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