Gear article

DW Drums 5000XF Series Extended Footboard Hi-Hat Stand

The DW Drums 5000XF Series is a heavy-duty, three-legged hi-hat stand designed for professional drummers who require a longer footboard for increased leverage and reach. It incorporates a patented Delta Ball-Bearing Hinge and a robust locking clutch to ensure smooth operation and consistent cymbal positioning.

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Overview and Design

The DW 5000XF Series Hi-Hat Stand is a professional-grade hardware component belonging to the renowned 5000 Series line. Its primary distinction is the 'XF' or extended footboard, which provides a larger surface area for the foot compared to standard models. The stand is supported by three double-braced legs, offering a stable foundation for heavy hitters and touring musicians.

Built for reliability, the stand features heavy-duty tubing and hinged memory locks at the height adjustment points. These locks ensure that once a drummer finds their preferred height, the stand can be disassembled and reassembled in the exact same position every time, reducing setup time during soundchecks.

Key Mechanical Features

A standout feature of the 5000XF is the patented Delta Ball-Bearing Hinge. Unlike standard friction-based hinges, this system utilizes ball bearings on both sides of the hinge to facilitate an ultra-smooth pedal motion. This reduction in friction is particularly beneficial for drummers performing fast or intricate footwork.

For cymbal management, the stand includes: * Locking Clutch: A secure mechanism that prevents the top hi-hat cymbal from loosening or slipping during play. * Lateral Cymbal Seat Adjustment: A fine-tuning dial that allows the user to adjust the angle of the bottom cymbal, which is critical for controlling the 'air lock' and the overall crispness of the hi-hat 'chick' sound.

Sound and Performance Character

The mechanical precision of the 5000XF directly impacts the sonic performance of the hi-hats. By maintaining a consistent gap between the cymbals via the locking clutch, the stand ensures a uniform sound throughout a performance. The smooth action provided by the Delta hinge allows for nuanced control over the 'wash' and 'chick' sounds, responding accurately to varying foot pressure. The extended footboard enhances this by providing more leverage, which can result in a more powerful and decisive closure of the cymbals.

Comparison and Suitability

The 5000XF is specifically suited for drummers who prefer a longer footboard for technical reasons, such as using the 'heel-toe' technique or simply needing more room for larger feet. While it shares the heavy-duty DNA of the standard 5000 series, the XF variant is a specialized choice for those who find standard boards restrictive.

In the broader market, it competes with other premium stands such as the Yamaha HS740A or Sonor 6000 series hardware. While those models offer high durability, the 5000XF is distinguished by its specific focus on pedal ergonomics and the specialized Delta hinge mechanism.

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Frequently asked questions

What does 'XF' stand for in the product name?
'XF' stands for Extended Footboard. This indicates that the pedal surface is longer than the standard DW 5000 series hi-hat stand, providing more leverage and space for the drummer's foot.
What is the benefit of the Delta Ball-Bearing Hinge?
The patented Delta Ball-Bearing Hinge uses bearings on both sides of the hinge to reduce friction. This results in an ultra-smooth pedal motion, which is ideal for drummers who require speed and precision.
How does the lateral cymbal seat adjustment work?
The lateral cymbal seat adjustment allows you to tilt the bottom hi-hat cymbal. By changing this angle, you can prevent air lock and customize the sound and feel when the cymbals are closed.
What is the purpose of the hinged memory locks?
Hinged memory locks are used to mark and secure the height settings of the stand. They allow for consistent setup every time the gear is assembled, ensuring the cymbals are always at the preferred height.
Is the DW 5000XF stand suitable for touring?
Yes, the stand features a heavy-duty build specifically designed for the rigours of professional use. Its robust construction and reliable locking mechanisms make it a popular choice for touring drummers.
Does this hi-hat stand come with a clutch?
Yes, it features a specialized locking clutch. This clutch is designed to firmly hold the top hi-hat cymbal in position, maintaining a consistent gap between the two cymbals during play.
How many legs does the 5000XF model have?
This specific model features a three-leg design. These legs are double-braced to provide maximum stability during aggressive playing styles.
What is the typical price range for this stand?
The DW Drums 5000XF Series Extended Footboard Hi-Hat Stand typically retails for approximately £385. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Can the pedal tension be adjusted?
Yes, as a professional-grade stand, it allows for tension adjustments to suit the drummer's foot strength and preferred response speed. The internal spring mechanism can be tuned for a lighter or heavier feel.
How does the XF model compare to the standard DW 5000 hi-hat stand?
The primary difference is the length of the footboard. The XF model offers a longer pedal surface for increased reach and leverage, whereas the standard 5000 series uses a traditional length footboard.
Does the stand allow for precise cymbal positioning?
Yes, through a combination of the lateral cymbal seat adjustment and the locking clutch, drummers can achieve and maintain perfect cymbal positioning consistently. This ensures the gap and angle remain uniform.
Who is the ideal user for the DW 5000XF?
It is best suited for professional drummers who use faster playing styles or those who prefer a larger pedal surface. The heavy-duty build also makes it ideal for those who require hardware that can withstand frequent transport.