Sontronics DM-1S – Condenser Microphone for Snare Drum

The Sontronics DM-1S is a professional small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed specifically for capturing the sound of the snare drum. Created by Trevor Coley, founder of Sontronics, it has been precisely tuned to reproduce the sharp attack, bright snap, and full resonance of the snare shell with maximum accuracy.

Part of the Sontronics DM series, the DM-1S sits alongside the DM-1B (kick drum) and DM-1T (toms). Unlike general-purpose drum microphones, each model in the DM series is tailored to its intended instrument, ensuring the most natural and faithful sound reproduction possible.

The DM-1S features a −10 dB pad, allowing it to handle extremely high sound pressure levels of up to 135 dB SPL. Its cardioid polar pattern helps to isolate the snare from the rest of the kit, minimizing bleed and background noise. With a wide frequency response of 30 Hz – 20 kHz and low self-noise of 14 dB(A), it delivers clean, detailed recordings that sit easily in any mix.

The microphone has been tested by world-renowned producers and session drummers including Flood (U2, The Killers, Arctic Monkeys) and Mark Rankin (Friendly Fires, Florence & The Machine), proving its durability and exceptional sound quality. The DM-1S was officially launched at the NAMM Show in January 2011.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Small-diaphragm condenser
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency response: 30 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 8 mV/Pa (−42 dB ±1 dB)
• Self-noise: 14 dB(A)
• Max SPL: 135 dB (0.5% THD / 1 kHz)
• Pad: −10 dB
• Impedance: <200 Ω
• Power: +48 V ±4 V phantom power
• Connector: 3-pin XLR

Construction and Design

The DM-1S is built from durable materials to withstand the demands of both studio and live performance. Its compact size and robust build allow it to be positioned close to the snare drum without obstructing the drummer’s playing.

Included in the Box

• Sontronics DM-1S microphone
• Microphone clip
• User manual

Summary

The Sontronics DM-1S is a professional condenser microphone designed to capture every nuance of the snare drum – from subtle ghost notes to hard rimshots. With its high SPL handling, low self-noise, and cardioid pickup pattern, it provides faithful, dynamic sound reproduction both live and in the studio. Registering the microphone within 30 days of purchase ensures Sontronics’ lifetime warranty.