Metal drumming requires power, precision, and a well-designed drum kit setup that allows drummers to deliver intense and aggressive performances. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced metal drummer, the right drum kit configuration can significantly enhance your playing and make it easier to execute complex patterns. In this article, we will explore key elements to consider when setting up your drum kit for metal drumming.
- Selecting Drum Shells: a. Choose drum shells made of materials that provide a balance of power, projection, and durability. Common options for metal drumming include maple, birch, or a combination of both. b. Opt for thicker drum shells to produce a focused and aggressive tone, as they can handle the heavy hitting and high-energy playing often associated with metal drumming.
- Drum Sizes and Depths: a. Consider larger drum sizes to achieve deeper and more resonant tones. For the bass drum, a size between 22″ and 24″ is common in metal drumming, as it provides a punchy and powerful low-end response. b. Use rack toms with diameters between 10″ and 13″ for defined attack and projection. For floor toms, sizes between 14″ and 18″ are ideal for generating deep, thunderous sounds.
- Drumhead Selection: a. Choose drumheads that offer durability, projection, and attack. Coated heads can provide a slightly warmer tone, while clear heads emphasize brightness and clarity. b. Consider using two-ply or reinforced drumheads for increased durability and focused sound. Experiment with different brands and models to find the right balance of tone, response, and durability for your playing style.
- Snare Drum: a. Select a snare drum that can deliver a sharp and cutting sound. Snare drums made of metal, such as steel or brass, are popular choices in metal drumming due to their high volume and powerful projection. b. Experiment with different snare drum sizes and materials to find the one that suits your preferred sound and playing style.
- Cymbals: a. Choose cymbals that can cut through the mix and provide a bright, aggressive tone. Heavyweight cymbals, such as those made of B20 bronze, are commonly used in metal drumming for their strong and powerful sound. b. Consider using larger crash cymbals (18″ to 20″) for explosive accents, and a ride cymbal with good stick definition and clear bell tone. c. Experiment with different cymbal brands and models to find the combination that offers the desired balance of volume, sustain, and tonal characteristics.
- Drum Hardware: a. Use sturdy and durable hardware that can withstand the intensity of metal drumming. Double-braced stands provide extra stability for heavy hitting and vigorous playing. b. Invest in a robust kick pedal with adjustable tension to ensure accurate and powerful bass drum strokes. c. Consider using a heavy-duty drum throne that provides stability and comfort during long and energetic performances.
- Ergonomics and Placement: a. Position your drums and cymbals ergonomically to promote efficient and comfortable playing. Adjust the height and angle of your drum throne, snare drum, and toms to suit your preferred playing posture and reach. b. Place your hi-hat and ride cymbals within easy reach, ensuring smooth transitions between different parts of the kit.
- Tuning: a. Experiment with different drumhead tensions to achieve the desired sound. For metal drumming, medium to high tension is often preferred to enhance attack, projection, and clarity. b. Tune the toms and snare drum to produce a controlled and focused sound, with even tension across the drumhead.
- Muffling and Dampening: a. Use drum dampening techniques, such as muffling rings, gels, or drum-specific dampening products, to control sustain and eliminate unwanted overtones. This can help achieve a tighter and more focused sound that cuts through the mix.
Conclusion: Setting up your drum kit for metal drumming requires careful consideration of drum shells, sizes, drumheads, cymbals, hardware, ergonomics, tuning, and dampening techniques. By selecting drums and cymbals that offer power, projection, and durability, tuning them for a focused and aggressive sound, and arranging them ergonomically for comfortable playing, you can optimize your drum kit for the demands of metal drumming. Remember to experiment with different combinations and configurations to find the setup that suits your playing style and allows you to deliver powerful and precise performances that define the genre.
