What exactly is included in the BC2 package?

The package consists of the BC2 engine housed in a flightcase, a patented Porter & Davies saddle-style throne top in grey, and all the necessary power and connector cables.

How does the BC2 connect to my drum kit?

You typically connect a microphone or a line-level feed from your kick drum or mixer into the BC2 engine, which then processes the signal and sends it to the throne top.

Is the flightcase separate from the monitoring engine?

No, the BC2 engine is built directly into its own professional-grade flightcase for maximum protection and ease of transport during touring.

Can I use this with an electronic drum kit?

Yes, the BC2 is highly effective with electronic drums, as it provides the physical vibration that mesh pads and triggers cannot naturally produce.

What is the benefit of the saddle-style top?

The saddle top is designed for ergonomic comfort and stability, helping drummers maintain posture while the integrated generator delivers feedback directly through the seat.

Does the system produce any audible noise?

The system is designed to be tactile; while there is minimal mechanical noise, it is virtually silent to the audience compared to traditional wedge monitors.

What is the typical price for the BC2 system?

The system typically retails for approximately £1495, reflecting its professional-grade components and patented technology.

Does this system replace my in-ear monitors?

No, it is intended to work alongside in-ear monitors. It provides the physical 'feel' that IEMs lack, creating a more complete monitoring experience.

Is the throne top height adjustable?

The seat top itself is a part provided by Porter & Davies, but it is designed to fit onto standard professional drum throne bases, which provide the height adjustment.

What color is this specific model?

This specific version features the Saddle Top in a Grey finish.

Is the BC2 suitable for studio use?

Yes, it is excellent for studio sessions as it allows the drummer to feel the low end without increasing the volume in the room or bleeding into microphones.

Can other musicians besides drummers use the BC2?

Absolutely; any musician who wants a deeper physical connection to low-frequency information, such as bassists or keyboard players, can use the system.

Gear article

Porter & Davies BC2 Tactile Monitoring System Saddle Top Grey

The Porter & Davies BC2 is a professional-grade tactile monitoring system designed to provide drummers and musicians with internalised physical feedback of their performance. By utilizing a patented throne top with an integrated tactile generator, the system transmits low-frequency vibrations directly to the player, allowing for a deeper connection to the music without relying on high-volume stage monitors.

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Overview

The Porter & Davies BC2 Tactile Monitoring System is a high-end solution for musicians seeking enhanced physical feedback during performances, rehearsals, and studio sessions. Unlike traditional audio monitors or in-ear systems that rely purely on acoustic pressure, the BC2 uses bone conduction and tactile transmission to convey the 'weight' and 'feel' of an instrument—most commonly the kick drum. The system consists of two primary parts: a heavy-duty engine housed in a flightcase and a specialised throne top containing a patented tactile generator.

Functionality and Key Features

At the core of the BC2 is the tactile generator integrated into the grey saddle-style throne top. When a signal is fed into the BC2 engine (typically from a kick drum microphone or an electronic drum module), the generator converts that signal into physical kinetic energy. This energy is transferred through the seat to the player's body.

Key features include: * Integrated Flightcase: The monitoring engine is built directly into a durable flightcase for road readiness. * Patented Technology: Uses a specific tactile generator design that provides high-speed, accurate response without lag. * Complete Connectivity: The package includes all necessary cables required to power the device and link the engine to the throne top. * User Control: The system allows the user to adjust the intensity of the feedback, putting them in full control of their connection to the music.

Sound and Physical Character

While the BC2 does not produce 'sound' in the traditional sense of an audible speaker, its character is defined by its transparency and speed. It is designed to be silent to the audience and the rest of the band while providing the performer with a powerful, punchy sensation. This tactile feedback mimics the feeling of standing in front of a large subwoofer array, providing the 'thump' that is often lost when using in-ear monitors (IEMs) alone.

Target Audience

The BC2 is primarily aimed at professional drummers who require precise timing and a physical sense of their kick drum, especially in loud stage environments or when using silent stage setups. However, its applications extend to bass players, keyboardists, and other musicians who benefit from feeling the low-frequency foundation of a track. It is particularly suited for those who find in-ear monitors 'clinical' or lacking in physical impact.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard drum thrones, the BC2 represents a significant technological leap, functioning as a piece of electronics rather than just furniture. When compared to basic 'butt-kickers' or vibration motors, the Porter & Davies system is noted for its high-quality components and manufacturing techniques, which avoid the lag and mechanical noise associated with lower-cost alternatives. While it is a premium investment at approximately £1495, it serves as a comprehensive, flight-ready system rather than a modular add-on.

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Frequently asked questions

What exactly is included in the BC2 package?: The package consists of the BC2 engine housed in a flightcase, a patented Porter & Davies saddle-style throne top in grey, and all the necessary power and connector cables.
How does the BC2 connect to my drum kit?: You typically connect a microphone or a line-level feed from your kick drum or mixer into the BC2 engine, which then processes the signal and sends it to the throne top.
Is the flightcase separate from the monitoring engine?: No, the BC2 engine is built directly into its own professional-grade flightcase for maximum protection and ease of transport during touring.
Can I use this with an electronic drum kit?: Yes, the BC2 is highly effective with electronic drums, as it provides the physical vibration that mesh pads and triggers cannot naturally produce.
What is the benefit of the saddle-style top?: The saddle top is designed for ergonomic comfort and stability, helping drummers maintain posture while the integrated generator delivers feedback directly through the seat.
Does the system produce any audible noise?: The system is designed to be tactile; while there is minimal mechanical noise, it is virtually silent to the audience compared to traditional wedge monitors.
What is the typical price for the BC2 system?: The system typically retails for approximately £1495, reflecting its professional-grade components and patented technology.
Does this system replace my in-ear monitors?: No, it is intended to work alongside in-ear monitors. It provides the physical 'feel' that IEMs lack, creating a more complete monitoring experience.
Is the throne top height adjustable?: The seat top itself is a part provided by Porter & Davies, but it is designed to fit onto standard professional drum throne bases, which provide the height adjustment.
What color is this specific model?: This specific version features the Saddle Top in a Grey finish.
Is the BC2 suitable for studio use?: Yes, it is excellent for studio sessions as it allows the drummer to feel the low end without increasing the volume in the room or bleeding into microphones.
Can other musicians besides drummers use the BC2?: Absolutely; any musician who wants a deeper physical connection to low-frequency information, such as bassists or keyboard players, can use the system.