Sontronics DM-1B Kick Drum Condenser Microphone

The DM-1B is an end-fire large-diaphragm condenser built for the inside of a kick drum, where the pressure is high enough to embarrass most studio mics. With the -15 dB pad engaged it takes 155 dB, and the end-fire body lets it sit through a port hole pointing at the beater without a long stand arm in the way.

Response starts at 20 Hz, which is the reason to use a condenser here rather than a dynamic: the low fundamental of a 22-inch kick arrives whole instead of rolled off. Sensitivity is 10 mV/Pa with 14 dBA self-noise, impedance under 200 Ohms, output 3-pin XLR on 48 V phantom. It also works on bass cabinets and low percussion. The mic measures 144 x 72 x 72 mm and ships in an aluminium flight case.