Dear Walfredo,

Let me start by saying that you are an excellent drummer that has a diverse drumming ability. My question is do you have any suggestions on how high my drum seat should be.

I use a Tama T410, and when I first got it, it gave me problems. I am 6ft tall and the stool sits about 20 1/2 from the top of the cushion. I finally got use to it but now it feels lopsided. Now I can't play the double bass patterns I used to be able to play. It feels like the seat cushion just starts giving actually making me lower than when I first started using it. I have had this same problem with other drum stools. It kind of drives me crazy because I can't do stuff that I was able to do just two weeks ago and it puts me in a funk mentally not wanting to play. Is there any ideas that you could give me that would help me out?

Sorry for the long question,

Thanks
Danny

Dear Danny,

Hi Danny,

Thanks for the compliments. I know what your frustration is & I hope I can help you.

The first time that I paid real attention to my Drum Throne as an equally important piece of my drum-set was when somebody asked Billy Cobham in a clinic "What is your secret to Double Bass drum playing?" and he answered "The way I seat". Then he went on to explain why it is important to have a good sturdy throne, correct posture, and a comfortable height. Many drummers dismiss the importance of seating. Four limbs going in all directions & your spinal chord counting on your ass for support!! Think about it. I can't do without the Roc & Soc Drum Throne by Gibraltar. It's red, Big, Sturdy, I can stand on top of it, it is Strong & my butt & legs love it! I highly recommend it.

As far as height, I find sitting in an L position most comfortable for me (vertical being my torso & horizontal being my legs). Try to experiment a little. Everybody is different and we go through changes ourselves, but give & take one or two inches in height, I seat in an L position. Experiment when you practice. When you sit down on your drumset it should be easily accessible to you without leaning to reach your drumset. Your Bass drum should not be far away from you. You should play by reaching everything effortless & relaxed, if you don't... stop... think... what can you change to make your life on the drumset easier.. then move stuff around... patience, play, practice, experiment.... patience.... then have LOT'S of fun making music with your drums!!

Hope this helps a little!!

06/01

Mike Muldoon writes:

Dear Mr Reyes

I am wondering about using Renaissance heads on my timbales (14" & 15" ) and see that you are using them. I have not heard the heads at all but the description of them sounds interesting. What is it you like about the heads as opposed to weather king Ambasadors or Diplomats ? Thanks so much for your time.

God Bless You and Yours
Mike Muldoon

Hi Mike,

I like the Renaissance heads on the hi timbale & on snare drums also. I still don't know how to describe the difference in words but they sound ....a bit warmer. The Ambassador Clear on the timbales I like allot (on the LP's 14 & 15) , they have more attack than the Renaissance, & for live they are more powerful. I play timbales with drumsticks so they last. The Diplomats are great if you are using timbale sticks & not playing very loud (they are thinner, but beautiful). They are all great, really. I like the variety between them depending on what music I am playing. Other timbaleros that play in quieter authentic bands use the Fiberskin heads to get closer to the calf head sound.

Some heads sound good with specific drums & not as good with others. It is a matter of experimenting allot. It really is an art, otherwise everybody would sound the same! I know what sounds the best on my drums based on what I have experienced with them, but I still love to experiment because you just never know what you're going to find! Don't be afraid to experiment with heads & tuning.

I hope I helped you a bit.

06/01