Direct vs. Chain Single Pedals

MaximusDukusErectus · #1 (**permalink**) 02-21-2010, 12:44 AM

Being a novice,but my son and I learning..I decided on the Gibralter 9611 Direct Drive pedal.What are the benefits to a "DD PEDAL" as opposed to the Chain(2) pedals.Have I purchased a good pedal for a beginner?I wanted to ask before purchasing but I got so wrapped up in all the goodies for my son that I purchased this pedal without consulting. bad decision?

butter · #2 (**permalink**) 02-21-2010, 03:25 PM

im not sure if there is much difference in using it as a beginner or as advanced, but either way its a sweet pedal. the only thing i would advise is not to let your son use the double pedal too much while he is learning. i think i got my first double too soon, after like 2 years. i know people that waited 5 or 6 years and still think they got it too soon. if you let him use it this early, just make sure you stress CONTROL. your son probably isnt into fast metal kind of stuff, but just dont let him focus on speed before control. i am learning the rudiments on my feet right now, and its helping me immensely. anyway, thats my advice. double pedals are really fun, but you can develop bad habits when you teach yourself

so, direct drive pedals are alot more responsive than chain drives. im not really sure how good this pedal is in the long run, ive only used one once. it seemed pretty nice, i was going pretty fast with it, but it seems too good to be true, as it is a double kick DD pedal for only $250 or so.
my DW 7002s were $250 and they are chain drive... i just wonder about it.

i wouldnt worry about anything, though. you probably made a great choice

tamazildjian · #3 (**permalink**) 02-21-2010, 03:42 PM

It looks similar to the Pearl demon drive. I thought the the Pearl demon drive had a lighter feel when a guy at guitar center thought I should try it.I didn't really like the pearl but I have only ever used chain drive pedals. Sounds like you got yourself a nice pedal. If you like how it feels then it was a good purchase.

Buddy · #4 (**permalink**) 02-22-2010, 11:23 AM

Chain- just like a bicycle chain. A single chain is usually found on cheaper bass drum pedals while a double chain is used on more expensive ones. Why? The higher priced pedals are made to operate smoother and more solid. A second chain provides better control throughout the motion.

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Strap/Belt- this is a piece of flexible material that may be nylon, polyethylene coated fabric, or various other materials that have the same strength and flex. The picture to the right gives an exmple of a strap drive train.

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Solid Shaft- a solid piece of metal that connects the by pedal by means of specially designed fittings. The famous Ludwig Speedking pedal is shown to the left.

MaximusDukusErectus · #5 (**permalink**) 02-23-2010, 02:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by butter

im not sure if there is much difference in using it as a beginner or as advanced, but either way its a sweet pedal. the only thing i would advise is not to let your son use the double pedal too much while he is learning. i think i got my first double too soon, after like 2 years. i know people that waited 5 or 6 years and still think they got it too soon.

i wouldnt worry about anything, though. you probably made a great choice

Butter,I decided on the single,so he could walk before he runs.I do NOT teach my son anything or correct him(unless he is not holding his sticks correctly)I have no intention of teaching him all my bad habits.....that is why a friend is making time each week to teach my son/reteach me.The more I investagate,the more I see da big dogs with their chain driven pedals....makes me wonder.

butter · #6 (**permalink**) 02-24-2010, 03:35 PM

ah good thing

im sure either way he will be a good drummer.

which "big dogs" are you looking at?

Pyrochazm · #7 (**permalink**) 02-27-2010, 04:29 PM

I've tried most of the chain drive and direct drive pedals, and the main difference is power v speed. Chain drive pedals always seem to have considerably more power to them , while the direct drives are more speed oriented. You'll find that most of the super psycho speed metal drummers play axis direct drives and use triggers.

resonut · #8 (**permalink**) 03-27-2010, 02:36 PM

^^^ I think this guy said it best.

drumn00b · #9 (**permalink**) 03-27-2010, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pyrochazm

I've tried most of the chain drive and direct drive pedals, and the main difference is power v speed. Chain drive pedals always seem to have considerably more power to them , while the direct drives are more speed oriented. You'll find that most of the super psycho speed metal drummers play axis direct drives and use triggers.

I was actually think of this yesterday, in the exact same way. I love my direct pedal, because I can do triplets easily, but I was using a chain pedal yesterday, and the sound it great! I'd love to have both, but I'm focusing on different things right now, like cymbals, so I'm OK with my direct pedal!
Oh ya, I was also thinking: do any companies make direct double bass, or just lighter beaters? I was using one the other day, and all my technique was wasted, because the were too heavy, and I love doing double notes and triplets on one foot, and it sounds really cool with two feet.

Pyrochazm · #10 (**permalink**) 03-28-2010, 02:54 PM

All of the hardware companies that i can think of make a double version of their pedals. As far a lighter beaters go, I highly reccomend the DW Hardcore beaters.