Bass drum hoops are available in a variety of sizes and styles. They are mostly made of wood or metal. Maple or birch are the most common woods used to make bass drum hoops. Die-cast or flanged metal hoops are available. The type of hoop a drummer chooses affects the sound of the drum, and the type of hoop a drummer chooses is largely a matter of personal preference.
Drum hoops, also known as rims, have the primary function of holding the drumhead in place, providing even tension for tuning, and protecting the drum’s body. Aside from their functionality, the type of resonance they provide has an impact on the drum’s sound. Each of the three main types of bass drum hoops — die-cast, flanged, and wooden — has its own set of characteristics. Drummers recognize the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Maple or birch are the most common woods used to make wooden hoops. Maple is preferred many musicians because of its resonance, which they believe gives the drum a rich, well-rounded sound. Hoops made of wood are thicker and more rigid than those made of metal. Many drummers consider this to be a benefit because the drumhead is held with more tension, which aids tuning.
Metal drum hoops are preferred musicians looking for the least expensive and most practical drum hoops. These hoops are usually steel, brass, or chrome plated, and they give the drum a more appealing appearance. Flanged metal hoops are the most common, with multiple bends in the metal, usually three, through which a screw or rod is inserted, allowing the musician to adjust the rim itself. Bass drum hoops with flanges are typically thinner than those without. This increases their flexibility, but the drum may become more difficult to tune as a result.
Some musicians believe that the less expensive flanged hoops are less durable and produce a harsh sound rather than a warm, rich tone. As a result, die-cast bass drum hoops are sometimes used drummers. Manufacturers make these hoops pouring metal, usually steel or brass, into a mold that is precisely sized. The resulting hoop is thicker and more durable than the flanged variety, putting more tension on the head and making tuning easier. Many musicians also claim that the thicker metal lends itself to better resonance, resulting in a fuller sound from the drum.
Choosing the right hoop is largely a matter of personal preference for the drummer. Most musicians experiment with a variety of styles before settling on one that best suits their needs. Unless a music store specializes in drums, bass drum hoops are usually only available in small quantities. Despite this, there is a large selection available for purchase on the internet.