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The hi-hat is an integral part of any drum set, providing a rhythmic backbone that can vary from subtle nuances to a driving force. Capturing it accurately is paramount for both live performances and studio recordings. This brings us to the quest for the perfect hi-hat mic. Read on to learn about our top 5 picks!
Included in this guide:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Neumann KM 184 Cardioid Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
| 4.7 | Check Price |
Runner-up  | Shure SM81 Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
| 4.8 | Check Price |
Top Pick  | Beyerdynamic M 201 Hypercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone
| 4.5 | Check Price |
Top Pick  | Audio-Technica AT4041 Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
| 5 | Check Price |
Lowest Price  | Sennheiser e 614 Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
| 4.5 | Check Price |
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The Neumann KM 184 cardioid small-diaphragm condenser microphone is our top recommendation for miking hi-hats. It’s a fantastic microphone that has gained popularity for its exceptional audio quality and versatility.
Despite being one of the smallest mics out there, the KM 184 provides outstanding sound clarity with the lowest self-noise. Moreover, it has quite the durable build that Neumann products are known for.
With a wide frequency response, the KM 184 mic is capable of capturing both high and low frequencies accurately. Plus, it can handle high sound pressures (up to 138 dB SPL). As such, the loudest hi-hats are a breeze for it.
The Shure SM81 small-diaphragm condenser is a versatile and reliable mic designed to capture the tiniest sound details. With its cardioid polar pattern, this mic is precise in isolating the source and minimizing unwanted background noise coming from the rest of your drum set.
Primarily, the mic’s frequency response spans from 20Hz to 20kHz. This guarantees accurate reproduction and stunning clarity when recording hi-hats. Moreover, its durability (despite being a condenser type) allows it to withstand use in both live performances and recording studios.
On top of that, the Shure SM81 mic has a switchable low-frequency response. Such a feature allows you to adjust the microphone settings according to different recording situations. Giving you a choice of flat, six, or 18 dB roll-off, this mic makes a perfect tool for working with hi-hats.
Designed with a hypercardioid polar pattern, the Beyerdynamic M 201 mic features precise sound capture. Using it, you can record your hi-hat with exceptional clarity while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and rear.
As such, it guarantees a crisp representation of every hi-hat hit without interference from surrounding instruments.
Furthermore, its compact design and durable construction allow for versatility in placements as well as use. This makes it a reliable choice for drummers who need a mic that can keep up with their beats.
For an outstanding dynamic range when recording hi-hats, the Audio-Technica AT4041 small-diaphragm condenser mic is the perfect choice. It captures the crispiest sounds while minimizing ambient noise thanks to its cardioid polar pattern.
The small diaphragm design is what makes this mic work excellently with hi-hats, offering an unmatched transient response. In addition, its wide frequency response ensures clear sound-capturing capabilities.
So, whether you’re a drummer or a recording engineer, the Audio-Technica AT4041 is what you need. Not only does it perform greatly inside the studio, but it also excels in other settings.
Sennheiser is a company famous for crafting quality products at affordable price points. As for the e 614 small-diaphragm condenser microphone, it’s no exception. For a cymbal mic on the lower end of the price range, this is the real deal.
Specifically built for overhead applications, its super cardioid pattern ensures precise sound capture from the hi-hats while eliminating ambient noise. Moreover, the small-diaphragm condenser allows for accurately reproducing transient details.
On top of that, the mic’s high SPL handling capabilities allow it to capture the dynamic range of hi-hats. From the subtle taps to the more dynamic crashes, it does this without introducing distortion. Overall, it’s a versatile mic, whether in a studio or on the stage.
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In most setups, one hi-hat mic works well. Yet, you can use two mics for more detailed emphasis on the sound of your hi-hats (preferably one above and one underneath).
A mic with a small diaphragm condenser is often a better choice. That’s due to its ability to capture transient details and provide clarity. That said, dynamic mics with a suitable frequency response also work well.
To capture the best balance of brightness and details, try to place your mic near the edge of your hi-hats (five to ten centimeters above the top cymbal). Additionally, ensure that the mic is facing away from the snare drum to avoid unwanted noises.
Look for mics with high SPL handling, fast transient response, and a decent frequency response. Furthermore, versatility, durability, and ease of positioning are also important.
A cardioid or supercardioid polar pattern mic allows for focused sound capture from the front. At the same time, it minimizes interference from sounds of other drum components coming from the sides or rear.
Concluding the best mics for hi-hats, the Neumann KM 184 delivers unmatched precision, making it our top choice. As a solid runner-up, the Shure SM81 combines durability with amazing sounds. That said, if you’re looking for value without compromise, the Sennheiser e 614 should be your go-to choice.
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