Gear article

Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder

The Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder is a compact percussion mount designed to secure a pair of hi-hat cymbals directly to a bass drum hoop. It serves as a space-saving alternative to traditional stands, allowing drummers to integrate primary or auxiliary hi-hats without increasing their floor footprint.

See live prices

Overview

The Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder is a specialised hardware solution for drummers looking to expand their cymbal setup within constrained spaces. By attaching directly to the top edge of a bass drum, the holder eliminates the need for an additional tripod stand or complex multi-clamp configurations. It is designed to accommodate standard hi-hat pairs ranging from 8 inches to 16 inches in diameter.

Design and Key Features

The holder features a finish-saving clamp designed to prevent cosmetic damage to the bass drum hoop while providing a stable anchor point. Key mechanical features include:

  • Spring-Adjustable Spread: The distance between the top and bottom cymbals can be fine-tuned using the top cymbal nut, allowing for varying degrees of 'wash' or 'chick' sound.
  • Compact Portability: The unit is fully foldable, allowing it to be stored easily in a standard gig bag.
  • Versatile Placement: While often used for auxiliary hi-hats (such as an X-hat setup for double-kick players), it can also function as a primary hi-hat mount for minimalist kits.

Application and Sound Character

Because the holder maintains the cymbals in a closed or semi-closed position, it does not offer the foot-controlled openness of a standard hi-hat stand like the Yamaha HS740A. The sound character is determined by the tension applied via the spring-loaded nut. A tight setting produces a crisp, articulated 'staccato' sound, whereas a looser setting allows for a more sustained, trashy sizzle. It is particularly effective for heavy double-bass drumming where the left foot is occupied with a pedal rather than a hi-hat stand.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to full-sized stands such as the PDP 700 Series or heavy-duty tom stands like the Tama Roadpro HTS88W, the Pearl Mini Holder provides significantly better portability and a smaller footprint. However, it lacks the height adjustability and pedal functionality of a dedicated stand. It is a more minimalist solution than bulky rack-mounted arms, focusing on ease of set-up and protection of the drum's aesthetic finish.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What size hi-hat cymbals can this holder accommodate?
The Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder is compatible with any standard hi-hat cymbals ranging from 8 inches to 16 inches in diameter.
Where does this hardware attach to the drum kit?
It is designed to be clamped directly onto the top edge of a bass drum hoop, removing the need for additional stands or brackets.
Will the clamp damage my wooden bass drum hoops?
No, the device features a finish-saving clamp specifically engineered to prevent cosmetic damage and scratches to the drum's finish.
Is the cymbal spread adjustable?
Yes, the spread between the top and bottom cymbals is spring-adjustable and can be controlled by turning the top cymbal nut.
Can I use this as my main hi-hat stand?
While it can function as a primary mount for minimalist setups, it remains in a static closed or semi-closed position and cannot be opened or closed with a foot pedal.
Is the holder portable enough for touring?
The unit is fully foldable and compact, making it easy to tuck into a gig bag or hardware case for transport.
What is the typical price for this model?
The Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder typically retails for approximately £57 in the United Kingdom.
Can this be used for an X-hat setup?
Yes, it is an ideal solution for an auxiliary or 'X-hat' setup, providing a secondary hi-hat sound on the right side of the kit or above the bass drum.
How does it compare to a standard Yamaha HS740A stand?
Unlike the Yamaha HS740A, which is a floor-standing pedal-operated unit, the Pearl version is a static, hoop-mounted holder designed to save space.
Does this require any additional mounting brackets?
No, the holder is a self-contained unit that clamps directly to the bass drum, requiring no extra hardware for installation.
Is it suitable for marching bass drums?
While designed for kit bass drums, its clamp mechanism may fit various hoops; however, dedicated marching stands like the Premier NXT GEN are usually preferred for mobility.
Does the tension change while playing?
The spring-adjustable mechanism and top nut are designed to maintain a consistent spread even during heavy play, ensuring the 'closed' sound remains stable.