Drummer Talk 226 – Tuning 201: The Kick
We wrap up part 3 of our 3 part series on tuning with a discussion on the kick drum.
In the news, we discuss the Crescent Cymbal/Sabian partnership, just who is the new drummer for Slipknot, what did Dave Lombardo have to say about Slayer’s current lineup, who is filling in on drums for Primus, the results of the Bonham memorial concert, and US Navy band auditions!
Check out Dave’s current Sweeney Todd setup:
News
- Michael Vosbein and Andy Zildjian talk Crescent and Sabian partnership
- Wait.. is Chris Adler the new drummer for Slipknot?
- Slayer is missing its “magic” according to Dave Lombardo
- With Alexander out, Danny Carey to fill in with Primus
- Bonham’s sister, Deborah, calls memorial concert “greatest show of my life”
- US Navy Band auditioning for percussionist position
Topic Notes – Tuning 201: The Kick
Listener suggestion from From Lynn from St. George, Utah:
Hey guys, just discovered the podcast and love it! I have been playing drums for 25 years, and still have a hard time tuning. I have tried different type heads, tuning devices, books, videos, etc. Would love to hear you do a show on turning drums. Maybe break them up. One show on snare drum, toms, kick. I read some like to tune bottom and top same, some like bottoms lower. Well I know it all comes down to preference, but there has to be a way to make them have that sweet low spot. and that crack in that snare. Thanks for all you do keep it up!
- General Tuning Tips
- Know what sound you’re going for
- Come to peace with your drum not sounding like the record
- Know that your drums sound different from the audience perspective
- Have someone play your drums and go and listen!
- Know what your kick can and can’t do
- What about pitch matching and intervals?
- Pitch doesn’t really enter into the equation unless you have a smaller kick drum
- Know what sound you’re going for
- Heads
- Batters
- Resonant
- Ported
- Kickport
- Special Consideration
- It’s all about the muffling!
- Rack toms, yes or no?
- Materials
- Not as much of a consideration considering the drum is heavily muffled
- Hoops
- Almost all wood!
- Use of claws
- Heel up vs. heel down
- Final thoughts:
- There’s no magic way to tune!
- Each drum is different (even It takes a good ear and experience. You’ll only learn by doing, so don’t be afraid to tune your toms)!
Music from this week’s Show:
In closing…
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