Information on Drum Triggers
A drum trigger is an electronic device that takes the vibrational energy from a drum stick hit and converts it into an electronic signal to produce a specific programmed sound. They can range from the rubber and mesh heads of electronic drum kits to small attachment "piezos," which attach to an acoustic drum set, transforming its sound. These triggers can be used in many different types of music, especially progressive rock and rap, which rely heavily on diverse experimental sounds.
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Electronic Drum Trigger Appearance
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Electronic drum triggers are the pads themselves. The drum heads can range from the Roland patented mesh heads to the more common rubber pads. Cymbal pads are almost always rubber and plastic. Each of these pads, depending on price and quality, will have two to three triggers on the head, which can create multiple sounds, ranging from the contrast of a rim shot on a snare drum to three different electronic sounds.
Electronic Drum Trigger Quality
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Electronic drums rely on their triggers to work correctly, and the quality of a set is often judged foremost by the integrity of its triggers. Less expensive sets have cheaper triggers that easily pick up the vibrations from nearby drum stick hits and register double or ghost hits. With cheap triggers, it's not uncommon to hit your snare drum and register a hit not only on the snare, but on the crash cymbal or the floor tom as well. This can become annoying when practicing and absolutely kill your performance if you are gigging. Do not skimp to fit a budget when buying electronic drums.
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Acoustic Drum Set Trigger Function
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Triggers that attach to acoustic drum sets are much different from electronic triggers but provide much of the same function. They transform your acoustic set into a customizable electronic set with the potential for a wider range of sounds.
Internal Acoustic Triggers
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Internal triggers go inside the drum head. They should be attached to a larger object, such as a coffee can lid, to increase surface area and sensitivity to vibrations. To install the trigger, stuff your drum with padding or other material. Remove the head and hoop from the drum and set the trigger inside.
Mesh Head Acoustic Triggers
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Acoustic set heads can also be replaced with electronic trigger mesh heads. These will reduce the amount of sound created by the drum while also allowing electronic customization. Companies such as Hart Dynamics and Pintech make these heads.
External Acoustic Triggering
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External triggers are the most common type used on acoustic sets and easiest to attach but also can be the most prone to double triggering and crosstalk. Just attach them to the rim of the drum you wish to trigger. This non-invasive installation method makes them popular with many aspiring electronic/acoustic drummers.
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