One
of the biggest obstacles for a drummer is finding a place to play.
Obviously, drums are loud–which makes it very difficult to rock
out without annoying those living in close proximity.
Electronic
drum sets, however, were made for players who don’t
have access to practice spaces; apartment-dwellers and duplex-residents
alike can enjoy the quiet benefits of an electric set. Since the drums
produce sound electronically, they need an amplifier or speakers to
emit audio–which means drummers can choose to wear headphones
to hear their beat. Even those standing next to the player will only
hear the light tapping of drumsticks on plastic.
Electric drums work by sending an electric current through the head.
When something (like a drumstick) strikes the head, it changes the
voltage–sending a signal to a receiver. The receiver translates
these signals into digital waveforms, which become the desired percussive
sound assigned to each drum pad. Players can then broadcast the sounds
via amplifiers for a live performance or listen in on headphones.
Electronic drum sets emerged in the early 1970s, much to the credit
of rock and roll band, The Moody Blues. However, these early drums
only had approximate acoustic sounds, and they were mainly used for
various sound effects. During the 80s, the popularity of electric
drums rose with the amount of electronic music being produced at the
time. Many 80s hits include electronic drum sounds, but the “alternative
rock” that emerged in the early 90s shifted the focus back to
acoustic drums.
Recently, electronic drums have experienced a renaissance in both
popularity and quality. Now, heads on electric sets are as sensitive
and responsive as acoustic drums and players love the option of changing
the entire sound with a touch of a button. Roland’s V-Drum series
revolutionized the striking surface by replacing solid-plastic discs
with a plastic mesh pulled taut (similar to a trampoline). One of
their most popular models, the TD-12K, includes mesh heads all around
(including an upgraded, 10” snare drum for easy-hitting), positional
sensing for fine-tuned customization, and a choice of two colors:
white and black. Alesis, Ddrum, Pintech and Yamaha are other popular
companies that make electronic drums.
Electronic add-ons are also available for those who practice on an
acoustic set. Mixing electronic with organic sounds is a very good
way to give your band a very unique sound. Add-ons can be an actual
head that attaches to a regular set or a separate console–a
drum machine or sound pad. Drum machines also work well for solo acts
who like accompanying beats.
Electronic drum sets aren’t for everyone. Many rock drummers
still prefer the organic sound of an acoustic set and the therapeutic
satisfaction of rocking out on a loud instrument. But for those who
don’t always have the opportunity to make big noise, an electric
set is perfect.