SAMSON DK707 7-Piece Drum Microphone Kit with 7 vs Sennheiser Professional E 604 Compact Dynamic

Overview of Both Products

When it comes to drum microphones, the SAMSON DK707 7-Piece Drum Microphone Kit and the Sennheiser Professional E 604 Compact Dynamic Cardioid Instrument Microphone serve distinct purposes. The SAMSON kit is a comprehensive solution for drummers, while the Sennheiser microphone is a specialized, single unit that excels in various instrument miking scenarios. Priced at $369.99, the SAMSON kit is significantly more expensive than the Sennheiser microphone, which retails for $159.00, making it about 57% cheaper.

Target Audience

The SAMSON DK707 is designed for professional drummers who require a complete kit for recording and live performances. It includes multiple microphones and accessories, making it ideal for those looking to capture every aspect of their drum kit. Conversely, the Sennheiser E 604 caters to musicians who need a versatile microphone that can handle not just drum sets but also brass and woodwind instruments. The focus on compact design makes the E 604 particularly appealing for musicians who may need to mic multiple instruments in a limited space.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is paramount in any microphone, and both products deliver impressive performance. The SAMSON DK707 features high SPL handling, which captures the essence of a bass drum and the natural tone of snare drums and toms effectively. This makes it a great choice for those who want a full-range sound. In contrast, the Sennheiser E 604 is lauded for its balanced, clear output with low distortion, even at very high sound pressure levels exceeding 160 dB. This makes it suitable for capturing the nuances of various instruments, not just drums, providing versatility for different musical applications.

Features and Accessories

A major advantage of the SAMSON DK707 is its comprehensive package, which includes four Q72 instrument mics, a Q71 kick drum mic, two C02 pencil condenser mics, and necessary accessories like swivel-style mic adapters and tension-mounted rim clips. This kit is designed for ease of use and quick setup, which is ideal for touring musicians. On the other hand, the Sennheiser E 604 comes with a drum clip for easy attachment to drum rims. While it lacks the extensive accessory kit of the SAMSON, the compact design makes it easy to position, especially in tight setups.

Portability

Portability is a critical factor for touring musicians, and here, the SAMSON DK707 excels with its included hardshell carrying case. This makes transporting the entire kit straightforward and secure. The swivel-style adapters and tension-mounted clips add convenience in setup, allowing for a swift transition from storage to performance. The Sennheiser E 604, while not a complete kit, is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry. However, it lacks a dedicated carrying case, which may be a drawback for musicians who frequently travel.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor for many buyers. The SAMSON DK707 is priced at $369.99, whereas the Sennheiser E 604 is available for $159.00. This price difference of approximately $210 means that the E 604 is a more budget-friendly option, especially for those who may only need a single microphone for multiple applications. However, the investment in the SAMSON kit may be justified for professional drummers looking for a comprehensive solution that covers all their needs.

Sales Rankings

When evaluating popularity and market performance, the sales ranks of both products provide insight. The SAMSON DK707 has a sales rank of 18,603, while the Sennheiser E 604 boasts a slightly better rank at 14,945. This suggests that while both products are well-regarded, the Sennheiser microphone may have a slight edge in terms of consumer preference, possibly due to its versatility and lower price point.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the SAMSON DK707 and the Sennheiser E 604 largely depends on your specific needs as a musician. If you're a professional drummer looking for a complete microphone kit that covers all aspects of drum recording, the SAMSON DK707 is a worthy investment for $369.99. However, if you need a highly versatile microphone that excels in various applications and is more budget-friendly at $159.00, the Sennheiser E 604 is the clear winner. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your budget, the variety of instruments you'll be miking, and whether you value a complete kit over a specialized microphone.