Before you buy, it’s wise to do a little research. That way, you can make an informed decision. Below are the necessary parts of the single bass drum pedal.
The base of the pedal needs to be put on a drum rug to keep it from slipping. Often this base is made of rubber or Velcro for a better grip. Some plates have a pedal spur at the back to further keep them from moving.
Hoop Clamp
This piece is where the pedal attaches to the hoop of the bass drum. The bass drum has to be lifted so the clamp will stay connected. Be sure the pedal isn’t digging into the drum hoop.
The part where you place your foot can either be long or short, depending on the size you require and the style of music you wish to play. It is a matter of personal preference.
Drive
The drive attaches the footboard and the cam in a couple of different ways. We can have a chain or nylon strap drive, the strap providing a smoother feel than a chain. Often there are double chain drives that are more durable. In some cases, there is a direct-drive where the footboard and beater are attached without a cam.
Cam
The chain and strap drives are then connected to a cam. The cam is the part that allows the beater to move forward as you step on the pedal. Direct-drive pedals cut the cam out in some cases for increased speed.
Beater
The bass drum beater has the most effect on the tone. The other parts are about speed, feel, and durability. Plastic and felt are the most common materials that beaters are made with, though you can find wood and metal.
Plastic has a harder attack and is commonly used with metal and rock. In contrast, the softer felt is suited for jazz. (Of course, your ears may feel differently!)
There are two beaters side-by-side on the double bass drum pedal, where another pedal controls the second. This second pedal is attached with a driveshaft, allowing you to play incredible fast runs on the bass drum.
Dialing in Your Bass Pedal
Like all instruments and equipment, your pedal needs specific adjustments to make sure it plays its best. Like drum tuning, you need to learn the basic process of dialing in your pedal. The height, tension, and angle will need to be customized. Of course, with a double bass pedal, there will be more adjustments necessary.
6 comments
Frits
I miss the tama iron Cobra pedals in this overview. Why? I think the Iron Cobra pedals belong in this overview.
BoomBoom
Dude you totally left out Tama Iron Cobra pedals? They are one of the strongest pedals out there!
Seven Watson
I agree that the best bass drum, pedal that I have ever had the opportunity to play are without a doubt, hands down DW 9000. The worse bass drum pedal I have ever spent money on in my life are the p360 made by pearl they are by far the worse bass pedal in the world. They have no punch and I wouldn’t give a flying fuck if you were Neal Pert, may he rest in peace…there is no way to really dial those pedals in. I hate these pedals with a passion and I wish that I could get my money back. I am so mad at myself for being taking in by there look. They suck dick. Don’t spend your money on these pedals I have aforementioned.
Ed Z
I agree with previous posts. What about the Ludwig Speed King? I figured that I HAD to try other other pedals because…well, I have playing for 40 years and was lead to believe somebody made a new pedal better, faster, stronger. Guess what happened? I find myself always coming back to the Speed King! Maybe because it is what I know. But what you have that, “…this doesn’t feel right” thought process going on in your head as you play, the Speed King has NEVER let me down.
Keith Meyer
Although there are a lot of pedals out there to suit all tastes and stiles, personally I think there’s nothing to beat the Ludwig Speed King. I have used it all my career and still do, it is uncomplicated & well made with a very good response for all types of playing. Springs that compress on both sides I feel is much smoother, also the price is more than reasonable for most people.
Bill Matthews
Liked your review. I have a DW 2000 double pedal that came with my set (though I only use it as a single), and it seems like a reliable pedal. I’m looking at replacing it with a better pedal. I was wondering what your take is on the Ludwig Speed King? I’m just getting back into drumming after a 35+ year absence. When I played and taught before, I always used the Speed King. It was the only pedal that allowed me to do continuous sixteenths (I used to do “Wipeout” with my foot). Of course, being in my 60’s and not playing for 35+ years, I’m nowhere near as “fleet of foot.”
Thank you so much in advance for your response.
Bill Matthews