Shure PGA56-LC Cardioid Dynamic Snare/Tom Microphone

The Shure PGA56-LC is a cardioid dynamic microphone engineered specifically for close-miking snare drums, toms, and other percussion instruments. Its tailored cartridge is voiced to capture the sharp transient attack and tonal body of drum hits with clarity, while the cardioid polar pattern focuses pickup on the target drum and rejects bleed from neighboring kit pieces, cymbals, and stage noise. This combination makes it effective in both live performance and studio recording environments where isolation between drum channels matters.

A standout feature of the PGA56 is its included AP56DM drum mount, which clips directly to the drum rim and holds the microphone in position without a separate boom stand. The swivel joint uses a quick-release latch — inspired by bicycle component-locking mechanisms — that allows sound engineers to adjust the mic angle quickly and lock it securely in place. This design is especially valuable during fast stage changeovers or when mic'ing a full drum kit where stand clutter becomes a practical concern. The microphone's black metallic finish and compact grille keep it visually unobtrusive on stage. Note that this is the LC (less cable) model, so an XLR cable must be purchased separately.