Shure PG ALTA 5-Piece Drum Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• Includes one PGA52 cardioid dynamic kick drum microphone
• Contains three PGA56 cardioid dynamic snare and tom microphones
• Features one PGA57 cardioid dynamic instrument microphone
• Comes with one A25D break-resistant microphone clip
• Includes three AP56DM break-resistant drum rim mounts

Who it fits

Key specs for drum mics

Size: 5-Piece

This count tells you how many microphones are in the box. You get one kick mic, three tom/snares mics, and one instrument mic. This setup covers a standard drum kit without needing extra purchases. When comparing electronic drum sets, check if your module includes built-in mics or if you must buy external ones. A five-piece kit is a complete starting point for most drummers.

Weight: 8 pounds

This is the total weight of the kit including hardware. It indicates how heavy the package is to carry to gigs or stores. For electronic drum users, this helps you gauge portability if you plan to use external microphones for hybrid setups. Heavier kits may require more robust transport cases. Compare this weight to other microphone bundles to see how much gear you are moving.

Color: Black

The microphones and hardware are finished in black. This is a standard color for stage equipment as it hides wear and matches most drum kits. For electronic drum players, this ensures the mics blend in visually with black drum pads or frames. It is a practical choice for aesthetics. You do not need to worry about color matching when adding these mics to your existing drum setup.

Model: PGADRUMKIT5

This is the specific product identifier from Shure. Use this code when searching for replacement parts, manuals, or similar kits online. It distinguishes this five-piece bundle from other Shure microphone sets. For electronic drum enthusiasts, this model number helps you verify compatibility with your recording interface or mixer. It ensures you are looking at the exact hardware configuration described in the listing.

Design and build specs

The listing states the kit is black. This color is standard for stage gear. It helps the microphones blend into dark drum kits and stands. You do not need to worry about the finish showing dust or wear during live shows. The hardware includes break-resistant clips and rim mounts. These parts are designed to hold the mics securely. They reduce the risk of damage if a stick hits the mount. This is practical for loud live environments.

According to the listing, the box measures 22.8 inches by 13 inches by 4.5 inches. The total weight is 8 pounds. These dimensions indicate a compact shipping package. You can fit the kit into a standard gig bag or car trunk. The weight is manageable for one person to carry. You do not need a second person to move the gear. This makes setup and teardown faster at venues.

The layout includes one kick drum mic, three snare and tom mics, and one instrument mic. You also get specific mounts for each type. This organized approach means you know exactly where each piece goes. You do not need to guess which mic fits which drum. The design supports quick deployment. You spend less time adjusting and more time playing.

Setup and Everyday Use

Setting up this kit involves mounting the microphones using the included hardware. You attach the A25D clip to your kick drum stand. The three AP56DM rim mounts secure the PGA56 mics to your snare and toms. These mounts are break-resistant, which suggests durability during transport and setup. The PGA57 instrument mic can be placed on overheads or auxiliary percussion using a standard stand. The cardioid polar pattern on all mics helps reject sound from the sides and rear. This means you can position them closer to the drums without picking up too much bleed from other instruments. This is useful for both live stages and recording studios where isolation matters. The dynamic design of the PGA52, PGA56, and PGA57 allows them to handle high sound pressure levels. You do not need phantom power for these mics. They work with any standard XLR input on your mixer, audio interface, or preamp. The black finish keeps the gear looking consistent on stage. The total weight of the kit is eight pounds. This is manageable for carrying to gigs. The dimensions indicate a compact box, making storage easier in a drum case or vehicle. You can swap the PGA57 for different instruments if needed. The setup is straightforward for drummers who already have stands. You simply clip and connect. The hardware is designed to hold the mics securely during play. This reduces the need for constant adjustment during a performance or recording session. The kit covers a standard drum setup, so you likely will not need additional mics for basic use.

Before You Buy This Kit

You need an audio interface or mixer to use these microphones. The PGA52, PGA56, and PGA57 are dynamic mics. They do not require phantom power. This makes them easy to connect to most standard preamps. Check your existing gear. Ensure your interface has enough XLR inputs for all five mics. You may need additional cables. The kit includes mounts, but verify your drum sizes. The AP56DM rim mounts fit standard snare and tom rims. The A25D clip fits standard kick drum stands. Keep the mics clean. Wipe them after use. Store them in the case when not playing. This kit is for acoustic drums. It does not replace electronic drum pads. If you want triggered sounds, you need different gear. This set is for capturing natural drum tones. It suits live performance and studio recording. It fits alongside electronic kits as a separate tool. You use it for traditional drumming. You do not use it for silent practice with headphones. Plan your setup carefully. Check your stage or studio space. Ensure you have enough mic stands if you add more mics later. The weight is eight pounds. This is manageable for transport. Keep the box for storage.

Check before you buy

• Verify your interface has five XLR inputs.
• Check rim mount compatibility with your snare and toms.
• Ensure your kick stand fits the A25D clip.
• Confirm you need dynamic mics for your setup.
• Plan for additional XLR cables if needed.

The product at a glance

1

Shure PGA ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit

Best for: basic drum recording and live performance

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 kit includes one PGA52 kick mic, three PGA56 snare and tom mics, and one PGA57 instrument mic. It comes with an A25D clip and three AP56DM rim mounts. The set weighs 8 pounds and measures 22.8 by 13 by 4.5 inches. You get cardioid dynamic microphones designed for drummers. This setup provides the essential hardware for recording or live performance.

Pros

• Includes dedicated PGA52 kick drum microphone
• Three PGA56 mics for snare and toms
• One PGA57 instrument microphone included
• Comes with A25D break-resistant clip
• Includes three AP56DM rim mounts

Cons

• Only a 5-piece configuration available
• No dedicated overhead microphones included
• Weighs 8 pounds for transport

Good fit if

• You need a complete basic drum mic set
• You play standard 5-piece drum kits
• You want cardioid dynamic microphones

Skip if

• You require overhead microphones
• You prefer a 7-piece configuration
• You need wireless microphone systems

Verdict: Shure PG ALTA 5-Piece Drum Mic Kit is a focused tool for drummers who need specific mics for kick, snare, toms, and one instrument. It fits players who want a dedicated, wired setup for their core drum sounds.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• shure pg alta 5 piece drum alternatives
• shure dmk57 52 drum microphone kit review
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