The Earthworks Audio DM17 is a compact condenser microphone engineered specifically for tom and snare drums. Built on Earthworks' reputation for precision instrument mics, the DM17 combines a small-diaphragm design with a presence peak in the 4–5 kHz region, delivering articulate attack and clarity that cuts through a full kit mix without requiring heavy EQ. The included rim mount and padded mic bag make it immediately road–ready.
Frequency response spans 50 Hz to 20 kHz with a cardioid pickup pattern that rejects wash from neighbouring drums. The 1/2–inch diaphragm operates at 48V phantom power, consuming just 2 mA of current. Output impedance is 40 ohms. The capsule's compact form factor allows placement close to drum heads, and the spring–loaded rim clamp accommodates standard lugs without additional hardware. Sensitivity and noise floor specifications favour studio and live tracking in both loud and controlled environments.
Session engineers favour the DM17 for its ability to isolate tom attack while maintaining tone—particularly useful when recording multitrack drums or running separate gates on percussion channels. The presence peak aids definition on fast hand techniques, whilst the cardioid pattern minimises cymbal bleed. Whether tracking bedroom demos or mixing in a commercial studio, the DM17's consistent character across the drum kit simplifies mic placement and reduces post–processing demands.
Features
- Small–diaphragm condenser designed for tom and snare drums
- Cardioid pattern isolates target drums, rejects ambient wash
- Presence peak at 4–5 kHz delivers articulate attack and clarity
- Frequency response 50 Hz to 20 kHz, 1/2–inch diaphragm
- 48V phantom power operation, 2 mA current draw
- 40 ohm output impedance, low electrical noise floor
- Spring–loaded rim mount fits standard drum lugs
- Includes protective mic bag for transport and storage



