Mic'ing drums?

[KingRazor]

I've had good success with just a kick and overhead mic, if you wanna keep it really simple.

I've never had trouble hearing the hi-hat without amplification, but maybe the drummers I work with hit it harder than others.

 

[Major Softie]

I've never had trouble hearing the hi-hat without amplification, but maybe the drummers I work with hit it harder than others.

This is a really good point. Some of the differences of opinion expressed here, especially about whether an overhead is effective or if it is overpowered by cymbals, can be influenced by both the drummer, and the response of the PA system.

So, mic the kick, and then add whatever it is that needs it, which will probably differ with drummer, PA, and the room your in.