Gear article

Tama Heavy Tension Bass Drum Pedal Spring

The Tama Heavy Tension Bass Drum Pedal Spring is a high-tensile replacement component designed for use with all Tama bass drum pedals. Constructed from durable metal, it provides increased resistance compared to standard springs, facilitating faster beater return and a firmer feel underfoot.

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Overview

The Tama Heavy Tension Bass Drum Pedal Spring serves as a critical maintenance and performance upgrade component within the Tama hardware ecosystem. Designed specifically to interface with the spring assembly of any Tama kick pedal, it addresses the needs of drummers who require a more robust physical response from their hardware. The component is typically priced around the £5 mark, making it an accessible utility item for both professional and amateur kits.

Design and Construction

Utilising a durable metal construction, this spring is engineered to withstand the repeated stretching and contraction inherent in high-impact drumming. The 'Heavy Tension' designation refers to the wire gauge and coil density, which require more force to expand than standard-weight springs. It features traditional hooked ends, allowing it to be easily integrated into the existing spring post and rocker hub of a bass drum pedal.

Performance and Character

The primary functional characteristic of this spring is its high rate of recoil. By providing a stronger pull on the beater assembly, it ensures that the beater returns to its starting position more rapidly after a stroke. This translates to a 'stiffer' or more 'resistant' pedal feel, which can assist in maintaining control during high-speed patterns or when the drummer prefers a physical push-back against their foot.

Installation and Compatibility

One of the key advantages of this specific part is its universal compatibility across the Tama pedal range. Whether used on entry-level models or professional series like the Iron Cobra or Speed Cobra, the attachment mechanism remains consistent. Installation is straightforward: the spring is unhooked from the tension adjustment assembly and replaced with the heavy-tension variant, requiring no specialist tools beyond basic drum maintenance skills.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Tama Heavy Tension Bass Drum Pedal Spring?
It is a replacement spring designed for bass drum pedals that offers a higher level of resistance than standard springs. It is manufactured by Tama and is built from durable metal to ensure longevity under heavy use.
Which pedals is this spring compatible with?
The spring is designed for universal compatibility with all Tama bass drum pedals. This includes various series across the brand's history, ensuring it serves as a reliable spare part for any Tama kick pedal.
How does heavy tension affect the feel of a pedal?
Heavy tension makes the pedal feel stiffer and harder to press down, while simultaneously increasing the speed at which the beater returns to the player. This is often preferred by drummers who play with a heavy foot or at high speeds.
What material is the spring made from?
The spring is constructed from a high-quality, durable metal. This material is chosen to maintain its tension over long periods and resist the fatigue that comes from constant mechanical movement.
Can I use this spring as a spare part?
Yes, it is ideal for use as a spare or direct replacement for a broken or worn-out spring. Having one in a stick bag is a common practice for gigging drummers to prevent hardware failure issues.
Is the installation process difficult?
No, the installation is designed to be simple and user-friendly. It involves hooking the ends of the spring onto the pedal's existing hardware, which can usually be done by hand or with minimal effort.
How much does the Tama Heavy Tension Spring typically cost?
The typical price range for this component is approximately £5. This makes it a cost-effective way to customise or repair a bass drum pedal without needing to replace the entire unit.
Does this spring come with the tension adjustment assembly?
Generally, this product is the spring itself, rather than the entire assembly. It is intended to be hooked onto the existing adjustment bolts and rocker hubs already present on your Tama pedal.
Why would a drummer choose heavy tension over standard tension?
A drummer might choose heavy tension if they find standard springs too 'floppy' or slow to respond. It provides a more tactile feedback and can help the beater 'stick' to the foot during rapid-fire double bass playing.
Is this spring compatible with other brands like Pearl or Yamaha?
While specifically designed for Tama pedals, many drum pedal springs share similar dimensions. However, Tama officially recommends this part for Tama pedals to ensure perfect fitment and performance.
Will this spring help with beater speed?
Indirectly, yes; by pulling the beater back to the neutral position more forcefully, it allows the drummer to initiate the next stroke sooner. This can facilitate faster playing for those who have the leg strength to manage the increased resistance.
How often should I replace my bass drum pedal spring?
Springs should be replaced when they begin to lose their 'snap', show signs of rust, or if the coils begin to deform. Using a high-quality metal spring like the Tama Heavy Tension model can extend the time between replacements.