In running live sound, I've often come upon young drummers that are clueless as to how to tune a drum kit. When I ask them to, I get a response like "Uh it takes a really long time to tune a drum." Here I like to use the analogy of tuning a guitar: tuning it by ear certainly takes longer (and is arguably better in terms of learning) but using an electronic tuner gets us to the precise place and often very quickly. It's the same with the drum dial… it is best to use this tool along with your ears to find the right tuning for you. I then write down the drum, tension for both top & bottom, and then a description (a tom can be tuned to ring out or be super dry [it really comes down to preference and song]). I bring it with me to all my gigs. If a head breaks or a lug comes loose I can take of the head and replace it and confidently retune it back up to where it needs to be in 5 minutes. Seriously drummers, this is the way to go.
Now I've heard a few people say they hate the drum dial… but they usually are complaining about pitch. Again, use your ears to find the pitch you want. Use the drum dial to provide equal tension all around the head. You really cant go wrong.
(I am not endorsed by this product [but wish I was])
No comments:
Post a Comment