Omnis vs Cardioid for Drum Overhead?

TelePaul

Just read Trackmix's post re: Overhead technique. Hadn't really thought about the difference between omnis and cardioids in the case of drum overheads (which is crazy, I know!). I'm assuming the omnis will pick up more of the room while the cardioids will give a somewhat more focused sound? Incidentally, could anyone recommend a matched pair of cardioids on the cheap? i.e, sub 500 sheets?

ogy

proper ORTF is cardioid pattern

heres a nice summary of the standard stereo mic techniques

if your not using a traditional technique and just experimenting with what sounds best, omni would only be good for a big room sound in a very nice sounding space i would say

madtheory

DPA have a Microphone University. It's cool.

Aridstarling

could anyone recommend a matched pair of cardioids on the cheap? i.e, sub 500 sheets?

These or these should do the trick. Have the Rodes myself and they're great. Friend has the Octavas and he says the same. Haven't had an opportunity to do a direct comparison yet, though hopefully I will soon. You have the option of buying Omni caps later on too, which is handy. If you can go a little further on the budget then go for the NT-55s, much more versatile as it comes with the different caps and has a low-cut and pad.

trackmixstudio

You really need cardioid mics for overheads in xy or ortf because the idea is that the mics reject off axis signals and hence don't phase.
I have tried many different small diaphragm condensers and the Audio Technica ATM450s are superb.
http://eu.audio-technica.com/en/resources/999feda9608938b7_atm450_ss_e.pdf
Darren in studio solutions did me a good deal on a pair.
They are side address too which is great. Makes them easier to position.

TelePaul

Great stuff guys, thanks for all the info. Some good options there, and I'm very keen to dry up my sound somewhat with Cardioids.

i57dwun4yb1pt8

when I grow up im going to Microphone University

:pac::pac::pac::pac::pac::pac: