The best drum pad depends on a variety of factors, including skill level, playing style, and the skills that need to be improved. Drum pads are made of a variety of materials and range in price from a low-cost playing surface to moderately priced electronic drum pads that teach and record what is played for targeted training. Take some time to see what’s available at your local instrument store. Discuss your options with your teachers, band directors, and fellow drummers.
Most beginning drummers should begin with a single drum pad, either a stand-alone pad or one that is placed directly on the drum and serves as a sound dampener. Intermediate and advanced players should consider whether their main goal is to simulate a drum kit for quiet time or to improve stick control and rudiments. Depending on the situation, expandable kits may be considered. Electronic drum pads may be a good option for highly detailed and experienced drummers.
A drum pad as simple as a pillow or a phone book can be made at home, which is ideal for marching drummers. Drum pads made manufacturers can be tabletop or mounted on a stand, and they all have a drum head–like surface or a gum rubber surface. Because the surfaces react differently, it’s a good idea to experiment with them. Electronic drum pads and electronic drum sets can be used to hear a sound through headphones, and many of them can also be used to perform with the help of an amplification system. Metronomes, songs to play along with, and recording and playback are all included in specialized electronic drum pads, allowing for fine-tuning of skills and timing.
The type of instrument used, such as drumsticks or brushes, can also influence the choice of drum pads. If drumsticks are used, there are many options for drum pads. Drummers who need to practice with brushes, on the other hand, should seek out a drum pad with a real drum head or textured surface. Brushes don’t work well with rubber drum pads. A drum pad made of non-shiny cardboard that works well with brushes is an option.
Sound dampeners are drum pads that are directly applied to the drum and may be a better option for a large drum kit. Drum pads of various thicknesses are available, and there is a standard design for snare drums that has a thicker center and a super thin edge for various types of practice. Drummers on a budget can also turn their drums into drum pads inserting a pillow or some fabric inside them.