Gear article
Tama Iron Cobra 600 Duo Glide Twin Pedal Dark Shadow Edition
The Tama Iron Cobra 600 Duo Glide Twin Pedal Dark Shadow Edition is a professional-grade double bass drum pedal featuring a unique matte black aesthetic. It is distinguished by its Duo Glide cam system, which allows players to toggle between two distinct stroke styles, and its rugged, high-temperature baked textured finish.
See live pricesOverview
The Tama Iron Cobra 600 series occupies a unique space in the brand's hardware lineup, bridging the gap between the entry-level Iron Cobra 200 and the flagship 900 series. The Dark Shadow Edition is a limited-run variant of the standard 600 Twin Pedal, primarily distinguished by its aesthetic overhaul. It features a matte black coating achieved through a high-temperature baking process, resulting in a textured pattern that provides a rugged character and increased durability against stage wear.
Duo Glide Mechanism
The defining technical feature of the Iron Cobra 600 is the Duo Glide cam. This innovative reversible cam allows drummers to choose between two different power actions in one pedal:
- Power Glide: Provides a punchier, more direct response with increased speed and power at the end of the stroke.
- Rolling Glide: Offers a smooth, consistent feel throughout the entire movement of the stroke.
Changing the cam style involves simply flipping the cam over, allowing for quick adjustments to suit different musical styles or player preferences.
Construction and Key Features
To ensure reliable performance, the pedal utilizes a double chain drive system, which provides solid and predictable tracking. Friction is minimised through the use of the 'Speedo-Ring,' a high-quality rocker cam with a built-in ball bearing. This design reduces drag and makes the pedal feel lighter and easier underfoot during extended performances.
Additional adjustments include a quick-set spring tension system and an adjustable beater angle. The pedal is equipped with a dual-sided beater, offering different tonal options depending on whether the felt or plastic side strikes the drumhead.
Sound and Response
While a bass drum pedal does not produce sound itself, its mechanical action directly influences the drummer's articulation. The Iron Cobra 600 is designed for versatility. The Power Glide setting is well-suited for louder genres requiring volume and impact, while the Rolling Glide is preferred for intricate footwork and dynamic control. The double chain ensures there is no lateral play, resulting in a focused, powerful strike.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the Tama ecosystem, the 600 series offers more adjustability than the 200 series while remaining more affordable than the 900 series. Compared to other percussion-related hardware or standard guitar peripherals like the Yamaha FC7 or Boss NS-2, the Iron Cobra 600 represents a specialized mechanical tool rather than an electronic processor. Its primary competition includes other double chain pedals that lack the switchable cam versatility found in the Duo Glide system.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary difference of the Dark Shadow Edition?
- The Dark Shadow Edition features a specific matte black finish applied through a high-temperature baking process. This gives the pedal a unique textured pattern and a rugged visual character that differs from the standard silver/chrome Iron Cobra finish.
- How does the Duo Glide cam work?
- The Duo Glide cam is reversible, allowing the user to switch between 'Power Glide' and 'Rolling Glide' actions. By flipping the cam, you change the shape of the sprocket, which alters the leverage and speed of the beater during the stroke.
- What drive system does this pedal use?
- The Tama Iron Cobra 600 Duo Glide Twin Pedal utilizes a double chain drive. This system is designed to provide a solid, durable, and predictable response with every stroke.
- What is the purpose of the Speedo-Ring?
- The Speedo-Ring replaces the traditional nylon rocker cam with a high-quality ball bearing. This reduces friction significantly, making the pedal feel smoother and reducing fatigue during long playing sessions.
- Can you adjust the beater angle on this pedal?
- Yes, the pedal allows for quick beater angle adjustments. This feature enables drummers to tailor the distance the beater travels to their specific foot technique and comfort level.
- Does the pedal come with a specific beater?
- The pedal is equipped with a dual-sided beater. This allows the player to choose between a softer felt side for a traditional sound or a harder plastic side for more attack and definition.
- Is this a single or double pedal?
- This specific model is a 'Twin Pedal,' meaning it is a double bass drum pedal setup. It includes a primary pedal and a secondary pedal connected by a drive shaft for two-footed playing.
- What is the typical price for the Dark Shadow Edition?
- The typical price range for this specific limited edition model is approximately GBP 311. This price may vary slightly depending on the retailer and stock availability.
- Who is the Iron Cobra 600 designed for?
- It is designed for drummers who require a professional-grade, reliable pedal with versatile action settings. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the aesthetic of a matte black, limited-edition finish.
- Can the spring tension be adjusted?
- Yes, the Iron Cobra 600 features an adjustable spring tension mechanism. This allows the player to increase or decrease the resistance of the pedal to match their playing strength.
- How does the Power Glide setting affect the feel?
- The Power Glide setting uses an offset cam which increases the speed and power of the beater as it reaches the end of the stroke. This results in a punchier and more aggressive bass drum sound.
- What is the benefit of the high-temperature baked coating?
- Beyond the unique 'Dark Shadow' aesthetic, the high-temperature baked coating provides a durable, textured surface. This makes the pedal more resistant to the scuffs and wear typically encountered during transport and stage use.
