“The minute you put a microphone right up against the skin of a drum you've got a problem because it doesn't sound like it's supposed to”: How the rules of drum recording were shaped over decades of trial and error

Drum Recording Techniques.

DRUMS WEEK 2025: Drum recording is one of the most discussed topics amongst engineers and producers, and for good reason. There are multiple ways to approach it and the correct option can be influenced by a whole host of factors including the type of sound you’re after, the complexity of the drum part, the playing of the drummer and the acoustics of the space you’re recording in.

Over time these factors have led to a number of innovative methods that are now established options for anyone recording drums. Here we’re going to take a look at some of the significant techniques and the key people involved.

Close Miking