Trystan Casey
Electronic drums are a modern alternative to acoustic drum kits. They consist of an electronic sound module that produces synthesised or sampled percussion sounds and a set of pads that resemble drums and cymbals. The pads are equipped with electronic sensors that send a signal to the sound module, which then outputs a sound. The two main types of drum heads for electronic drums are mesh and rubber. Mesh drum heads are typically made from a tightly woven material that simulates the feel of an acoustic drum skin, while rubber pads are denser and firmer and offer a more cost-effective solution. The choice between mesh and rubber drum heads depends on factors such as durability, performance, sound, and feel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Rubber or mesh |
| Cost | Rubber is more cost-effective |
| Durability | Rubber is more durable and rugged |
| Maintenance | Rubber requires less maintenance |
| Sound | Rubber is louder |
| Rebound | Rubber has less rebound |
| Feel | Rubber has a firmer feel |
| Comfort | Mesh is more comfortable and easier on the wrists and arms |
| Response | Mesh offers better dynamics and response |
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What You'll Learn
Rubber pads are more affordable and durable
When it comes to choosing between mesh and rubber pads for your electronic drums, there are several factors to consider, including cost, durability, and playing experience. While mesh heads offer a more realistic rebound and a range of rebound characteristics, rubber pads are more affordable and durable.
Rubber pads are typically more cost-effective than mesh heads. Many budget entry-level electronic kits are made entirely of rubber pads, which helps to keep the overall cost down. For example, the Roland TD-1K, the Carlsbro Commander 130, and the Tourtech TT-12S are all electronic drum kits with rubber pads that cost under £365. In comparison, mesh heads are more expensive due to the material and technology involved.
In terms of durability, rubber pads are known for their ruggedness and can endure more aggressive playing styles and environments. They offer a consistent response and are less susceptible to damage compared to mesh heads, which may require more careful handling to prevent damage. Additionally, rubber pads require less maintenance over time, making them a low-maintenance option for drummers.
While mesh heads offer a more realistic rebound and are easier on the wrists and arms, rubber pads have their own unique benefits. They provide a familiar "practice pad" feel and are more compact, making them ideal for drummers with limited space or those who need to pack away their kits after use. Rubber pads also have a slimmer build, allowing for easy folding and storage on rack systems.
It's worth noting that the playing experience of rubber pads may vary depending on the exact rubber material, thickness, and robustness. Some drummers may experience fatigue in their hands and wrists due to the firmer feel of rubber pads. However, rubber pads offer a durable and cost-effective option for drummers, especially those just starting their drumming journey or working with a limited budget.
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Mesh heads offer a quieter, more realistic rebound
The choice between mesh and rubber pads for electronic drums is critical as it affects the durability, performance, sound, and feel of the instrument. Mesh heads offer a quieter and more realistic rebound than rubber pads.
Mesh heads are typically made from a tightly woven material that simulates the give and feel of an acoustic drum skin. They are designed to mimic an acoustic drum's response, offering a more realistic rebound and a range of rebound characteristics. The woven material provides a responsive surface, giving you a stick feel that closely resembles that of acoustic drums. This resemblance helps in retaining muscle memory and technique.
The realistic rebound of mesh heads is due to their ability to be tensioned to different degrees, just like traditional drum skins. This allows for a customised playing feel, with more "give" when struck. They also present some additional creative options and allow for the capture of nuances in your playing.
In contrast, rubber pads have a firmer feel and less dynamic response. They are denser and firmer, which might not provide the same level of comfort as mesh heads, potentially impacting the feel and endurance during extended play. Some drummers complain of fatigue in their hands and wrists after playing for too long on a kit with rubber pads.
Additionally, mesh heads are generally quieter than rubber pads. Rubber pads sound louder as they transfer more vibration to the rack and into the floor. This can be a problem if you are playing in a noise-sensitive environment, as the vibrations can also travel to other pads, causing crosstalk. Mesh heads, on the other hand, reduce the stick-to-hand fatigue and bring the noise down, making them a better choice for quieter practice sessions.
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Rubber pads are denser and firmer, impacting endurance
When it comes to choosing between mesh and rubber pads for electronic drums, there are several factors to consider, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style. One of the critical differences is the firmness and density of the pads, which can significantly impact the playing experience and endurance.
Rubber pads are denser and firmer compared to mesh heads, which are typically made from a tightly woven material designed to emulate the feel and response of an acoustic drum skin. This firmness and density give rubber pads their ruggedness and durability, allowing them to withstand more aggressive playing styles and environments. They are less prone to damage from mishandling, and their longevity makes them a cost-effective option.
However, the denser and firmer nature of rubber pads can also impact the comfort and endurance of the player. Some drummers have reported experiencing fatigue in their hands and wrists after prolonged play on rubber pads due to their hardness. This discomfort may affect a player's endurance and ability to play for extended periods.
In contrast, mesh heads offer a softer and more realistic rebound, reducing the impact on the player's wrists and arms. This makes mesh heads a more comfortable option for long playing sessions, potentially improving endurance and reducing the risk of fatigue or injury.
It's worth noting that the specific feel of rubber pads can vary depending on the exact rubber material, thickness, and robustness. Different types of rubber pads are available, such as gum rubber and foam rubber, each with unique characteristics that can influence the playing experience and endurance.
Ultimately, the choice between mesh and rubber pads depends on the individual's preferences, budget, and playing style. While rubber pads offer durability and cost-effectiveness, mesh heads provide a more comfortable and realistic playing experience, which may be preferable for extended practice sessions.
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Mesh heads have better sensitivity and response
Mesh heads are a modern alternative to acoustic drum kits. They are designed to emulate the response, feel and rebound of traditional acoustic drum skins. Mesh heads are considered to have better sensitivity and response than rubber pads.
Mesh heads are made from a double layer of taut woven mesh fibres, fitted with several electronic sensors or triggers. The sensors detect the vibration of the drummer's impact and convert strain to a voltage which can be measured by the electronics. The sensors are embedded in a silicone or rubber pad or cymbal, or attached to the underside of a drumhead.
Mesh heads have a more "realistic rebound" and transfer of wider acoustic drum techniques. They are also more accurate in size, which makes them a good choice for those who swap between an acoustic and electronic set regularly. Mesh heads are also high-end, with more advanced integrated technology, which picks up every nuance of your playing.
When compared to rubber pads, mesh heads have a better response and feel more like acoustic drums. Mesh heads can be tensioned to suit your preferred level of stick rebound, benefiting your unique playing style. They are also quieter than rubber pads, which makes them a better choice for home use.
However, mesh heads are more expensive than rubber pads due to the material and technology used. They are also not as compact as rubber pads, which are generally smaller and more portable.
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Rubber pads are compact and suitable for small spaces
When it comes to choosing an electronic drum kit, one of the most important considerations is space. If you're working with a small area, such as a practice space or a home setup, you'll want to choose a kit that has a compact design and a small footprint. This is where rubber pads have a clear advantage over other options.
Rubber pads are known for their compactness and space-saving design. They are typically much smaller in size compared to mesh drum heads and other alternatives. This makes them ideal for drummers who have limited space to work with. The slim build of rubber pads allows for easy folding and storage, ensuring that they can fit into tight spaces. Whether you're setting up a home studio or practising in a confined area, rubber pads provide the flexibility and convenience needed to make the most of your available space.
In addition to their compact size, rubber pads offer a range of other benefits. They are generally more affordable than mesh heads, making them a cost-effective option for those on a budget. Rubber pads are also known for their durability and ruggedness, able to withstand aggressive playing styles and environments. This makes them a long-lasting investment, as they can endure frequent use without requiring frequent maintenance or replacement.
Another advantage of rubber pads is their compatibility with various setups. They can be easily integrated into existing acoustic kits, adding electronic sounds without taking up too much additional space. This versatility allows drummers to explore a range of sounds and expand their creative possibilities without sacrificing space.
While rubber pads excel in terms of space-saving and cost-effectiveness, it's important to consider the trade-offs. Rubber pads may not provide the same level of comfort as mesh heads during extended play due to their denser and firmer nature. They may result in fatigue in the hands and wrists, especially for those who play for long periods. Additionally, the rebound and response characteristics of rubber pads differ from those of mesh heads, which emulate the feel of acoustic drum skins more closely.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric drum rubbers are made of gum rubber, a durable material that offers a distinct stick response with lower amounts of noise.
Mesh drum pads are typically made from a double layer of taut woven mesh fibres, while rubber pads are denser and firmer. Mesh heads are designed to emulate the response, feel and rebound of traditional acoustic drum skins, while rubber pads offer a more cost-effective solution with a more compact design.
Rubber drum pads are more affordable and offer a durable, consistent response. They are also more rugged and can endure more aggressive playing styles and environments. Additionally, rubber pads are easier to fold away on rack systems, making them perfect for small practice spaces.
Rubber drum pads have a lower-quality feel and a reduced rebound compared to mesh heads. They are also harder, which can cause fatigue in the hands and wrists during long playing sessions. They are also louder than mesh pads, which can be an issue in noise-sensitive environments.
Examples of electronic drum kits with rubber pads include the Roland TD-1K, the Carlsbro Commander 130, and the Tourtech TT-12S, all of which are under £365.
