Last week, I shared info about the benefits of using a drum rack system and how to choose the type that would work best for you. This week, I'll talk about basic pre-packaged configurations, assembly, and things to look at when mounting your various components onto your system.
Rack configuration: get started with a pre-packaged basic configuration and build from there
Every company that manufactures rack systems offers a pre-packaged, basic configuration. These pre-packs include everything that you need to get started, meaning at least two upright legs, a crossbar, and some clamps.
prepacks are a perfect place to begin when designing your own system. They're certainly less overwhelming than having to put together a rack set-up from scratch. You may find that a prepack is all you really need, or you could use this basic system as a foundation that you can build upon to create something much more comprehensive.
Starting off with a pre-packaged configuration is also cost effective. The components in these systems are always slightly discounted as compared to ones you would buy separately.
Assembly: first and foremost, take your time
Once you've decided on the type of system and have purchased your new rack, you're ready to begin constructing. Setting up for the first time can be pretty tedious because there are lots of variables to think about.
Rack systems use a height adjustable crossbar to support the main components of your kit like your toms. Given that, some of the decisions that you'll be faced with are:
- Should you raise or lower a tom, or do you adjust the height of the crossbar or the tom arm?
- Do you adjust the tom arm and clamp on the crossbar, or do you simply move the entire bar closer or farther away from you?
These types of positioning possibilities require thought and experimentation. Be patient and try as many options as you can. Figure out the ones that not only position the components where you want, but also looks the most attractive. Aesthetics plays a big part in setting up your system.
Mounting components: think outside the box
Not every component needs to be mounted directly onto the system utilizing a clamp. To create a unique look, try mounting accessory holders onto existing pipes that originate from the rack. This prevents what I like to call the "prison bar look", where every accessory pipe is mounted straight-up and makes the drummer appear as though he is behind a series of vertical bars.
To avoid this, use your imagination. A great example of what's possible is Terry Bozzio's huge curved cage-like setup and Mike Mangini's (Dream Theater) multi-tiered design. In both instances, the racks have innovative visual appeal without detracting from how well they function. They brilliantly represent the form-follows-function principle.
Final tip: label your rug
While racks allow you to re-create your system consistently, this process only works if you have a properly labeled rug beneath your rack. Therefore, it's very important to trace the feet of your rack onto your drum rug.
Use a good quality marker or bright colored tape on a patterned rug where outlines might get obscured. It's also a good idea to trace the footprints of all your additional hardware components including your snare stand, pedals, throne, floor tom legs, etc. This will ensure that everything will be placed exactly where it should be every time you set up.
Rack systems are not for all drummers, but they're definitely an option to consider if space, set-up time, and component placement are obstacles that you're currently experiencing.
Should you have any questions or need specific advice regarding your rack system decisions or dilemmas, feel free to give me a buzz. I'm always here to assist!
Rack configuration: get started with a pre-packaged basic configuration and build from there
Every company that manufactures rack systems offers a pre-packaged, basic configuration. These pre-packs include everything that you need to get started, meaning at least two upright legs, a crossbar, and some clamps.
prepacks are a perfect place to begin when designing your own system. They're certainly less overwhelming than having to put together a rack set-up from scratch. You may find that a prepack is all you really need, or you could use this basic system as a foundation that you can build upon to create something much more comprehensive.
Starting off with a pre-packaged configuration is also cost effective. The components in these systems are always slightly discounted as compared to ones you would buy separately.
Assembly: first and foremost, take your time
Once you've decided on the type of system and have purchased your new rack, you're ready to begin constructing. Setting up for the first time can be pretty tedious because there are lots of variables to think about.
Rack systems use a height adjustable crossbar to support the main components of your kit like your toms. Given that, some of the decisions that you'll be faced with are:
- Should you raise or lower a tom, or do you adjust the height of the crossbar or the tom arm?
- Do you adjust the tom arm and clamp on the crossbar, or do you simply move the entire bar closer or farther away from you?
These types of positioning possibilities require thought and experimentation. Be patient and try as many options as you can. Figure out the ones that not only position the components where you want, but also looks the most attractive. Aesthetics plays a big part in setting up your system.
Mounting components: think outside the box
Not every component needs to be mounted directly onto the system utilizing a clamp. To create a unique look, try mounting accessory holders onto existing pipes that originate from the rack. This prevents what I like to call the "prison bar look", where every accessory pipe is mounted straight-up and makes the drummer appear as though he is behind a series of vertical bars.
To avoid this, use your imagination. A great example of what's possible is Terry Bozzio's huge curved cage-like setup and Mike Mangini's (Dream Theater) multi-tiered design. In both instances, the racks have innovative visual appeal without detracting from how well they function. They brilliantly represent the form-follows-function principle.
Final tip: label your rug
While racks allow you to re-create your system consistently, this process only works if you have a properly labeled rug beneath your rack. Therefore, it's very important to trace the feet of your rack onto your drum rug.
Use a good quality marker or bright colored tape on a patterned rug where outlines might get obscured. It's also a good idea to trace the footprints of all your additional hardware components including your snare stand, pedals, throne, floor tom legs, etc. This will ensure that everything will be placed exactly where it should be every time you set up.
Rack systems are not for all drummers, but they're definitely an option to consider if space, set-up time, and component placement are obstacles that you're currently experiencing.
Should you have any questions or need specific advice regarding your rack system decisions or dilemmas, feel free to give me a buzz. I'm always here to assist!
About the Author:
Victor Salazar is the proprietor
of Vic's Drum Shop, an internationally renowned drum and percussion retailer in
Chicago, Illinois. The vast knowledge of drum gear that he's accumulated over his forty
year career has made Vic a crucial resource for beginning drummers, drumming
hobbyists, professional drummers, and many of the world's top drum
superstars.
of Vic's Drum Shop, an internationally renowned drum and percussion retailer in
Chicago, Illinois. The vast knowledge of drum gear that he's accumulated over his forty
year career has made Vic a crucial resource for beginning drummers, drumming
hobbyists, professional drummers, and many of the world's top drum
superstars.
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