How to Move the Mallets on a Double Bass Pedal

Many drummers can get insane speed off single pedals but sometimes one kick is not enough. Double bass pedals allow you to speed up your kick drum playing to dizzying speeds. If it is not set up correctly, however, your playing will suffer. Through using this guide, you will learn how to adjust the mallets on your double bass pedal for optimum performance.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Double Bass Pedal
• Drum Key
• Optional: Bass Drum Patch like Falam Slam from Remo

Setting Up the Mallets

1. Set up your pedal and hook it up to your bass drum. Ideally, you want your two mallets to be level and hit as near center of the drum head as possible.

2. Press down both pedals and observe if your pedals are level and how far off center they are. Find the small bolt that is holding in each mallet. This will be shaped like a normal drum lug is shaped.

3. Using your drum key, loosen the bolt and adjust the mallet up or down as needed. When it is in the right spot, screw it back in tightly. Repeat this for the second mallet ensuring that they are both level when pressed in.

4. 
   Remo's Double Falam Slam

   Consider using a bass drum head patch, like Remo's Falam Slam, to protect your bass head because double pass pedals can cause some abuse. Even if wear and tear is not a concern, it will give you a target so you can visibly see if your mallets have shifted.

Tips & Warnings

• The Falam Slam is made out of Kevlar. That's the same stuff bullet proof vests are made of. One will last you for the life of the head and is worth purchasing.
• Don't overtighten the bolts holding the mallets in place. If you strip this socket, it will be an expensive repair because they are in an integral part of the bass pedal.

Resources

• Musician's Friend sells new mallets and drum heads at discount prices.