What is the primary benefit of the direct-drive system on this pedal?

The direct-drive system replaces the chain with a solid link, providing a more immediate response and fluid feel. This is particularly beneficial for drummers performing fast, articulated strokes where lag must be minimised.

How does the felt silencer improve performance?

The felt silencer is located inside the pedal spring to dampen vibrations and eliminate unwanted mechanical noise. This feature is essential for studio recording sessions where sensitive microphones might pick up spring 'pinging'.

What is a G-class pillar-style frame?

It is a specific structural design by Gibraltar that uses vertical pillars to support the drive shaft. This design provides high stability and a modern aesthetic while keeping the pedal's overall weight and size manageable.

What does the single-point beater adjustment do?

This feature allows the drummer to adjust the beater angle and placement using a single adjustment point. It simplifies the process of customising the pedal's throw and reach to match the player's preference.

How easy is it to attach this pedal to a bass drum?

The pedal includes a side-mount clamp, which is significantly easier to access than traditional under-footboard clamps. It allows for quick attachment and removal from the bass drum hoop without awkward reaching.

Is the Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal suitable for touring?

Yes, as the name suggests, it is designed for the rigours of the road. It balances a robust build quality with a compact design that fits easily into hardware bags.

What is the typical price for this double pedal?

The Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal Direct Drive is typically priced around GBP 349. This positions it as a mid-to-high-tier professional hardware option.

Can the spring tension be adjusted on this model?

Yes, like most professional Gibraltar pedals, the spring tension is adjustable. This allows players to dial in the amount of resistance and 'snap-back' the footboard provides.

How does this compare to the G-Class Professional model?

The Tour Class is a more compact version of the G-Class design. It offers the same direct-drive fluidity but in a more value-packed and streamlined frame compared to the flagship Professional model.

Is a direct-drive pedal better than a chain-drive pedal?

It is a matter of preference; direct-drive pedals are generally considered faster and more responsive, whereas chain-drive pedals often provide a 'heavier' feel that some players prefer for power.

Does the pedal come with a secondary unit for the left foot?

Yes, as a double pedal, it includes both the primary right-foot unit and a secondary left-foot unit connected by a telescopic drive linkage.

What genre of music is this pedal best suited for?

While versatile, it is highly suited for genres requiring fast footwork such as metal, fusion, and progressive rock due to the speed and articulation of the direct-drive cam.

Gear article

Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal Direct Drive

The Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal Direct Drive is a high-performance drum hardware unit designed for speed, stability, and quiet operation. It features a G-class pillar-style frame and a direct-drive cam system, offering drummers a fluid and responsive alternative to traditional chain-driven pedals.

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Background and Design

The Tour Class series from Gibraltar Hardware was developed to provide professional-grade features in a compact and value-driven package. This double pedal is engineered around the G-class pillar-style frame, which is designed to maximise stability while maintaining a streamlined footprint on a drum rug. Unlike standard pedals that may use chains or straps, this model utilises a solid direct-drive link between the footboard and the cam.

Mechanical Features

A key mechanical attribute of the Gibraltar Tour Class is its direct-drive cam, which provides a 1:1 transfer of energy from the foot to the beater. This allows for highly articulated strokes and increased speed. To assist with professional recording and live sound environments, the pedal includes a felt silencer within the spring mechanism to prevent metallic clicking or unwanted noise. Additionally, the pedal is equipped with a single-point beater adjustment, allowing the player to fine-tune the beater's position for optimal comfort and reach.

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Installation and Connectivity

For ease of use during setup and teardown, Gibraltar has integrated a side-mount hoop clamp. This design allows the drummer to attach or remove the pedal from the bass drum hoop from a seated or standing position beside the drum, rather than having to reach underneath the footboard. The double pedal configuration includes a primary and secondary unit connected by a drive shaft to facilitate double-bass drumming techniques.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Gibraltar range, this model serves as a more compact and value-oriented alternative to the G-Class Professional Double Pedal Direct Drive. While the Professional version offers broader adjustment parameters, the Tour Class focuses on portability and core performance. When compared to chain-drive systems, the direct-drive mechanism of the Tour Class offers a more immediate, 'fluid' feel that is generally preferred by players requiring rapid, technical footwork.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the direct-drive system on this pedal?: The direct-drive system replaces the chain with a solid link, providing a more immediate response and fluid feel. This is particularly beneficial for drummers performing fast, articulated strokes where lag must be minimised.
How does the felt silencer improve performance?: The felt silencer is located inside the pedal spring to dampen vibrations and eliminate unwanted mechanical noise. This feature is essential for studio recording sessions where sensitive microphones might pick up spring 'pinging'.
What is a G-class pillar-style frame?: It is a specific structural design by Gibraltar that uses vertical pillars to support the drive shaft. This design provides high stability and a modern aesthetic while keeping the pedal's overall weight and size manageable.
What does the single-point beater adjustment do?: This feature allows the drummer to adjust the beater angle and placement using a single adjustment point. It simplifies the process of customising the pedal's throw and reach to match the player's preference.
How easy is it to attach this pedal to a bass drum?: The pedal includes a side-mount clamp, which is significantly easier to access than traditional under-footboard clamps. It allows for quick attachment and removal from the bass drum hoop without awkward reaching.
Is the Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal suitable for touring?: Yes, as the name suggests, it is designed for the rigours of the road. It balances a robust build quality with a compact design that fits easily into hardware bags.
What is the typical price for this double pedal?: The Gibraltar Tour Class Double Pedal Direct Drive is typically priced around GBP 349. This positions it as a mid-to-high-tier professional hardware option.
Can the spring tension be adjusted on this model?: Yes, like most professional Gibraltar pedals, the spring tension is adjustable. This allows players to dial in the amount of resistance and 'snap-back' the footboard provides.
How does this compare to the G-Class Professional model?: The Tour Class is a more compact version of the G-Class design. It offers the same direct-drive fluidity but in a more value-packed and streamlined frame compared to the flagship Professional model.
Is a direct-drive pedal better than a chain-drive pedal?: It is a matter of preference; direct-drive pedals are generally considered faster and more responsive, whereas chain-drive pedals often provide a 'heavier' feel that some players prefer for power.
Does the pedal come with a secondary unit for the left foot?: Yes, as a double pedal, it includes both the primary right-foot unit and a secondary left-foot unit connected by a telescopic drive linkage.
What genre of music is this pedal best suited for?: While versatile, it is highly suited for genres requiring fast footwork such as metal, fusion, and progressive rock due to the speed and articulation of the direct-drive cam.