Shure Electronic Drum Sets: 3 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

Shure DMK57-52 Drum Microphone Kit

Best for: Acoustic drum recording and live performance

Target Audience

Drummers

Color

Black

Dimensions

17.1 × 4 × 12.4 inches

Weight

3.81 pounds

View on Amazon: Shure DMK57-52 Drum Microphone Kit Affiliate link

This is a drum microphone kit featuring the SM57 snare mic and Beta 52A kick drum mic. It includes the A56D universal mounting system for secure positioning. The kit weighs 3.81 pounds and measures 17.1 inches in length. It suits drummers needing reliable cardioid and supercardioid patterns for recording or live performance.

Pros

• Includes industry-standard SM57 cardioid dynamic microphone
• Features supercardioid Beta 52A for kick drum
• Comes with A56D universal drum mounting system
• Captive parts prevent loss of mounting pieces

Cons

• Requires separate drum module for electronic use
• No included cables or power supply listed
• Physical size limits portability for small kits

Good fit if

• You need a standard snare and kick mic combo
• You want secure mounting for live stages
• You prefer durable dynamic microphones

Skip if

• You need a complete electronic drum kit
• You require built-in digital processing
• You want a wireless microphone system

Verdict: Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit provides essential mics for acoustic or hybrid setups. It fits drummers who need reliable hardware for snare and kick channels.

2 Best budget

Shure PGA ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit

Best for: Standard 5-piece drum recording and live use

Target Audience

Drummers

Color

Black

Piece Count

5-Piece

Dimensions

4.5 × 22.8 × 13 inches

Weight

8 pounds

View on Amazon: Shure PGA ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit Affiliate link

This Shure kit includes five dynamic microphones designed for drum recording and live performance. It features one PGA52 kick mic, three PGA56 snare and tom mics, and one PGA57 instrument mic. The package also provides essential mounting hardware, including a break-resistant clip and three rim mounts. Weighing 8 pounds, it offers a complete setup for drummers needing reliable capture across multiple drum components.

Pros

• Includes five dynamic microphones for comprehensive drum coverage
• Features dedicated PGA52 kick drum microphone
• Provides three PGA56 snare and tom microphones
• Includes break-resistant rim mounts and clip

Cons

• Limited to 5-piece configuration
• Does not include cymbal microphones
• Requires external preamplifiers for signal processing

Good fit if

• You need a complete mic set for standard drum kits
• You record drums in studio or live settings
• You prefer dynamic microphones for high sound pressure levels

Skip if

• You require a 7-piece microphone set
• You need dedicated cymbal microphones
• You prefer condenser microphones for detailed overheads

Verdict: Shure PG ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit provides a solid foundation for drummers recording or performing with a standard five-piece setup. It is ideal for musicians who need reliable dynamic mics for kick, snare, and toms without the complexity of additional overheads.

3 Best premium

Shure PGA Drum Kit 7 Microphone Package

Best for: complete drum recording setups with included stands

Color

Black

Dimensions

20.5 × 4.55 × 2.85 inches

Weight

6.42 pounds

View on Amazon: Shure PGA Drum Kit 7 Microphone Package Affiliate link

This package includes seven microphones designed for recording and live performance. It features the PGA52 for kick drums, PGA56 for toms, and PGA57 for snares. Two PGA81 condenser mics serve as overheads. The set also includes four mounting stands. You get a complete solution for capturing drum sounds. It suits drummers who need a reliable, all-in-one kit for studio or stage use.

Pros

• Includes PGA52 dynamic microphone tuned for low-frequency kick drum response
• Features PGA56 and PGA57 dynamic microphones for toms and snares
• Contains two PGA81 condenser microphones for overhead capture
• Bundle includes four specific mic stands for easy setup

Cons

• No dedicated app or software control for microphone settings
• Heavy build at 6.42 pounds for portable transport
• Limited to standard dynamic and condenser options without specialized sensors

Good fit if

• You need a complete microphone set for recording drums
• You want durable Shure microphones for live performance
• You prefer a bundled package with included stands

Skip if

• You require wireless microphone capabilities
• You need individual microphone customization via an app
• You are looking for a lightweight travel-only kit

Verdict: Shure PGA Drum Kit 7 offers a comprehensive set of mics and stands for drum recording. It fits drummers who value Shure's durability and need a ready-to-use package for studio sessions or live gigs.

Specifications side by side

Shure Drum Mic Lineup Overview

Shure provides specialized microphone kits rather than full electronic drum sets. These tools help you capture acoustic or hybrid drum sounds. The list includes three distinct packages, each sized for different needs. You can choose based on your required piece count and physical dimensions. The smallest kit weighs 3.81 pounds and measures 4.20 inches in size. It suits snare and kick channels. The largest option weighs 8 pounds and spans 22.8 inches wide. It covers standard five-piece setups. A middle ground offers seven mics and stands. It weighs 6.42 pounds. This Shure DMK57-52 Drum Microphone Kit ranks first for reliability. The Shure PGA ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit serves budget users. The Shure PGA Drum Kit 7 Microphone Package includes stands. Pick the kit that matches your recording space and mic count requirements.

Who Shure's Range Suits

Shure fits drummers who need dedicated microphone kits for acoustic or hybrid setups. The smallest option is the DMK57-52, weighing 3.81 pounds. The PGA ALTA 5-Piece Kit is heavier at 8 pounds. The PGA Drum Kit 7 offers a middle ground at 6.42 pounds. All listed products are black. None include electronic drum pads, triggers, or modules. You are buying tools to capture sound, not complete electronic instruments. This range suits musicians who already have drums and need reliable mics for snare, kick, and toms. It does not suit those seeking a plug-and-play electronic kit.

How to Choose the Right Shure Drum Mic

1. Match Kit Size to Your Setup

   You must select a microphone package that matches the number of drums you play. The PGA ALTA 5-Piece Kit is designed for standard five-piece drum kits. It includes mics for kick, snare, and toms. If you have a smaller setup, this kit might be too large. The DMK57-52 is smaller and fits snare and kick channels. Check your drum count before buying. Ensure the piece count aligns with your physical instrument layout to avoid unused mics or missing coverage.

2. Check Included Hardware and Stands

   Verify if the package includes stands or mounts. The PGA Drum Kit 7 offers a comprehensive set with included stands. This is ideal for drummers who need a ready-to-use package for studio sessions. Other kits may require you to purchase stands separately. Check the product attributes for piece counts and included accessories. Having all necessary hardware in one box simplifies your initial setup. It ensures you have the right clamps and rods for each microphone position immediately.

3. Consider Physical Dimensions for Storage

   Review the physical dimensions of the kit for storage purposes. The PGA ALTA 5-Piece Kit measures 22.8 inches in width. The DMK57-52 is more compact at 4.20 inches in size. Smaller dimensions make the kit easier to store in a gig bag. Larger kits require more space in your gear rack. Measure your storage area before purchasing. Ensure the width and length fit comfortably in your transport case. Compact kits are better for drummers who travel frequently to gigs.

4. Evaluate Weight for Portability

   Assess the total weight if you transport gear often. The DMK57-52 weighs 3.81 pounds, making it lightweight. The PGA ALTA 5-Piece Kit is heavier at 8 pounds. Heavier kits may require more effort to carry. Consider how often you load in and out. A lighter kit reduces strain during transport. The PGA Drum Kit 7 weighs 6.42 pounds. Compare these weights against your carrying capacity. Choose a weight that balances durability with ease of movement for your needs.

5. Align with Your Recording Needs

   Determine if you need mics for live performance or studio recording. The DMK57-52 is best for acoustic drum recording and live performance. It provides essential mics for reliable hardware. The PGA ALTA 5-Piece Kit is ideal for musicians needing reliable dynamic mics. It focuses on kick, snare, and toms without overhead complexity. The PGA Drum Kit 7 suits complete drum recording setups. Match the kit's intended use to your primary activity. Ensure the specs support your specific recording environment or stage requirements.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best electronic drum sets under 200
• best electronic drum sets under 300