Which Practice Pad Is Best? [Archive] - DRUMMERWORLD OFFICIAL DISCUSSION FORUM

nocTurnal

11-15-2009, 10:55 AM

Hi Drummer World. This is my first post.

I currently own a small Remo practice pad. It is a little loud. I would like a new pad that will be quieter, and also build strength. The following are some that I've considered. If you know of something isn't listed, please suggest it. I would appreciate it.

1. Aquarian Tru-Bounce (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WG_aIt3Dcso) - I first came aware of this pad after watching Mike Johnston playing on one on YouTube. According to him the main improvements over the popular HQ Real Feel are: (1) it fits on both 13" and 14" snares (HQ only fits on 14"), and (2) the pad has "less bounce" which would make a practicing drummer work harder.

2. HQ EcoPad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5bKfJZIzmY) (12" Double Sided) - I was seriously thinking of getting this one until I heard about the Tru-Bounce. It would appear this is the same as a HQ Real Feel, but better for the environment. Also has a different shape to it.

3. HQ Real Feel (12" Double Sided) - This appears to be the most popular. I don't think a link is necessary on this one.

4. Vic Firth Practice Pad (http://www.amazon.com/Vic-Firth-Double-sided-12/dp/B0002F5BFW/ref=pd_cp_MI_2) (12" Double Sided) - This is what they had in Guitar Center. I once almost bought this in store. I decided I better go home first and look up the reviews. I then found about about Real Feel and the others making my decision really difficult!

5. Moon Gel Pad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7g3SQMsQd0) - Now this one is the latest one I heard of. It's a small non-bounce pad that will build strength.

So which pad would you recommend and why? Doesn't have to be one listed here. I'm really leaning towards the Tru-Bounce or the EcoPad.

Jeremy Bender

11-15-2009, 04:57 PM

I started out on a Remo tunable pad in high-school, I like the fact that you could change the tension with a screwdriver to change the feel of the head.

I've used a real feel 12" for the past decade and have liked it.

Last month I picked up a new six inch pad by Vater, it's red-colored and has a good feel and it's pretty quiet. Best of all it fits nicely in my luggage.

If your budget allows it: Buy the pad that feels best to your hands.

PS Welcome to DW on your first post!

jeffwj

11-15-2009, 05:43 PM

I have the Vic Firth pad in my studio - great pad, double sided, good feel.

For a pad with a drum head, I also use the Sabian Quiet Tone. It is full size, has a real head and real rim. When placed on the snare drum it sets off the snares amazingly well - a great pad for practicing closed rolls. They can be seen in the top picture on this page (http://sites.google.com/site/johnsondruminstruction/studiotour) from my website.

Jeff

Pat Petrillo

11-15-2009, 07:39 PM

Not sure what is "best", but if I may, I would like to introduce you to my P4 Practice Pad from Ludwig

Here is a video that shows what it does, and how it is different than every practice pad in the world..literally. If a variety of playing surfaces which enhance creativity and make practice fun is what you seek, this may be the pad for you..;)

http://www.ludwig-drums.com/ludwigtv/player.php?url=p4pad.flv

If it's not at your local shop, ask them to get it thru Ludwig, or you can get it on line at numerous locations.

MaidenFanSte

11-15-2009, 07:41 PM

toddy

11-15-2009, 11:09 PM

Yeah I agree on the P4.. its pretty big, but the different surfaces are good and I can fit it in my rucksack.
I like to play rudiments in the woods.

Terry Branam

11-15-2009, 11:21 PM

I'm all for the P4 as well. I just played one the other day at PASIC and it ruled!

Terry

Casper "DrPowerStroke" Paludan

11-16-2009, 12:18 AM

I loove the Vic firth pads! I used to use the 6 inch a lot, but I so much prefer the feel of the 12 inch that I take it everywhere. I took it hiking recently, and brought the smallest snare stand in the world (I think), a flimsy Ludwig stand.
Casper

nocTurnal

11-16-2009, 02:15 AM

Thanks for all the replies thus far. And thank you Jeremy Bender for the "welcome."

Looks like the Ludwig P4 Practice Pad by Pat Petrillo is the most recommended practice pad in this thread. It's amazing with all the research on the internet I did that I never came across this one. I did actually do a search on this forum before creating this topic, but the search results aren't exact matches.

There were four of you in total including the P4 creator, Pat Petrillo, who recommended this one. It now seems like the obvious choice, especially after looking at the videos. I guess the only thing that would hold me back on this one is the price. Otherwise, it does seem like the best choice. I could get the Tru-Bounce for $32-35 dollars (Free Shipping) at Music123. The cheapest I can find the P4 Practice Pad is around $60. That's almost 2x as much as I'd like to pay. Not too many sites selling it yet. I imagine that's because it's still new.

zzzMikezzz

11-16-2009, 02:57 AM

Just remember, you get what you pay for!! The P4 is like buying the Cadillac of Practice Pads....and it really isn't THAT expensive, I might add.

Old Doc Yak

11-16-2009, 05:49 AM

I have two pads that I use: the P4 and the tru-bounce. The P4 is a dynamite pad that really gives me a workout. The tru-bounce has a nice feel to it and I find it convenient to just pop it out and play on it. P4 - #1 Tru-bounce - #2. Good luck.

Monica McCoy

11-16-2009, 05:50 AM

Sabian Quiet Tone is by far the most realistic snare pad. I have a 14" at my kit. I also keep a 12" 2-sided Vater out on the porch and an 6" HQ real feel in my car with a copy of Stick Control.

Jeremy Bender

11-16-2009, 07:00 AM

"and an 6" HQ real feel in my car with a copy of Stick Control"

You keep a copy of stick control in your car?

That is probably the coolest thing I've ever read on the internet !

nolonx

11-16-2009, 09:35 AM

My teacher told me of one of his students that mounted a pad in the car to practice while stuck in traffic jams :)

Back on topic, I have just bought the vic firth one. It feels ok and it's quite quiet.

PQleyR

11-16-2009, 10:53 AM

I've got an HQ pad, and it's been good. If you want to change the amount of rebound you can always do what Jojo Mayer suggests and put layers of towels over it to gradually increase your workout.

Pat Petrillo

11-16-2009, 01:44 PM

Thanks for all the positive feedback on the P4! It was a hit at PASIC this year.

NocTurnal, in regards to price, I know it is sold for around $50. It is a bit more than most, but it does more than most. Also, where do you live? Simply go to your drum shop, and if they carry Ludwig they can get it! Ask them to order it for you. You will save on shipping.

In reagrds to sizze, it is 12" round, and the same size as the HQ, but it's also a tad lighter, because it is made from mdf ultralight.

You do get more surface choices, and the levels are great for independance. It is an investment that will last you a lifetime, and will make the most out of your pad practice.

Good Luck, and keep me posted!

nocTurnal

11-16-2009, 02:23 PM

NocTurnal, in regards to price, I know it is sold for around $50. It is a bit more than most, but it does more than most. Also, where do you live? Simply go to your drum shop, and if they carry Ludwig they can get it! Ask them to order it for you. You will save on shipping.

You do get more surface choices, and the levels are great for independance. It is an investment that will last you a lifetime, and will make the most out of your pad practice.

Thanks a lot for replying in this thread, Pat. It is nice to see an important figure in the drum world reply to my very first thread! I feel honored. It looks like quite a creation you have here with the P4. I guess it is only a matter of time that this is available everywhere.

When I said "$60," that included the shipping and handling. If I could get it for $50 flat, I'd definitely get it. I live in Rhode Island. I will call Guitar Center as they carry Ludwig and see what they say about ordering and price. We don't have any drum shops around here. I've never actually been in a "drum shop." I imagine those of you whom live in a city have those?

Pollyanna

11-16-2009, 02:36 PM

I use an old Ludwig Billy Gladstone Vacuum Drum Pad but I'm not a great fan of pads these days

Still, the P4 looks like it could add spice to what is normally a pretty dry activity. Adding different sounds and textures seems like an idea whose time has come. I also like the way the small sections enforce accuracy

Not sure if the P4 is available in Oz, tho

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-16-2009, 03:03 PM

Not sure if the P4 is available in Oz, tho

Haven't seen one around Polly, but that doesn't mean it's not available either. I'd check with Hydes for all things Ludwig........although, like most things outta Monroe, if you get a hold of one it's unlikely to be at bargain prices. Unfortunately, we pay through the nose for anything with a Ludwig badge downunder.

nocTurnal, I've been happy with the HQ's I use (12 and 6 inch). The P4 does look the biz though.

keep it simple

11-16-2009, 03:06 PM

A duck feather pillow is a great addition to any practice pad. If you can play it on that, you can play it on anything.

Monica McCoy

11-17-2009, 12:08 AM

"and an 6" HQ real feel in my car with a copy of Stick Control"

You keep a copy of stick control in your car?

That is probably the coolest thing I've ever read on the internet !

I spend a fair amount of time on the road and often times I have 20 or 30 minutes to kill so I just practice. Last week I was renewing my drivers license and got over an hours practice in just sitting on a bench. Everyone else was bored stiff. Not me. :)

ChipJohns

11-17-2009, 12:17 AM

I spend a fair amount of time on the road and often times I have 20 or 30 minutes to kill so I just practice. Last week I was renewing my drivers license and got over an hours practice in just sitting on a bench. Everyone else was bored stiff. Not me. :)

This is why I am looking at getting another pad. I've been using the HQ bigger pad, but, I think I am going to get the smaller one to tote around.

nocTurnal

11-17-2009, 01:00 AM

I spend a fair amount of time on the road and often times I have 20 or 30 minutes to kill so I just practice. Last week I was renewing my drivers license and got over an hours practice in just sitting on a bench. Everyone else was bored stiff. Not me. :)

Wow. You certainly use your time wisely. Sounds like you have very good time management skills. I had to renew my driver's license last week, too. Hard to believe how most people will just sit there and wait the whole time. I went for a long walk and went browsing through stores while I waited (was in a mall).

Just out of curiosity, how are you able to balance the pad on your legs? Or maybe you brought a stand with you? JFYI, I found something called the OZdrumpad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKEGygqoZCk) while doing a deep search for drum pads. This one fits nicely on the leg and has a strap. So many pads to choose from out there!

Pat Petrillo

11-17-2009, 02:25 AM

NocTurnal
Reach out to Shane at Just Drums Online. He's a member..Maybe he can work something out with you

http://www.justdrumsonline.com/store/pc-3851-79-pat-petrillo-lp4-practice-pad.aspx

Monica McCoy

11-17-2009, 06:26 AM

Just out of curiosity, how are you able to balance the pad on your legs? Or maybe you brought a stand with you? JFYI, I found something called the OZdrumpad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKEGygqoZCk) while doing a deep search for drum pads. This one fits nicely on the leg and has a strap. So many pads to choose from out there!I

I usually look for a flower bed wall to straddle. On the bench, I sit with my right foot on the floor so I can tap my foot. My left leg is on top of the bench where I'm sitting. The little pad sits between my legs like a snare would.

I've also seen a real small pad that's made out of neoprene and straps to your leg. I forget the name but I'm sure you can find it if you search.

GRUNTERSDAD

11-17-2009, 06:36 AM

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gibraltar-Leg-Practice-Pad-With-Strap?sku=490729

Try this.........................

masonni

11-17-2009, 07:29 AM

I have tried just about everything and just picked up an Aquarian Tru-Bounce last month.
It feels WAY closer to a real snare drum than anything I have tried before. Roy Burns showed it to me at NAMM and had me test it against a real snare drum. They felt identical!

SixStroke Bugada

11-17-2009, 07:38 AM

I personally grew up playing a RealFeel by HQ. It lasted for years.
Now I would recommend(out of your choices) the Aquarian. However, you should also look into the Vater chop builder pads....
Pat, were you at PASIC 04 in the Taye booth?

masonni

11-17-2009, 09:55 AM

Oh, I should add... I got to try a few of Pat's prototype pads before Ludwig picked it up.

That is a nice pad right there!

The advantage of different levels and playing surfaces makes it more fun that a regular pad.

jeffwj

11-17-2009, 11:10 AM

For a really portable pad - http://www.steveweissmusic.com/product/29954/drum-practice-pads

Jeff

toddy

11-17-2009, 11:21 AM

For a really portable pad - http://www.steveweissmusic.com/product/29954/drum-practice-pads

Jeff

That's crazy!
I might buy some.

nocTurnal

11-17-2009, 06:33 PM

For a really portable pad - http://www.steveweissmusic.com/product/29954/drum-practice-pads

Jeff

A putty pad... Now that is pretty neat! Thanks for posting that. I think I've seen them all now! We must have every kind of drum practice pad there is posted in this thread.

jasonrhcp

11-17-2009, 07:00 PM

I have a few of those pads..I must say, after I bought the P4, the other pads were obsolete to me..I rarely if EVER, use them anymore. After practicing on it, the others are boring...I wish it was out a few years ago before I bought the others..

To me, it's a no brainer. Worth the "extra" money, if you consider the lifetime of use you will get. Why anyone would want a one surface pad anymore, when you can now have multiple options, I don't know..But, different "strokes"....pardon the pun..

Ludwig needs to let more people know it exists...If I didn't see it on here, I would never have known, and now I'm glad I did..

Get the P4, nocTurnal...you won't be disappointed..

Chazz

11-17-2009, 08:13 PM

I'm going to also agree with most here...
I own the (tru-bounce, moongel workout pad, HQ reel feel 6" & 12")
The Ludwig Pat Petrillo P 4 is definitely my Favorite, because
of the 4 playing surfaces it gives you different feels, sounds,
and playing levels
.Which is Fun to Play = more practice time!

jeffwj

11-17-2009, 08:47 PM

A putty pad... Now that is pretty neat! Thanks for posting that. I think I've seen them all now! We must have every kind of drum practice pad there is posted in this thread.

Well if you want a complete list of pads, don't forget the bass drum practice pads from Gibraltar and Pearl.

http://www.footesmusic.com/uploads/images_products/189.jpg

http://www.drumza.com/images/PearlBD10BassDrumPracticePadStandard.jpg

Jeff

Just Drums

11-17-2009, 10:56 PM

Here's a good listing of pads:
http://www.justdrumsonline.com/store/c-79-practice-pads-tools.aspx

The P4, the Gibraltar BD Pad, and the Sabian Quiet Tone are a few of my favorites. The P4 is probably the most versatile and very cool. IMO, the Putty Pad is crap. We give them away for free in the shop! =)

Here's a quick, throw together video of the Gibraltar pad. I just decided to do one that day and threw this together:
http://www.justdrumsonline.com/videos.aspx

We are less than Musician's Friend and we're a real drum shop. That's for checking us out and we appreciate your support.

Pass.of.E.r.a.

11-18-2009, 06:29 AM

Well when I was at the Dennis Chambers clinic in Sherwood Park some asked him the same question, and he recalled asking buddy rich how he got his speed, and according to BR, he practiced on pillows. So thats what Mr.Chambers did as well, and so according to him, (and i completely agree) the best practice pad is not a practice pad at all, but a pillow.

due to the lack of bounce, your forced to use/develop the mussels in your wrists which help builds control and speed.

-Jonathan

JT1

11-18-2009, 11:18 AM

Well if you want a complete list of pads, don't forget the bass drum practice pads from Gibraltar and Pearl.

http://www.footesmusic.com/uploads/images_products/189.jpg

http://www.drumza.com/images/PearlBD10BassDrumPracticePadStandard.jpg

Jeff

I own that bottom pearl and to be honest i'm not extremely happy with it as it doesn't stay still when hitting it. I think the top one is probably better.

As for practice pads i would just like to put in my opinion i think Pat's Ludwig P4 is the best, i haven't personally tried it but i want one now more than anything to replace my Billy Hyde one. It's a great job you've done on that Pat and it's about time the practice pad got some new innovation!

JPW

11-18-2009, 11:22 AM

On a related subject, if you travel with a compat practice pad kit what kind of pedals do you take with you and how do you pack them with you? I think my Iron Cobras would be too heavy to take anywhere in a backpack.

Pat Petrillo

11-18-2009, 02:34 PM

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-18-2009, 02:49 PM

This is why I included a very soft surface on the P4, for the variety. The grey rubber makes you work a bit harder, just like a floor tom.

Any idea if these are available in Oz, Pat? The more I see of it, the more I want to try one out, but just haven't seen one around.

Pat Petrillo

11-18-2009, 07:47 PM

Hi, Pocket!

Thanks for the interest!! It is starting to get VERY popular, the more drummers hear, the more they want..

Here is a place from the Ludwig site

MUSICLINK AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.
29 South Corporate Avenue
Rowville, VICTORIA 3178
+61-3-9765-6565
Fax: +61-3-9765-6566
[url]http://www.musiclink.com.au
[email]barry@musiclink.com.au
Perhaps Frank Corniola can get it in...he is a Ludwig dealer. ANY Ludwig dealer can get it.

You can order it from Justdrumsonline or interstatemusic here in the states, but shipping would be pretty expensive.

I will fire off an email to Frank, and if you do the same, that should get it rolling down there!

Also, PLEASE end an email to Ludwig and ask them directly...That could help..

Just Drums

11-18-2009, 08:30 PM

Pocket - we've shipped several of these to Australia. Shipping usually ends up being $40-$50 USD. Drop me a line if you wish to order....

Just Drums

11-18-2009, 08:36 PM

I own that bottom pearl and to be honest i'm not extremely happy with it as it doesn't stay still when hitting it. I think the top one is probably better

Yeah - the Gibraltar IS better. I speak from personal experience. I've tried several.

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-18-2009, 11:28 PM

Pat and Shane, thank you both for your quick replies.

Shane, just for the moment I'll try to source one locally, but if I draw a blank on that front I'll certainly get in contact with you. Thanks again for your help.

Pat, an email to Ludwig will be on it's way shortly. And I'll contact Musiclink for a rundown on availability. Thanks for providing their details. Great product btw, I watched your youtube demo again after I posted and I'm sold!!

Cheers men.

caddywumpus

11-18-2009, 11:45 PM

I think I've seen them all now! We must have every kind of drum practice pad there is posted in this thread.

Another one, that was a hit at this year's DCI finals, is the Invader pad by Offworld Percussion. If you need to practice for drumline, or want an indestructible pad with a rim, THIS is the pad to buy!

http://offworldpercussion.com

Shankmasterflex

11-19-2009, 06:40 AM

Another one, that was a hit at this year's DCI finals, is the Invader pad by Offworld Percussion. If you need to practice for drumline, or want an indestructible pad with a rim, THIS is the pad to buy!

http://offworldpercussion.com

Wow that and the Oz pad are two pads I've never heard of. Definitely cool to know that there are people out there always trying to innovate.

Got a question for all of you guys. What's the best leg strap pad around? I've been looking for a really nice pad that fits comfortably around the leg and still has good feel and response. I can't seem to find any good ones.

Also just because it's been killing me, anyone use that pad that's really intended for hand workout, is about 12", and black? I tried one out this summer and really liked it, but forgot what it was called since it was too expensive for my taste, and it wasn't what I was looking for at the time. I remember it having a sort of tape around the rim with the logos and everything on it. Kinda felt like hitting a snare shaped pillow.

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-19-2009, 06:53 AM

Got a question for all of you guys. What's the best leg strap pad around? I've been looking for a really nice pad that fits comfortably around the leg and still has good feel and response. I can't seem to find any good ones.

They're out there. I've seen them but can't remember the brand. Someone here will set you straight on that though, I'm sure.

As a 'home modification' though, my 6" HQ bounces around a little too much for my liking, so I screwed some brackets into the side and attached an elastic strap with velcro that I bought from a camping store. Works a treat!!

nocTurnal

11-19-2009, 06:55 AM

NocTurnal
Reach out to Shane at Just Drums Online. He's a member..Maybe he can work something out with you

http://www.justdrumsonline.com/store/pc-3851-79-pat-petrillo-lp4-practice-pad.aspx

Thanks, Pat. I appreciate that.

Pat Petrillo

11-20-2009, 04:00 AM

Let me know how you like it when you get it, (if you get it)..

Pollyanna

11-20-2009, 04:35 AM

Pat, an email to Ludwig will be on it's way shortly. And I'll contact Musiclink for a rundown on availability. Thanks for providing their details. Great product btw, I watched your youtube demo again after I posted and I'm sold!!

Pocket, I haven't seen the P4 in Billy H's Drumcraft, nor on their site.

Have you had any word from Ludwig? Could be good for you if they have them in Melbourne. Typical Sydney ... if you want clothes, renovations supplies and sporting gear, no problem. The arts? What are they? *sigh*

Hmmmm ... to P4 or V-drum? That is the question.

Cost and space vs functionality and fun.

Elvis

11-20-2009, 10:36 AM

The best practice pad is the one you have available to you when you need to use it.
I used the Sunday paper for years.
I've used my thighs for evern longer.
Furniture, especially pillows, make great pseudo practice pads.
I did the Sunday paper, because my "work out" was to play along to commercials, while watching TV.
...not as easy as it sounds.

Elvis

Elvis

11-20-2009, 10:40 AM

...and if you must have a manufactured practice pad, then Cindy Contos's Rudi-Pad (http://keres.meccahosting.com/~a00013db/) is the one I recommend.
Not too large, pretty quiet and quite effective.
Fairly cheap and easy to tote around, as well.
...makes a great mouse pad, too. =)

Elvis

Pat Petrillo

11-20-2009, 01:55 PM

Pocket, I haven't seen the P4 in Billy H's Drumcraft, nor on their site.

Have you had any word from Ludwig? Could be good for you if they have them in Melbourne. Typical Sydney ... if you want clothes, renovations supplies and sporting gear, no problem. The arts? What are they? *sigh*

Hmmmm ... to P4 or V-drum? That is the question.

Cost and space vs functionality and fun.

Pocket and Polly

I will email them as well and see what's happening with Australian sales, and who has it..
Thanks again for your interest in the P4.

Pat

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-21-2009, 10:45 AM

Have you had any word from Ludwig?

Polly, the short answer is no. However, I must confess to totally wasting any spare time I had on friday and I didn't get around to sending that email. Unfortunately, no excuses.....total mismanagement of time on my behalf!! Will send it off after the weekend and will keep you posted.

I'll also be dropping into Hydes tomorrow so will make enquires there when I do.

Pocket and Polly

I will email them as well and see what's happening with Australian sales, and who has it..
Thanks again for your interest in the P4.

Pat

Pat, really appreciate your time and effort on this one. Please don't put yourself out too much though. I'll certainly get some answers this week.....was just too disorganised on Friday to follow through with it.

Derek

11-23-2009, 06:16 AM

I've heard Aquarian makes a very good practice pad. Also, While I was in the music store last week I tried out Vaters' new one. I liked it. It was less springy than many of the others on the market and wil fit right in your snare basket. Not a bad price either.

stabmasterarson

11-23-2009, 08:12 AM

i've got one of those billy hyde 8" rubber ones, it cost me about 10$. I have seen practice pads retail for 80$, I can't understand why someone would drop that kind of coin on one.

Pollyanna

11-23-2009, 09:03 AM

Polly, the short answer is no. However, I must confess to totally wasting any spare time I had on friday and I didn't get around to sending that email. Unfortunately, no excuses.....total mismanagement of time on my behalf!! Will send it off after the weekend and will keep you posted.

I'll also be dropping into Hydes tomorrow so will make enquires there when I do.

Haha welcome to my world!

If I was into betting my money would be on this being one of those things, like movies, where the Septics get it before we do.

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-23-2009, 09:14 AM

Haha welcome to my world!

Poll......I'm a man of many talents......organising myself is NOT one of them.

FYI. Quick update for the Aussies interested in the P4. Sent the email to Musiclink today but am yet to hear back and contacted Hydes.....was confronted with blank stares, but they'll get back to me. They're always good on their word in Melb.....so will let you know when I hear.

zzzMikezzz

11-23-2009, 11:01 PM

i've got one of those billy hyde 8" rubber ones, it cost me about 10$. I have seen practice pads retail for 80$, I can't understand why someone would drop that kind of coin on one.

For the same reason why people drop that kind of coin on a Cadillac or a Lexus or a Mercedes, when they can just by a cheap Ford. You get what you pay for, my man.

Muckster

11-24-2009, 12:32 AM

I use the Aquarian Pad quite a bit and Pat's P4 Pad which I like because of the multiple surfaces. I still have the square model but i'm hoping Santa will bring me the new
round design.

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-25-2009, 02:53 AM

Quick update for any of the Aussie's who have followed the sub-thread here regarding the lack of availibility of the P4 in Oz.

Hydes just got back to me. According to their Ludwig rep, a decison was made not to import the P4 into Australia due to the subsequent retail cost. With HQ Real Feel's retailing at around A$80, they felt that no one was likely to pay much more for a practice pad than this. The cost of the P4's would have been much higher and Ludwig distributers in Oz didn't think it was a viable option.

So in short, you can't get a P4 through any retailer in Australia. Online is the way to go.

Pat, once again thanks for all your efforts on this. I appreciate the fact you've gone above and beyond the call of duty to try and assist us all here in the land downunder. It's a shame it's a market you're missing out on, but you have a quality product that I'm sure is walking off the shelves in any area where it is available!

Shane, once again, thanks for you offer. Let me get the 'expense horror' that is xmas out of the way and I'll PM you in the new year and we'll get the ball rolling.

Cheers.

Pollyanna

11-25-2009, 03:38 AM

Thanks Pocket. Great detective work.

I think with the exchange rate and shipping the P4 is a pricey option. I've not seen heaps of different types but it's the best pad I've seen so far.

V-drums seem attractive to me because you work your feel and move around the kit, tho' there's many $$ and a couple of square metres involved.

Pat Petrillo

11-25-2009, 03:51 AM

Wow, Pocket, thanks so very much for the details..

This is where I feel politics rears it's head...

...Hyde's DOES sell a pad for over A$80..It's the HQ with the snare cartridge for A$119!!!

http://www.billyhydemusic.com.au/shop/view/4994/hq-snare-cartridge-pad-9-inch/

and the double sided is A$89 !

http://www.billyhydemusic.com.au/shop/view/4997/hq-pro-practice-pad-double-sided-12-inch/

They can't tell me the P4 will be that much more No way..
See what they have to say about those items.
I can't speak for Ludwig in this regard on an official capacity, but, I have asked Ludwig for a response, so, we will see..

Also, Hyde's sells there OWN practice pad....humm..

How about Frank Corniola!!? He's a great guy, and I think he would get it. I will send him an email, and maybe you can as well??

Thank YOU so much for believing in the P4 , and wanting to have it in Oz!

All my Best!

Pocket-full-of-gold

11-25-2009, 04:12 AM

Also, Hyde's sells there OWN practice pad....humm..

How about Frank Corniola!!? He's a great guy, and I think he would get it. I will send him an email, and maybe you can as well??

Thank YOU so much for believing in the P4 , and wanting to have it in Oz!

All my Best!

The Hydes model is just the 'old school' stock, standard rubber pad. Still have the one I bought over 20 years ago actually. But it's fair to say it doesn't even come close to any of the recent models and there is absolute daylight between it and the P4.

If Frank still heads up Drumtek, then I'll be swinging past that way this Saturday, so I can pop in and enquire then. To my knowledge they don't have a Ludwig distribution though......although I could well be wrong there too. Will keep you posted.

Cheers.

jasoncarroll

11-25-2009, 05:33 AM

jasonrhcp

11-25-2009, 02:55 PM

I always found the "grey" Real Feel way too bouncy.

Pat's Pad gives so many options. The next best feeling pad to me is the Aquarian, and it feels similiar to the P4 (the bottom level), not too bouncy..just right..

Pat Petrillo

11-26-2009, 04:24 PM

Thanks, Jason, glad you dig it..and that's why most people like it, for the variety, and for a little more money, you basically get 4 pads in one, with different feels.

Check out the new January issue of Modern Drummer, in the "New and Noteable" section, there is a picture and press release for the P4

robortwillys

11-27-2009, 08:28 AM

Hi,
Get a 'REMO' practice pad. You can but the entire set, like a drum set, or purchase them individually.
Here is a link to Remo. They are the most versatile, well-known worldwide and you can even tune the pads.

rootheart

11-27-2009, 03:19 PM

A duck feather pillow is a great addition to any practice pad. If you can play it on that, you can play it on anything.

yes..also using brushes on a folded newspaper...there is no cheating..you have to clearly "whip" any fast stroke to make it sound like something

rootheart

11-27-2009, 03:23 PM

you can as well try using your desk:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKhCreSMC88

Overg

11-27-2009, 06:26 PM

That's crazy!
I might buy some.

INSANE! I am going to buy it right now!
I already have sticks in my car, but was missing the pad....:)

Elvis

11-28-2009, 09:27 AM

For the same reason why people drop that kind of coin on a Cadillac or a Lexus or a Mercedes, when they can just by a cheap Ford. You get what you pay for, my man.
...and sometime you do get a deal.
This is why I (again) suggest you guys actually try out The Rudi-Pad (http://keres.meccahosting.com/~a00013db/), before you ignore it.

Elvis

Dipschmidt

11-28-2009, 09:30 AM

The new Ludwig P4 practice pad looks nice. 4 different types of rubber, and 3 levels.

nocTurnal

11-28-2009, 10:46 AM

...and sometime you do get a deal.
This is why I (again) suggest you guys actually try out The Rudi-Pad (http://keres.meccahosting.com/~a00013db/), before you ignore it.

Elvis

Looks pretty neat. Too bad it was overlooked in this thread. I can see how that would be an ideal practice pad for some situations. I'm not too sure about the website, though.

Pat Petrillo

11-28-2009, 04:05 PM

Thanks, Dip. Here is a video demo, for those of you who have NOT seen it yet..I'm proud of it, as it is beginning to gather alot of buzz and respect for it's uniqueness and educational value.

http://www.ludwig-drums.com/ludwigtv/player.php?url=p4pad.flv

It's in the new MD under "New and Noteable", as well.

Many 5 Star dealers are beginning to order it, finally!

Dipschmidt

11-28-2009, 09:40 PM

GRUNTERSDAD

11-28-2009, 09:53 PM

I know if I was looking for one, Pats video would have sold me. The four distinct sounds and feel look Great. Not to mention Pats skills moving around the pad are great. Best of luck with this.

jasonrhcp

11-30-2009, 12:40 AM

True, Gruntersdad. It's the bomb! Great fun..Hope you get your wish, Dipschmidt!

LinearDrummer

12-02-2009, 06:04 AM

I'd say the HQ Real Feel is the best drum pad...thats just my opinion. gives u great response, realistic bounce (feels like a snare drum), and its really quiet and doesn't disturb people in rooms next to you. plus they're pretty affordable.

Yes I agree I like the Reel Feel best too...when i'm on the pad I want to give my ears a break with something quiet and I like the bounce also.

I will say Pats P4 is an interesting concept that definitely has a market place...