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Electronic drum sets are generally much quieter than their acoustic counterparts, which can reach volumes of 90-130 dB. The sound of an electronic drum set comes primarily from pads made of rubber or mesh, which inherently produce less acoustic sound. The loudness of an electronic drum set will depend on several factors, including the type of drum heads, the use of a bass pedal beater, and whether the drummer is listening through headphones or speakers. While electronic drum sets are quieter, they are not completely silent, and can still produce some noise that may be audible to neighbours, especially in compact dwellings like apartments. However, there are several ways to minimise noise, such as using noise isolation flooring or a beaterless kick pedal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Loudness compared to acoustic drums | Quieter |
| Factors affecting loudness | Pad material, environment, playing style, speakers, pedals, drum heads, drumsticks |
| Volume | 60-65 dB |
| Volume in adjoining rooms | 30-40 dB |
| Volume in the room below | 60 dB |
| Volume reduction methods | Noise-reduction/low-noise pedals, noise eaters, noise isolation floors, drumstick silencer tips, beaterless kick pedal, soft beater pedal, platform under the pedal |
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What You'll Learn
Drum head material
The drum head material is an important factor in determining the loudness of an electric drum set. Drum heads are available in different materials, such as rubber and mesh. Rubber drum heads produce a louder and more solid sound when struck, while mesh heads are softer and more pliable, resulting in a quieter experience. The Roland TD-1DMK is a good option for those seeking a kit with mesh heads.
Mesh heads, such as those offered by Drum-tec, Roland, Remo, ATV, and Aquarian, are designed to reduce noise. They are made of synthetic mesh fibres that produce little to no resonant vibration. The impact of the stick on the mesh head is quieter than the sound of a stick impacting a rubber head. Additionally, mesh heads offer a more authentic feel and rebound, enhancing the overall playing experience.
The number of plies in a mesh head also affects the volume and feel. Single-ply mesh heads produce a higher volume with a very authentic rebound. Double-ply mesh heads have a moderate volume with excellent trigger characteristics and rebound. Triple-ply mesh heads, like the Drum-tec Real Feel series, offer a very authentic feel at low noise levels and perfect triggering results.
When choosing a drum head material, it's important to consider the type of drum. For example, bass drums with mesh heads may not be suitable for soft beaters as they can wear down the mesh fibres. In this case, a rubber head might be preferred.
The drum head material interacts with other components of the drum set, such as the pedals and speakers, to influence the overall loudness of the electric drum set. By choosing the appropriate combination of materials and components, drummers can customise their setup to achieve the desired volume and sound quality.
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Speakers
The loudness of an electric drum set is influenced by several factors, including the type of drum heads, the use of headphones or speakers, and the playing environment. Speakers play a crucial role in determining the overall volume of the electric drum set.
Firstly, let's talk about the type of speakers. The size and power of the speakers used with an electric drum set can significantly impact its loudness. Larger and more powerful speakers can amplify the sound to higher volumes. However, it's important to note that increasing the volume excessively might compromise sound quality. Therefore, selecting appropriate speakers that offer sufficient volume while maintaining sound integrity is essential.
Another factor to consider is the use of headphones. Electric drum sets often provide the option to connect headphones, allowing drummers to practice silently without disturbing others. This feature is particularly advantageous in noise-sensitive environments, such as apartments or shared living spaces. By using headphones, drummers can enjoy their playing experience without worrying about volume control.
Additionally, the playing environment and proximity to neighbours play a crucial role in perceived loudness. Even with controlled volumes, sound can travel through walls and floors, potentially reaching neighbouring residences. This transmission of sound can be more pronounced in certain structures, such as those with thin walls or inadequate sound insulation. Therefore, it is advisable to be mindful of the surroundings and take necessary measures, such as noise isolation techniques, to minimise the impact of sound on others.
To address volume control effectively, drummers can employ a combination of strategies. Firstly, utilising mesh heads instead of rubber pads can result in a quieter playing experience. Mesh heads are softer and less rigid, reducing the striking sound. Additionally, implementing noise-reduction techniques, such as noise-isolation flooring, can prevent sound transmission to neighbouring areas. This is especially beneficial for those living in apartments or close-knit communities.
In conclusion, speakers play a central role in the overall loudness of an electric drum set. By selecting appropriate speakers, utilising headphones when possible, and implementing noise-reduction strategies, drummers can effectively manage their volume levels and enjoy their playing experience while being mindful of their surroundings.
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Pedals
The overall loudness of an electric drum set is influenced by several factors, including the pad material, environment, and playing style. While the sound of the pedals contributes to the overall noise, there are ways to minimise it.
Electronic drum kits typically come with pedals for the kick drum and hi-hat. These pedals respond to foot pressure, translating it into electronic signals for the corresponding sound. While the sound of the pedals is generally quieter than that of acoustic drums, they can still produce noticeable thuds, vibrations, and squeaks. The type of beater used can also affect the volume, with hard plastic beaters tending to create more clanking and vibration.
To reduce the noise from the pedals, you can consider using noise-reduction or low-noise pedals. Soft beater pedals, for example, are an affordable option that can help lower the volume. Beaterless kick pedals are another solution, as they do not strike against a rubber pad, significantly minimising pedal noise. Additionally, placing the pedal on a platform or using noise isolation flooring can help prevent sound transfer to the floor below.
The playing technique can also impact the volume. Developing a more relaxed and controlled playing style can help keep the noise at a comfortable level. Adjustments such as using lighter drumsticks or mesh drum heads can further reduce the volume.
Overall, while the pedals of an electric drum set can contribute to the overall noise, there are several effective methods to minimise the sound and make it more suitable for home or apartment use.
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Playing technique
Electric drum sets are generally quieter than their acoustic counterparts. Acoustic drums can produce sounds ranging from 90 to 130 decibels, with an average of 119 dB. The loudest parts of an acoustic drum kit, the snare drum and cymbals, can cause hearing loss, especially in children.
Electric drum sets, on the other hand, typically produce around 60-65 dB of sound, which can be further minimised using various techniques and equipment adjustments. Here are some playing techniques to reduce the volume of your electric drum set:
Playing Style:
Adopting a more relaxed and controlled playing style can significantly reduce the volume of your electric drum set. Striking the drum pads with a lighter touch prevents excess sound from travelling through the environment. This technique is particularly important when playing on rubber or mesh pads, as these surfaces inherently produce less acoustic sound compared to metal cymbals and drum shells.
Drumsticks:
Using lighter drumsticks can effectively reduce the noise produced when hitting the drum pads. Lighter sticks create less impact and, therefore, generate lower volumes. Drummers can also experiment with different stick materials to find the optimal combination of sound and reduced volume.
Bass Drum Beater:
The bass drum beater can be a significant source of noise in an electric drum set. Opting for a soft beater pedal or a beaterless kick pedal can considerably reduce the volume. A spongy bass drum beater or a towel wrapped around the bass drum pad can also help minimise noise without sacrificing performance.
Pedals:
The hi-hat and bass drum pedals can produce low-frequency thuds, contributing to the overall noise level. Choosing noise-reduction or low-noise pedals can reduce the vibrations and sound caused by foot movements. Some bass pedals are designed to be quieter, so selecting the right pedal can make a noticeable difference in volume.
Speakers:
The size and type of speakers used with an electric drum set can impact the overall loudness. While larger and more powerful speakers can amplify the sound, excessive volume might affect sound quality. Using headphones is an excellent way to minimise noise, especially when practising in close proximity to others.
Drum Heads:
The type of drum heads can influence the volume of your electric drum set. Rubber drum heads tend to generate more noise due to their harder surface. Mesh heads, on the other hand, deliver a quieter experience as the soft and pliable material absorbs some of the impact, resulting in reduced volume.
Soundproofing:
While not directly related to playing technique, soundproofing can significantly reduce the impact of noise on your surroundings. Placing an isolation board under the drum set can minimise vibrations and prevent sound from travelling through the floor.
It is important to note that while electric drum sets are generally quieter, they still require appropriate technique to manage noise levels effectively. By combining the playing techniques mentioned above with soundproofing measures and equipment adjustments, drummers can enjoy their practice while maintaining positive relationships with their neighbours.
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Noise isolation
Soundproofing a room for an electric drum set can be a challenging task, but it is possible to achieve effective noise isolation with a combination of techniques and products. Here are some detailed instructions to help you get started:
Understand Soundproofing and Acoustics
Soundproofing involves blocking sound from transferring to another space, which is essential for maintaining peaceful relations with your neighbours. On the other hand, acoustics refers to improving sound quality within the room, creating better feedback for recording or personal enjoyment. Both aspects are important for a drum room, and they can be enhanced through various strategies.
Seal Gaps and Doors
Airflow spots like doors, windows, and vents can be significant sources of sound leakage. Seal any gaps in these areas with door seal kits and vent covers to prevent sound from escaping. However, be mindful that blocking these areas can reduce ventilation, so ensure proper breaks are taken when practising in a sealed room.
Use Sound-Absorbing Materials
Soft and thick materials like blankets, curtains, and rugs can help absorb and reduce the transmission of sound. Hang heavy curtains or thick moving blankets over windows and walls. Additionally, carpet the room or use rugs and drum rugs to cover the floor, especially underneath the drum kit, to dampen the vibrations and reduce noise.
Build a Room within a Room
For more extensive soundproofing, constructing a room within a room is highly effective. This involves building walls within the existing room and filling the gaps with sound-insulating materials like drywall and mass-loaded vinyl. This method creates a barrier that prevents sound waves from reaching the walls connected to the rest of the house.
Use Resilient Sound Isolation Clips
When soundproofing, consider using Resilient Sound Isolation Clips to minimise vibration transference. These clips are designed to dampen vibrations and can be a valuable addition to your soundproofing strategy.
Choose the Right Door
Most doors are hollow, allowing sound to travel through easily. Opt for a solid-core door, which is more effective at blocking sound but comes at a higher cost.
Elevate Your Drum Kit
Place your drum kit on an elevated platform to reduce direct vibration transfer to the floor. This can be a simple tennis ball drum riser or a more elaborate modular design with foam strips secured to its underside.
Soundproof Your Walls
Apply products like Green Glue and additional layers of denser, more absorbent materials like sheetrock to your walls. These products increase mass and help dampen sound waves.
Use Silicone Tips on Drumsticks
The sound of sticks hitting the drum pads can be mitigated by using silicone tips, such as Tama TCP20 Silent Tips, which dull the noise without eliminating it entirely.
Communicate with Neighbours
Before investing in soundproofing, have an open conversation with your neighbours to understand their tolerance for noise and any specific concerns they may have. Maintaining a good relationship and practising at reasonable hours can make a significant difference in managing noise complaints.
Remember, soundproofing can be a complex and costly process, so it's important to assess your needs and budget before undertaking any soundproofing project.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric drum sets are generally quieter than acoustic drum sets, which can reach volumes of 90-130 dB. Electric drum sets typically produce around 60-65 dB of sound, which can be further reduced by using headphones.
Several factors can influence the loudness of an electric drum set, such as the type of drum heads, the use of a bass pedal beater, and the size and type of speakers. Mesh heads are generally quieter than rubber heads, and using a beaterless kick pedal can help reduce noise.
The playing environment can also affect the loudness of an electric drum set. If you are playing in an apartment or a closed space, the sound may be more contained and less likely to disturb neighbours. However, in older houses or dwellings with thin walls, the sound may travel more easily.
Yes, there are several ways to reduce the noise of an electric drum set. Using noise-reduction pedals, noise isolation flooring, or drumstick silencer tips can help minimise the transmission of noise. Playing with a more relaxed and controlled style can also keep the noise at a comfortable level.
Electric drum sets are generally quieter than acoustic drum sets, as they do not produce the same level of resonance and vibrations. Acoustic drums can be heard in nearby rooms and even in houses a few away, while electric drum sets are more contained and can be played at low volumes with headphones.
