Modern Drum Set Part 4: Drum Pedal

In the previous installments of the modern drum set construction series, we learned about bass and pedals. Now, let's take a look at the bass and hi-hat drum pedals, both of which are essential parts of any drum kit and are often the parts that are subjected to a lot of stress as we step on and pedal them. daily

The invention of the bass drum pedal in the early 1900s revolutionized the drums as it was the first time a drummer could play bass, snare drums and c ymbal. simultaneous.

Pedals that use a metal wire for this connection are called direct drive, while those that use a belt or strap are called belt drive. Chain drive systems were developed in the late 1970s, taking the design of gears and chains from bicycles.

A direct drive link like the one on the Yamaha FP-9500D ensures a strong, bend-free connection and is stable throughout the pedal movement. Seams are usually made of metal, although some manufacturers offer models that use plastic instead. Direct drive "pushs" the pedal back when it's turned on, giving the pedal a quick response with power and increased control. For this reason, direct-drive pedals are often preferred by heeled drummers who want speed and precision in their playing technique.

The first belt drive foot pedal used leather straps, but modern versions like the Yamaha FP-8500B use woven nylon belts for longevity. Belt drive reduces friction and provides a quick, light feel. With this design, the pedal requires no lubricant and, in some cases, can be quieter than direct or chain drive.

Adjustability is important when it comes to bass pedals, and when choosing a pedal, you'll want to make sure you can pedal it with comfort and maximum performance.

Every modern foot pedal has an adjustable spring tension, but not all of them are created equal. Look for the easy-to-adjust spring tension like on the Yamaha FP-8500B or the automatic spring-loaded adjustment (Patent Pending) used on the FP9 Series pedals.

The size and type of material used in the beater not only affects the sound of the bass drum, but also affects how the player feels. In general, the larger and harder the beater's surface, the greater the impact force. Felt is the most commonly used material, providing rich clarity and loud sound without "squeezing". Some other beaters, like the Yamaha BT950 and those on the company's 9500 Series, have reversible heads, with a felt side on one side and a hard plastic surface on the other. The Yamaha FP9 Series pedals, which come with the BT9 beaters, even offer adjustable weights that affect both action and responsiveness.

The closer the Beater is to the head of the bass drum, the faster it can reach the head, but the volume and power will be reduced. That's why many gentle drummers prefer to set the angle of play around 60 degrees from the head. Drummers who play harder may prefer a 45-degree angle to increase the volume. All Yamaha bass drum pedals offer an adjustable beat angle.

Many bass drum pedals such as the Yamaha FP9, 9500 and 8500 Series models - also allow individual adjustment for the footrest angle. Heel drummers may want a higher foot angle.

Hi-hat (a set of two cymbals played by stepping on the pedal so that the two cymbals collide, all mounted on a metal stand ), appeared in the late 1920s, evolving from called “snowshoe” and “sock cymbal”. Because it was too close to the floor, it was impossible to play the cymbal with a drumstick, but at some point in history it was raised to a height that could be played with a stick, hence the name “hi-hat”. It is generally agreed that jazz drummer Papa Jo Jones (a mainstay of the Count of Basie Orchestra for many years) pioneered the playing of time-lapse rhythms on the hi-hat. Hi-hat options include lightweight models like the Yamaha HHS3 to the heavyweight Yamaha HS-1200. The connection between the footboard and the towbar can be either "direct pull", as used on the Yamaha HS-850, or "chain pull", used by the Yamaha HS-740A. Direct pulling provides a strong, uniform feel throughout the ride, while chain pulling provides a softer action. The transmission linkage shift, featured on the Yamaha HS-1200T, is lighter at the top of the stroke and gradually becomes stronger as the pedal is lowered, creating a more pronounced feel.

Features to keep in mind when choosing a hi-hat include swivel feet for easy multiple pedal placement (available on the Yamaha HS-1200D), adjustable spring tension, variable pedal height, and locking clutch. Double bracing legs are good for heavy play, but single bracing legs are more space efficient than other types.