The bass drum, often referred to as the heartbeat of a drum set, plays a crucial role in providing depth and rhythm to the music. However, the sound it produces can sometimes be too resonant or produce unwanted overtones, which can interfere with the overall quality of the mix. To address these issues, many drummers place a pillow inside the bass drum. This technique, though simple, is widely used in both live performances and studio recordings to control the sound and enhance the quality of the bass drum tone.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why drummers put a pillow in the bass drum, how this technique impacts sound quality, and the different methods and alternatives for dampening the bass drum. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to adjust the level of dampening to achieve the desired sound, and how this technique can influence playing style.
Why Do Drummers Put a Pillow in the Bass Drum?
Placing a pillow, or any other dampening material, inside the bass drum serves a specific purpose: to control the resonance and reduce the sustain of the drum. Bass drums, by their nature, produce a deep, booming sound with significant resonance. While this may be desirable in certain musical styles, many drummers find that the natural resonance of an undampened bass drum can lead to an excessively “boomy” sound with too much sustain. This can make the drum sound muddy or overpowering, especially in more controlled settings like studio recordings.
The pillow acts as a dampening agent, absorbing some of the vibrations inside the drum and reducing the amount of time the drumhead continues to vibrate after being struck. This results in a shorter, tighter sound with less sustain, which is often described as “punchy.” The punchy sound is favored in many modern music genres, particularly rock, pop, and metal, where a quick, powerful bass drum hit is more desirable than a long, resonant one.
In essence, using a pillow in the bass drum helps to:
Reduce resonance: It minimizes the drum’s natural tendency to resonate for a prolonged period.
Shorten sustain: It decreases the length of time the drum produces sound after being struck.
Create a punchier sound: It gives the bass drum a tighter, more focused tone, which can enhance the overall mix in both live and recorded settings.
Sound Quality
Dampening the bass drum with a pillow can greatly improve the sound quality by minimizing unwanted overtones and producing a more focused bass drum tone. When a drum is struck, the drumhead vibrates and produces a sound, but these vibrations can also cause overtones—additional, higher-pitched sounds that may clash with the desired low-end punch of the bass drum.
By using a pillow to dampen the drum, drummers can reduce or eliminate these overtones, creating a cleaner, more controlled sound. This is particularly important in studio recordings, where clarity and precision are key. The last thing a drummer wants is for the bass drum to muddy the mix with excessive resonance or errant frequencies.
The sound quality benefits of using a pillow inside the bass drum include:
More focused low-end: The bass drum’s fundamental frequency is emphasized, leading to a cleaner and more defined low-end sound.
Reduced overtones: Unwanted higher-frequency sounds are minimized, preventing them from interfering with other instruments in the mix.
Better mixability: A punchier bass drum sound is easier to mix with other instruments, allowing the kick drum to cut through the mix without overpowering other elements.
For live performances, controlling the resonance of the bass drum can also help prevent sound from “bleeding” into other microphones on stage, ensuring that the bass drum sound remains distinct and isolated. In genres that rely on a driving, percussive rhythm, such as rock or metal, a tight, punchy bass drum sound can provide the rhythmic foundation that keeps the music grounded.
Common Techniques for Dampening
While placing a pillow inside the bass drum is one of the most common dampening techniques, there are several methods that drummers use to control the sound of their bass drums. Each method has its own benefits, and the choice of dampening technique depends on the drummer’s personal preference, the style of music being played, and the specific sound they are trying to achieve.
Pillow or Blanket
The most straightforward approach is to place a pillow or blanket inside the bass drum. The pillow or blanket is typically positioned so that it touches either the batter head (the head that the beater strikes) or the resonant head (the opposite drumhead), or both. This helps absorb vibrations and dampen the sound.
The advantage of using a pillow or blanket is its simplicity. Most drummers already have these materials on hand, and it is easy to adjust the amount of dampening by changing the position of the pillow or adding/removing layers.
Foam or Soft Material
Another common method involves using foam or other soft materials to dampen the bass drum. Foam is often cut to fit inside the drum and is positioned against the drumhead in the same way a pillow would be. Foam can offer a more even dampening effect compared to a pillow and may be easier to secure inside the drum to prevent movement.
Some companies even sell pre-made foam dampeners designed specifically for bass drums. These are shaped to fit snugly inside the drum and provide consistent dampening across the entire surface of the drumhead.
Dampening Pads
Specialized dampening pads, such as those made by Remo or Evans, are designed specifically for drum dampening. These pads are made of soft, absorbent materials and are placed either inside the bass drum or mounted on the outside of the drumhead. They are designed to reduce resonance and sustain while maintaining the fundamental tone of the drum.
Dampening pads are often preferred by drummers who want a more consistent sound across different playing environments. They are also easy to remove or adjust, making them a convenient option for drummers who frequently switch between different styles of music or performance settings.
Felt Strips
A more traditional method of dampening, especially in jazz drumming, involves using felt strips. A felt strip is placed across the drumhead, usually under tension, to provide dampening without completely deadening the drum. This method allows the bass drum to maintain some resonance while still controlling the sustain and overtones.
Felt strips are popular among drummers who want a more vintage sound, as they provide a subtler dampening effect compared to pillows or foam.
SEE ALSO: How Tight Should Drum Heads Be?
Adjusting Dampening to Achieve Desired Sound
Achieving the perfect bass drum sound is a matter of trial and error, as every drum and playing environment is different. One of the advantages of using a pillow or other dampening material is that the amount of dampening can be easily adjusted to suit the drummer’s preferences.
Positioning the Pillow
The positioning of the pillow inside the bass drum plays a crucial role in determining the sound. Here are some tips for adjusting the level of dampening based on pillow placement:
Against the batter head: Placing the pillow against the batter head (the head that the beater strikes) will provide maximum dampening and result in a very tight, controlled sound. This is often preferred in studio settings or for drummers who want a very short, punchy bass drum sound.
Against the resonant head: Positioning the pillow against the resonant head (the opposite drumhead) will dampen the resonance but allow for a slightly more open sound than placing it against the batter head. This setup is often used in live performances where some resonance is desired, but not excessive sustain.
Between the heads: For a balanced sound, drummers can position the pillow so that it touches both the batter head and the resonant head. This provides a moderate amount of dampening, reducing sustain while still allowing the bass drum to produce a full-bodied sound.
Adjusting for Different Genres
The amount of dampening required can also vary depending on the genre of music being played. For example:
Rock/Metal: In these genres, a very tight, punchy bass drum sound is often preferred. Drummers may choose to use a larger pillow or position it directly against the batter head for maximum dampening.
Jazz: Jazz drummers often prefer a more open, resonant bass drum sound. Using a felt strip or a small amount of foam may be enough to control overtones without completely deadening the drum.
Pop: In pop music, a balanced bass drum sound is often desirable. Drummers may choose to place the pillow so that it touches both drumheads or use a medium-sized dampening pad.
Impact on Playing Style
The use of dampening techniques, such as placing a pillow in the bass drum, can also impact a drummer’s playing style. A dampened bass drum produces a more controlled, precise sound, which allows the drummer to execute fast, intricate bass drum patterns with greater clarity.
In genres that rely on fast, percussive bass drum hits, such as metal or punk, having a punchy, dampened bass drum can help the drummer maintain precision and ensure that each note is clearly defined. The tighter sound also makes it easier for the bass drum to “cut through” the mix, ensuring it remains audible even in high-energy performances with loud guitars and vocals.
In contrast, an undampened bass drum with more resonance can lead to a looser, more flowing sound, which may be preferred in genres like jazz or world music, where the bass drum serves a more dynamic, rhythmic role.
Alternatives to Pillows
While placing a pillow inside the bass drum is a common and effective dampening method, there are several alternatives that drummers can use to achieve similar results.
EQ Pads
EQ pads, such as the popular Evans EQ Pad, are designed to be placed inside the bass drum and provide adjustable dampening. These pads are often made of dense foam and can be repositioned to fine-tune the level of dampening, making them a versatile option for drummers.
Built-in Drumhead Dampening Systems
Some modern drumheads, like those from the Remo Powerstroke or Evans EMAD series, come with built-in dampening systems. These heads are designed with additional layers or materials that help control resonance and sustain, reducing the need for additional dampening materials inside the drum.
Felt Strips and Tape
Drummers can also experiment with felt strips or tape on the outside of the bass drumhead to achieve a similar effect to using a pillow. This method allows for dampening without occupying space inside the drum, which can be beneficial for drummers who prefer a more open sound.
Practical Tips for Trying Out Dampening Techniques
Finding the best dampening technique for your bass drum is a personal journey that involves experimentation. Here are some practical tips to help you discover the ideal setup for your playing style and preferences:
Start with the Basics: Begin by placing a pillow inside the bass drum and experiment with different positions. Try it against the batter head, resonant head, and both, noting how each position affects the sound.
Adjust Gradually: Make small adjustments to the dampening materials and listen closely to the changes in sound. Don’t hesitate to try different types of pillows, blankets, or foam materials.
Record Your Sound: If possible, record your bass drum sound using different dampening techniques. Listening back will help you identify the nuances of each setup and choose the one that fits best for your music.
Consider the Venue: Remember that the acoustics of the venue can significantly impact your bass drum sound. What works in a studio may not translate the same way in a live setting. Be prepared to adjust your dampening techniques based on the performance space.
Consult with Other Drummers: Sharing experiences and techniques with fellow drummers can provide valuable insights and ideas. Attend local jam sessions or drum clinics to gather tips on dampening from other musicians.
Trust Your Ears: Ultimately, the best dampening technique is the one that sounds good to you. Trust your instincts and choose the method that enhances your playing style and complements your musical genre.
Conclusion
Placing a pillow in the bass drum is a simple yet effective technique that allows drummers to control the resonance and sustain of their bass drum sound. By understanding the purpose of dampening and experimenting with various materials and placements, drummers can significantly improve their sound quality, achieve a punchier tone, and tailor their bass drum sound to fit their musical style. Whether through the use of pillows, foam, or specialized dampening systems, the goal remains the same: to produce a bass drum sound that enhances the overall musical experience. So, next time you hear that tight, punchy kick drum driving the rhythm, you can appreciate the thought and technique that went into achieving that perfect sound.
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