Best Overhead Mics

Category: overhead mics 👁 714 👍 25 ★★★★☆4.3

Overhead microphones are those used in sound recording and live sound reproduction to pick up ambient sounds, transients and the overall blend of instruments.

So is, how high should overhead mics be?

To even the arrival times you can place the two overhead mics at two different heights, as few as 2–3 inches or up to 8–10 inches if necessary. This will solidify the center image that is so important to your drum sound.

At the same time, what is the best mic brand?

  • Shure. Ask any successful or rising musician, and chances are they either owned or still own a Shure dynamic microphone. ...
  • Sennheiser. Next on the list is Sennheiser. ...
  • AKG. In the music business, AKG is known for their passion and high-quality products. ...
  • Electro-Voice. ...
  • Audio Technica.

In no way, what is a good room mic?

The standard choice for room mics is a matched pair of condenser mics (either large or small). 3 popular options used in pro studios are: Neumann KM184 pair – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusiciansF/Thomann) AKG C414 pair – (Amazon/B&H/Thomann)

How do you Overhead a mic?

BESTSELLER NO. 1 in 2023

Neewer 2-Pack Pencil Stick Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid and Super Cardioid Capsules, Foam Windscreens, Mic Clip and Portable Carrying Case for Acoustic Woodwind Instruments

Neewer 2-Pack Pencil Stick Condenser Microphone with Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid and Super Cardioid Capsules, Foam Windscreens, Mic Clip and Portable Carrying Case for Acoustic Woodwind Instruments
  • SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY: Adopts Φ 16 high quality headgrille and electric circuit, ensures high sensitivity and ultra-low noise
  • INTERCHANGEABLE CAPSULES: Includes cardioid, omni and super capsules for use in virtually most recording situation. You can get the sound you want, whether its subtle nuances of a studio recording or the dynamic sparkle of a live orchestra. Easy to mount and remove
  • WIDELY USE: Widely used for recording studio vocals, acoustic, instruments, strings, horns, orchestras and choral groups, ambient instrument audio, and many live sound applications
  • 5/8-INCH MIC CLIP AND WINDSCREEN: Clip Fits most microphone stand with 5/8-inch thread, can firmly hold your microphone in different positions. Foam windscreen can minimize air interference during recording for more clarity sound
  • FOAM PADDED ALUMINUM CASE: Made of durable aluminum, ensures high durability. Foam padded inner can protect your mics and accessories from scratching. It is easy to transport and set up your condenser mics
BESTSELLER NO. 2 in 2023

Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones

Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones
  • Compact 1/2 inch cardioid condenser microphone with low noise and a full frequency response
  • Matched pair has been carefully selected to ensure a variation of no more than 1dB sensitivity betwe
  • A premium foiled certificate is supplied to verify the authenticity of the pair
  • Finished with RODE's proprietary ceramic coating which offers a sleek matt black finish
  • Supplied with WS5 windshields and RM5 stand mounts
BESTSELLER NO. 3 in 2023

Shure CVO-B/C Centraverse Overhead Cardioid Condenser Microphone, Black (Installation Required)

Shure CVO-B/C Centraverse Overhead Cardioid Condenser Microphone, Black (Installation Required)
  • Tailored frequency response ideal for capturing fast transients above choirs and other ensembles
  • CommShield Technology that guards against unwanted RF interference from portable wireless devices (smartphones, etc.) and high resistance to intense nearby radio signals
  • Superior Shure design and rugged, dependable construction
  • Tailored frequency response ideal for capturing fast transients above choirs and other ensembles
  • CommShield Technology that guards against unwanted RF interference from portable wireless devices (smartphones, etc.) and high resistance to intense nearby radio signals
  • Superior Shure design and rugged, dependable construction
  • Frequency Response: 70–16000 Hz, Output Impedance - 180 Ω
BESTSELLER NO. 4 in 2023

Samson C01 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone for Recording Vocals, Acoustic Instruments, Overhead Drums Bundle with Blucoil Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter, and 10-FT Balanced XLR Cable

Samson C01 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone for Recording Vocals, Acoustic Instruments, Overhead Drums Bundle with Blucoil Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter, and 10-FT Balanced XLR Cable
  • REPRODUCES AUDIO ACCURATELY - The Samson C01 Mic features a large 19mm capsule with an ultra-thin 3-micron diaphragm. Its extended 40Hz-18kHz frequency ensures accurate reproduction of vocals, acoustic instruments, and overhead drums.
  • ISOLATES UNWANTED AMBIENT NOISE - The hyper-cardioid polar pattern offers an excellent side-to-side rejection. It picks up more of the sound source you want and rejects the background audio.
  • OFFERS VERSATILE CLOSE-MIKING APPLICATIONS - You can use the C01 mic when recording vocals and acoustic guitars. It can handle up to 136dB SPL so it works well with overhead cymbals/drums too.
  • PREVENT P-POPPING WITH BLUCOIL - The sturdy steel boom arm includes a detachable pop filter windscreen, which reduces plosive sounds by blocking air blasted from your mouth. It disperses the air pressure within the 2-layer mesh pop filter.
  • INCLUDES - Samson C01 Large-Diaphragm Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone. Swivel Stand Mount. Carry Case. Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female).
BESTSELLER NO. 5 in 2023

Pack of 2 - Hola! Music HPS-101TB Professional Tripod Microphone Mic Stand with Telescopic Boom

Pack of 2 - Hola! Music HPS-101TB Professional Tripod Microphone Mic Stand with Telescopic Boom
  • ** Pack of 2 ** Hola! Music HPS-101TB: Patented leg housing locks the legs when opened without a screw.
  • Ergonomic center clutch for easy height adjustment anywhere between 40 inch and 63 inch for using while sitting or standing.
  • Euro-Style metal telescopic boom with separate clutches for length and angle of boom. Boom extends between 19 inch and 35 inch.
  • Standard US 5/8-27 threads and 2 Clip-on cable holders to avoid cable clutter.
  • Don't miss!! Full description, images and specifications down the page. Hola! Music guarantees quality and affordability. Hola! - Say Hello to Music!
BESTSELLER NO. 6 in 2023

Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones (Pair)

Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones (Pair)
  • Cardioid Pickup Pattern
  • Gold-plated XLR connectors
  • Carry Case & shock-mounted mic clips included
  • Sold as stereo pair
BESTSELLER NO. 7 in 2023

LyxPro SDPC-2 Stereo Pair of Pencil Condenser Stick Instrument Microphone Pair - Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid & Super Cardioid Capsules Included

LyxPro SDPC-2 Stereo Pair of Pencil Condenser Stick Instrument Microphone Pair - Interchangeable Omni, Cardioid & Super Cardioid Capsules Included
  • Pro-Grade Pencil Condenser Microphones Suit Overheads, Acoustic & Woodwind Instruments
  • Stereo Pair Most Accurately Captures Even Slightest Audio Nuances for Recording
  • 3 Included Capsules (Omni, Cardioid & Super Cardioid) Customize Pickup Pattern
  • Frequency Response of 30Hz-18kHz; Sensitivity of -38dB ± 3dB (0dB=1V/Pa at 1kHz)
  • Bonus: 2 Windscreens, Aluminum Carrying Case, 2 Smooth-Tilt Microphone Clips
BESTSELLER NO. 8 in 2023

Audio-Technica AT2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
  • Condenser design for studio-quality vocal and instrument applications; ideal for acoustic guitar, overheads, piano and group vocals
  • Excels in high-SPL applications with extended response for smooth, natural sonic characteristics
  • Low-mass element for superb transient response
  • Corrosion-resistant contacts from gold-plated XLRM-type connector
  • Rugged design and construction for reliable performance
  • Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
BESTSELLER NO. 9 in 2023

Sabian Matched Overhead Drum Microphones (SOH1)

Sabian Matched Overhead Drum Microphones (SOH1)
  • The package length of the product is 5.0 inches
  • The package width of the product is 5.0 inches
  • The package height of the product is 5.0 inches
  • Country of origin is China
BESTSELLER NO. 10 in 2023

Professional Handheld Moving Coil Microphone - Dynamic Cardioid Unidirectional Vocal, Built-in Acoustic Pop Filter, Includes 15ft XLR Audio Cable to 1/4'' Audio Connection - Pyle PDMIC78

Professional Handheld Moving Coil Microphone - Dynamic Cardioid Unidirectional Vocal, Built-in Acoustic Pop Filter, Includes 15ft XLR Audio Cable to 1/4'' Audio Connection - Pyle PDMIC78
  • UNIDIRECTIONAL SIGNAL: Cardioid pickup pattern captures source signal such as guitar amp or vocalist while shunning off-axis sound minimizing background noise & feedback reproducing audio w/out interference from instruments or speakers on stage
  • DYNAMIC MICROPHONE: For optimal clarity and punch, robust & resistant to moisture, achieving high gain before feedback, makes this microphone ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments
  • ULTRA-WIDE FREQUENCY RESPONSE: For brilliant and transparent sound with integrated pop filter and windscreen to minimize breath and pop noises you can count on it to come through after countless gigs and studio applications
  • CABLE INCLUDED: Professional grade 15 ft. XLR-to-1/4 cable supplied. This Pyle PDMIC78 is perfect for your bedroom, professional studios and on-stage vocal performances all over the globe
  • HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Rugged, all-metal construction for maximum reliability featuring a zinc die-cast case and steel mesh windscreen with an anti-dent ring. A perfect all-purpose, versatile stage and recording microphone

6 More Questions Answered

What is phantom power on a mic?

Phantom power, in the context of professional audio equipment, is DC electric power transmitted through microphone cables to operate microphones that contain active electronic circuitry. It is best known as a convenient power source for condenser microphones, though many active direct boxes also use it.

How far should overheads be from snare?

Like anything else, it varies, but usually around 35" - 45" from the snare for a good starting point. Like anything else, it varies, but usually around 35" - 45" from the snare for a good starting point.

Should you compress overheads?

As a general rule, compressing the close mics will help you deliver a punchy, even sound, without making the result seem too processed, whereas compressing the overheads or the complete kit can cause the drum levels to modulate the cymbal levels in an audible way.

How many drum mics do you need?

8 mics

What is an ambient mic?

An ambient microphone is really any microphone that is set up for ambient miking (where the diffuse sound is greater than the direct sound). An ambient microphone is often, but not always, purposed with capturing ambient sounds (ie: crowd noise, distant sound and reverberation, room tone, and field ambience).

How do you make a mic cymbal?