Gear article

DW Drums 9000 Series 3-Leg Hi-Hat Stand

The DW Drums 9000 Series 3-Leg Hi-Hat Stand is a professional-grade piece of drum hardware designed for maximum sensitivity, response, and recording-quality silence. It features a patented double eccentric cam system and robust construction suitable for high-performance studio and touring environments.

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Overview

The DW 9000 Series represents the flagship tier of DW Drums hardware, engineered to provide drummers with a premium feel and high-level reliability. The 3-leg version of this hi-hat stand is constructed with heavy-duty tubing and double-braced legs to provide a stable foundation for the cymbals. It is particularly noted for its mechanical precision, aimed at players who require a nuanced response from their footwork.

Key Features and Mechanical Design

The stand utilizes a patented double eccentric cam design. This mechanism increases the sensitivity of the footboard in relation to the cymbal movement, effectively making fast open-and-close patterns easier to execute than on traditional direct-pull or single-cam stands.

Additional features include: * SM379 Locking Clutch: This allows the user to dial in the specific tension and space between cymbals, ensuring they do not loosen during performance. * Lateral Cymbal Seat: A specialized adjustment for the bottom cymbal that allows the angle to be changed instantly to alter the 'chick' sound and air displacement. * Plastic Tube Insulators: Internal protectors that prevent metal-on-metal contact, eliminating mechanical rattles.

Sound and Character

While the stand itself does not produce tone, it significantly influences the character of the hi-hat cymbals through its adjustment capabilities. The lateral cymbal seat allows for a crisper or more 'sloshy' sound depending on the angle of the bottom hat. Because the stand is built with recording in mind, it is characterized by its silent operation; the tube insulators ensure that no unwanted mechanical vibrations are picked up by sensitive studio microphones.

Intended Users

This stand is primarily suited for professional drummers and recording artists. Given its price point of approximately £385, it is an investment for those who prioritize the tactile 'feel' of their hardware. It is particularly beneficial for studio sessions where any extraneous noise from hardware could compromise a take, as well as for live performers who require a heavy-duty, dependable tripod base.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the high-end hardware market, the DW 9000 competes with alternatives such as the Yamaha HS740A or the Sonor 6000 series. While many competitors focus on weight reduction or simplicity, the DW 9000 leans into heavy-duty durability and complex mechanical advantages like the eccentric cam. Unlike more basic stands, the 9000 series offers more granular control over cymbal spacing and tilt, which may be absent on entry-level models from brands like Dixon or Gibraltar.

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Frequently asked questions

What clutch is included with the DW 9000 Hi-Hat Stand?
The stand comes equipped with the SM379 locking clutch. This specific model allows drummers to lock in the distance between the top and bottom cymbals without fear of the clutch loosening during play.
How does the double eccentric cam benefit the drummer?
The patented double eccentric cam increases the sensitivity and response of the pull rod. This design makes it mechanically easier to perform rapid foot transitions and controlled opening or closing of the cymbals.
Is this stand suitable for studio recording?
Yes, it is specifically designed with recording in mind. It features plastic tube insulators that prevent metal-to-metal rattling which could otherwise be captured by microphones.
What is the purpose of the lateral cymbal seat?
The lateral cymbal seat allows the drummer to adjust the angle of the bottom hi-hat cymbal. This adjustment changes how the cymbals meet, affecting the 'chick' sound and overall response.
How many legs does this version of the stand have?
This specific model features a standard 3-leg tripod base. This provides a traditional and highly stable footprint for the stand compared to 2-leg versions.
What is the typical price for this hardware?
The DW 9000 Series 3-Leg Hi-Hat Stand typically retails for approximately £385. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Can the cymbal spacing be adjusted accurately?
Yes, the SM379 locking clutch is designed specifically for accurate 'dialling in' of the space between cymbals. Once set, the locking mechanism prevents the gap from changing.
Does this stand eliminate mechanical noise?
While no stand is perfectly silent, the DW 9000 uses plastic tube insulators to prevent rattling. This makes it much quieter than standard hardware during vigorous playing.
Is the DW 9000 stand double-braced?
Yes, the 9000 series stands are professional-grade and feature heavy-duty, double-braced construction for maximum stability. This ensures the stand does not move or tip during heavy use.
What makes the 9000 series different from other DW stands?
The 9000 series is the top-of-the-line range, featuring the most advanced mechanical designs like the double eccentric cam. It offers a more refined feel and higher durability than entry-level series.
Can I use this stand for live touring?
Yes, the DW 9000 is built for reliability and heavy use. Its robust construction is designed to withstand the rigours of frequent transport and high-intensity performance.
How does the feel of this stand compare to other brands?
Due to the cam design, many drummers find it has a lighter and more fluid response. It provides maximum sensitivity, which is often cited as superior to standard direct-pull stands.