Earthworks DM6 Seismic Kick Drum Microphone vs Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit

Overview of the Products

The Earthworks DM6 Seismic Kick Drum Microphone is a premium option priced at $399.00, while the Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit offers a more budget-friendly choice at $219.99. With a significant price difference of about 45%, each microphone serves distinct needs for drummers and sound engineers. The Earthworks DM6 focuses specifically on kick drum performance, whereas the Samson DK705 provides a complete solution for miking an entire drum kit.

Build Quality and Design

The Earthworks DM6 is designed exclusively as a condenser kick drum microphone, emphasizing high performance with a supercardioid polar pattern, which effectively isolates the kick sound. In contrast, the Samson DK705 is a versatile kit that includes multiple dynamic microphones tailored for different drums, such as the Q71 for the kick and Q72s for the snare and toms. This diversity in design makes the Samson kit suitable for various setups, while the Earthworks mic stands out for its specialized function.

Frequency Response

The Earthworks DM6 offers a broad frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, capturing the full spectrum of a kick drum's sound. This wide range allows for detailed reproduction of both the low-end thump and the high-end clarity. On the other hand, the Samson DK705 focuses on tailored responses, with the Q71 designed specifically for low-end capture, while the Q72s cover frequencies from 50 Hz to 16 kHz. This means the Earthworks DM6 may excel in studio settings needing precise kick drum recordings, while the Samson kit is more versatile for live performances and general recording.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL)

The Earthworks DM6 boasts a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 150dB, making it a robust choice for high-volume scenarios without distortion. This feature is particularly valuable for drummers who play in louder environments or genres. Conversely, the Samson DK705 microphones are designed to handle high SPLs as well, ensuring that even the hardest hits are captured cleanly. However, specific SPL ratings for the Samson models are not provided, which may leave some uncertainty regarding their limits compared to the Earthworks mic.

Versatility and Use Cases

The Earthworks DM6 is primarily suited for kick drums, making it a focused choice for drummers who prioritize kick sound quality. In contrast, the Samson DK705 is a comprehensive kit that includes multiple mics for the entire drum set, making it ideal for those who require flexibility. This versatility is enhanced by the included mounting hardware and carry case, which make setup and transportation easier. For users looking to mic an entire kit, the Samson DK705 is likely the more practical option due to its all-in-one nature.

Price Comparison

The Earthworks DM6 is priced at $399.00, while the Samson DK705 comes in at $219.99, making the Samson kit about 45% cheaper. This significant price difference may influence buyers, especially those on a budget or those who require a complete set rather than a single specialized microphone. The investment in the Earthworks DM6 can be justified for its superior quality and specialization, but for those needing a broader range of microphones, the Samson DK705 represents excellent value.

Sales Rank and Popularity

The Earthworks DM6 has a sales rank of 50260, indicating a solid presence in the market, while the Samson DK705 has a slightly lower rank of 64072. This suggests that while both products are recognized, the Earthworks microphone may appeal more to a niche audience focused on high-quality kick drum recording. The sales rank could also reflect differences in marketing strategies and target demographics between the two brands.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Earthworks DM6 Seismic Kick Drum Microphone and the Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you are a drummer focused on achieving the best kick drum sound possible in a studio setting, the Earthworks DM6 is worth the investment for its superior frequency response and high SPL capability. However, if you need a versatile, budget-friendly solution that covers an entire drum kit, the Samson DK705 is an excellent choice, providing essential microphones for all components of the kit at a significantly lower price.