Gear article

Cympad Undertones Pedal Pad

The Cympad Undertones Pedal Pad is a cellular foam accessory designed to sit beneath bass drum and hi-hat pedals. It serves as a dampening and stabilising interface that enhances low-end resonance while preventing hardware slippage on hard surfaces.

See live prices

Overview

The Cympad Undertones Pedal Pad is a specialised drum hardware accessory engineered to improve the performance and sound of foot-operated percussion components. Manufactured from high-quality cellular foam, these pads are placed directly underneath the pedal baseplates of bass drums and hi-hat stands. The product aims to solve two common issues faced by drummers: the loss of low-frequency energy through floor contact and the mechanical instability of pedals on non-carpeted surfaces.

Acoustic Characteristics

The primary acoustic benefit of the Undertones Pedal Pad is the enhancement of the bass drum's tonal profile. By isolating the pedal and drum from the floor, the cellular foam helps to decouple the instrument, leading to a richer and more powerful tone. This isolation allows the drum to resonate more freely, resulting in a deeper impact and a perceived increase in low-end depth. This makes it a useful tool for studio recording where tonal purity is paramount.

Surface Protection and Stability

Beyond its acoustic properties, the Pedal Pad functions as a heavy-duty non-slip interface. It is specifically designed to prevent pedals from skidding or 'creeping' during play, a common problem on wooden or polished floors.

Key physical benefits include: * Floor Protection: Acts as a buffer to prevent metal pedal spurs and baseplates from scratching delicate hardwood or laminate surfaces. * Versatility: Suitable for use with both single and double bass drum pedals as well as hi-hat stands. * Portability: The lightweight foam construction makes it an easy addition to a hardware bag without significantly increasing load weight.

Target User and Comparison

The Undertones Pedal Pad is suited for session drummers who require consistent sound in different environments, as well as home players looking to protect their flooring. While standard drum rugs provide a general solution for grip, the Cympad Undertones offer a targeted approach to vibration isolation that a thin rug cannot achieve. It is often used in conjunction with other high-end hardware such as the Sonor 6000 Series or Yamaha HS740A stands to provide a complete, stable foundation for the kit.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the Cympad Undertones Pedal Pad made of?
The pad is constructed from a high-quality cellular foam. This specific material is chosen for its ability to absorb vibrations and provide a high-friction grip on various floor types.
Does this product fit all bass drum pedals?
Yes, it is designed as a versatile accessory intended to fit standard bass drum pedals. The foam base is sized to accommodate most common pedal dimensions found in the industry.
Can I use the Pedal Pad with a hi-hat stand?
Absolutely. The product is specifically designed to work with both bass drum pedals and hi-hat stands to ensure the entire foot-operated hardware setup is stable.
How does the pad improve the sound of a bass drum?
It decouples the pedal and drum from the floor surface. This isolation allows the drum to produce a richer, more powerful tone with increased low-frequency depth.
Will this stop my pedal from sliding on a wooden floor?
Yes, one of its primary functions is to prevent skid on multiple surfaces, including wood. The foam material creates friction that keeps the hardware stationary during performance.
Does the pad protect floors from scratches?
Yes, it acts as a protective barrier between the metal components of the pedal and the floor. This is particularly useful for protecting non-carpeted surfaces like hardwood or tile.
Is the Cympad Undertones Pedal Pad expensive?
The typical price range for this accessory is approximately £30. It is considered a mid-range accessory that offers both acoustic and practical hardware benefits.
How does this differ from a standard drum mat?
Unlike a large rug, this pad focuses specifically on the contact point of the pedal. It provides targeted cellular foam isolation that enhances tone, which a standard carpet rarely offers.
Is the pad suitable for professional studio use?
Yes, many drummers use it in the studio to eliminate unwanted mechanical vibrations and to enhance the 'thump' of the kick drum. Its ability to enrich the tone makes it a valuable recording tool.
Can it be used on top of a carpet?
While it is most effective on hard surfaces for skid prevention, it can still be used on carpet for its acoustic isolation properties. It helps further decouple the drum from the floor structure.
Is it easy to transport in a gear bag?
Yes, the cellular foam is lightweight and relatively compact. It can be easily tucked into a hardware case or a cymbal bag without adding significant weight or bulk.
Does the pad require any adhesive to stay in place?
No, it does not require adhesives. The properties of the cellular foam and the weight of the pedal itself are sufficient to keep the pad and hardware secure on the floor.