Mixing a Drumset with 1 Mic

Discover how to record a drum kit with one microphone while capturing a balanced, cohesive performance. In this PureMix tutorial, Fab Dupont uses an AKG C12 to explore how microphone placement, room acoustics, and the drummer’s playing shape a mono drum recording.

Follow the process as Fab tests an initial mic position, adds a gobo, and moves the entire kit to improve the snare tone and reduce unwanted room reflections. He then adjusts microphone height and distance to bring the snare forward while keeping the hi-hat and ride cymbal in balance.

Learn to evaluate drum sounds in the context of a song and make purposeful adjustments at the source. These single-mic drum recording techniques also build listening skills you can apply to more complex microphone setups.