Gear article
Pearl TH-88S w/ADP-30 Tom Mounting Set
The Pearl TH-88S w/ADP-30 is a comprehensive drum hardware solution designed for mounting a pair of tom-toms onto existing stands. It combines two TH-88S gear-tilter tom holders with a professional-grade ADP-30 three-way adaptor to provide a stable, adjustable foundation for drum kit expansion.
See live pricesOverview
The Pearl TH-88S w/ADP-30 Tom Mounting Set serves as a modular hardware package for drummers looking to integrate additional percussion or rack toms into their setup without the need for additional floor-based stands. By utilising the ADP-30 adaptor, two separate TH-88S tom arms can be securely attached to a single cymbal stand or heavy-duty hardware base, optimising floor space and reducing the weight of a portable drum kit.
Technical Specifications and Features
The core of this set is the TH-88S tom holder, which features a 60-tooth gear tilter. This mechanism allows for precise increments of angle adjustment while ensuring that the tom remains locked in place during heavy play. The accompanying ADP-30 3-way adaptor is equipped with three quick-release hinges, which are designed to facilitate rapid assembly and disassembly.
Stability is further enhanced by Pearl's 'UltraGrip' wingnuts. These ergonomically designed fasteners allow the user to apply significant torque by hand, ensuring that the heavy tom holders and the drums themselves do not slip or rotate during a performance.
Installation and Workflow
This mounting set is specifically engineered for the 'working drummer' who requires efficiency during setup and breakdown. The quick-release hinges on the ADP-30 adaptor allow it to be clamped onto any standard stand tube (typically between 5/8" and 1-1/8" diameters) without needing to slide the adaptor over the top of the stand. The dual TH-88S arms then insert into the two vacant ports on the adaptor, allowing two toms to be positioned symmetrically or offset according to the player's preference.
Target Audience and Application
This set is primarily suited for session drummers and touring musicians who need a reliable, high-strength mounting solution that is easy to transport. It is particularly useful for players who have transitioned from a bass-drum-mounted tom setup to a 'virgin' bass drum (one without a mount) and need to relocate their toms to a nearby cymbal stand. The robust nature of the 60-tooth tilters makes it appropriate for rock and metal players who require their hardware to withstand high-impact playing styles.
Comparative Context
While there are many tom mounting solutions available, the Pearl TH-88S set offers a middle ground between basic entry-level clamps and the more expensive Uni-Lock or Gyro-Lock systems. Compared to the Tama Roadpro HTS88W, which is a dedicated single stand, this Pearl set is a modular adaptor-based system. It provides a similar level of reliability to professional series hardware from Sonor or Gibraltar but is specifically tailored for those already using Pearl-style 7/8" mounting pipes.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is included in the Pearl TH-88S w/ADP-30 set?
- The set includes two Pearl TH-88S short-type tom holders and one ADP-30 three-way adaptor clamp.
- How many drums can I mount with this set?
- This set is designed to mount two toms onto a single existing hardware stand.
- What is a 60-tooth gear tilter?
- It is a mechanical joint in the tom arm that uses 60 interlocking teeth to provide secure, incremental angle adjustments that won't slip under pressure.
- What is the benefit of the ADP-30's quick-release hinges?
- They allow the clamp to open fully, enabling you to attach or remove the adaptor from a stand without having to disassemble the stand's upper tiers.
- Are the wingnuts easy to tighten by hand?
- Yes, the ADP-30 features UltraGrip wingnuts, which are designed for maximum leverage and comfort when tightening by hand.
- Can I use these tom holders with non-Pearl drums?
- These holders are designed for Pearl's 7/8" diameter mounting system; they will work with any drum that accepts this specific pipe size.
- How does this set help with kit setup time?
- By using quick-release hinges and a single clamp for two drums, it reduces the amount of individual hardware pieces that need to be adjusted and tightened.
- Is the TH-88S a long or short tom arm?
- The 'S' in TH-88S denotes the 'Short' version, which is ideal for mounting toms close to the support stand.
- What is the typical price for this mounting set?
- The typical price for this complete Pearl hardware set is approximately £155.
- Does the ADP-30 have extra ports?
- The ADP-30 is a 3-way adaptor, meaning it has three clamping points: one for the main stand and two for accessories like the included tom holders.
- Is this hardware suitable for touring?
- Yes, its heavy-duty construction and secure gear tilters are specifically designed for the rigours of professional sessions and touring.
- Can I mount cymbals with this set?
- While the set comes with tom holders, the ADP-30 adaptor can technically accept other 7/8" diameter accessories, such as cymbal boom arms, if desired.
