![]() ![]() Before we go any further:īefore discussing the tuning process, there are some important tips to understand. I don't recommend using the dial to tune from scratch because you won't get better that way. Keep a log of settings and head combinations that work out. This can be invaluable when trying to recreate a drum sound at a later date. Second, once you tune a drum to where you like it, use the dial to document the tension settings. First, if you try to tune by ear and use the dial only when you are at an impasse, you will become a better drum tuner. I recommend these dials for different reasons. This device rests on the head and measures the surface tension. A head surface tension dial is pricey, but very useful. I find these types of keys to be inconsistent from drum to drum. In practice, however, the tension of the lug is not always the same as head tension. In theory, if the drum has good bearing edges and all rods have smooth fittings, this device should work. Torque keys promise to keep a drum in tune by tuning each rod to a consistent tension. ![]() These can be pricey, and they don't take heads off as fast as a screwdriver attachment. A few drummers swear by a ratchet key, which is just a drum key with a built-in ratchet. At about five bucks each, have one around. These are life savers when you need to take a head off, but can be a problem if used to tune. Some companies offer a cordless screwdriver drum key attachment. They are relatively inexpensive, so have several on-hand. These look like a little metal "T" and are designed to fit over the tension rod. In my opinion, some are better than others. The market offers many tools for the aspiring drum tuner. An old trick is to stuff the screw with some cotton or cloth to dampen the vibration. Most lugs have an internal spring that holds the rod screw. Now is a good time to check for loose lug screws or other items that can buzz or rattle. You think new heads 'magically' tune themselvesģ.The batter surface has lots of stick-smears .The head was put on more than two Presidential Administrations agoĬonversely, the following are not necessarily reasons to change a head:.The middle of the head is "mushy" compared to the outer part of the head .The head is so stretched that it won't tune no matter what .The head won't seat or stay under the rim . A coated head has lost a significant amount of the top layer . There are dimples, dents, or indentations. There are holes or cuts (other than front kick heads with ports, of course). ![]() This is subjective, so here are some tips as a guideline. Most people have difficulty when it comes to knowing when it's time to change heads they either never change them, or they blame poorly tuned drums on the heads and change too often. Speaking of heads, now is probably a good time to assess the gang. For example, if the drummer wants the wham-boom of a Gene Krupa jazz kit, but brings in a set with Power Tom 2000 Deep Dish Shells using triple- muffled power dot heads, you'll have your work cut out for you. Knowing their goal will help you avoid issues during playback. Ask if they have a CD with drums they like. Second, find out what kind of sound they are looking for. However, even an experienced tuner will need time to acclimate to your acoustic space, so the battle isn't over. First, does this person know how to tune the skins? If the answer is yes, life is good. During this time it's good to talk with the drummer to learn a few things. Have the drummer set up the kit, get mics out, go over the session plan, etc. Were they sitting in a hot car? Left in a shed over a winter's night? Kept in a garage during rainy season? If there are significant temperature and environmental differences try to let the drums rest as long as feasible. When the kit is first brought into the studio, check to see where the drums have been. I've listed a few resources at the end of this piece for those wishing additional detail. Since the topic of drum tuning can quickly expand to materials, construction designs, and physics, I've tried to limit the scope of this discussion to a recording situation. The following provides a primer aimed at anyone who wants to capture better drum sounds without taking years of trial and error. ![]() Although I've been playing drums for a long time, it was only in the past several years that I've gotten a proficient handle on tuning. Unfortunately, very few people know the basics of drum tuning - including drummers! Many studio sessions involve drum heads that are covered with muffles and drenched in reverb, resulting in a sound evocative of cardboard boxes being hit with spoons. An out of tune drum can ruin any recording session. The adage "garbage in garbage out" takes on added meaning when it comes to recording drums. ![]()
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