Electronic drum kits have revolutionized the way drummers practice, record, and perform. One of the main advantages of electronic drum kits over traditional acoustic drums is their reduced noise levels. This article explores how loud electronic drum kits are, comparing them to acoustic drums, examining the noise levels of different components, and providing solutions for mitigating noise.
Comparison with Acoustic Drums
Electronic drum kits are generally much quieter than acoustic drum kits. Acoustic drum sets can reach volumes as high as 135 dB, which is equivalent to the noise level of a jet engine during takeoff. In contrast, electronic drum kits typically stay around 60-65 dB when not plugged into an amplifier. This significant difference in volume impacts both the playing experience and the surrounding environment.
Playing Experience
The reduced volume of electronic drum kits allows drummers to practice and perform without the need for ear protection, which is often necessary when playing acoustic drums. This can lead to longer practice sessions and a more comfortable playing experience. Additionally, electronic drum kits provide the option to use headphones, further reducing the sound heard by others and allowing for silent practice.
Surrounding Environment
For drummers living in apartments or shared spaces, the noise level of their instrument can be a significant concern. The quieter nature of electronic drum kits means that they are less likely to disturb neighbors or housemates compared to acoustic drums. However, while electronic drum kits are quieter, they are not completely silent, and some noise may still be heard, especially in adjoining rooms or floors.
Components and Noise Levels
Different components of an electronic drum kit contribute to the overall noise level. Understanding the noise produced by each component can help drummers manage and mitigate noise more effectively.
1. Snare and Tom Pads
Mesh Heads:
Mesh heads are designed to diffuse sound, making them much quieter than rubber pads. They provide a more realistic feel and are often preferred by drummers who want a quieter playing experience. However, even with mesh heads, the sound of snare and tom pads can still be heard in adjoining rooms or below, similar to someone talking loudly.
Rubber Pads:
Rubber pads are generally louder than mesh heads due to their hardness. The impact noise from hitting rubber pads can be significant, especially if the drum kit is placed on a hard surface. The sound of rubber pads can transfer through floors and walls, potentially causing disturbances.
2. Kick Pad/Pedal
The kick pedal is typically the loudest part of an electronic drum kit. When the beater hits the kick pad, it produces a reasonably loud sound, which can transfer to the room below (around 60 dB). This noise can be problematic for neighbors living below.
Solutions:
Noise Isolation Flooring: Placing the drum kit on noise isolation flooring or thick carpets can help absorb some of the impact noise from the kick pedal.
Beaterless Kick Pedals: Using a beaterless kick pedal or an electronic drum kit without a beater can significantly reduce the noise produced by the kick drum.
Electronic Drum Kits Without Beaters: Some electronic drum kits are designed without beaters, using sensors to detect foot pressure instead. These kits produce minimal noise from the kick pedal.
3. Cymbal Pads
Cymbal pads on electronic drum kits are usually made from rubber and are louder than mesh drum pads. However, since they are located higher up, the sound doesn’t transfer as much into the floor compared to the kick pad.
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Mitigating Noise
For drummers concerned about the noise levels of their electronic drum kits, there are several strategies and products available to help reduce noise.
1. Using Noise Reduction Techniques
Noise Isolation Flooring: Installing noise isolation flooring or placing thick carpets under the drum kit can help absorb vibrations and reduce noise transfer.
Drum Mats: Specialized drum mats are designed to reduce noise and vibrations, providing an additional layer of noise reduction.
Practice Pads: Using practice pads on top of drum pads can further reduce the noise level, making the electronic drum kit even quieter.
2. Beaterless Kick Pedals
Beaterless kick pedals are a popular solution for reducing the noise produced by the kick drum. These pedals use sensors to detect foot pressure instead of a beater hitting a pad, resulting in significantly less noise.
3. Electronic Drum Kits Without Beaters
Some electronic drum kits are designed without beaters altogether. These kits use advanced sensor technology to detect foot pressure and movement, eliminating the impact noise from a beater hitting a pad.
4. Considering Neighbors’ Living Arrangements
Being mindful of neighbors’ living arrangements can help minimize conflicts related to noise. If neighbors live directly below or adjacent to the practice area, it may be necessary to take extra measures to reduce noise.
Communicating with Neighbors: Informing neighbors about practice times and discussing potential noise issues can foster understanding and cooperation. Neighbors may be more accommodating if they know when to expect noise and can plan accordingly.
Adjusting Practice Times: Scheduling practice sessions at times when neighbors are less likely to be disturbed, such as during the day or early evening, can help minimize conflicts.
Conclusion
Electronic drum kits offer a quieter alternative to acoustic drums, making them ideal for drummers who need to practice in shared living spaces or avoid disturbing others. While they are generally quieter, electronic drum kits are not completely silent, and some noise can still be heard. Understanding the noise levels of different components and using noise reduction techniques can help drummers manage and mitigate noise effectively. By considering the impact on their playing experience and the surrounding environment, drummers can enjoy their electronic drum kits while maintaining harmony with their neighbors and housemates.
