Percussion Practice Pads Part 2 - Which One Is Best For You?

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n part one of this series of articles I described the two types of practice pads that are readily available through most merchants. In part two I will go into more detail in what makes these two styles different, and more specific details of each. To recap, the two types of pads are 1) the rubber top type, and 2) the standard drum head type.

Lets first examine the rubber top style pad
This style is the oldest type around, and offers the simplest design with two parts, the base and the rubber pad. Many people will remember the old style drum pad as a flat bottom piece of wood, with another piece of wood tilting up and secured to the bottom piece, with the rubber pad attached to that.
As mentioned previously, they are primarily made to provide the quietest sound, however many drummers prefer the feel over the drum head style pad. Nowadays, it is common to see these pads in shapes such as round, square, rectangular, and even octagonal, and can have varying thicknesses for the rubber, as well as base material. Most manufacturers use either natural rubber, or synthetic neoprene rubber, and both can provide a high quality drumming surface. Rubber thickness usually ranges from 1/8" to 1/4". This is an important feature as it does a lot to determine the volume produced, and will affect the feel or rebound as well. Generally, the better quality pads have 1/4" rubber as this provides the more solid, realistic bounce that drummers prefer. The color of the rubber is usually black or tan. The material used for the base is usually wood, or a wood composite, but it is common to see plastic as well. The heavier the overall pad, the better it plays, and the extra weight helps to keep the pad from moving around.
As with all drum pads, they are available in different size diameters. It is common for manufacturers to make pads 6" or 8", and up to 12" in diameter. There are also some inexpensive pads made with a 4" pad. Many people will prefer a larger diameter because it affords more room for playing, and this will help to simulate the feel of playing on a real snare drum. The smaller diameter pads generally weigh less are more convenient for carrying around. The problem with the smaller diameter pads is just that; smaller size equals less room for playing.
Now let's talk about the drum head style pad
Most drum head style pads are similar in construction. They have a base, usually made of plastic, padding material placed on the base, and then a drum head on top of that. The drum head and padding are then held in place by a plastic rim which is secured to the base with screws. These pads are often labeled as tunable, owing to the fact that the screws can be tightened or loosened, changing the tension on the drum head, and thereby changing the tone or sound that the pad produces. In this case, tuning does not refer to changing pit as much as adjusting the tone quality.
One notices immediately that a drum head style pad has a much louder sound than the rubber top pad. The reason behind using the drum head is to provide a surface that is as close to a real drum as possible, while still reducing the volume some, and providing a smaller unit for practice. As with the rubber top pads they come in various sizes, usually 6" or 8". Larger versions are also available. Because of the more complex construction of these pads they generally cost more than the rubber top style, however there are some very affordable models available. The drum head is what varies most from one manufacturer to the next. They will tend to use their own brand of drum head. Surface textures vary, some very smooth, some rough, and all in-between. This style does have features that the rubber top does not. It simulates the feel and appearance of a real drum, which some drummers like. The drum head also works well with brushes.
When making a decision on which pad to purchase you should really give both styles a quick tryout. The best thing to do is make a list of how and where you might want to use the pad, then go to a local music store and ask to try both styles. Then make your decision. It is not uncommon to have one of each; one for use at home, or during rehearsals, and another when the loudness is not an issue and you need to hear the patterns more clearly. Either way, you will invariable benefit from having a practice pad. It's easy to carry around with you and will inspire you to practice more often.
Now have fun playing!

Jamie Friedman, owner of MadPadz Percussion Products, and creator of The MadPad percussion practice pad, is an established musician and veteran educator with over 30 years of teaching experience. He encourages you to explore the many resources at http://www.MadPadz.com, and view his other articles for more valuable information.

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