How does bearing edge affect drum sound?

Sharper bearing edges produce more attack and more sustain, which results in a generally more lively, “modern” sound. A sharp 45-degree edge also produces considerably more harmonic overtones, which makes the drum sound brighter.

What is a bearing edge?

The bearing edge of a drum is the part of the shell that the drum head rests up against. It is literally the edge of a drum shell, cut or carved in a way to let the drum head sit evenly up against it so the drum will sound the same all the way around.

What is a snare bed?

You’ll find a snare bed on practically every snare drum. These gently curved depressions are cut opposite each other into the bottom bearing edge of the drum, parallel to the throw-off and butt plate. The snare bed found on today’s snares is a much more gradual cut, closer to 10″ in total length.

How deep should a snare bed be?

I would say the average bed is about 1/8″ deep and about 3″ wide. The snare bed is essential in creating a bow in the center of bottom head that increases the amount of contact between the drumhead and the snare wires themselves.

What do snare beds do?

They all ensure that the snares lie flat against the drumhead by pulling them into the head rather than letting them lay against it. Older snare beds cut away a drastic amount of the bearing edge. The snare bed found on today’s snares is a much more gradual cut, closer to 10″ in total length.

What’s the difference between a rounded and sharp bearing edge?

For example, a 12″ tom might have a very rounded edge, while the 13″ tom would have a very sharp 45° angle to the outside. On a rounded bearing edge, the contact point – where the head meets the bearing edge – sends the vibration generated by the head down through the center core of the shell.

What happens when the head meets the bearing edge?

On a rounded bearing edge, the contact point – where the head meets the bearing edge – sends the vibration generated by the head down through the center core of the shell. This causes the shell to vibrate from its center. A sharp bearing edge contact point transfers energy to the outer edge of the shell.

How does bearing edges affect the sound of Your Drums?

45° angle, single— Cut into the inside edge of the shell, a single 45° angle will offer minimal shell contact, which allows the drum head to vibrate longer, thus increasing the drum’s sustain. The limited contact with the shell also provides a sharper, more “modern” sound with increased attack.

Why do we use 45 degree bearing edges?

45-degree. This very common cut features a sharp 1-ply-thick edge that peaks close to the outside of the shell. Sharper bearing edges produce more attack and more sustain, which results in a generally more lively, “modern” sound. The added attack and sustain are due to less of the drumhead film being in contact with the shell.