What is the primary function of the Gibraltar Basic Cardan Shaft?

It acts as the connecting bridge between the slave pedal and the master pedal in a double bass drum setup. It transmits the motion of the secondary foot to the beater.

What is the maximum length this shaft can reach?

The shaft can extend to a maximum length of 52.5cm (20.6 inches). This allows for wide pedal placement to accommodate different drum kit configurations.

What is the minimum length for compact setups?

The minimum length of the shaft is 37cm (14.5 inches). This is useful for drummers who prefer their pedals closer together or have limited floor space.

Do I need special tools to adjust the length?

No, the shaft is adjustable using a standard universal drum key. This makes it convenient for quick adjustments during setup or soundcheck.

Which Gibraltar pedals are best suited for this shaft?

While universal, it is specifically designed for the Gibraltar 4000 and 5000 series pedals. It provides a tighter and more purposeful connection with these models.

What type of drive system does this shaft use?

It is a direct drive shaft. This design ensures fluid movement and a direct transfer of energy from the slave pedal to the beater.

What is the typical price for this accessory?

The typical price is approximately GBP 77. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.

Does this shaft help with pedal lag?

Yes, the rigid direct drive construction is designed to provide fluid movement. This helps reduce the lag often felt in the slave pedal of lower-quality double pedals.

Is the shaft made of metal?

Yes, it is a heavy-duty metal component. This ensures the durability required for repetitive foot percussion.

Can I use this for a single pedal?

No, this component is specifically for double bass drum pedals. Single pedals do not require a cardan shaft as the beater is attached directly to the main unit.

How does this compare to guitar pedals like the Boss NS-2 or DD-3T?

The Gibraltar Cardan Shaft is a mechanical drum hardware accessory, whereas the Boss NS-2 and DD-3T are electronic guitar effects. They serve entirely different purposes in a musical setup.

Gear article

Gibraltar Basic Cardan Shaft

The Gibraltar Basic Cardan Shaft is a universal double bass drum pedal accessory designed to connect a slave pedal to a master drive unit. It features an adjustable direct drive telescopic design, providing fluid movement and compatibility with a wide range of pedal brands.

See live prices

Overview

The Gibraltar Basic Cardan Shaft serves as the critical mechanical link in a double bass drum pedal setup. While often categorised alongside musical accessories, it is a precision-engineered direct drive component. Its primary function is to translate the physical energy from the drummer's secondary (slave) foot to the beater mechanism on the primary pedal with minimal lag or mechanical interference.

Construction and Adjustment

The shaft is designed for versatility and durability. It utilises a telescopic mechanism that allows the user to extend the length from a minimum of 37cm to a maximum of 52.5cm (14.5 to 20.6 inches). This adjustment is performed using a standard universal drum key, eliminating the need for specialised tools. The linkage employs cardan joints (universal joints) at both ends to facilitate smooth rotation even when the pedals are placed at varying angles.

Compatibility

Gibraltar markets this component as a 'true universal accessory.' It is engineered to connect to most standard double pedals on the market, regardless of the brand. However, it is specifically optimised for the Gibraltar 4000 and 5000 series pedals. When paired with these specific models, the shaft connects with a tighter, more purposeful fit, ensuring maximum stability during high-intensity performance.

Performance Character

As a direct drive shaft, the component is designed to provide a fluid and responsive feel. The rigidity of the shaft ensures that there is very little 'play' or lost motion between the two pedals. This results in a more consistent stroke, allowing the slave pedal to mimic the resistance and rebound of the master pedal more accurately.

User Suitability

This accessory is ideal for drummers looking to upgrade or repair their existing double pedal setup without purchasing an entirely new system. It is particularly suited for touring musicians who require a reliable backup shaft that can fit multiple pedal brands in an emergency, or for those using Gibraltar's mid-range 4000 and 5000 series hardware who want to maintain original factory specifications.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Gibraltar Basic Cardan Shaft?: It acts as the connecting bridge between the slave pedal and the master pedal in a double bass drum setup. It transmits the motion of the secondary foot to the beater.
What is the maximum length this shaft can reach?: The shaft can extend to a maximum length of 52.5cm (20.6 inches). This allows for wide pedal placement to accommodate different drum kit configurations.
What is the minimum length for compact setups?: The minimum length of the shaft is 37cm (14.5 inches). This is useful for drummers who prefer their pedals closer together or have limited floor space.
Do I need special tools to adjust the length?: No, the shaft is adjustable using a standard universal drum key. This makes it convenient for quick adjustments during setup or soundcheck.
Is this shaft compatible with brands other than Gibraltar?: Yes, it is designed as a universal accessory. It is engineered to connect to most standard double pedals from various manufacturers.
Which Gibraltar pedals are best suited for this shaft?: While universal, it is specifically designed for the Gibraltar 4000 and 5000 series pedals. It provides a tighter and more purposeful connection with these models.
What type of drive system does this shaft use?: It is a direct drive shaft. This design ensures fluid movement and a direct transfer of energy from the slave pedal to the beater.
What is the typical price for this accessory?: The typical price is approximately GBP 77. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and shipping costs.
Does this shaft help with pedal lag?: Yes, the rigid direct drive construction is designed to provide fluid movement. This helps reduce the lag often felt in the slave pedal of lower-quality double pedals.
Is the shaft made of metal?: Yes, it is a heavy-duty metal component. This ensures the durability required for repetitive foot percussion.
Can I use this for a single pedal?: No, this component is specifically for double bass drum pedals. Single pedals do not require a cardan shaft as the beater is attached directly to the main unit.
How does this compare to guitar pedals like the Boss NS-2 or DD-3T?: The Gibraltar Cardan Shaft is a mechanical drum hardware accessory, whereas the Boss NS-2 and DD-3T are electronic guitar effects. They serve entirely different purposes in a musical setup.