Drum Triggers?

Question

I want to mount some triggers on my drumset. what do I need?

Answer 1

There a couple of this you would need. First, you have to decide what kind of trigger you would like. I would recommend something like the pintech dingbat or nimrod. These can mount on any cymbal stand or pole like structure. If you are looking to trigger your drums themselves then there are roland triggers that are really cheap. The pintech triggers range from 50 to 80 dollars. The next thing is you need a drum module. I use the Alexis D4, this module is exactly what electronic drumsets use for the sounds. This module is worth about 300 dollars. You might have to shop around for this because you can get it cheap if you look hard enough. But, any kind of module you want, they all will do good. Third, is you need chords for the connections to the triggers and then an amp for power(I use just a 400 watt crown rack mount. Google if you dont know what this is), and then a PA system. Obviously so you can generate enough volume to match you acoustic kit. It isn't the easiest thing to do, but if you have the money and you would like to add flavor to your drumset. Its worth it.

Answer 2

First check to see if modifying your drums will void any warranty you might have on them. Second, when you purchase the triggers, ask the person you are buying them from if the instructions and supplies needed are included in the manual. Ask to see the manual and make sure that information is in there. Next, take a close look at that manual and ask yourself if this job is easy enough to do at home. Ask the clerk how much it would cost to have it done at the store. Two advantages to having it done in the repair shop:

1. Much less likely to void any warranty

2. Much more likely that the frame of the drum shell survives

Of course the disadvantage is the cost. If you determine that this is a job you can do yourself, make sure that you lay out all of the tools and parts before you begin. There is nothing more frustrating than having to quit in the middle of a job because you don't have a Phillips head screwdriver or a screw is missing.

You may have a friend who has already done this and it is perfectly acceptable to ask them to ride shotgun on the repair. It wouldn't hurt to contact the manufacturer of the drum set by internet or mail, and ask them which triggers they recommend. There may be triggers that do not require that you modify the set at all. Make sure that they do not come loose easily, or create a rattle that you can't live with. Hope this helps.