The size of the unit, the ability to use it with headphones, and the ability to divide beats into smaller constituent parts are all factors to consider when choosing the best drum metronome. Drummers should also think about the device’s user interface, with simplicity being generally regarded as a plus. Some metronomes also use an LED light that blinks in time to show the beat being produced. This is beneficial for visual learners and can also be used to assess a drummer’s natural sense of rhythm. The first beat of a bar is also started with a different tone on high-quality drum metronomes to provide a “accent” that can be recognized the drummer.
The most important consideration when selecting a drum metronome is whether the drummer can hear it over the sound of acoustic drums. Buyers should look for units that either support the use of headphones or have a powerful speaker. Acoustic drums cannot be made quieter without the use of cover pads, which the majority of drummers do not employ. This means that a drum metronome with a bad speaker will be completely inaudible. To address this problem, cheaper metronomes may include a headphone jack.
The first beat of a bar is often started with a slightly different sound on more expensive drum metronomes. This is an important feature to look for because it allows drummers to keep track of where each bar begins. Drum beats are usually organized into bars, and the accentuated beat serves as a useful reference for drummers. This is especially helpful when the drummer is learning a new part and needs to know when a new bar begins.
For most drummers, a digital drum metronome is preferable to a mechanical one. While mechanical metronomes are more easily recognized, digital metronomes are generally easier to use and more accurate. A mechanical drum metronome’s pendulum can provide a non-audio beat cue, but some digital metronomes also have an LED light. This light blinks with each beat, giving you a visual cue that isn’t reliant on sound. This is useful for drummers who don’t have headphones or want to put their timekeeping skills to the test.
Drum metronomes are used players who have difficulty keeping time with their playing. For most players, metronomes that can split individual beats into eighth and sixteenth notes are preferable. Drummers can use this to get a better idea of when they should be hitting which drum. This feature is especially helpful when learning a new drum beat.