Audiosavings Bundle: AKG D112 MKII Professional vs Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 Drum Microphone Package

Overview

The Audiosavings Bundle and the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 both cater to musicians and audio engineers, but they serve different needs within the world of drum and bass recording. The Audiosavings Bundle is priced at $264.18, making it about 76% cheaper than the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600, which retails for $1,099.00. This price difference marks a significant point of consideration when evaluating the functionality and features of each product.

Product Composition

The Audiosavings Bundle includes a single AKG D112 MKII microphone along with a Rockville RockMix 4 Channel Mixer, providing a comprehensive setup for recording bass drums and instruments. In contrast, the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 features a more extensive microphone package with a total of seven microphones, including an e 602-II for kick drums and four e 604s for toms and snare. This substantial difference in microphone count positions the Sennheiser as a more versatile option for complete drum kit setups.

Microphone Quality

When it comes to microphone quality, the Audiosavings Bundle's AKG D112 MKII is a well-established industry standard for bass drum recording, known for its punchy sound and high SPL capabilities. It has been utilized on stages worldwide for over 30 years, emphasizing its reliability. The Sennheiser DRUMKIT600, on the other hand, offers a range of specialized microphones, each designed for specific drum applications, which may provide superior sound capture for various instruments. The e 602-II, for instance, has a frequency response of 20Hz-16kHz, making it adept at capturing low-end frequencies.

Versatility

In terms of versatility, the Audiosavings Bundle includes a Rockville mixer, which allows for recording and mixing multiple audio sources. This feature is particularly beneficial for home studio setups or live broadcasts. The mixer offers phantom power for condenser microphones and various input options. While the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 is limited to its microphones, the inclusion of different types (dynamic for kick and toms, condenser for overheads) provides a level of versatility in capturing different sound sources. However, it lacks the integrated mixing capabilities of the Audiosavings Bundle.

Usability

The Audiosavings Bundle is designed for ease of use, especially for those who may not have extensive audio engineering experience. The Rockville mixer’s plug-and-play USB interface facilitates straightforward connection to computers, making it accessible for novice users. Conversely, the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600, while high quality, requires more knowledge and setup time to optimally position and connect multiple microphones. This difference may influence decisions for users based on their skill level and familiarity with audio equipment.

Price Comparison

The price disparity is significant, with the Audiosavings Bundle costing $264.18 compared to the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600's $1,099.00. This means the Sennheiser package is approximately 316% more expensive than the Audiosavings option. While the higher price of the Sennheiser may reflect its more comprehensive microphone package and specialized equipment, many users may find the value offered by the Audiosavings Bundle to be more aligned with their needs, especially for smaller projects or home studios.

Brand Reputation

Both brands, Audiosavings and Sennheiser, carry a strong reputation within the audio equipment industry. Sennheiser is known globally for its high-quality microphones and audio solutions, backed by a two-year limited warranty on the DRUMKIT600. Audiosavings, while perhaps less renowned, provides a solid offering with a reliable microphone and mixer combination that has been well-received in the market. The brand's experience with the AKG D112 MKII also lends credibility to their product offering.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Audiosavings Bundle and the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 depends on your specific needs as a musician or audio engineer. If you are looking for a budget-friendly solution that includes a versatile mixer and a reliable kick drum microphone, the Audiosavings Bundle is a strong contender at $264.18. However, if your focus is on capturing a full drum kit with specialized microphones and you have the budget for it, the Sennheiser DRUMKIT600 is worth the investment at $1,099.00. Consider your recording needs, budget, and level of expertise when making your decision.