What is the primary purpose of the Meinl THH1BK?

It is a mountable tambourine designed to add a jingle effect to a hi-hat stand. It can be played via the foot pedal or by striking it with a drumstick.

Will the THH1BK fit any brand of hi-hat stand?

Yes, it is designed to fit onto any standard hi-hat pull rod. The universal mounting mechanism ensures compatibility with major hardware manufacturers.

Does this tambourine replace the top hi-hat cymbal?

No, it sits on the pull rod above the top cymbal. It is designed to complement hi-hat cymbals, not replace them.

Can I play this tambourine with drumsticks?

Yes, the frame is built to be durable enough for stick playing. This allows you to play specific rhythms on the jingles independent of the hi-hat cymbals.

How much does the Meinl THH1BK typically cost?

The typical price range for this model is approximately £27.00. This makes it an affordable accessory for most drummers.

Is the mounting hardware included?

Yes, the tambourine features a built-in wing nut and mounting hole. This allows it to be secured directly to the rod without needing extra parts.

How does it affect the feel of the hi-hat pedal?

Because it adds a small amount of weight to the pull rod, there may be a slight change in tension. Most drummers find this negligible or easily adjustable via their stand's spring tensioner.

Can this be used with low-volume cymbals?

Yes, it can be paired with products like the Gear4Music Low Volume Cymbal Pack. However, note that the jingles are standard volume and may be louder than the low-volume cymbals.

What is the color of the THH1BK model?

The 'BK' in the model number THH1BK stands for Black. The frame of the tambourine is finished in a standard black coating.

Does it produce a sound when I close the hi-hats with my foot?

Yes, the vertical motion of the pedal causes the jingles to shake. This creates a synchronous tambourine sound with every foot-close 'chick'.

Is the sound bright or dark?

The sound is generally bright and cutting. It is designed to be heard clearly over the top of standard cymbals like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride.

Can I adjust the height of the tambourine on the rod?

Yes, you can position it anywhere on the exposed pull rod. Most drummers place it an inch or two above the top hi-hat cymbal for easy access.

Gear article

Meinl Percussion Hi-Hat Tambourine THH1BK

The Meinl Percussion Hi-Hat Tambourine THH1BK is a mountable percussion accessory designed to attach directly to a standard hi-hat pull rod. It provides drummers with a percussive jingle effect that triggers synchronously with the hi-hat pedal or when struck with a stick.

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Overview

The Meinl THH1BK is a specialised percussion instrument within the Meinl range, designed to integrate seamlessly into a standard drum kit setup. Unlike traditional hand-held tambourines, this model features a central mounting hole and a wing nut mechanism, allowing it to be secured onto the pull rod of a hi-hat stand. It functions as an additive layer to the hi-hat's natural 'chick' sound or as a standalone percussive element.

Design and Functionality

The unit is constructed with a durable frame that houses sets of metal jingles. It is engineered to fit any standard hi-hat rod, ensuring compatibility across various hardware brands.

Pedal Activation: When the hi-hat pedal is depressed, the tambourine moves vertically with the rod, causing the jingles to react.
Stick Playing: The frame is designed to withstand direct strikes, allowing the drummer to play rhythms directly on the tambourine.
Secure Grip: The integrated hardware ensures the device remains at the desired height without slipping during heavy performances.

Sound Character

The THH1BK delivers a bright, cutting jingle sound. When used in conjunction with hi-hat cymbals, it adds high-frequency shimmer and rhythmic clarity to the 'chick' sound. Because the jingles are responsive to subtle movements, it provides a dynamic range that follows the foot technique of the player. It offers a distinct contrast to the darker tones found in products such as the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash.

Suitability and Applications

This accessory is highly suited for drummers looking to expand their sonic palette without adding extra stands to their footprint. It is particularly useful for:

Live Performance: Providing a 'tambourine on the backbeat' sound common in pop and rock.
Acoustic Settings: Adding texture to minimalist setups.
Studio Recording: Offering a consistent, controlled tambourine sound that is perfectly synced with the hi-hat.

Market Comparison

At a price point of approximately £27, the THH1BK represents a cost-effective way to modify a drum kit's sound. Compared to full cymbal replacements like the UFIP Bionic Series 13" Hi Hat or the Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats, this accessory offers a modular approach to tone shaping. While low-volume options like the Gear4Music 5pc Silver pack focus on noise reduction, the THH1BK focuses on adding a new percussive layer to the existing mix.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Meinl THH1BK?: It is a mountable tambourine designed to add a jingle effect to a hi-hat stand. It can be played via the foot pedal or by striking it with a drumstick.
Will the THH1BK fit any brand of hi-hat stand?: Yes, it is designed to fit onto any standard hi-hat pull rod. The universal mounting mechanism ensures compatibility with major hardware manufacturers.
Does this tambourine replace the top hi-hat cymbal?: No, it sits on the pull rod above the top cymbal. It is designed to complement hi-hat cymbals, not replace them.
Can I play this tambourine with drumsticks?: Yes, the frame is built to be durable enough for stick playing. This allows you to play specific rhythms on the jingles independent of the hi-hat cymbals.
How much does the Meinl THH1BK typically cost?: The typical price range for this model is approximately £27.00. This makes it an affordable accessory for most drummers.
Is the mounting hardware included?: Yes, the tambourine features a built-in wing nut and mounting hole. This allows it to be secured directly to the rod without needing extra parts.
How does it affect the feel of the hi-hat pedal?: Because it adds a small amount of weight to the pull rod, there may be a slight change in tension. Most drummers find this negligible or easily adjustable via their stand's spring tensioner.
Can this be used with low-volume cymbals?: Yes, it can be paired with products like the Gear4Music Low Volume Cymbal Pack. However, note that the jingles are standard volume and may be louder than the low-volume cymbals.
What is the color of the THH1BK model?: The 'BK' in the model number THH1BK stands for Black. The frame of the tambourine is finished in a standard black coating.
Does it produce a sound when I close the hi-hats with my foot?: Yes, the vertical motion of the pedal causes the jingles to shake. This creates a synchronous tambourine sound with every foot-close 'chick'.
Is the sound bright or dark?: The sound is generally bright and cutting. It is designed to be heard clearly over the top of standard cymbals like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride.
Can I adjust the height of the tambourine on the rod?: Yes, you can position it anywhere on the exposed pull rod. Most drummers place it an inch or two above the top hi-hat cymbal for easy access.