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Bass Drums

Bass Drums at Drum Center of Portsmouth
From 16 inch jazz kicks to massive 26 inch rock drums - bass drums for every kit configuration.

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Bass Drums are referred to as "Kick" or "Kick Drum", which is the drum that sits on the floor and is struck with a bass drum pedal.  The Bass Drum is the foundation of all of the groove in modern drum set applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bass Drums FAQs

What is a bass drum?

A bass drum is the largest drum in a kit, played with a foot pedal to provide the rhythmic pulse and low-end punch. It's a foundational element of a standard drum kit.

What sizes of bass drums are standard?

Bass drums typically come in sizes from 16 inch (small jazz/bop kits) to 26 inch (large rock setups). The 22 inch bass drum is the most popular all-around size.

What shell materials affect tone?

Maple is warm and balanced; birch is bright with strong attack; mahogany is dark and resonant; bubinga is loud and focused. Each material lends its own character.

What heads should I use on a bass drum?

Head choice has a major impact on tone. Single-ply heads are bright and resonant; two-ply heads are warmer and more focused. Coated vs. clear changes attack character.

Should I buy individual bass drums or a full shell pack?

Shell packs are the most cost-effective way to get a matching kit. Individual bass drums make sense when expanding a kit or replacing one piece.

Which brands of bass drums does DCP carry?

Drum Center of Portsmouth stocks bass drums from the major drum makers — Pearl, DW, Tama, Gretsch, Ludwig, Sonor, Yamaha, and more.

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