When it comes to playing drums and getting the best sounds, nothing works better than having the perfect gear and optimal drum accessories. And in this case, you need the best double bass pedals in the world.
The type of drum accessories such as drive pedals, beater, and its potential settings are hugely personal, and finding the best double bass pedal with the best chain drive can drastically impact the way you play even though most non-drummers have easily written off pedals as a simple combination of footboard and beater. After all, how many ways can there be to drive double pedal? To them, it probably seems as elemental as, step on the double pedal, and make some noise! But that assumption is wrong because there many different pedals on the market, with various features to suit each drummer’s taste
[elementor-template id=”8614″]
However, there are so many products on the market today; sometimes, it may become overwhelming to choose from the varieties. But in this guide, I am going to make things easy for you.
Getting the best bass pedal for your drum set determines how good you play. Playing the bass pedal drum is one of the popular techniques among many music genres, but metal head drummers employ it the most.
So, whether you are having trouble with your swivel and heel-toe, or you just want the top speeds, a good kick pedal for your drum set will sort you out.
Mapex 500
The Mapex 500 double pedal is perhaps the cheapest, and the most used double bass-drum pedal you will find out there.
The price of this pedal is so low that I was at first, not sure whether I should take it or not. But I had to try it anyway, and I discovered it was quite functional if not among the best double pedals.
Well, you cannot expect advanced features like replacing the cams that drive double chains or change its height on the pedal. But it offers a perfect getaway to start playing right away. The pedal does not come with many issues, for instance, the pedal configuration – like you would find in many advanced double bass pedals.
You can change the basic settings to your liking. An example of such is adjusting the spring tension or the beater’s height. Also, you can shift the beaters from the felt to the plastic surface. The earlier brings out a well-rounded sound while the latter makes a more pronounced, louder output.
The Mapex double bass pedal comes with a single chain control, and this differentiates it from more expensive double-kick pedals. A single chain means the board is attached to the beater using one chain drive mechanism, but there are other Mapex 500 that uses two chains to enhance speed. However, single-chain is for a cheaper pedal, while today’s best double chain is more expensive. However, both are independently still good to use, depending on your budget.
There have been complaints about their durability, although people still find them easy to control while their price tag remains affordable. In my case, I used them for quite a while without any big issues. But I would not recommend them for a speedy player as you cannot expect them to last much longer under a continuous speedy performance. These bass drum pedals are highly recommendable for beginners, in fact, it is considered the best double bass pedals for leaners. It will give them the muscles they need to work with more advanced double bass pedals. Conclusively, The Mapex 500 is definitely among the best double bass pedals of today’s market
Pearl Demonator (P932)
If you are looking for a better alternative to the Mapex bass drum pedal above, then this Pearl Demonator should be the pedal to invest in. I love this double kick pedal because it comes with the best features and value for your money.
Features of Pearl Demonator P932
One of the most incredible features of this P932 double kick is its chain drive designed for speed. The way this chain drive brings comfort to the feet is lovely. Even though you will not get the best speed control from it, the looks can motivate you to practice. I always encourage beginners to look at the features of their gear. Simple things like beautiful looks can go a long way.
Demonator is no doubt the best double bass pedal with an aesthetic look. This pedal comes with a longboard design and chain drive that is ideal for heel-toe double bass players. One of the most notable things about their product is the attention to detail throughout its production. You can make a fair amount of adjustments to the settings of this double bass drum pedal to get it in a prime position with tailored spring tension for rapid rebounds. The pedal is highly responsive when playing. The only downside to this type of double pedal is that it has only a single chain, but I think it is one of the best double bass pedals with a single-chain for the money as it offers a high-end experience for less.
It is configured with a felt and plastic tunable beater. It also comes with an adjustable beater height. It is considered to be among the best double bass pedal of this decades because of the advanced features of the pedal, which are:
- You can adjust its tension with a click at the bottom. This feature eliminates the stress of turning the screws. As a simple switch opens the lock, then you can spin the dial and close the lock.
- Also, it comes with offset and liner cam. Although the offset cam is not evenly shaped, which means you cannot get the even acceleration. But it gains towards the end of the stroke for a better kick sound.
As a drummer, you can easily leave out the offset cam. The liner cam in evenly shaped, and that should give you more control.
Pros:
- A great design
- For heel-toe players
- Click lock for frustration-free tension setting.
- Switch between offset and linear cam
- Direct drive pedals
Cons:
· Single chain
Tama Speed Cobra HP310
Just from the name, the Tama Speed Cobra gives you speedup pedals with pretty impressive affordable options. This is the little brother of the Cobra 910 pedal. The overwhelming feature of this double bass pedal is the spring drive under the board that increases rebound speed for faster tempos.
The most expensive version of this pedal comes with a difference in detail. And different beaters will provide you with different experiences. Also, the cobra coil really stands out.
If you’re looking for the best double bass pedal with a pro-quality combination of direct drive pedals and power, I’d suggest checking out for Tama speed Cobra.
These are excellent bass pedals-drum for fast double players. The Speed Cobra will get you more than 250 beats per minute.
Features
This is definitely among the great double bass pedals for the budget. It has features similar to the Peal Demonator, especially on the board. However, it is a bit longer compared to normal pedal, which gives you leverage for quick heel-toe action.
The footboard is a bit pulled back. This makes the Speed Cobra special because you will only need to use less force for a powerful kick. Likewise, it has an unusual light sprocket, lighter than normal. Therefore, it takes from you less power to operate with great endurance. That is perhaps everything you may need to get yourself the best drumming experience.
There is nothing special on the configuration aside that the pad allows the player to adjust the beater angle. Also, you can work on the spring tension or change the beater between the felt and the plastic.
Pros:
- It comes with improved footboard and a light cam sprockets that drive double chains faster.
- The longboard means quicker heel-toe doubles.
- Double chain gives it more responsiveness.
Cons:
· The cam is unchangeable.
Yamaha DFP-9500D
Yamaha is one of my favorite brands for music instruments, and most of their products come with cool names, including the Yamaha 9500 double-pedal. Apart from this, the Yamaha double pedal has other features you will never find in any other device like a direct drive. The Yamaha 9500 pedal comes with a sturdy metal that connects the footboard to the beater instead of the flexible chain that comes with other pedals. There is a perfect link from the start of the stroke to the end of the metal bridge of this Yamaha 9500. This feature gives it a better rebound than the double chain ones. A single chain is obviously the cheaper option.
Those who play with speeds of 250 beats per minute and more have given it many positive reviews. All this comes with a small-scale precision. The only issue with a direct drive pedal is that it can be hard to control when the tempo becomes slower, especially for those who play heel-up. It is, however, the best choice for heel-down players because it provides the power needed for heel-down playing.
So, it may not be as great as many advertise it unless you play with the right technique.
Other features
It is not only the chain drive that draws many drummers to this product but also the fact that players can adjust the beater tension and height. One can also turn the beater to play at the felt or plastic area.
It may not be that too exciting. However, this is everything a drummer will need to make their experience better.
About the price
Among the models I have reviewed above, this is the most expensive. I used to think it was perhaps because of the drive feature, but other double-chain drives cost much cheaper, yet with similar characteristics.
I tend to think there is nothing much that justifies this price only that Yamaha is a big brand, and maybe this is why the device seems to be on the higher side of the economic scale. However, it still offers value-for-money compared to high-end options. And the fact that it comes with the most functional features, you can tell it is a wonderful double bass pedal.
Pros:
- This is the cheapest direct-drive pedal on the market.
- The configurations are easy, including spring tension.
Cons:
- A bit too pricy
- The cam cannot be changed.
Pearl P2052C Eliminator
Pearl brands have a good reputation for drums and drum accessory production. No drummer can underestimate the multi-functionality of the P2052C Eliminator.
If you are looking for a bestselling double bass pedal on the current market, then you have one in this product.
And based on the price tag, it is truly a double-bass pedal for the money. It is designed and built from some of the most advanced technology with a host of radical improvements.
Pearl has invested greatly in technology for musical instruments. They use the highest craftsmanship in every product that comes on the market, and the best part is, it is a dual chain-driven pedal. One can easily see why it is a bit higher than the other on this list.
features
It features Pearls patented Click-Clock. This is a characteristic common with the Eliminator Redline series. The board comes with coating on the surface, giving it more grip. You will also experience the most unbelievable NiNja skateboard industry bearing. Many drummers enjoy these features, and this is the reason why you have a long queue for them on the market.
It has a four-sided quad control beaters which increase options for your playing. You can play in different positions.
Again, the spring suspension is free-swinging. This makes them wonderfully smooth. The universal joints come with very quiet action.
One of the reasons I like this product above many others is that you can adjust it. Also, it could be the cheapest high-end double bass pedal on the market.
Pros:
- It comes with free-swinging suspension, hence a great response
- Redline surface for grip
- Silent universal joint
- Power shifter
Cons:
· It might be a bit for many users
DW 9000 series Double Bass Pedal
Anyone who has been in the drumming industry for a while will agree that the DW 9000 double bass could be the greatest feat of all bass pedal construction so far. Usually, this one pedal is often juxtaposed like dw 5000 vs dw 9000 or with other pedals.
I could not believe there could be such a great pedal on the market until I met the beast. The model has remained unchanged for over a decade; it retains its place at the top as the best among the best.
Playing this pedal feels great, especially with its sturdy operation. It is easy to see why. DW is an innovative brand with an ‘infinite adjustable cam.’ This means the player can change the cam fast and efficiently. Using this feature, you can create different playing feelings under your feet.
It comes with a patented floating swivel spring. This reduces the resistance between upstrokes and down-strokes, which all results in the smoothest response.
Features
- Highly stable, with the non-slip metal base
- A smooth feeling when you play
- Substantial under the foot.
- It is greatly versatile, making it favorable for everyone who enjoys jazz as well as prolific metal drumming.
Pros:
- The best double base on the market
- Near perfect engineering
- Weighs perfectly and smooth
- The most versatile pedals
- Sturdy construction
Cons:
Some players have complained of a heavy feeling under the foot.
Pearl Demon Drive
The Pearl Eliminator Demon is an iconic pedal. Pearl is a leader in the manufacture of many musical instruments. And this device does not disappoint. It comes with a direct drive linkage, which provides an excellent attachment between your ideas and the bass drum shell. According to Pearl, this is am ‘extension of your body.’
I could not underestimate this product. They offer a highly impressive fast-playing capability. The direct-drive linkage makes sure this happens. Also, it comes with other innovative features you may find quite inspiring. The ninja-bearings are so smooth. You won’t feel any glitch while playing. You’re going to experience the highest quality control with this product.
The core beater is designed to reduce vibration and deliver a perfectly organized bass drum beats. Also, it features a unique and innovative duo-deck longboard footboard. This features quickly helps you shift between the normal-sized footboard and a longboard as you prefer.
It also comes with extensive levels of adjustments, enabling you to tap into the best of both worlds. It does not matter the genre you are playing; you have at all under control.
Pros:
- Duo-deck longboard
- Direct drive
- Comes with high-tech features
Cons:
· Not every drummer enjoys the direct drive
Tama Speed Cobra
Tama’s product has never disappointed, and the Speed Cobra is no different. It is a ferociously powerful pad. It comes with a longboard, which means you get maximum power. You will feel a rapid acceleration on the power and speed without much struggle.
It comes with innovative characteristics, like Speedo Ring, Cobra Coil, and LiteSprocket. All these are geared towards improving your performance. Also, it is highly responsive.
Tama constructed this device with the highest quality materials. It features a highly robust base plate, and the para-clamp grips every bass drum hoop quickly. In my opinion, this is a powerful bass pedal for high power achievement using the least effort.
Pros:
- Good engineering
- Powerful and articulate kick strokes
- Powerful speeds
- Value for money
Cons:
· The design of the hoop clamp is quite disappointing
Trick Pro 1-V Bigfoot Double Bass Pedal
This is a simple, yet remarkably nice bass drum pedal. It has a cutting edge design that constantly drags this product to be among the best at a much reasonable price.
I have seen many remarkable double bass drum pedals and can say this is one of the best. It comes with a compression spring house in a small unit on either side of the frame. This feature helps the drummer make quick and easy adjustments on the tension and inadvertently enhances performance.
The shaft comes from solid titanium, aluminum, and steel components, which are quite sturdy. Also, It comes with an instant response, which is quite incredible. With such a response, you get zero latency between your brain and the bass drum.
For those of us who enjoy futuristic, advanced technologies, there is one in the product.
Pros:
- Top-notch technology
- Great speeds
- Fully customizable
- No latency
Cons:
- Not for versatile music genres
- Very expensive
- Technically complex
Axis Longboards X
Axis has built these double bass pedals for speed. The brand has been a market-leader for great longboard and direct drive pedals for over a decade.
This is a double kick pedal built from aircraft-grade aluminum and steel. These components tell all you need to know about the quality of this device.
It comes with a direct drive, which gives an excellent response to the bass drum shell. Besides, it is wonderfully smooth, fast, and consistent.
Pros:
- Made with US quality parts
- No latency responses
- Provides great fun when playing
- Pioneer longboard pedals
Cons:
- It is not compatible with all styles of music.
- Some drummers don’t like its design
- Its quality is not that great compared to the other on this list
The buying guide for double bass pedals
Double bass pedals have become extremely popular among drummers. And based on the products reviewed above, it is easy to see that there are all sorts of products on the market.
Hence, one needs to get nothing but the best. Consider the following.
Do I need a double bass pedal?
Every drummer that switches to double bass pedals is in for a wide range of benefits. These pedals are highly responsive, a feature that makes it easy to produce the desired sounds.
If you are a heavy metal drummer, then you will find the best use of the bass pedals. This type of music requires vigorous playing, with rapid-fire techniques. And this is why the pedals are very popular with rock drummers.
But for those who specialize in other genres of music, you may not need these pedals. But you can still use them to refine your skills.
What to consider when buying a double bass pedal
When you consider buying the best double bass pedal, you have to start with what you want to produce in the end. Consider the following tips:
– Decide between Single-Chain and Double-Chain
The main difference between the two is responsiveness. A single chain is intended for different music genres. They are much cheaper yet applicable.
A double-chain bass pedal can be really nice for progressive metal. It is therefore recommended for lightning speeds.
– Ability to adjust the pedal
Whether you choose a single or double chain, never forget to look for adjustability. All double bass pedals require adjusting at some point.
Hence, its ability to change a few features will tell you whether it is what you are looking for. Yet, the level of adjustability varies from product to product.
High tension translates to an electric beater. But this may not be for you.
Check for accessories feeling and durability.
More expensive pedals come with a longer lifespan and wear and tear resistance. They mostly come with some nice accessories, but this varies from product to product.
Therefore, even when you are going for mid to low-budget sections, at least weigh your options in terms of features.
Also, you should not underestimate the importance of feeling. Double bass pedals don’t need breaking in a period that means if you have tweaked and adjusted everything, and yet the pedal doesn’t feel right, then it is not for you.
No matter the genre you are playing, the feel is paramount.
Final word
These are the best double bass drum pedals for your money and the features. With many options available, from double kick pedal with single chain drive to double chain drive, You will find the right choice depending on your needs. Any of the products will give you great playing experience. You only need to find your favorite pedal and invest wisely.
