Electronic Drum Pads

About Electronic Drum Pads

Electronic drum pads have become an essential tool for drummers and producers alike, offering a range of benefits over traditional acoustic drum kits. These compact and versatile instruments are capable of producing a wide variety of sounds, from classic drum kit sounds to electronic beats and percussion effects.

The history of drum pads dates back to the early 20th century when inventors first began experimenting with electronic percussion instruments. Early drum pads were simple affairs, consisting of a rubber or plastic pad that could be struck with a drumstick to produce a sound. However, as technology advanced, so did the capabilities and sophistication of drum pads, leading to modern devices like the Yamaha DTX-Multi 12 Digital Percussion Pad, which combines versatility and power in a single unit.

Drum pads can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and advantages. Some of the most common materials used in drum pads include rubber, silicone, and mesh. Mesh pads are often used alongside an acoustic drum kit setup, as they offer a similar feel and response to real drums. Silicone pads are more durable and can withstand heavy use, making them a popular choice for gigging musicians. Rubber pads offer a snappy stick response with confidence that your stroke has registered every time.

There are several variations of the electronic drum pad available to suit different settings and desires. Here are some of the most common types:

Sample pads: These are used for triggering pre-recorded samples and loops; particularly used in live performances. They often feature a range of buttons or square rubber pads that can be programmed to trigger a specific sound or effect.

Percussion pads: Similar to sample pads, percussion pads are designed to produce a variety of drum and percussion sounds. They may include built-in, pre-set sounds and effects or they can also be programmed to trigger custom samples and loops.

Tabletop drums: Compact and portable, tabletop drums are ideal for drummers on the go or beginners just learning the fundamental basics of drumming. They often feature a range of pads and controls laid out relatively close to how a typical drum kit would be set up that all provide a full drumming experience in a small package.

Three key uses for electronic drum pads are practice, performance and production.

Practice: Drum pads are an excellent tool for drummers looking to improve their skills and techniques. Electronic drum pads offer the same elements that typical practice pads do in which you can dial in your rudiments and playing techniques to transfer to a full-size kit.

Performance: Arguably one of the most popular reasons drummers opt for an electronic drum pad to perform all the sounds and effects that they have on their recorded songs, in real-time on stage. Most electronic drum pads offer a high level of portability for easy travelling between shows as well as an easy interface to upload and assign all your sounds to each pad.

Production: Another benefit of electronic drum pads is their ability to produce a wide variety of sounds and effects right out of the box. Sample pads and percussion pads can be used to create custom beats and sounds while tabletop drums can be used to directly record to any DAW via USB or MIDI in some cases.

Electronic Drum Pads FAQs

When were electronic drum pads invented?

Electronic drum pads were invented in the early 1970s by Graeme Edge, the drummer of The Moody Blues. The pad was designed to be triggered by a stick and operated using piezoelectric sensors that would convert the impact energy into an electrical signal. They have since evolved significantly to become the versatile and innovative instruments we know today.

Are electronic drum pads any good?

Yes, electronic drum pads are a great choice for drummers and musicians looking for a versatile, portable, and customizable percussion option. They offer a wide range of benefits over traditional acoustic drums, including the ability to produce a variety of sounds and effects. Electronic drum pads can also be great tools for practising and performing to really enhance any drumming sound and style.

What are electronic drum pads?

Electronic drum pads are compact, electronic percussion instruments that simulate the feel and sound of traditional acoustic drums. They trigger pre-recorded or synthesized sounds when struck with a drumstick, and offer advantages such as a wide range of sounds, quiet playing with headphones, and portability.