It's A Matter Of Style And Budget

This is the 100th anniversary of the bass drum pedal. In 1909 a cool old dude named William Ludwig (yes, that Ludwig) designed the first bass drum foot pedal, and the modern drum kit was born. A couple of decades later, as Big Band and other forms of music evolved, some drummers started playing two bass drums – two pedals and two drums. Legendary jazz drummer Louie Bellson who played with all the greats in the 40’s and 50’s, popularized the double bass. The double’s influence grew through names like Ginger Baker (Cream), Keith Moon, and Dave Lombardo (Slayer). Today, most of the best drummers in every genre play double bass pedals, and some go triple. Innovation led to the one drum, two pedals approach, which is the norm today. But the debate still continues. Single, double or triple? Strap, chain or direct drive? Let’s take a few moments and do the old compare and contrast, to give you some direction for your own purchasing and playing.

If you are new to drumming, most experienced players recommend starting with a double bass pedal. They believe you are going to go double eventually anyway, so it’s best to integrate a second pedal right from the start. Range, speed, and creativity are all enhanced, and the ability to put your mark on any tune or set is maximized. Play single first, and slowly work in the double groove as you get comfortable. The triple bass drum pedal should not even be considered until you master the double, and is useful primarily in ultra-speed situations. Single bass drum pedals are adequate for basic Jazz and pop, or classic rock. Double bass pedals give drummers more options in all the genres. Funkier jazz, more interesting rock beats, and faster styles like Metal all require a double bass pedal.

How the energy is transferred from the foot board to the beater is a vital part of the style and playability of the pedal. Traditional strap drives are typically found on entry level or mid-range pedals. They are made of nylon, and offer adequate speed, responsiveness and durability. Excellent feel can be obtained with a strap drive. Chain drives are the most durable option. And the power these drives can deliver is superior. Heavier players who give their pedals a pounding will appreciate the longevity they get from a chain, without significant loss of control or touch. Adjusted correctly, chain drives offer the best speed of any type. Direct drive pedals are old-school, but are making a comeback. There is no transfer mechanism like a chain or strap. You kick the pedal and a simple and sturdy linkage delivers the motion to the beater, giving optimum control, good speed, and very good durability since there are fewer moving parts.

In today’s music world, in every type, the sound is more nuanced, more intricate, and often faster. More creative, full-orbed, performance is expected in all genres, and a double bass pedal is the best means of succeeding in the new styles. If a song works best with a traditional single pedal approach, you can do that, resisting the temptation to do too much. If more fill is required, or a funky or fast solo is offered, a double will give you far greater range in which to shine. Virtually every world class player uses a double set up, and if you appreciate great flexibility and aspire to maximize your ability, it provides the best route to reaching your potential. Take some time to read our reviews and guides, and find the pedal that will put you at the top of your game.

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