[gyutae]

Which would you guys prefer? Having 2 bass drums or 1 bass drum and a double bass pedal?

I would pick the double bass pedal because 2 bass drums would be a pain to lug around for gigs and would take up much more space. Carrying around 1 double bass drum pedal is easier than carrying around 2 huge bass drums.

Also, with 1 bass drum, you only need to tune it once whereas with the 2 bass drums you need to tune both of them to be approximately the same.

So what are the advantages of having 2 bass drums over just having the double bass pedal? I can't really see any clear ones.

[Davenhurst]

When playing fast double kick patterns using one drum and a double pedal, the head can become choked and each note won't necessarily ring true. Using two bass drums can eliminate this as each head has more chance to breath between notes and you get more of the sound of the actual drums.

[gyutae]

Oh okay that makes sense...
I guess I didn't think of that is because I'm not there yet with speed. Time to work on that double bass speed.

[Baumann]

I've also thought about this question...

I just don't actually understand why many pro-drummers use a double bass pedal? I mean, I'm sure they can afford 2 bass drums, and I don't think they carry all their stuff around themselves. I see many advantages in using 2 bass drums, so why only use one (apart from the money, carrying, etc.)?

[gyutae]

Originally Posted by Baumann

I've also thought about this question...

I just don't actually understand why many pro-drummers use a double bass pedal? I mean, I'm sure they can afford 2 bass drums, and I don't think they carry all their stuff around themselves. I see many advantages in using 2 bass drums, so why only use one (apart from the money, carrying, etc.)?

Some other things might be space restrictions on the stage or gig. It'd probaly be more economical to invest in a double bass pedal rather than 2 bass drums in case space is tight. Also, some drummers might like the feel of the double bass drum pedal better. All drummers are different. Finally, another reason can be setup. Some drummers might like having a certain setup with toms, cymbals, etc and having 2 bass drums might restrict that.

[skinslapper]

I decided to buy a second bass drum to improve the feel to my left foot. I prefer the feeling of my left foot as one unit with its own drum.

As a bonus, the subtle differences between sounds means I get much fuller sound when pounding out my two foot fills. I'm sure this is also partly to do with the problem of choking like Dave said.

Gigging is a *****. It doesn't take up much space (my floor area is actually smaller than most), but lugging it around sucks and sound guys do not appreciate the size of my kit. At least until they hear me play it. If I was going to tour I would definately go back to one, but as it is, I only gig about once a month, so I'll take as much limelight as I can get.

[AvengedDrummer]

Me personally I like a solid double pedal. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, I find one less drum to lug around to be a strong factor.

[DrummerMom]

Double pedal. easier to transport. However, two bass drums look better.

[notluomb55]

Yeah, I like having one bass drum. Although I think having two bass drums is more, "visually appealing", say if your playing on stage.

[guss]

double bass pedals... for life