Audix DP8 - Professional 8-Microphone Pack for Drums and Percussion
The Audix DP8 is a professional microphone package designed as a comprehensive, high-quality solution for recording full acoustic drum kits, both in recording studios and live performances. This complete set of eight microphones has been carefully selected to deliver accurate, natural sound reproduction with exceptional control, allowing you to capture every nuance of a five-piece drum kit, from the deep punch of the kick drum to the crystal-clear sparkle of the cymbals.
The microphone selection included in the DP8 is based on Audix's most acclaimed models, considered by many to be industry standards. Each microphone is designed for a specific application within the drum kit, ensuring optimal results without the need for excessive EQ. The package includes a kick drum microphone, a snare drum microphone, two rack tom microphones, a floor tom microphone, two condenser microphones for overheads (general sound capture), and a condenser microphone for the hi-hat. The entire set is delivered in a robust aluminum case with a custom-cut foam interior, guaranteeing safe transport and organized storage.
Main Features
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Complete Drum Solution: Includes 8 microphones specifically selected to cover all parts of a standard 5-piece drum kit (bass drum, snare drum, 2 rack toms, floor tom) plus hi-hat and cymbals (overheads).
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Dynamic and Condenser Microphones: An expert combination of dynamic microphones for sound sources with high sound pressure levels (SPL) such as the kick drum and toms, and condenser microphones to capture the details and transients of the cymbals and the overall ambience.
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VLM Capsule Technology: The dynamic microphones (D6, i5, D2, D4) incorporate Audix's VLM™ (Very Low Mass) technology, which gives their diaphragms a very low mass. This results in exceptionally fast transient response and accurate, natural sound reproduction.
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Miniaturized Condenser Microphones: The M1280B and M1280BHC microphones are extremely compact and lightweight, making them easy to position discreetly and minimizing their visual impact on stage or in video recordings.
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Robust Construction: All microphones are manufactured with machined aluminum or brass bodies, ensuring exceptional durability to withstand the demands of touring and intensive studio use.
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Included Accessories: The package is complete with all the necessary clips and brackets for assembly, including 4 DVICE hoop clips for secure, low-profile attachment to the snare and toms, and 3 suspension stand adapters for condenser microphones.
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Carrying Case: A heavy-duty aluminum carrying case with a protective foam interior is supplied, perfect for keeping microphones safe and organized during transport and storage.
DP8 Package Contents
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1x D6 (Kick Drum): Cardioid dynamic microphone, Audix's flagship for kick drums. It offers a powerful and defined bass response without sacrificing the attack of the beater.
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1x i5 (Snare): Cardioid dynamic microphone, a versatile standard ideal for capturing the "crack" and body of the snare drum, with excellent off-axis rejection.
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2x D2 (Ring Toms): Hypercardioid dynamic microphones, perfect for rack toms. Their tuned polar pattern and contoured frequency response capture the tom's attack and resonance with clarity.
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1x D4 (Floor Tom): Hypercardioid dynamic microphone with extended low-frequency response, ideal for capturing the depth and body of floor toms and other bass instruments.
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2x M1280B (Overheads): Miniaturized cardioid condenser microphones, designed to capture a clear and detailed stereo image of the entire kit, especially the cymbals.
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1x M1280BHC (Hi-Hat): Miniaturized hypercardioid condenser microphone. Its focused polar pattern is ideal for isolating the sound of the hi-hat and preventing the pickup of other nearby elements.
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4x DVICE (Ring Clips): Flexible gooseneck clips that mount directly onto the rim of the drums.
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3x SMTMICRO (Microphone Stands): Suspension stand adapters for condenser microphones.
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1x Aluminum Case: Robust carrying case with foam interior to protect all equipment.
Benefits for the Drummer and the Sound Technician
The Audix DP8 takes the guesswork out of miking a drum kit. For the musician, it ensures that the sound of their instrument is faithfully and powerfully translated, whether in a recording or through a venue's PA system. For the sound engineer, this package provides a reliable and consistent set of tools that deliver excellent sound right out of the box, minimizing setup time and the need for intensive signal processing. The combination of cardioid and hypercardioid polar patterns ensures excellent isolation between different elements of the kit, resulting in a cleaner, more controlled mix.
Use Cases
This kit is the perfect choice for a wide range of applications. In the recording studio , it delivers professional, mix-ready drum sound. Live , its robust construction and high-quality components ensure reliable performance night after night, from small clubs to large stages. It's also an excellent solution for houses of worship, theaters, and equipment rental companies that need a versatile and durable drum microphone setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the M1280B/BHC condenser microphones require external power?
Yes, as condenser microphones, all three M1280 models require 48V phantom power. This power is typically supplied by mixing consoles or audio interfaces via an XLR cable.
Can I use these microphones for other instruments?
Absolutely. Although optimized for drums, their versatility is remarkable. The i5 is excellent for guitar amps, the D6 works very well on bass amps, and the D2/D4 are fantastic for various percussion and wind instruments. The M1280s are ideal for acoustic instruments like guitars or pianos.
Are DVICE hoop clips difficult to install?
No, DVICE clips are designed for quick and easy use. They attach securely to the drum hoop, and their flexible gooseneck allows for precise microphone positioning with ease.
Project description
The Audix DP8 kit consists of eight drum microphones. It includes one D6 cardioid dynamic microphone (30 Hz - 15 kHz response), one i5 cardioid dynamic microphone (50 Hz - 16 kHz response), two D2 hypercardioid dynamic microphones (68 Hz - 18 kHz response), and one D4 hypercardioid dynamic microphone (40 Hz - 18 kHz response). It is complemented by two M1280B cardioid condenser microphones (40 Hz - 20 kHz response) and one M1280BHC hypercardioid condenser microphone (40 Hz - 20 kHz response). All dynamic microphones handle a maximum SPL of ≥144 dB. The condenser microphones handle a maximum SPL of ≥147 dB and require 18-52 V phantom power. The set includes 4 DVICE hoop clips, 3 SMTMICRO adapters, and an aluminum carrying case.
