AKG Perception Live P4

Pros:
- punchy tone for toms and snare
- decent size
- price

Cons:
- fixed mount
- the clip isn't the best

This is a fantastic choice for a first mic set and for beginners, as the sound is pretty dang good with toms and snare without any mixing. No need for massive EQ adjustments or other mixing trickery to have your drums sound good, provided you've tuned your drums well enough and paid a bit of attention to where you place the microphone.

I actually bought the full AKG Session Set, but since it was B-stock, I cannot review it separately. I also bought an extra one of these, so I now have P4s for snare top and all my toms.

Only drawback is the fixed mount, which limits the options for positioning the mic, especially with the clip that is included with these mics. I suggest buying the t.bone clips that have a bit of adjustability and cost just a couple of euros. I've seen some reviews complaining about the clips being loose, but I'd guess they aren't actually stretching the clip all the way, you have to use force to get them on them rim.

I bought these mics for use on toms for two of our in-house church kits.

I had my doubts due to the low price tag and a few minor disappointments with AKG in recent history. The clip is durable, 6 months of constant use. The mics are well built and represent the sound of the toms well. (Used on an 18', 16' 14' 12'). There is some slight colouration in the low end, for my application that's not unwelcome.

I am yet to try them in any other scenario than live and on kits, I am hoping to get the opportunity to mic a horns section with them and will update.

Would recommend.