Bass drum size

idk alex · #1 12-03-2009, 02:49 AM

Hey guys! The time has come and I am starting my build of my SJC Custom kit very soon.
However, I am torn on choosing my bass drum size.
My two thoughts are 14x24 and 14x26 and then Ive been thinking of 16x26. Don't flame me but would the different tone be that much different? I am worried about my attack/sustain with such a short depth also. Obviously the 14x26 would be a tick deeper than the 14x24 but would it be that much different?

I really cant decide, I dont think I can go wrong with either. But if Im going to drop the big bucks on a custom kit I might as well think it through and do it right.

My style, Probably I am closest to the style of Aaron Gillespie. He is probably my favorite drummer out there and if you dont know him, he is the founder/drummer of underoath. He is the person who got me thinking into the 14x26 bass drum since he uses that on his new truth kit and it sounds pretty nasty and looks sick. I also have a lot of influence from Andrew Forseman of the fall of troy and Matt Mingus of Dance Gavin Dance.

Any thoughts or comments would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

alparrott · #2 12-03-2009, 03:39 AM

I would normally advise someone in your predicament to listen to and play the different sizes in question, because that is really how you'll make the best decision. Unfortunately, neither of those sizes is very common "in nature".

Seems to me that the 14" drum would have quicker decay and more pronounced attack (like a shallow tom); the 16" would have a tad more boom and possibly some presence (if you mike up, though, I think the difference would be minimal).

idk alex · #3 12-03-2009, 04:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alparrott

I would normally advise someone in your predicament to listen to and play the different sizes in question, because that is really how you'll make the best decision. Unfortunately, neither of those sizes is very common "in nature".

Seems to me that the 14" drum would have quicker decay and more pronounced attack (like a shallow tom); the 16" would have a tad more boom and possibly some presence (if you mike up, though, I think the difference would be minimal).

Yeah that is the problem, If I could find one to test it out, believe me I would. But even just listening is hard. Any drum can sound good mic'd. I just want to hear true acousticness, when Im not mic'd.

alparrott · #4 12-03-2009, 05:44 AM

Here's something that you probably could try: since 26" kicks are hard to find, you might wish to compare 24" kicks in 14 and 16 inch depths. The same differences in sound you experience there, will probably be similar on a 26" kick.

My personal opinion is that with that much vibrating drumhead, 2 inches of diameter is only going to make a very slight difference out front, whether miked or not. The primary difference will probably be in feel, i.e. two inches extra of air moving through the drum with every stroke. (I know you won't have a hole in the reso head if you're going for a 26" kick, right?)

dxtrinc · #5 12-03-2009, 05:52 AM

Hey idk alex

I recently played a USA Grestch 24X14 kick and is my favorite kick size of all time now (besides my 20X20).

A lot of guys will tell you that you loose the long boom of the drum but most everyone is using 2 ply heads and pillows inside. Think about the fact that Evans and Remos biggest sellers are the EMAD and PowerSonic with come pre-dampened to the 9's so it doesnt matter anyways.

What you will get is a kik with lots of punchy attack, healthy amounts of low end and basically "that" sound that every drummer in the world loves to hear. Its basically controlled low end. Much like the 20X20 but just different. I'd also suggest a wooden beater cause it'll sound incredible!

I say go for it man! If Aaron plays it can it really be that bad?

God Bless,

dxtr

MikeM · #6 12-03-2009, 07:46 AM

I gotta throw my vote to the 24x14 also. I had two Tama bass drums in a past life: one was a 24x14 and the other a 24x16. Both sounded great.

After those, I went to a 22x16 on one kit, then to a 22x18 on another. As I moved closer to cannon style kicks, I heard them get boomier, but at the expense of articulation. That seems to be the trade-off. So now I'm back to a shorter-is-better mindset.

I can also see a couple advantages to the 24 over the 26, and they are playability related. The first is that the action you get off the head gets harder to control as diameter increases.

The other is where do you put your rack tom and how much distance between it and your floor tom are you cool with? I personally prefer a rack tom that is more over the kick than off to my left, primarily because I don't like a long reach between rack and floor. A rack up on a 26 is going to be really tough to reach and I'm just too lazy for that. But even if the rack is off to the left, it's going to be even further from the floor with a 26.

I don't think the sound difference between a 26 and a 24 offsets those playability issues. Mostly what you get with a 26 over the 24 is a look and some bragging rights.

aksjfkadsn · #7 12-03-2009, 08:04 AM

Seems to me that the 14" drum would have quicker decay and more pronounced attack (like a shallow tom); the 16" would have a tad more boom and possibly some presence (if you mike up, though, I think the difference would be minimal).
__________________
Organisme de credit a la consommation | Organisme maison de credit immobilier | Organisme de rachat de credit en ligne

MikeM · #8 12-03-2009, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aksjfkadsn

Seems to me that the 14" drum would have quicker decay and more pronounced attack (like a shallow tom); the 16" would have a tad more boom and possibly some presence (if you mike up, though, I think the difference would be minimal).
__________________
Organisme de credit a la consommation | Organisme maison de credit immobilier | Organisme de rachat de credit en ligne

That was original. Should this be a spam alert?

harryconway · #9 12-03-2009, 08:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

Obviously the 14x26 would be a tick deeper than the 14x24 but would it be that much different?

Yes, there is .....but by your logic, a 14x24 would "only be a tick deeper" than a 14x22, so why not just get a 22" kick. I've owned and played 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 inch kicks. Currently, I run a 22x14 or a 26x14. Best of both worlds.

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

... style of Aaron Gillespie. He is probably my favorite drummer out there and if you dont know him, he is the founder/drummer of underoath. He is the person who got me thinking into the 14x26 bass drum since he uses that on his new truth kit and it sounds pretty nasty and looks sick.

And it looks like you want a 26". If the pro cats you admire, and are influenced by, drive 26's, that answers your question. Those guys have the cash. They don't "have to settle" for "anything less". Why should you?

idk alex · #10 12-03-2009, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikeM

I gotta throw my vote to the 24x14 also. I had two Tama bass drums in a past life: one was a 24x14 and the other a 24x16. Both sounded great.

Thanks for all the replies guys, Im leaning towards the 14x24. And I am planning to have a 6" hole on the reso side. Currently I play a 18x22 and I like it a lot. But Im just trying to branch out and experiment. I do have the cash to fork over for the 26 since it would only be about 50 dollars more expensive than the 24.

How did you like the 24x16? I was considering this last night also.

And if you couldnt tell, I am a big fan of the aesthetics of the drumset, hence why Im to go custom. I love the 26x14 in looks but i think it might look a little too big, its a monster.

And my rack tom set up right now is to the left of my bass drum with maybe an 1/8 of the tom over the bass drum.

Thanks for all the replies guys

Evilbagua · #11 12-03-2009, 09:58 PM

I have 3 bass drums 24x16 26x16 and 28x16. I guess you can say I dig the 16 inch depth :) I play metal I find all 3 more than fine for that. I will say the bigger you get the farther away a tom will probably be.I run anything from a 14x12 to a 15x14 in a snare stand and people complain they can't play my kit with the 28 because how far to the left the rack tom is.

Mathew 7:21 · #12 12-03-2009, 11:10 PM

I just got my first 26 back in June and hate the head selection for it. Ive had every size from 20 to 24s and I gotta say in the end the 22 is my favorite.

Evilbagua · #13 12-04-2009, 01:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mathew 7:21

I just got my first 26 back in June and hate the head selection for it. Ive had every size from 20 to 24s and I gotta say in the end the 22 is my favorite.

I agree trying to find many different heads for a 26 and my 28 can be a P.I.T.A.
I stick to Aquarian SK II's on all 3 of my bass drums. It took months for Remo to send my drum shop a 28 reso, that was lame waiting so long, and it's going on over 18 months for an aquarian reso head they ordered. I was there when they ordered it and there when they called Aquarian multiple times. I suppose some day years from now it may come and I'll be happy lol.

idk alex · #14 12-04-2009, 03:07 AM

Im definatly going with a 24, there are a lot of reasons for me to stay away from the 26. Just need to figure out the depth. After playing my drums tonight, I love them but I dont really like that 18" depth, its a little too long and isnt too my liking. Im so stoked for this

idk alex · #15 12-04-2009, 04:48 AM

So I think Im going to stick with the 14x24, but i was thinking of switching my tom size from a 16x16 to a 14x16...
Any thoughts? Will I notice a difference?

dxtrinc · #16 12-04-2009, 04:54 AM

Hey again idk alex

It'll be the same idea as the kick. Low end because of the diameter but tighter and with a nicer attack because of the depth. I've had great success while tuning 14X16's i dig them a lot. I actually play a 13X15 which is the same idea but a little smaller obviously.

God Bless,

dxtr

idk alex · #17 12-04-2009, 04:54 AM

edit:how did this double post

Thanks man! Thats what Im thinking, Im glad I remembered this. Ahh now on to the paint code :D
So right now my drums stand as

14x24 kick
8x13 rack tom
14x16 floor tom
16x18 floor tom.

MikeM · #18 12-04-2009, 04:56 AM

I don't think you've said anything about the rest of the kit your ordering. What is the configuration exactly?

idk alex · #19 12-04-2009, 05:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikeM

I don't think you've said anything about the rest of the kit your ordering. What is the configuration exactly?

look down one post

14x24 kick
8x13 rack tom
14x16 floor tom
16x18 floor tom.

MikeM · #20 12-04-2009, 05:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

look down one post

14x24 kick
8x13 rack tom
14x16 floor tom
16x18 floor tom.

Wierd, that wasn't there when I started to type... I didn't think! Anyway.

That's a cool setup. It's similar to mine and even closer to the set I wish I had.

I have a 9x13/14x15/16x18/18x22. The only changes I would make to my kit would be going to a 14x24 kick, and 14x16 first floor. But sometimes I think my 9x13 is too shallow (it can get "bonky" when cranked too tight - to use a Bun E. Carlos term!) and think it could use another inch: a 10x13.

So the only thing I would change on the kit you're ordering, and of course this is just my personal preference, is the rack tom: while I like short for kick drums, I'm not as comfortable going short on rack toms. A 13" can actually make use of the tone from that extra depth and not get so lost as with a kick. A little more depth will also get it proportioned more closely to the floor toms.

idk alex · #21 12-04-2009, 05:54 AM

Hmm I'm glad we think alike! Now paying for this is gonna be fun lol... But anyways
hmm, I am coming from a 8x12 rack tom. I love that drum. Probably my favorite drum ive had on my two kits. I love the feel/tonal qualities I get from it. Just sometimes wish it was tick deeper. Thats why Im comfortable with the 8x13. But I will definatly take that into account. But right now my kick is an 18x22 and I just started noticing while writing with my band tonight, a lot about it.

This drum set has changed a lot since I first started planning it. It started as a 4 piece and now grew into a 5 piece.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikeM

Wierd, that wasn't there when I started to type... I didn't think! Anyway.

That's a cool setup. It's similar to mine and even closer to the set I wish I had.

I have a 9x13/14x15/16x18/18x22. The only changes I would make to my kit would be going to a 14x24 kick, and 14x16 first floor. But sometimes I think my 9x13 is too shallow (it can get "bonky" when cranked too tight - to use a Bun E. Carlos term!) and think it could use another inch: a 10x13.

So the only thing I would change on the kit you're ordering, and of course this is just my personal preference, is the rack tom: while I like short for kick drums, I'm not as comfortable going short on rack toms. A 13" can actually make use of the tone from that extra depth and not get so lost as with a kick. A little more depth will also get it proportioned more closely to the floor toms.

idk alex · #22 12-04-2009, 05:59 AM

on a side note how do you like your 16x18? There might be a chance im not going to be able to afford that. So I might just live without it. But I realllllllly would like to purchase this, It would complete this kit for me.

MikeM · #23 12-04-2009, 07:39 AM

I like my 16x18 okay. But honestly, it's not the best 18" floor tom I've ever heard. It's an 8-ply Keller maple shell (which is what SJC uses). Instead of a nice big fat rich full sounding drum, it's a lot more on the "thud" side. Microphones still love it, but from where I'm sitting, it's not the funnest to play on and it's pretty hard to get it tuned right.

I had a Ludwig Classic before this one which was a much thicker maple/poplar shell. It was much fuller and rounder sounding.

And before that, I had a Tama Superstar (circa 1985) which was birch and also fairly thick. It sounded very strong with lots of body.

I have a little theory that thin maple (or thin anything) doesn't work as well for large floor toms. They just start sounding like kick drums. Maybe that's why 18"s are a lot less common than they used to be.

If you do get the means to get an 18", I would find out what your options are for shell thickness, and seriously consider going thicker for the floor if you can. At least do some research on it.

idk alex · #24 12-04-2009, 09:15 PM

hmm good to know, I might hold off of in it then. I can always go back and buy it. Im having to sell a lot of things and picking up another part time job to help fund for this.

The main reason why I wanted it is for fills. Sometimes I feel like my the extra tom would be nice to finish the roll/fill

Quote:

Originally Posted by MikeM

I like my 16x18 okay. But honestly, it's not the best 18" floor tom I've ever heard. It's an 8-ply Keller maple shell (which is what SJC uses). Instead of a nice big fat rich full sounding drum, it's a lot more on the "thud" side. Microphones still love it, but from where I'm sitting, it's not the funnest to play on and it's pretty hard to get it tuned right.

I had a Ludwig Classic before this one which was a much thicker maple/poplar shell. It was much fuller and rounder sounding.

And before that, I had a Tama Superstar (circa 1985) which was birch and also fairly thick. It sounded very strong with lots of body.

I have a little theory that thin maple (or thin anything) doesn't work as well for large floor toms. They just start sounding like kick drums. Maybe that's why 18"s are a lot less common than they used to be.

If you do get the means to get an 18", I would find out what your options are for shell thickness, and seriously consider going thicker for the floor if you can. At least do some research on it.

idk alex · #25 12-06-2009, 06:49 AM

Okay im super indecisive. I just saw a streaming concert of my favorite band and the 26" bass drum looks too sick to pass up.

Ordering next week

MikeM · #26 12-06-2009, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by harryconway

And it looks like you want a 26". If the pro cats you admire, and are influenced by, drive 26's, that answers your question. Those guys have the cash. They don't "have to settle" for "anything less". Why should you?

I think we have a winner! That's some good stuff, Harry!

idk alex · #27 12-06-2009, 09:32 PM

hmm, either an 18" floor tom or ordering a custom snare. Decisions decisions

razorx · #28 12-06-2009, 10:14 PM

The bigger the kick the bigger the boom you are going to get. A 26 will give you a huge cannon like sound. I suggest playing one if you already haven't It's a totally different feeling than a 22.

idk alex · #29 12-06-2009, 10:53 PM

I dont really have that option but Ill look in local shops/samash's/guitarcenters...

Any idea's with color scheme's
Im having trouble deciding >.<

Goonie for life · #30 12-07-2009, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

I dont really have that option but Ill look in local shops/samash's/guitarcenters...

Any idea's with color scheme's
Im having trouble deciding >.<

If you were going with acrylic I would go for the coke bottle blue colored kit arron used to have I loved that kit.

harryconway · #31 12-07-2009, 08:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

hmm, either an 18" floor tom or ordering a custom snare. Decisions decisions

I'd go with the 18" floor. Great combo, with a 26" kick. As just a 3 piece, I run a 26, 18, snare. Custom snares are cool to have, but unless you keep them for life ... you'll never get your money back out of one (usually). There are so many vintage and signature snares for sale right now. Any of those "will" hold their value, if you buy wise.

idk alex · #32 12-07-2009, 02:13 PM

yeah after looking up the price for a custom snare the way I want it. Hot damnnn.

But if I get this second job ill get the 16x18 and 14x26 but if i dont ill stick with the 14x24 probably. Idk Im too indecisive :p

idk alex · #33 12-10-2009, 01:25 AM

Just placed my order

idk alex · #34 02-09-2010, 03:02 AM

This new project i started put a demo up before we hit the studio later this month... Check it out and let me know what you think!!

myspace.com/arianovos

KarlCrafton · #35 02-09-2010, 03:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

Just placed my order

What did you finally get?

idk alex · #36 02-09-2010, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KarlCrafton

What did you finally get?

Size wise?

14x26 bass
8x13 rack tom
14x16 floor tom
16x18 floor tom.
8 ply maple

Redbeard · #37 03-02-2010, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idk alex

Im definatly going with a 24, there are a lot of reasons for me to stay away from the 26. Just need to figure out the depth. After playing my drums tonight, I love them but I dont really like that 18" depth, its a little too long and isnt too my liking. Im so stoked for this

Not to hijack, but I have similar questions and hate to start another thread.
The difference is I'm trying to decide between 22" and 24" bass. I realize all the above advice is still valid, but can I get some more comments on the effects of porting the resonant head? I've always played 22 (16 or 18 deep, but prefer the feel of 16) with ported reso, so my concern with going larger diameter is the difference in feel.
I guess my question is, if I like 22x16 should I stay with same depth with a 24, or should I go shallower to keep similar response? Again, the reso will be ported. This is for 60s/70s rock, Motown, and blues, so no fast double bass stuff. And the kit will be Ludwig Classic Maple with 13x9 and 16x14 toms for what it's worth.
Thanks for any help.

Also, idk alex, did you get your kit yet?

KarlCrafton · #38 03-02-2010, 10:25 PM

I'd stay with the depth you like now.
I wouldn't use larger than a 4" port. Off to the side will retain the most character and resonance of the drum.
The 16" depth will have a nice blend of attack, tone and oomph.

The larger 24" size might seem like it feels slower at first, but if you are thinking of going up in size, you must want the bigger sound and slightly lower tone.
You can adjust the feel by tweaking the batter up a touch--which is easier on a 24 than a 22.

It's not going to take very long to get used to the different drum (IMO).
It's not like you are going from a 22 to a 26. THAT would fell a whole lot different.

Good luck and have fun!

MikeM · #39 03-02-2010, 10:47 PM

I'm on a similar journey. I'm having my 22"x18" cut down this week to a nominal 22x14 (it will be closer to a 22x13.5 in the end). I really prefer shallower bass drums.

I'm also ordering a 24x14 this week. I used to have a 24x16 in a past life and it was great, but anything deeper than that is overkill IMO and takes away from how well you can hear your kick from your throne (the definition gets lost). I know the deeeep kicks have their fans, I'm just not one of them.

The 24" I'm stuck on - I can't order it until I decide between 8 and 10 ply (Keller maple). I started on thread on that, so feel free to reply to it!

Redbeard · #40 03-02-2010, 11:56 PM

Thanks guys! I'm leaning toward the 24x16, but I haven't been able to find one to play, so I'm just going on theoretical differences at this point. I know I like the 22x16 and it's a great all-around size, but you hit the nail on the head, Karl, when you said I want a slightly bigger sound and lower tone.
On the 14 vs 16" depth, I know 18 is too deep for my taste, but I worry about the fullness of the 14. I'm thinking I'd rather "tone down" the bigger drum if necessary, but am I making too much of the difference? I want more attack than boom, but still a full sound.