How to Use a Hi-Hat Clutch

Hi-hats are essential to all drum kits.

A hi-hat clutch is the part of a hi-hat that connects the rod of the stand to the top cymbal of the hi-hat. The clutch is essentially the backbone of the hi-hat because depending on where you tighten the T-screw on the rod, the sound of the tight, the closed, the opening and the fully open hi-hat can sound drastically different. It is an extremely simple tool to use; however, the assembly of the clutch can confuse people, especially if they are new to drumming.

Things You'll Need

• Hi-hat stand
• Clutch and T-screw
• 2 felt clutch pieces
• 1 threaded clutch nut

Instructions

1. Assemble the clutch. This should happen after your bottom cymbal is already placed on the hi-hat stand.

2. Place the first piece of felt on the clutch itself and slide the clutch through the hole on top of the top cymbal.

3. Flip the cymbal upside-down while holding onto the clutch so that it does not fall out. Place the second felt piece on the clutch, so that the cymbal is protected between the two clutch pieces.

4. Twist on the threaded nut to the remaining space of the clutch. Flip the now-secure cymbal back over and slide it over the rod of the hi-hat stand.

5. Use your foot to press the foot pedal of the stand to lower the rod or raise the hi-hat with your hands to the desired height.

6. Tighten your T-screw by twisting it to the right until the hi-hat moves along with the rod any time the foot pedal is pressed.

7. Loosen the T-screw and retighten if your top cymbal is not the appropriate height to suit your preferences. Many people prefer their cymbals to be nearly an inch apart, while others keep them extremely close to each other.

References

• Elevation Music: Drum Set Assembly
• Musicians Workshop: Assembling the Hi-Hat Stand