Things You'll Need:
- Drum key
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Step 1
Place the assembled pedal on the floor in front of you and check to see if the angle of both beaters is the same. Each beater should come to rest in the same position and if one is slightly offset (probably the left beater), some easy adjustment is necessary. The central connecting bar that joins both pedals can be temporarily removed, and doing so allows you align the beaters before replacing the connecting rod. This adjustment will also usually resolve uneven pedal boards and will make your feet fit symmetrically on the pedals.
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Step 2
Install the double pedal assembly on a bass drum and play each pedal with alternating strokes. If the tension and rebound of the pedals does not feel even, each of the pedal springs needs to be adjusted to come into alignment. At the side of pedal are the springs that provide the tension and allow the pedals to return to their original positions after each stroke. Simply tighten or loosen the screws that hold the springs in place to adjust the tension. Continue to check the balance by playing alternating strokes on the pedals.
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Step 3
Adjust the beater length (usually with a drum key) to make the final adjustment in your double bass pedal. The length of the arm that holds the beater has a large effect on the ultimate feel of the pedal. A longer arm will be a little slower but will probably be a little louder, while a shorter arm length will be quicker but quieter. There is no correct length, but most drummers choose a length somewhere in the middle range. Experimentation with different arm lengths will give you an idea of what works best for the pedal. If the beater angle, pedal board position, spring tension and beater arm length are all properly balanced, a consistent stroke between the double bass pedals should be easier.
