Jan 29, 2009 04:03 pm Yikes, trying to record an acoustic drum kit with 2 SM57s is a tough challenge. I can't think of a way to get a full, balanced result with only 2 dynamic mics.
Ideally, you need 3 mics at very least:
- a dynamic mic for the kick
- a dynamic mic for the snare
- a condensor mic for the overhead
And 4 mics would be even better:
- a dynamic for the kick
- a dynamic for the snare
- two condensors in either an X/Y or a spaced pair configuration to get a stereo image of the kit. Pan them left and right in your software.
With only 2 channels, I'm not sure what to suggest to you. Using them both as overheads may be the only way to do it. Try them in an X/Y and a spaced pair configuration and see if it picks up enough of the kick drum to be usable.
Otherwise, try one on the kick and one as an overhead and see if that gives you anything workable.
Honestly though, if you're going to record drums, you're going to need more inputs on your interface. 4 inputs is pretty much a bare minimum for anybody wanting to track a drum kit.
My setup is an M-Audio Delta44 interface and a Yamaha MG 10/2 mixer. You can get both for about $250 shipped. I've successfully tracked drums a few times with this setup and I've been happy with the results. I picked up a matched pair of MXL 993 pencil condensors for $150 to use as overheads. All in all, for a budget setup, I've been very happy with the quality.
I hate to suggest buying new gear to people looking for help, but this might be the smartest move for you.
Maybe somebody else here can suggest something that'll make some magical difference but I sure can't think of any way to make 2 dynamic mics capture a drum kit very well.
