[jhilldrums]

Quick note, next time you hear a rattle, always hit your snare strainer off and see if it stops. You'll find mounting a cymbal from you tom mount off your bass will make cymbal noise etc. Yes, put a rug down. It will lessen the strain you put on your bass spurs and shell and it wont slide away when you use the spurs. What kind of drums did you buy? Some cheap snares are very difficult to stop ratteling, others aren't. Some expensive ones are tough too. It will all come with practice, and experimenting, and whats best is you'll find your sound, learn alot and be able to help others here with the same issues. Good luck!