Trim setting for drum overheads.

I record drums with three mic set up, kick drum, 2 overhead. My question is how to set trim peak level on the overheads in regards to the snare. If there is no snare the trim can be turned up. With the trim up and playing the snare the peak is flashing with each snare hit.

What are some suggestions for finding the optimum setting?

I record drums with three mic set up, kick drum, 2 overhead. My question is how to set trim peak level on the overheads in regards to the snare. If there is no snare the trim can be turned up. With the trim up and playing the snare the peak is flashing with each snare hit.

What are some suggestions for finding the optimum setting?

There is no optimum setting aside from not redlining if you are recording digitally.

If tracking to analog then there are a different set of rules, but I won't go into them unless someone specifically asks.

Yeah, peak trim level is whatever doesn't clip!

Cheers, Tim

you might try using EQ on your overheads ... a cut at 1K will back the snare off, and a boost at about 6K will bring out the cymbals.

you might try using EQ on your overheads ... a cut at 1K will back the snare off, and a boost at about 6K will bring out the cymbals.

Depends on the room but I tend to boost around + 4.5 dB @ 10k for this.
Also, -6.0 dB @ 200 Hz will reduce tom and kick pickup in the OH's.
Both using a shelf.

Depends on the room but I tend to boost around + 4.5 dB @ 10k for this.
Also, -6.0 dB @ 200 Hz will reduce tom and kick pickup in the OH's.
Both using a shelf.

excellent point on the 200 Hz!