Members Q&A
Hi Everyone!
I thought it would be a great idea to do a members only Q&A! I’ll film a video and answer as many as I can.
Please comment underneath this post with your full name and your question!
Thanks!
Louie
Hi Everyone!
I thought it would be a great idea to do a members only Q&A! I’ll film a video and answer as many as I can.
Please comment underneath this post with your full name and your question!
Thanks!
Louie
5 Comments. Leave new
Hi Louie!
I’m about to get a new acoustic drum set and I’ve narrowed the choice down to Pearl Masters maple complete or Gretsch Renown maple. Both sets comes with a studio version where the only difference is the smaller sized bass drum, 20 by 16 and 20 by 14.
I’m not a heavy hitter and don’t have a “heavy” bass drum foot.
In one of gear the videos, you talked about 22 (or 20) by 15 would probably be the ideal size for you.
Just wondering if you could describe the difference in sound and playing style when playing a shallower bass drum as opposed to one with more depth, like 22 by 18. I haven’t been able to try them myself yet.
Thanks
Claes
Hi Claes,
Well, I feel it makes slightly less difference with a 20″ or 18″ bass drum compared to a 22″ or 24″. It depends what you want to use it for. I think a 20×14, if it was my only bass drum, would be too small, so in the past I have gone with 20×16’s. That’s why 15″ would be perfect. I definitely wouldn’t go over 16″ in depth, regardless of the diameter. 22×18 is just way too big; the heads are too far apart and unless you hit it really hard, nothing happens…you just get the sound of the head you’re hitting more than the tone of both heads interacting. It also depends if you’re cutting a hole in the front head – a 20×14 with a hole cut for a deader sound isn’t going to be as good as a 20×16 with a hole – I wouldn’t cut a hole in any 20″ drum but lots of people do, especially if it’s their only bass drum and used for louder music.
What will you be using it for? Both will sound good. Best thing to do is to try some bass drums that are different depths so you can hear for yourself.
Hope that helps!
Louie
Hi Louie and thanks for the info.
First of I want a bass drum I can get the best sound out of without using too much force and that will blend in well with the music I mostly play, like fusion, funk and jazz. Also important to be able to tune the drum to fit within different musical situations.
As soon as I can get hold of a descent audio interface and some microphones, I’m going to record myself and listen back. After watching the video where you talk about listening to your own playing, I’m convinced that it must be useful for one’s development.
After much consideration I’m leaning towards the Gretsch set which has the 20*16 bass drum.
Thanks again
I’m sure that will sound great! Post some pics when you get it!
I sure will. Thanks