Last week, I shared tips about the benefits of using a drum rack system and how to find 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 offers 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.
Pre-packs are a perfect place to begin when putting together your own system. They're certainly less overwhelming than having to design a rack setup from scratch. You may find that a prepack is all you need, or you could use this basic system as a foundation that you can build upon to create something much larger.
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 could 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 extremely tedious because there are a lot of variables to consider.
Rack systems utilize 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 your tom, or should 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. Select 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 using 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 immense curved cage-like set-up and Mike Mangini's (Dream Theater) multi-tiered design. In both instances, the racks have incredible visual appeal without detracting from how well they function. They wonderfully 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 under 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 such as your snare stand, pedals, throne, floor tom legs, etc. This will make sure that everything will be placed exactly where it should be every time you set up.
Rack systems aren't for everybody, but they're definitely an option to consider if space, set-up time, and component placement are problems that you're currently experiencing.
Should you have any questions or need specific advice about your rack system decisions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch. I'm always here to help!
Rack configuration: get started with a pre-packaged basic configuration and build from there
Every company that offers 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.
Pre-packs are a perfect place to begin when putting together your own system. They're certainly less overwhelming than having to design a rack setup from scratch. You may find that a prepack is all you need, or you could use this basic system as a foundation that you can build upon to create something much larger.
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 could 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 extremely tedious because there are a lot of variables to consider.
Rack systems utilize 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 your tom, or should 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. Select 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 using 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 immense curved cage-like set-up and Mike Mangini's (Dream Theater) multi-tiered design. In both instances, the racks have incredible visual appeal without detracting from how well they function. They wonderfully 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 under 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 such as your snare stand, pedals, throne, floor tom legs, etc. This will make sure that everything will be placed exactly where it should be every time you set up.
Rack systems aren't for everybody, but they're definitely an option to consider if space, set-up time, and component placement are problems that you're currently experiencing.
Should you have any questions or need specific advice about your rack system decisions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch. I'm always here to help!
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 most famous 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 most famous drum
superstars.
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