Top 12 Tom-Toms

Tom-Toms nearly produce a similar sound to that of a bass drum. However, the pitch from the Tom drums is more open and has a longer sustain. Therefore, both beginners and professionals must pay considerable attention beforehand. This article will guide the amateurs in purchasing ideal Tom-toms for their drum set.

Types of Toms

Tom-toms have a diverse range of configurations. They can either be fitted to a floor stand with an adjustable mounting or simply attached to the bass drum. Usually, most drum sets consist of one or more suspended tom-toms. They can be High toms, Mid Toms, and Floor Toms. High toms are the smallest Toms that get mounted over the bass drum while being nearest to the Snare drum. Mid tom also consecutively attaches to the bass drum, next to the High tom. Contrarily, Floor toms are the Largest toms. And as the name suggests, they usually get suspended to a floor stand near the drummer's leg.

The Size of the Tom-Toms

Every variation of Tom-Tom has a unique specification of sizes. But, getting an ideal-sized drum is always the priority of every musician. The size highly influences the tone, range, projectile, and volume of the Tom-Toms. Generally, mounted Tom drums have a diameter size between six to 14 inches (including 8, 10, 12, and 13 inches). However, Floor toms can have a diameter of 14, 16, 18 inches, or even up to 24 inches. The shell depth may also vary from drum to drum. Usually, the standard depth range lies from 8, 10, 13 to 14, and 16 inches.

The Perfect Shell-type

It is the shell-type that defines the pitch of this percussion instrument. Therefore, the Shell-type is a vital element of this whole buying decision. And, there is a broad spectrum for the choice of materials. It may include natural hardwoods, including Mahogany, Maple, Birch, Oak & Falakta, or other materials such as Fibreglass, acrylic glass, pressed steel, and resin composite. Generally, each type of material offers distinct characteristics, sustains, timbre, and tonal qualities. Although, wood is the most popular choice for shell-type. Moreover, both wooden and composite shells can have a laminated finish of plastic in discrete colours and effects, like sparkle or polychromatic.

The ideal Drum heads

Usually, the pitch of the drum depends upon the diameter and depth range of its shell. But, the drum heads are equally important as well for sound modulation. Generally, the resonant head (bottom) shapes the resonance or overtones of the drum, whereas the batter head (top side) controls the attack and ring of the drum. The batter heads can have a single or double-ply construction. The single-ply Heads bring loud and bright sounds. However, double-ply Heads offer more durability. They are also present in coated and uncoated forms. Contrarily, thinner resonant heads are sensitive and give a bright sound with shorter sustain, while moderately thick heads produce dark sound with a strong sustain.

Categories Simillar to Tom-Toms includes Snare Drums, Mallets and Tuning Keys & Wrenches

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