Ever wished you had a bass drum with a slightly more unique sound, or perhaps a shallower depth than the standard? Or maybe you just have an extra 18″ floor tom lying around that isn’t getting any use. If any of this sounds familiar, then converting that floor tom into a bass drum could be the perfect solution for you. This DIY project might seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can achieve a surprising and satisfying result.
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This guide will walk you step-by-step through the process of converting an 18″ floor tom into a bass drum, exploring the necessary considerations, tools, and techniques required. We’ll delve into the potential benefits and limitations of this conversion, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect and how to get the best results. So, grab your toolbox and let’s dive in!
Why Convert a Floor Tom to a Bass Drum?
There are a number of reasons why you might want to turn your floor tom into a bass drum. For some, it’s about finding a unique sound. Converting a floor tom can give you a deeper, more resonant sound than a standard bass drum, or a more punchy attack if you prefer a shallower depth. Others might be looking for a budget-friendly option. Purchasing a new bass drum can be expensive, with the cost of high-end drums often reaching astronomical prices. Converting an old floor tom into a bass drum can be a much more affordable alternative, allowing you to experiment with different sounds without breaking the bank.
What You Need to Consider Before Starting
Before you jump into the conversion, it’s important to consider the following:
- The size and depth of your floor tom: An 18″ diameter is a great starting point – it’s a very common size for both floor toms and bass drums. However, the depth of the drum will greatly impact the final sound. A deeper floor tom will produce a fuller, more resonant sound, while a shallower drum will be more focused and punchy.
- The material of your floor tom: Different shell materials will impact the sound and aesthetic of your converted bass drum. Wooden shells tend to be warmer and more resonant, while acrylic shells offer a brighter and snappier tone.
- The hardware you plan to use: You’ll need to consider the size and type of bass drum pedal you’ll be using, as well as the mounting system for the beater and the bass drum legs.
- The overall sound you’re aiming for: Do you want a deep, booming sound or a more punchy, focused attack? Consider the type of music you play and the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve.
Essential Tools and Materials
Here’s a basic list of tools and materials you’ll need to get started:
- Floor tom: The foundation of your project. Make sure it’s in good condition and that the shell is not damaged or cracked.
- Bass drum pedal: Choose a pedal that fits your playing style and budget.
- Bass drum legs: These will provide a stable base for your converted bass drum.
- Beater: Select a beater that matches the sound you’re aiming for and complements the material of your drum.
- Mounting hardware: This will connect your bass drum pedal to the shell. A standard bass drum mounting system usually involves a hoop or plate attached to the shell, with a rod extending to connect the pedal.
- Screwdriver: For attaching hardware and making any necessary adjustments.
- Drill: For drilling holes for mounting hardware if necessary.
- Measuring tape: To ensure accurate placement of hardware and other components.
- Safety goggles: To protect your eyes during drilling and other tasks.
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The Conversion Process: Step-by-Step
Now that you have all the essential tools and materials, we can begin the conversion process. Here are the steps involved:
1. Prepare the Floor Tom
Start by removing the existing resonant head and tom head from the floor tom. If the drum has any existing hardware or mounting points, remove these as well. Make sure the shell is clean and free of dust, dirt, or debris, as this will make the rest of the conversion process much smoother and more precise.
2. Install the Bass Drum Pedal Mounting System
With the floor tom prepped, you can start installing the bass drum pedal mounting system. This might involve bolting a hoop or plate onto the shell, depending on the specific mounting system you’ve chosen. Ensure that the mounting system is securely attached and positioned in the center of the shell, as this will guarantee optimal alignment of the pedal and ensure proper balance.
3. Attach the Bass Drum Legs
The next step is to attach the bass drum legs to the shell. You’ll usually find mounting brackets on the legs that can be secured to the shell using screws or wingnuts. To ensure a stable base, position the legs so they are evenly spaced around the circumference of the shell. Make sure they are securely attached and that the drum is balanced and stable on its base.
4. Install the Beater
Now that the pedal and legs are in place, you can install the beater. The beater is usually attached to a rod that extends from the pedal, typically with a spring mechanism to provide tension and control. Secure the beater to the rod and make sure it’s positioned correctly so that it strikes the center of the bass drum head when you play.
5. Fit the Bass Drum Heads
Finally, it’s time to put on the bass drum heads. You’ll need two heads: a batter head, which is the main head that you hit, and a resonant head, which is the head on the opposite side of the shell. Choose heads that are appropriate for the size and depth of your converted bass drum and the sound you’re hoping to achieve. You can adjust the tension of the heads to fine-tune the sound. Start with a medium tension level, then adjust it up or down to achieve your desired tone.
Experimenting with Sound and Techniques
Once your floor tom has been converted into a bass drum, you can start experimenting with different heads, tunings, and playing techniques to find the perfect sound for your music. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Try different bass drum heads: There are many different types of bass drum heads available, with varying levels of thickness, materials, and coatings. Experiment with different options to find a sound that you like.
- Experiment with tunings: You can adjust the tension of the bass drum heads to change the pitch and tone of the drum. A higher tension will create a tighter, more controlled sound, while a lower tension will produce a deeper, more resonant tone.
- Explore various playing techniques: Experiment with different beater positions, hitting the head with various degrees of force, and even using your hands or feet to create a range of unique sounds.
- Consider adding dampening: If you want a more focused and controlled sound, you can add dampening to the resonant head. This can help to reduce unwanted overtones and create a tighter, snappier attack.
Potential Benefits and Limitations
Converting a floor tom to a bass drum can offer some significant advantages, but there are also a few important limitations to keep in mind.
Benefits:
- Unique sounds: A floor tom converted to a bass drum can offer a unique sound, often with a deeper, more resonant tone than a traditional bass drum.
- Cost-effectiveness: Converting an old floor tom can be a more affordable alternative to buying a new bass drum, especially if you’re on a budget.
- Greater versatility: The ability to adjust the drum heads and tunings on your converted bass drum allows for greater versatility, enabling you to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Limitations:
- Less portability: Converted bass drums might be a bit less portable than standard models, depending on the size and weight of the floor tom you’re using.
- Potential for sound issues: Depending on the size and depth of the floor tom, the conversion might not yield the desired sound. You might need to experiment with different heads and tunings to achieve the perfect sound.
- Limited customizability: Compared to buying a new bass drum, you might have fewer options for choosing shell materials, hardware, or customization features.
Convert 18 Floor Tom To Bass Drum
Conclusion
Overall, converting an 18″ floor tom into a bass drum can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. It’s a great way to create a unique-sounding instrument that fits your budget and style. Be sure to consider the factors and limitations mentioned above before you begin, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different settings and techniques to achieve your desired sound. If you’re looking for a unique and potentially affordable approach to adding a bass drum to your kit, this conversion project might be the perfect solution.
