The Ultimate Double Bass Pedal Guide
Did you know that 73% of professional metal drummers consider a double bass pedal essential to their setup? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, mastering the double bass pedal can take your drumming to the next level. In this double bass pedal guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of double bass pedals, exploring everything from technique to maintenance.
Understanding Double Bass Pedal Basics
When I first started playing drums, I was all about that rock and roll sound. But man, when I heard double bass pedals in action, it blew my mind! I remember thinking, “How the heck are they doing that with their feet?” It was like watching a drummer sprout an extra limb or something.
So, what’s a double bass pedal anyway? It’s basically a contraption that lets you play two bass drum sounds with just one drum. Pretty nifty, right? Instead of having two separate kick drums, you’ve got this setup where your left foot can join the party on your main bass drum.
I gotta admit, when I first tried using a double bass pedal, it was a disaster. My left foot had a mind of its own, and I ended up sounding like a drunk elephant trying to tap dance. But hey, practice makes perfect, right?
The history of double bass drumming is pretty cool. It started way back in the jazz era, believe it or not. Louie Bellson was this cat who came up with the idea of using two bass drums in the 1940s.
Fast forward a few decades, and some clever guys figured out how to get that same effect with just one drum. The double bass pedal as we know it today really took off in the 70s and 80s with metal and hard rock. Those genres were all about speed and power, and double bass pedals delivered in spades.
Now, you might be wondering why not just stick with two separate bass drums? Well that would be ideal in terms of feel, but it’s not always a practical solution. You might have space issues, or not be able to transport two bass drums, or your setup might be limited by the hardware you have at the time.
But it’s not just about convenience. Using a double bass pedal can actually give you more control and consistency in your playing – with two separate drums, you might get slightly different sounds from each one. With a double pedal, you’re hitting the same drum, so the tone stays consistent.
Let me break down the key parts of a double bass pedal for you. You’ve got your main pedal, which is pretty much like a regular bass drum pedal. Then there’s this long rod called a drive shaft that connects to the secondary pedal, called the slave pedal. This is what lets your left foot control the second beater. (If you are playing a lefty pedal, this would be the opposite).
Looking back, learning to use a double bass pedal was frustrating at times, but so worth it, and I think the earlier you start the better. It opened up a whole new world of rhythmic possibilities for me. Whether you’re into metal, rock, or even some styles of jazz fusion, mastering the double bass pedal can really take your drumming to the next level.
Just remember, it’s not all about speed. Sure, those rapid-fire 16th notes sound impressive, but groove and timing are king. I’ve seen too many drummers get caught up in the “faster is better” mentality and lose sight of what really matters – serving the song.
Chain Drive Double Bass Pedals
Pearl Eliminator Redline Chain Drive Double Pedal
The Pearl Eliminator Redline Chain Drive Double Pedal is a solid choice and is one of the most popular chain drive options. It was like night and day! The adjustability is great and you can fine-tune pretty much every aspect of the pedal’s action. The interchangeable cams are the differentiating factor for this pedal, allowing you to change the shape of the cam to dial in the perfect feel for your playing style.
DW 5000 Series Double Pedal
The DW 5000 Series Double Pedal is a bit more straightforward in terms of adjustability, but it’s built like a tank. The dual-chain drive gives it a smooth, consistent feel that’s great for both beginners and pros.
The spring has pivot points at the top and bottom which smoothes out the stroke a lot. This pedal comes in a couple of different variations depending on the cam shape you want.
DW 9000 Series Double Pedal
The DW 9000 Series Double Pedal is super smooth and worth checking out. It’s like the luxury sports car of chain driven double pedals in terms of smoothness due to the extra bearings. The build quality is top-notch, and it’s got this floating rotor drive system that feels incredibly responsive.
You’ll notice that the springs are on the inside of the posts, compared to the DW 5000 where the springs are on the outside. This pedal also comes in an XF version which stands for extended footboard. In the XF version the footplate is one inch longer.
Tama Iron Cobra Double Pedal
The Tama Iron Cobra Double Pedal has been a staple in the metal scene for years, and for good reason. It’s got a solid, no-nonsense design that just works. The chain drive is super smooth, and the pedal board is nice and wide.
You can see that the slave pedal also has a mounting plate built in to stop it sliding forward, which is great! This pedal is almost as popular as the Pearl Eliminators and is a very popular choice.
Tama Speed Cobra Double Pedal 910
If you’re looking for something a bit more specialized, the Tama Speed Cobra Double Pedal might be up your alley. It’s got a longer footboard and a slightly different footboard angle compared to the Iron Cobra, which can help with speed and control.
It also has springs located under each footboard which helps return the beater faster, making it a bit easier to play the next stroke. This makes it feel a bit more like a direct drive pedal and is more suitable for playing fast double kick at high tempos.
Yamaha Chain Drive Double Bass Drum Pedal DFP-9C
Lastly, let’s check out the Yamaha Chain Drive Double Bass Drum Pedal DFP-9C. Yamaha doesn’t always get as much love in the drum pedal world, but this pedal is seriously underrated.
It’s got a unique design with Yamaha’s legendary super solid build quality – just like the rest of their hardware. The knob to adjust the spring tension is positioned so that you can adjust it more easily than its competitors, and it also has a very smooth footboard which lends itself well to slide or swivel technique.
At the end of the day, choosing the right chain drive double bass pedal comes down to personal preference and playing style. Don’t be afraid to try out a bunch of different pedals before making a decision. And remember, even the best pedal in the world won’t magically make you a better drummer – that still takes good old-fashioned practice!
Pro Tip: whatever pedal you end up with, make sure to keep it well-maintained. Clean and lubricate the chain regularly, check all the bolts and screws, and replace any worn-out parts promptly. A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your pedal performing at its best.
Direct Drive Double Bass Pedals
Pearl Eliminator 3002D Demon Drive Double Pedal
I reckon I was one of the first people to import the Pearl Eliminator 3002D Demon Drive Double Pedal into Australia, as I was quick off the mark to order one! The coolest feature of these is that they can be converted from a short board pedal to a long board pedal.
I also really appreciate how this pedal has been engineered, so that it can be easily separated into two single pedals or even completely taken apart and reversed to turn it into a lefty configuration. Very cool!
Pearl Demon Xr Direct Drive Double Pedals P3502D
The Pearl Demon Xr Direct Drive Double Pedals P3502D is aimed at extreme metal drummers. Its enhanced rebound action comes from the high-tension spring, which makes repeated strokes effortless in the most extreme musical situations.
Yamaha Direct Drive Double Bass Drum Pedal DFP-9D
Moving on to the Yamaha Direct Drive Double Bass Drum Pedal DFP-9D, this one’s a bit of a dark horse in the direct drive world. It’s got this unique feel – somehow both solid and lightweight at the same time. You can fine-tune the beater angle, footboard height, and spring tension easily without having to lie on the floor.
DW MDD Machine Drive Double Pedal
The DW MDD Machine Drive Double Pedal is very smooth and solidly built. What stands out about the MDD is its versatility. You can actually adjust the drive ratio, which lets you fine-tune the feel of the pedal to your liking.
I also really like the interchangeable beater discs, and the included beater weights which you can add or remove to change the feel of the throw. The only thing I don’t like about this design, and most DW pedals, is that it cannot be separated into two single pedals.
Axis Longboard Double Pedal
The Axis Longboard Double Pedal is a premium pedal made in the USA, known for its speed and precision. It features an extended footboard design that allows for greater foot control and is popular among metal and rock drummers
These pedals feel very quick to play and due to the thinner footplate, they have a much lighter feel than other pedals on the market.
Trick Pro1-V Bigfoot Double Pedal
Now, if you wanna talk about a pedal that’s built like a spaceship, look no further than the Trick Pro1-V Double Pedal. They are built very well and have a very solid feel, and the most simple bass drum hoop clamp I have ever used. It’s just a lever with a very strong spring. Simple!
The most interesting thing about this pedal which makes it a marvel of engineering, is that it’s the only pedal on the market which works by compressing a spring, rather than stretching it, which gives it a very unique feel.
ACD Unlimited Darwin FTW Double Pedal
Now, let’s talk about some lesser-known gems. The Darwin FTW Double Pedal might not be a household name, but it’s gained quite a following in certain drumming circles. It’s got this unique floating drive shaft design that eliminates lateral torque.
In plain English, that means it feels super smooth and consistent, even during long playing sessions. And it doesn’t require as much spring tension compared to other pedals on the market.
Czarcie Kopyto Double Pedal
Last but not least, there’s the Czarcie Kopyto Double Pedal. This Polish-made pedal is a bit of a cult favorite among extreme metal drummers. It’s built like a tank and can handle even the most punishing playstyles.
The direct drive system is lightning-fast, and the whole pedal just exudes quality.
One thing I’ve learned from trying all these different pedals is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one drummer might not work for another. It’s all about finding the pedal that feels right for you and your playing style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different options.
Pro Tip: when you’re testing out a new pedal, give yourself some time to adjust. Direct-drive pedals can feel pretty different from chain drives at first, so don’t judge them too quickly. Spend at least a few hours playing around with the settings and getting a feel for the pedal before making a decision.
Mastering Double Bass Pedal Techniques
Let’s dive into mastering those double bass pedal techniques. First things first, let’s talk about foot placement and posture. Sit up straight, but stay relaxed. Your feet should rest naturally on the pedals, with the balls of your feet on the footboard.
When it comes to basic double bass patterns, start simple. The good ol’ alternating sixteenth notes are a great place to begin. Right-left-right-left, over and over. Start slow, like really slow. We’re talking 60 BPM here. Gradually increase the tempo as you get more comfortable. Use a metronome!
Now, for you speed demons out there, let’s talk advanced techniques. The slide technique is a game-changer for fast passages. Instead of lifting your foot off the pedal, you slide it forward and backward. This is easier on pedals with a smooth surface on the footboard.
Another technique that’ll boost your speed and endurance is the heel-toe method. This one’s tricky, but so worth it. You use both your heel and toe to create two hits with one foot motion. It’s like having four feet instead of two! I practiced this for months before I could use it in a song, but now it’s second nature and it’s what I use most of the time now.
Let’s talk about some common mistakes. One biggie is tensing up your legs. Bad idea. Keep those legs relaxed. Another mistake is neglecting your weaker foot. For most of us righties, that’s the left foot. Give it extra attention during practice.
Speaking of practice, having a solid routine is key. Such as:
- Start with a 10-minute warm-up. Just basic alternating strokes at a moderate tempo.
- Move on to rudiments. Yes, feet can do rudiments too! Try paradiddles with your feet.
- Practice specific songs or patterns for 20-30 minutes.
- Finish with some endurance exercises. Try playing steady sixteenth notes for 2-3 minutes without stopping. Increase the tempo and repeat.
One thing that really helped me was recording myself. It’s kinda painful to listen back sometimes, but it’s the best way to hear what you need to work on. Also, practice in front of a mirror so you can check that your technique is consistent between limbs.
Pro Tip: practice without the drums sometimes. I know it sounds weird, but practicing on a practice pad or even just tapping your feet while watching TV can do wonders for your muscle memory. People will accuse you of having a nervous twitch, or ADHD or something, but what would they know… ha!
Remember, progress can be slow with double bass. It’s all about consistency. Even 10 minutes a day is better than one marathon session once a week.
Lastly, listen to lots of music with great double bass drumming. Gene Hoglan, and George Kollias are some of my favorites. Study how they use double bass in their playing. It’s not just about speed; it’s about musicality too.
Setting Up and Adjusting Your Double Bass Pedal
First things first, let’s get that bad boy installed. Start by attaching the main pedal to your bass drum hoop. Make sure it’s nice and snug, but don’t go hulk mode on it. You want it secure, not welded on. Next, connect the slave pedal to the main one using the drive shaft. Try to keep them as straight as possible, so that the universal joints are not at extreme angles.
Pro Tip: before you tighten everything down, sit at your kit and make sure both pedals are in a comfortable position. Your feet should naturally rest on them without you having to stretch or contort yourself.
Now, let’s talk about fine-tuning. Start with the spring tension. Most pedals have a knob or dial for this. If your pedal feels like it’s fighting you, loosen it up a bit. If it feels too floppy, tighten it. I like to set mine so that the beater returns to about a 45-degree angle when I release the pedal.
Adjusting the beater angle is crucial too. A more vertical angle gives you more power, while a more laid-back angle is better for speed. Play around with it and see what feels right for you. You’ll find that there’s plenty of settings to adjust and they all alter the performance slightly.
Don’t forget about the slave pedal! It should feel as close to the main pedal as possible. Good quality double kick pedals have decent universal joints on the shaft which helps make them feel as close as possible.
Customizing your pedal feel is where you can really geek out. Beater types and weights can make a huge difference. Wooden beaters give you a warm, punchy sound, while plastic ones are brighter and more articulate.
Weight matters too. Heavier beaters give you more oomph, but they can slow you down. Lighter ones are faster but might not cut through in louder settings. I’ve found that a medium-weight beater works best for me in most situations.
Pro Tip: maintenance is key. Keep your pedals clean and lubricated. A little bit of gun oil on the moving parts can make a world of difference.
Congrats! You’re now armed with the knowledge to choose, master, and maintain the perfect double bass pedal for your drumming journey. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes time to build your speed and stamina.
Whether you’re aiming to become the next metal drumming legend or simply want to add some thunder to your grooves, the double bass pedal is your ticket to rhythmic excellence.
Drum kits come in many different forms and variations. Check out these articles for help on choosing a drum kit, the best drum sets for beginners, and the best electronic kits if you need to keep the noise down.
