Audix DP7 Drum Mic Pack Review

Audix DP7 Drum Mic Pack Gallery

Contents

Audix DP7 Drum Mic Pack Ratings

Sound

5

5/5

Design

5

5/5

Value

4.5

4.5/5

Durability

5

5/5

 

Each of the mics included with the DP7 kit is designed to capture the nuances of your drum kit. The D6 kick mic delivers that modern kick sound with extended lows and highs. The i5 snare mic offers warmth and body, akin to the classic SM57. 

The 2xD2 and D4 provide a full-range sound for rack toms and floor tom, and the 2xADX 51 round out the set with a reliable overhead sound, one for each side of the drum kit.

Microphones

As a complete drum recording package, the Audix DP7 Drum Mic set includes:

• 2x ADX 51: These pencil condenser microphones are suited as overhead mics (set as a pair above the cymbals), equipped with a -10dB pad and a low-cut switch for added versatility.
• D6: Well suited for modern kick drum sounds, the D6 dynamic microphone captures extended lows and highs for a punchy yet detailed EQ profile.
• i5: Offering warmth and body similar to the classic SM57, the i5 dynamic microphone is suited for snare drum recording.
• 2x D2: Designed specifically for rack toms, these dynamic microphones deliver clarity and precision which are sure to enhance your rack tom sound.
• D4: Tailored for floor toms, the D4 dynamic microphone has an extended low-end frequency response which is great for capturing deep, resonant tones.
• Additionally, the set includes D-Vice clamps, eliminating the need for mic stands when mounting the tom microphones, therefore saving space and reducing setup hassle in the studio.

Sound

Having had the opportunity to try out various microphones in my drum recordings, the Audix DP7 stands out as an extremely solid microphone set in terms of sound. 

Particularly impressive is the D6 kick microphone, which is extremely solid in capturing extended lows and highs, resulting in a punchy and fat kick sound, especially when compared to other comparable microphones. Honestly, it was easily my favorite element of this set, and the reputation Audix has when it comes to the D6 mic on kick is well earned.

The i5 microphone for snare offers a sound somewhat similar to the SM57, the most commonly used and reliable microphone on the market. I did find it to be more scooped than the SM57, which will be great for those looking for an EQ profile closer to a final mixed sound. 

I also found that the cymbal bleed picked up by the i5 was more minimal than the SM57, which is always beneficial for drum mixing, especially when compressing heavily. 

From the fat low end and defined top end of the D6 kick microphone, to the warmth of the i5, each component of the DP7 set sounds top quality. Across the board, these mics capture drum tones with clarity, warmth and precision. 

The defined EQ curve of these microphones means that I don’t have to focus so much on mixing and more on my performance – for me that is a real positive that sets this pack apart! 

It’s honestly something that I love about this set, when compared to similar all-in-one drum microphone packs offered by Earthworks, Shure etc. However, it’s important to remember that no matter the set of microphones you’re using, proper tuning of your drums, as well as correct microphone placement, will be equally beneficial to your sound. 

Design

Each microphone offers durability and reliability, and is capable of withstanding knocks, bumps, and regular touring. The inclusion of D-Vice clamps is a great addition. I find that they are stable and really convenient to use. 

The compact design of the D2 and D4 dynamic microphones, with their short bodies, allows for easy positioning in their intended use as tom mics, which I found to be really useful and time-saving. 

Additionally, the rim clips securely hold them in place, ensuring stable and reliable placement during recording sessions, and if you hit your drums hard like I do, this can be a real benefit. 

Overall, I was impressed by the reliability and durability offered by all the microphones found in the Audix DP7 kit, as well as the mounting options included.

Value

The Audix DP7 currently retails for over $1000. While for some this initial investment may seem steep, in my view the pack’s performance and build quality justify the price tag for those looking for an all-in-one drum microphone set. 

Considering the professional-grade sound it offers, the DP7 represents excellent value for those who are looking to step-up their drum recordings. It’s also worth noting that microphones of a comparable price-point would sum to a greater cost if bought individually. 

By providing a set of essential drum microphones into a single package, Audix has in my opinion provided a convenient and cost-effective solution for capturing exceptional drum sound without compromising on quality. 

There are also much more expensive microphones out there, so there is definitely extremely solid value for money to be found here. 

Verdict

In conclusion, the Audix DP7 Drum Microphone Set is a stellar choice for drummers and engineers seeking top-grade sound quality and versatility. 

With its well selected microphones and solid build quality, the DP7 is undoubtedly going to be an invaluable set of microphones for your drum tracking use. 

One downside for some will be the lack of a snare bottom microphone. For those who value micing the snare wires they may find this to be a gap in this set’s offering, but like many drummers, I don’t tend to mic the bottom of the snare often, so it’s something I can live with.

Overall, with the stellar performance, reliable build quality, and undeniable value offered by the Audix DP7 Drum Microphone Set, I’d highly recommended this set for anyone looking to capture the full potential of their drum kit.