How to Buy a Bass Drum Pedal

By Henry

Rate: (1 Ratings)

The bass drum pedal is like the gas pedal of a drum set. If it takes a lot of abuse, it can break. If you want to do some fast double hits, ala John Bonham, a bad bass drum pedal is really going to slow you down.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Around $50-$100

Step1
Buy in-store. Sure, buy a pedal online, but only after you’ve tried out the pedal yourself. Even if a friend has a pedal you like, you should still try out other pedals.
Step2
Check the spring action of the pedal, the durability of the frame, even how tight the beater fit into the base. Check if the spring tension can be changed, as well as the beater angle.
Step3
Play with the pedal with a full drumset, not just by itself. See if your foot slips off or if the pedal shifts around. Some pedals are designed for fast action, so keep this in mind. The smoothness of the hit and return is also important. Some use a chain drive, some have a solid drive.
Step4
If you really want speed, go for a double pedal. Keep in mind though that there are more things to break on a double pedal, and they take more abuse, so durability is important. Check user ratings to see if anyone’s had problems with the pedal breaking down.

Tips & Warnings

  • A plastic head will give a louder, punchier sound, while a soft head will give a softer sound. Some beaters have both.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Buy a Bass Drum Pedal

eHow Member: Henry

Henry

Authority Authority | 19330 Points

Category: Arts & Entertainment

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads