Use of the microphone kit
The MIC-DS drum kit is a professional microphone kit, consisting of 7 high-quality drum microphones and all
needed accessories to be able to record a complete drum kit. With the separate bass drum and tom/snare
microphones, combined with the overhead microphones, you are able to create your own sound mix on any
PA-mixer or audio interface.
Thanks to the high sensitivity and the condenser construction of the included overhead microphones, even
cymbals are recorded in high quality. It is also possible to use the overhead microphones for basic vocal
setups, for example when recording choirs or larger vocal ensembles.
Bass drum microphone:
The bass drum microphone, a BM-10 microphone, is positioned near the bass drum. This microphone has a
cardioid polar pattern and can be positioned virtually anywhere near the bass drum. To create the best
sound, you have to experiment with different setups, as the best sound of each bass drum may vary as all
brands make their bass drums in a different way.
Tom snare microphones:
The TM-10 tom/snare microphones can be connected to the edge of a snare drum or tom with the special
tom mounts. Mount the microphones on the special holders and experiment with optimal microphone
positioning.
Overhead microphones:
Use large overhead microphone stands and position both CM-10 microphones towards the drum kit. By
placing the microphones in a overhead position, the sound of cymbals will be recorded just as good as the
sound of the snares, toms and bass drum. This grants you the ability to record all sound sources in optimal
quality.
Thanks to the high SPL rating of the microphones, it is possible to record loud snares, toms, bass drums and
cymbals without distortion. However, you may want to experiment with the input signals on your mixer, by
changing gain settings and maybe activating certain pads to decrease input levels.
Each microphone has its own characteristics, which matches them with certain purposes. But if you want to
experiment with different setups, it is always possible to experiment with other microphones to create the
right sound. As every microphone type of every brand has its unique characteristics, it is always possible and
recommended to experiment with microphones setups to create the best sound.
All microphone clips are equipped with 5/8” thread for placement on microphone stands. It is also possible to
use the special snare/tom clamps, to mount the tom/snare microphones on the edges of the shells. This way,
a setup with large amounts of microphone stands are avoided and for most applications this gives the best
result as you are able to change the microphone angle for better pick-up of the shell sound.
IMPORTANT: Phantom power
The condenser microphones require +48V phantom power from a PA-mixer, studio mixer, audio interface or
phantom power supply. Consult the manual of your equipment or contact your local dealer when in doubt if
your equipment is capable of providing a +48V voltage. Dynamic microphones do not need +48V power
supply, but nothing will happen if you add a dynamic microphone on a group of +48V activated channels.
The condenser microphones will not work properly when there is no +48V voltage activated. Always check
this if you suspect that your microphone might be damaged or broken.
Protect your microphone:
The Devine microphones are equipped with very sensitive electronics to provide optimal audio performance.
Make sure the microphones are not exposed to severe shocks, collision, drops from high altitude or any
situations that may cause permanent damage. Improper use of the microphone is not covered by warranty.
Always transport the microphone in the original case, or in a flightcase with proper foam inlay. Transporting
Any information and illustrations shown in this user manual are subject to change without further notice.
User manual version: 1.0 Creation date + author initials: 27-01-2014 RV Revision date + author initials: 27-01-2014 RV
