Ultimate Bass Drum Beater Showdown

We spend a lot of time looking for the “best” drumsticks. Comparing different drumstick brands and models, we want to know how they would potentially affect our drumming, for better or worse.

When our hands get all the attention, please also don’t forget how important our bass drum is. Being one of the center pieces of a drum set, while the cymbals and snare drums deliver the high and mid frequencies, our bass drum takes care of the low end department. It sets a foundation for everything we play.

Here I compare 4 bass drum beaters. Not only can you hear their differences in terms of sound, I also rate them in several categories, showing how they are designed for different playing styles/environments.

High Quality Speakers / Earphones Recommended:

Vater Vintage Boomer
Speed : ★★★☆☆
Attack : ★★★☆☆
Low End : ★★★★★
Volume : ★★★★★
Verdict: The low end it produces is insane.

Tama Power Strike
Speed : ★★★★☆
Attack : ★★★★☆
Low End : ★★★★☆
Volume : ★★★★☆
Verdict: The most versatile beater in the house. The all-round player.

Tama Wood Beater
Speed : ★★★★★
Attack : ★★★★★
Low End : ★★★☆☆
Volume : ★★★☆☆
Verdict: Fast. Crisp. Snappy. Great for fast and aggressive music.

Vic Firth Wood Shaft
Speed : ★★★☆☆
Attack : ★★★☆☆
Low End : ★★★☆☆
Volume : ★★★☆☆
Verdict: Feels light. Sounds light. Perfect for small venues where volume is a concern, and drummers who are light-footed.

Which one is your favorite?

Like drumsticks, different bass drum beaters give us different sounds. And equally important, they give us very different feel. And that, will affect our playing. Choose your bass drum beater wisely.

Bass Drum:
Pearl 22x18" Maple Bass Drum
Evans EQ3 Clear (with Focus Ring on)

Hi Hats:
Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat 15"

Snare:
Pearl Reference Pure Snare Drum 14x5"