multi-rod sticks for softer setting

[jotman]

I am looking for a good pair of multi-rod sticks for an indoor jazz setting. can anyone recommend a good choice?

[Polymetrix1618]

I use the Pro-Mark rods. Go with the lightest or second lightest ones. I forgot their names. Another option is the Steve Smith Tala Wand, which is really quiet and feels a lot better than other rods. The one downside is that it breaks when you hit hard. The sticks have an outer layer of wooden dowels and an inner foam rod, but when you break enough of the rods the whole stick falls apart. I'm hitting harder than you though, so they should work out fine.

[alparrott]

+1 on the Pro-Marks. I can usually make a pair of Hot Rods (the 19 medium dowels banded together) last a year or two before they start shredding apart. then i throw a wrap of electrical tape on them and they're good for a little longer. Pro-Mark also makes several models for different applications and volumes, so you can tailor to your situation pretty readily.

[bermuda]

Keep in mind that multi-rods, while they may help reduce volume, do not sound like quiet sticks. They offer hard brush and textural sounds. And that's fine, if that's the sound you want.

If you want less volume and a proper stick sound, start with light sticks (Vic Firth and Regal Tip offer some nice 'jazz' models,) bring volume-appropriate cymbals (such as an 18" flat ride instead of a 24" mega-bell ride) use smaller drums (leave the Bonham kit at home,) and work on tuning (a bit lower tuning with a little damping will have less attack and therefore less perceived volume.) Of course you'll need to adjust your playing a little, but if you take these steps, you won't have to make radical changes, and can play more naturally.

Bermuda

[jotman]

I think these look good,

http://www.zildjian.com/EN-US/products/productDetail.ad2?catalogID=1034&typeID=0&productID=2240

[bermuda]

In that case, multi-rods might indeed work well. But you still may want to consider adding light sticks and a flat ride, particularly since you mentioned "ride definition". A stick in the right hand, multi-rod in the left?

Bermuda

[jotman]

yeah I here you, the only cymbals I'm using is an 18 inch ride (which is half decent), and 14 inch hats. I have only played there once, it's a small upstairs setting. Most of the music is standards, and sometimes they want funk/fusion, which i think think these mezzo rods look like they will work well for,

http://www.zildjian.com/EN-US/products/productDetail.ad2?catalogID=1034&typeID=0&productID=2240