Bass Drum Pedals Drive Types - Sound Pure Gear Tips

In this video, Sound Pure drums specialist Paul Spencer talks about the 4 different drive types in bass drum pedals. How do these different types feel under your foot? Check out Paul's rundown on this topic.

Sound Pure is an instrument and pro audio shop specializing in high-end and boutique gear. Check out our gear demos, how to videos, and gear comparisons, and then reach out to our experts to help you make an informed purchase. We're here to help you find the perfect gear for your needs.

[TheWitchOvAgnesi]

Having played on the first generation of Tama's Iron Cobra since 1995, and playing fast metal averaging speeds at over 210-220 bpm, I can say that chain drive pedals can be just as fast as direct drive if they are set up properly. I've seen plenty of disappointed faces when I show people what I'm playing after a show. All expected to see Axis or Trick or whatever, and got old school instead.

Gene Hoglan plays a set of single chain Camco pedals. 'Nuff said.

What I will say, however, is that after 25 years, I found my old friends just weren't able to transition into the more technical stuff that I now want to play. Speed was not an issue, but stopping and starting with speed was, as was a lack of articulation for more intricate patterns. I ended up buying the Pearl Demon Drives and within minutes, because of the similar approach with higher spring tension (higher than the Trick or Axis pedals), I was able to play them instantly, and within 6 hours was able to play parts perfectly that I had been recently struggling with. If it hadn't been for the newer, more intricate material, however, I would still be playing the Cobras.

So don't rule out one pedal or another based on some of the misconceptions out there. But indeed, as Paul says here... experiment with them. Not everyone needs a $1200+ Czarcie Kopyto pedal (though they are damn nice!)

[nazarenodadamante]

Great Explanation!! Cut and Clear. Exactly what I was looking for

[jameshersheysr]

Picked up a vintage Ludwig Speed King about 2months ago, took it apart cleaned and greased it up....that thing has everything you could ever

[gregreece]

I never knew any of this. I use a double chain drive dw 3000 pedal for death metal and its a total bear getting it going and it’s exhausting. This was very informative.

[lowflyingpigeons]

Good job reviewing. Now I understand this better.

[NilsHedstrom]

The Iron cobra Hp900 series has finesses that makes them much lighter feeling even though they are double chain

[janvirtanen]

Thx for the comparison. I am a beginner, albeit a guitar and bass player for nearly two decades

[raydon]

Thank you! This is exactly what I was looking for!

[BrunodeSouzaLino]

I'm certain that the lateral play on the single drive pedal has nothing to do with the single chain, but the fact that the pedal doesn't have a base plate, as pedals had to be portable to be transported with a drum set by cab or bus, which is why they fold like that.

[mikesanders]

Very nicely done, gonna go with the strap drive. Thanks. = )

[laverdadbuscador]

I've never played on a strap pedal. Sounds interesting. I may have to seek that out.

[UPdan]

Always used the Speed King and second vote would be strap drive when I've tried them.

[Deagledrumzz]

Very intelligent accurate video. Many drummers do not know what they're actually looking for. Many also think that the fastest pedal is what they want or need. And many times that is not true. I'm glad you pointed out that the high end Ferrari type pedals are fabulous but need to be understood and DRIVEN CORRECTLY. With great speed it is required great responsibility. You should also compare the high end speedsters so drummers can make a decision which one to go for. I have several high end pedals but my favorites are the double Axis X short board pedal and the Sleishman double center loaded pedals, which is a bit slower than the Axis but is easier to negotiate. Still once you understand how to setup the Axis and learn what an Axis can do, it's hard to favor anything else. I.M.O

[lionofistanmusic]

Awesome vid. Which do you think is the quietest in terms of mechanical noises? Looking for studio applications

[Nirolevy]

I'm quite surprised to find out belts are stronger and more durable than double chains

[NuclearFall]

Ive got a single chain, and unfortunately its starting to wear out. Been thinking of going for a double chain. I play death and black metal stuff, might even go for a double pedal just for the fun of it.

[MrFchank]

Best pedal I've ever used was the Ghost pedal. Would love to see an updated version

[alexdem]

Do you think direct drive pedals would be a good option for djent and metalcore were there's a combination of both 16th notes and faster 32nd notes as well?

[Dogdrum]

I find that I get as much power on a strap drive pedal as I do a chain drive. I think one has to factor in the type of beater as well because that is the sole point of contact with the bass drum. But in terms of the mechanics leading up to the point where the beater makes contact with the bass drum head, I find that the strap drive allows me to thrust the beater forward with a kind of fluid acceleration that I don't always get with a chain drive pedal. The rebound was equal to that of the action. My first kit came with a strap drive pedal, then I used chain drive pedals for years after that. Then I did a gig 4 years ago and the rental kit came with a Yamaha strap drive and I was like "f* ** me!!! I had greater speed and the amount of power on the strokes was no less that of a chain drive pedal at all. I did shorten the beater length as I usually do on all the pedals I work with so that contributes to the speed too. After that gig, I searched for a good condition second hand strap drive pedal on Ebay and got a 90's Yamaha standard for about 9 USD.

[lucasjacks]

What brand/model is the 3rd pedal? The belt drive?