8 Killer Double Bass Drum Pedals Every Metal Drummer Should Try
Here are 8 double bass drum pedals, from budget-friendly beasts to high-end workhorses built for speed, power, and precision.
Double bass drum pedals are an integral part of playing Heavy Metal music. There are so many brands and models available that it can be difficult to know what will work best for you. It is important to take into account the size of the footplate, the chain size, and the beater material.
Although the quality of double pedals varies greatly, I want to look at both entry-level and premium models.
Millenium PD-669 Stage Double Bass Pedal see price
This is an entry-level pedal at an amazing price, coming in under £80! I was surprised that it had 2 beater options. Just by twisting the beater with your hand, you can change the beater to felt or hard plastic. The plastic gives you more of an attack, which is perfect for Metal.
The double chain is great for drummers who play hard. This pedal is perfect if you want to experiment with playing double kick without investing a lot of money into a pedal.
Tama HP30TW Bass Drum Double Pedal see price
This is another great pedal for beginners that won't break the bank. Tama is a string brand and only puts out quality products.
This pedal has a single chain. I personally prefer a single-chain pedal for its smoothness over a double-chain pedal. The only thing to note if you are a heavy hitter is, the main pedal doesn't have a footplate. This can be problematic if you are using a lot of force on the bass drums.
The thinly designed pedals are great for speed as they don't feel heavy or clunky.
A great pedal at a low price.
Pearl P-932 Double Bass Drum Pedal see price
This is a slick-looking pedal in a chrome finish. It is in the mid-price range, although it has some premium features. The ability to change the angle of the beater is very cool! It is single chain and has a sturdy metal base plate to keep the pedal firmly on the ground during blast beats.
Another great feature is the extra-long footboard. This is awesome for drummers with bigger size feet as it makes the pedal feel more balanced.
It is definitely worth the price tag.
Roland RDH-102A Double Pedal see price
There is one aspect that stands out for me on this pedal. The footplate is completely smooth metal. It has no grooves, logos, or ridges on it. I feel this simple design makes playing the pedal EASIER.
The bass plate comes with a rubber buffer, which reduces volume up to 70 percent, which is perfect if you are living in an apartment.
This is a very cool pedal.
Dixon PP-P2D P2 Double Pedal see price
As I mentioned before, the amount of metal on the actual footplate will be a determining factor in how easy it is to play fast.
The thing I like about these pedals is that the footplates are super thin. The double chain pedal adds to the overall strength while the retractable floor pegs make sure the pedal won't move on the gig or at rehearsal.
I would expect this pedal to cost a lot more than its actual price tag.
DW 9002 XF Double Pedal see price
This really is the Rolls-Royce of double bass drum pedals. The ball-bearing delta hinge and ball-bearing axle make this pedal as smooth as silk.
This model of pedal has been popular among top professional drummers for years. The plastic and felt-tipped beaters make it versatile for the studio and live shows.
A premium product with a justified price tag.
Yamaha DFP9C Double Foot Pedal see price
Another high-end pedal. The difference between the entry-level and high-end pedals is the ball-bearing axles. This is an expensive process that creates a pedal that will outperform its lower-cost competitors.
Another unique feature of this pedal is its old-school round beaters. I feel they add a level of balance you can feel when playing at faster tempos. The mechanism on the spring makes it easy to change the tension of the pedal.
The chrome finish also gives it a futuristic look.
Mapex PF1000TW Falcon Double Pedal see price
This pedal is personally my favorite! I like it for one simple reason. Its smaller footplate gives you the ability to position it closer to your hi-hat. This means it won't majorly affect your posture if you go from a single pedal to this pedal.
The base plate is solid, and 2 interchangeable batter weights give you the option of what sound you prefer on the bass drums.
It is reasonably priced for the amount of functionality it has.
About Magesh Magesh
Magesh is a musician and producer who has worked with Rihanna, Lionel Richie, Ricky Martin, Chris Brown, The Pussy Cat Dolls, Nelly Furtado, and Vernon Reid of Living Colour.
He released an instructional drumming DVD called "Unique Beats" where he mixed the drum kit with electronics and Indian hand percussion. He recently moved from Australia to the UK to explore new musical opportunities.
Website: mageshdrumteacher.co.uk
Contact Magesh Magesh at magesh.magesh7@gmail.com
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