Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit vs Superlux PRA628MKII Professional Dynamic

Overview of the Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit

The Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit offers a comprehensive solution for drummers looking to mic their entire kit effectively. Priced at $219.99, it includes a kick drum mic and four dynamic microphones tailored for toms and snares, making it a complete package for both live and studio settings. This kit's capability to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) ensures clarity even at loud volumes, providing a significant advantage for drummers who play aggressively.

Samson's DK705 is designed specifically for drumming applications, with features that cater to the unique sound characteristics of drums. The kit's microphones are built to reject off-axis noise, which minimizes feedback and audio bleed. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing the full dynamic range of a drum kit, whether in a studio or a concert venue. With its hardshell carry case, the DK705 is portable and easy to set up, highlighting its practicality for traveling musicians.

Overview of the Superlux PRA628MKII Professional Dynamic Instrument Microphone

The Superlux PRA628MKII is a professional dynamic microphone priced at $49.95, making it significantly more affordable—about 77% cheaper than the Samson DK705. This microphone is optimized for guitar amplifiers and other high-volume sound sources, such as drums, which makes it a versatile option for musicians and sound engineers alike. The super-cardioid polar pattern helps isolate sound sources while rejecting background noise, which is ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

With a frequency response range of 80Hz to 18kHz, the Superlux PRA628MKII captures rich midrange tones and crisp highs, making it exceptional for electric guitar tones. Additionally, it can handle sound pressure levels (SPL) up to 150 dB, ensuring that it won’t distort even in the loudest of settings. Its compact design and rugged construction further enhance its usability, allowing for close mic placements without compromising durability.

Sound Quality Comparison

When it comes to sound quality, the Samson DK705 Drum Mic Kit excels in capturing the dynamic range of a full drum set, specifically designed to handle high SPLs. The Q71 kick drum mic effectively reproduces low-end frequencies, while the Q72 mics are tailored for snare and toms, providing a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 16 kHz. This attention to detail allows drummers to achieve a polished sound in both live and studio environments.

In contrast, the Superlux PRA628MKII offers a different sound quality tailored primarily for guitar amplifiers but is also effective for drums and other instruments. Its frequency response captures the essence of electric guitar tones, providing clarity and richness, but may not deliver the same level of drum-specific low-end response as the Samson kit. While the Superlux can handle high SPLs, its design is more suited for focused instrument applications rather than a full kit setup.

Versatility of Use

The Samson DK705 is a complete drum mic kit, making it exceptionally versatile for drummers who require a full setup to mic their entire kit. The inclusion of multiple microphones allows for optimal placement around the drums, ensuring that each element of the kit can be captured effectively. This versatility makes the DK705 suitable for various settings, from studio recordings to live performances.

On the other hand, the Superlux PRA628MKII is versatile in its own right, with the ability to capture not just guitar amps but also bass cabs, toms, and other high-volume sound sources. Its super-cardioid pattern allows for focused sound pickup, which is beneficial in noisy environments. However, its singular design means it lacks the comprehensive coverage of the Samson DK705, making it better suited for specific applications rather than an all-in-one solution.

Portability and Setup

Portability is a key feature of the Samson DK705, as it comes with a hardshell carry case that allows musicians to transport their kit easily. The included mounting hardware simplifies setup, enabling quick and efficient miking of a drum kit, which is invaluable for drummers on the go. This thoughtful design caters to the needs of mobile musicians, ensuring they can set up and break down their equipment with ease.

Conversely, the Superlux PRA628MKII is also designed for ease of use, featuring a compact and durable construction with an included clamp for secure mounting. While it is easy to handle, it does not come with a complete mic kit or carry case, which may be a drawback for those looking for a portable solution for a full drum setup. Its compact design does allow for close mic placements, but the lack of a case may necessitate additional accessories for safe transport.

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the Samson DK705 Drum Mic Kit is available for $219.99, making it a more substantial investment aimed at drummers looking for a complete solution. The kit includes five microphones, each designed for specific drum applications, justifying its higher price point. The investment pays off for serious drummers who require quality and versatility.

The Superlux PRA628MKII, priced at $49.95, is a budget-friendly option that still offers professional quality. However, it is important to note that this microphone is intended for more specialized use rather than a complete kit solution. The significant price difference—about $170—reflects the DK705's extensive features and capabilities compared to the more singular focus of the Superlux mic.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Samson DK705 Drum Mic 5-piece Kit and the Superlux PRA628MKII comes down to your specific needs as a musician. If you're a drummer seeking a comprehensive solution to mic your entire kit effectively, the Samson DK705 is the clear choice. Its design, sound quality, and included accessories cater specifically to drummers, making it worth the investment.

However, if you're looking for a versatile microphone that is budget-friendly and can handle various instruments, including guitar amps and drums, the Superlux PRA628MKII is an excellent option. Its affordability and focused sound pickup make it suitable for musicians working within tight budgets or those who need a reliable mic for specific applications. Each product has its strengths, so consider your priorities and choose accordingly.