Setting up an electronic drum set like those from Simmons can seem complex, especially if you’re used to acoustic kits or if you’re new to drumming altogether. However, once you understand each component and follow a step-by-step process, assembling and customizing your Simmons electronic drum set becomes intuitive. Whether you’re preparing for practice, recording, or performance, the right setup ensures comfort, ergonomics, and maximum sound control.
This article will walk you through the complete process of setting up a Simmons electronic drum set, covering everything from unboxing to final configuration. By the end, you’ll have a well-assembled and fully functioning drum kit, ready for action.
Understanding Your Simmons Electronic Drum Set
Before you start the assembly, it’s crucial to understand what comes with a Simmons electronic drum set. Depending on the model (such as SD350, SD600, SD1250, etc.), the exact components may vary. However, most Simmons kits include the following core parts:
- Drum rack (mounting frame)
- Mesh or rubber drum pads (snare, toms, kick)
- Cymbal pads (hi-hat, crash, ride)
- Hi-hat controller pedal
- Kick pedal (may or may not be included)
- Drum module (also called the sound module or brain)
- Wiring harness or cable snake
- AC adapter and power supply
- Drumsticks
- Drum key and setup tools
- User manual or setup guide
Knowing each part helps you organize everything before assembly. Make sure to check the box and confirm you have all the listed items.
Step 1: Choose the Right Space and Surface
Your drum kit needs a solid, level surface. Avoid thick carpets (which can destabilize the rack) and uneven floors. An ideal space will also:
- Allow at least 5 ft x 5 ft of area.
- Be near a power outlet.
- Have minimal foot traffic.
- Offer good ventilation and lighting.
- Allow access to your amplifier or headphones.
For apartment dwellers or shared spaces, consider adding a rubber mat under the drum kit to reduce noise and vibration.
Step 2: Assemble the Drum Rack
Simmons racks usually come in pre-assembled sections, but some require more manual setup. Follow these steps:
- Lay out all rack pieces: Identify T-connectors, straight bars, and curved arms.
- Connect the horizontal and vertical bars to form the base frame.
- Tighten the clamps and joints using a drum key or Allen wrench.
- Attach the legs or stabilizers and make sure the rack is level and sturdy.
- Adjust the width and height of the rack to your general comfort.
Tip: Don’t overtighten the clamps initially. Leave room for adjustments later when you mount the pads.
Step 3: Mount the Drum Pads
Now it’s time to mount the drum pads:
Snare Drum Pad
Usually goes on a center clamp directly in front of you.
Should sit slightly above your thigh when seated.
Tilt it slightly forward for a natural hit angle.
Tom Pads
Mount tom pads around the snare.
Left-side tom (tom 1) sits close to the snare.
Right-side toms (2 and 3) fan out in a semi-circle.
Adjust each tom’s height and angle to reduce wrist strain.
Kick Drum Pad
Place the kick drum pad on the floor.
Secure it using its stabilizing legs or anchors.
Attach your kick pedal to the bottom section.
Cymbal Pads
Cymbals are mounted on arms attached to the rack.
The hi-hat cymbal usually goes on your left.
The crash cymbal is placed to your left-center or right.
The ride cymbal goes to your far right.
Angle cymbals slightly down to mimic acoustic placement.
Step 4: Set Up Pedals and Controller
Kick Pedal
Attach your kick pedal to the kick pad.
Adjust the beater so it strikes the center of the pad.
Ensure it rebounds smoothly.
Hi-Hat Controller Pedal
Position it to your left.
Plug it into the correct input on the drum module.
It should mimic the behavior of opening and closing real hi-hats.
Tip: Some Simmons kits let you use a real hi-hat stand for even more realistic response.
Step 5: Connect the Pads to the Drum Module
Now comes the brain of your Simmons electronic drum set—the drum module. Each pad and cymbal connects via cables.
Use the Cable Snake
Most Simmons kits include a labeled wiring harness or “snake”:
Match each cable to its labeled pad:
- SNARE, TOM1, TOM2, TOM3
- KICK
- HI-HAT, CRASH, RIDE
- HI-HAT CONTROL
Plug each cable into the back of the pad and into the correct module input.
Use cable clips to secure wires to the rack and avoid tangling.
Tip: Use velcro ties or cable sleeves for a cleaner setup.
Step 6: Power Up the Drum Module
Plug the AC adapter into the module and the wall outlet.
Turn on the drum module.
Confirm the power LED lights up.
If nothing turns on, double-check:
AC outlet functionality.
Whether the power cord is fully plugged in.
If there’s a power switch you missed (some models have small rocker switches).
Step 7: Test Each Drum and Cymbal Pad
Sit at the kit and hit each pad using your drumsticks.
The module should produce sound with each strike.
Use headphones or plug in an amplifier to monitor audio.
Test sensitivity and velocity response.
Make sure cymbals trigger edge, bow, or choke functions (if supported).
If any pad isn’t responding:
Check the connection to the drum module.
Make sure the input isn’t shared with another pad.
Test the cable with another working pad to isolate the issue.
Step 8: Adjust Pad Sensitivity and Trigger Settings
Simmons modules typically allow full control over pad sensitivity, crosstalk, and trigger thresholds.
Pad Sensitivity: Adjust how easily the pad triggers sound.
Threshold: Determines the minimum hit strength required.
Crosstalk: Helps eliminate false triggers from nearby pads.
Curve settings: Let you change velocity response curves.
Use the module’s menu to tweak each setting based on your playing style.
Step 9: Customize Your Drum Sounds
Simmons drum modules come with a wide range of kits and sounds:
- Rock, Pop, Jazz, EDM, and Custom kits.
- Layered and tunable sounds.
- Effects like reverb, delay, and compression.
Use the interface to:
Select preset kits or build your own.
Assign different drum samples to each pad.
Adjust tuning, decay, and EQ for each sound.
Step 10: Set Up Audio and MIDI Outputs
Depending on your needs, you can route the drum sounds in different ways:
- Headphones
- Plug in headphones for silent practice.
- Use volume controls on the module.
- Amplifier / PA System
Use the Line Out jack to connect to an amp or speaker.
Adjust master and individual pad volumes to balance levels.
Recording (MIDI/USB)
Most Simmons modules include MIDI or USB out.
Connect to a computer to trigger VST drum libraries.
Use DAWs like Logic Pro, Ableton, or Pro Tools.
Step 11: Final Adjustments and Comfort Check
Take time to fine-tune your setup:
Adjust pad and cymbal positions to reduce arm strain.
Check that your drum throne (seat) is at the right height.
Ensure your posture promotes long-term playability.
Play a full song and notice if anything feels out of place.
Remember: a comfortable setup improves your drumming endurance and helps avoid injury.
Maintenance Tips for Simmons Electronic Drums
To keep your Simmons electronic drum set performing well, regular care is key:
- Wipe down pads and cymbals with a dry cloth after each use.
- Keep cables tidy to avoid tension and damage.
- Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Update module firmware if new versions are available.
- Inspect connections monthly to ensure everything is snug.
With proper maintenance, your Simmons drum set can last for many years of regular use.
Common Setup Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced drummers can fall into common pitfalls when setting up electronic kits:
| Mistake | Solution |
| Pad cables plugged into wrong inputs | Double-check labels on the cable snake |
| Pads positioned too far or too close | Sit down and reach naturally before tightening clamps |
| Ignoring module calibration | Spend time adjusting pad sensitivity and threshold |
| Using incorrect power supply | Only use the Simmons-provided adapter |
| Ignoring latency or audio lag | Use wired headphones or an audio interface with low latency |
Advanced Tips for Pro Drummers
Once you’re comfortable with your Simmons electronic drum set, you can explore more advanced features:
- Layer samples to create hybrid acoustic/electronic sounds.
- Assign loops or one-shots to auxiliary pads.
- Use external MIDI pads or sample pads.
- Integrate with DAWs for live performance or studio recording.
- Record multi-track audio from each pad for better mixing control.
The Simmons drum ecosystem is designed to grow with you. Whether you’re a beginner learning stick technique or a professional drummer layering grooves for a tour, Simmons kits can meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a Simmons electronic drum set can be incredibly rewarding when done right. From unboxing to calibration, each step contributes to a more enjoyable and professional drum playing experience. With proper setup, you’ll benefit from greater comfort, better sound, and more creative flexibility.
Take your time, follow the steps, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The Simmons system is built for customization, and every drummer can tailor their kit to match their unique style and workflow. Whether you’re jamming in your bedroom, laying down tracks in a studio, or performing live, your Simmons electronic drum set is a powerful tool waiting to unleash your full musical potential.
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