Overhead microphones play a vital role in shaping the overall sound and stereo image of your drum recordings. Even if you have close mics on every drum, it’s often the overheads that define how the listener perceives the kit. They capture the shimmer of the cymbals, the crack of the snare, and the balance between different elements, while also preserving the natural ambience and character of the room.
A well-placed overhead pair can also serve as a valuable phase reference point when aligning the rest of your drum mics. Without good overheads, your kit can sound disconnected or unnatural, no matter how many individual microphones you’ve used.
Best Overhead Microphones for Drums
When it comes to choosing the best overhead mics, your decision should reflect the style of music you're recording and the overall tone you're aiming for. For a warm, natural sound with smooth top-end and a beautifully realistic stereo image, the Sontronics APOLLO 2 stereo ribbon mic is a top choice. Its figure-of-eight ribbons deliver an open, organic feel that’s perfect for jazz, acoustic recordings, orchestral drums, or anything where character and nuance are key.
If you’re after a cleaner, more focused overhead sound, especially for genres like pop, indie, or modern rock, the Sontronics STC-1S stereo pair is a fantastic option. These matched small-diaphragm condensers provide clarity and precision, and they work brilliantly with various stereo techniques including X/Y, ORTF, or spaced pair configurations. They give you control and flexibility, whether you're capturing wide cymbal spread or a tighter stereo image.
A personal favourite setup for many engineers is the Glyn Johns technique, which uses just two overheads for a full kit picture. In this approach, the Sontronics ORPHEUS really shines. Its large-diaphragm multi-pattern design gives it versatility and character, making it ideal for this classic setup. Placing one ORPHEUS above the snare and the other over the floor tom delivers a balanced, vintage-style stereo sound with minimal fuss, perfect for stripped-back or retro-flavoured productions.
Ultimately, your overheads aren’t just cymbal mics, they’re the ears of your drum sound. Choosing the right pair can completely transform the feel of a track, bringing cohesion, space, and impact to your recording.