AKG D112 vs Shure Beta 52A - Best Bass Drum Mic
Finding the right bass drum mic is a crucial aspect of recording drums. There are many options on the market, but which one does it best? AKG D112 vs Shure Beta 52A are two of the most popular contenders in this category. Let’s take a look at what they offer and how they compare to each other.
The AKG D112 dynamic microphone can handle high SPLs and has an extended frequency response with increased gain before feedback. It also includes an integrated preamp that accommodates various sources without having to use external mixers or compressors. However, there have been reports that some people find its sound too bassy for their tastes, preferring something more mellow like the Shure Beta 52A instead. Let’s take a closer look at AKG D112 vs Shure Beta 52A.
Shure BETA 52A
The beefed-up Shure BETA 52A is capable of handling low-frequency sound and high SPL for pro drummers. Since its release, this wonder kid has found favor among touring pros who need hardware that can take a beating and keep delivering reliable sound every time.
It includes a stand adapter for easy set up, a steel grille to help it last against damage, a shock mount to keep noise from getting in, and a neodymium magnet to assure you the highest signal-to-noise ratio.
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 10 kHz
- XLR Connection
Most Durable
While this beast has the durability and conversion rate necessary for stage use, you should not let that stop you from using it at home or in the studio either. Shure Beta 52A is designed to deliver the kind of performance you want when your sound really needs to be alive and in-your-face, projecting through any mix. All your fresh kick sounds your fans crave, you’ll capture them live and in one take, with Shure’s Beta 52A.
AKG D112
Bring your bass drum sounds alive with the AKG D112 which delivers a robust, clear sound. Designed to withstand high SPL without loss of fidelity, this microphone is an industry-standard for more than 40 years running. It’s literally older than me.
What does it do? The D112 MkII is designed for recording use on bass drums and delivers crisp sounds that pop out in mixes like never before. Keep up the tradition of upholding excellence with this new release from AKG!
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 17 kHz
- XLR Connection
Best Sound
No need for additional EQing in order to sound good when you’re using the AKG D112, and the integrated hum-compensation coil keeps noise level at an absolute minimum while picking up sounds that are natural and full-bodied. For when you need clarity and punchy sound, the D112 is your best option.
AKG D112 vs Shure Beta 52A - Final Thoughts
To simplify it into a single line: The Shure Beta 52A is more durable, but the AKG D112 sounds better. But I’d like to stress that both of these mics will excel in both of those fields.
So to make AKG D112 vs Shure Beta 52A more actionable, use whichever one you have available to you. If you’re buying new, and you’re planning on taking it on tour with you, get the Shure Beta 52A. Otherwise, if you’ll be using it mainly in a recording studio then the AKG D112 offers an even better sound, built to capture every nuance of the bass drum sounds so that during playback you feel like you’re right there in front of them yourself.
Regardless of which way you choose to go, keep in mind how important mic placement can be. And in case you were wondering, I’ve also written an article about the best overhead drum mics!