The 10 Best Double Bass Drum Pedals (2024) for Speed and Durability
Double bass drumming is an excellent and powerful method of adding variety to songs. The double kick drum pedal is primarily used in heavy metal songs with a fast tempo, although, it’s also used in a variety of other genres.
Having the best double bass pedal is important to drummers who want versatility and superior playability. Double bass drum pedals offer more precision and power for drummers. As a result, the kick sound is enhanced and more consistent. A double bass pedal can be used to play faster as well.
My main recommended pedal is the Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal that offers the best value for the price with great quality sound and components.
My second recommended option is the PDP 400 Series Double Pedal for drummers on a tighter budget.
If you’re looking for a high-end pedal. The main consideration would be if you want to more classic designed double pedal (such as an Iron Cobra) or a newer style of lighter, direct drive style pedal for faster speed such as a Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive.
Contents
- The Best Double Bass Drum Pedals (2024) – At a Glance
- 1. Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 2. PDP 400 Series Double Pedal
- 3. Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive
- 4. DW DWCP3002 Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 5. Tama Speed Cobra 910 Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 6. Pearl P932 Longboard Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 7. DW DWCP9002 Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 8. Mapex P800TW Armory Double Bass Drum Pedal
- 9. GRIFFIN Deluxe Double Kick Drum Pedal
- 10. Signature Music Pro Double Bass Drum Pedal
- How Does a Double Bass Drum Pedal Work?
- Types of Double Bass Drum Pedals
- Why Buy a Double Bass Drum Pedal?
- What are the Drawbacks of Double Bass Pedals?
- Difference Techniques to Play Double Bass Drum Pedals
- Double bass drum pedals vs two bass drums
- What is a Reasonable Price for a Double Bass Drum Pedal?
- What to Look Out For When Buying a Double Pedal?
- Using Double Bass Pedals with Electronic Drum Sets
- Conclusion
The Best Double Bass Drum Pedals (2024) – At a Glance
And now onto the full list:
1. Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal
The Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal is one of Tama’s best pedals (not as good as the 900 series, but within the budget of far more drummers!). The pedal offers great value for money while providing excellent response with good sensitivity to the tension springs and durability as well.
Pros
- Quality pedal with great durability
- Great value for money
- Well-rounded product
Cons
- The feel is a bit heavier in comparison to newer designed pedals like the Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive.
The Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal is a solid-built double kick pedal that has gotten frequent use over the past few years. It has quality components that come with a reasonable price tag on them.
This double bass drum pedal provides drummers with an enhanced double chain drive which gives much-needed power and accuracy while being very durable and can sustain long practice sessions.
| Material Type: | Iron/Cam |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
I highly recommend the Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal for drummers on the look for a quality yet reasonably affordable pedal.
2. PDP 400 Series Double Pedal
The PDP 400 Series Double Pedal comes at a very affordable price. It offers durability that’s best suited for beginner drummers who don’t want to break their pockets and get a good solid double bass drum pedal.
Pros
- Affordable pedal
- Sturdy build
- Good quality considering price
Cons
- Not as smooth and responsive as the higher-end options on this list.
- Not an amazing amount of adjustment
The PDP 400 Series Double Pedal offers good value for money. With a good build, this pedal is well-suited for beginners that are on a tight budget.
There are a few things to keep in mind, like playing carefully in order not to damage the pedal, as well as not being the most well-adjusted pedal. Considering the price, this is not a deal-breaker in any case.
| Material Type: | Iron/Cam |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The PDP 400 Series Double Pedal is best suited for beginners. I highly recommend this pedal as an affordable option to consider, with decent quality and a reasonable overall response.
3. Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive
The Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive is a pro-choice for intermediate and pro drummers out there. A high-end product that is very well-rounded and offers excellent versatility for those on the look for the ideal double bass pedal.
Pros
- Very versatile pedal
- DuoDeck board
- Durability is top-quality
Cons
- Pricey!
The Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive is not only has a DuoDeck board but also offers great durability preferable for long practice sessions without worries.
The only drawback to this amazing pedal is that it’s an expensive product. Other than that, you can’t find fault in this excellent double bass drum pedal.
| Material Type: | Steel |
| Pedal Type: | Direct Drive |
The Pearl P3002D Eliminator Demon Drive is a recommended choice for pro drummers looking for a versatile and high-quality pedal.
4. DW DWCP3002 Double Bass Drum Pedal
The DW DWCP3002 Double Bass Drum Pedal is a well-rounded pedal that offers high performance and great tunability suited for metal drummers out there. With adjustable toe clamps and good quality build, this sturdy pedal is a good choice.
Pros
- Great quality and durability
- Excellent adjustment
- Great design with comfort
- The left pedal is designed nicely to fit next to your hi-hat pedal
Cons
- Not quite as good as the DW DWCP9002 (but still great for its price)
The DW DWCP3002 Double Bass Drum Pedal has adjustable toe clamps, a two-way beater, and a dual-chain drive accelerator sprocket which just adds to the value of this product.
A comfortable pedal that suits most drummers, all the while providing good response.
| Material Type: | Metal, Steel |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The DW DWCP3002 Double Bass Drum Pedal is best suited for those looking for a well-rounded pedal that is good for any genre and style of playing, most preferably for metal drummers.
5. Tama Speed Cobra 910 Double Bass Drum Pedal
The Tama Speed Cobra 910 Double Bass Drum Pedal is a bit different from the top pick on this list, in terms of the speed factor and larger price tag. The Speed Cobra has a guard block that adds to its durability and an adjustable Cobra Coil spring-return for better stability.
Pros
- Top-notch durability
- Lesser resistance and fast recoil
- Stable and comfortable
Cons
- A bit pricey
The Tama Speed Cobra 910 Double Bass Drum Pedal has pedal anchors that further accommodate the stability of this product, all the while having lesser resistance and fast recoil due to quality components implemented.
There are a few setbacks with this pedal such as the price (although not extremely expensive) and the fact that it’s designed for right-handed drummers, meaning the left-handed drummers will find it difficult.
| Material Type: | Metal |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The Tama Speed Cobra 910 Double Bass Drum Pedal is probably one of the best pedals for speed drumming. A pricey product but not outrageously so.
6. Pearl P932 Longboard Double Bass Drum Pedal
The Pearl P932 Longboard Double Bass Drum Pedal is one of the best and highly used pedals on the market today. This pedal has unique features like the adjustable beater angle and an incredible design that just sits right with drummers.
Pros
- Smooth and easy playing
- Great precision and tunability
- Included PowerShifter for better playability
Cons
- A bit pricey
The PowerShifter feature of the Pearl P932 Longboard Double Bass Drum Pedal transforms the feel and power, resulting in much better playability for drummers. Tunability is excellent on this pedal, as well as the overall durability and precision.
The only fault is maybe the price for some and the difficulty to link to an electronic drum set. Not huge drawbacks but something to keep in mind.
| Material Type: | Steel |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The Pearl P932 Longboard Double Bass Drum Pedal is highly used for a reason. Many drummers all over the world approve of this pedal and so do I.
7. DW DWCP9002 Double Bass Drum Pedal
The DW DWCP9002 Double Bass Drum Pedal offers probably the most smooth playability compared to all on this list so far. With its great response, this pedal lives up to the manufacturer’s name with an included non-skid rubber pad for better stability.
Pros
- Highly versatile product
- Includes a floating rotor
- Excellent durability
- Also gives you the option to use a belt/strap instead of the chain drive.
Cons
- Very fast and smooth, but not as much as higher-end lighter, direct-drive pedals.
The DW DWCP9002 Double Bass Drum Pedal includes a Nylon strap which adds to the smoothness of this product, while also offering the choice between a chain drive pedal, as well as the option of a belt/strap drive pedal.
The only setback to this pedal is the price. A much more expensive product than all the others on the list but in my opinion, for good reason.
| Material Type: | Metal |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive (belt also included as an alternative) |
The DW DWCP9002 is a premium pedal for a reason. Considering its price, it’s hard to argue that anything else is the fault with this product. If you have the budget then you can’t go wrong.
8. Mapex P800TW Armory Double Bass Drum Pedal
The Mapex P800TW Armory Double Bass Drum Pedal offers lightning-fast playing with interchangeable weights on the Falcon Beater that just adds to the value of this product. With a slick design, this pedal is a go-to for most drummers.
Pros
- Pedal for fast playing styles
- Easy to assemble and adjustable
- Durable yet affordable
Cons
- The bass drum clamp is not amazing.
The Mapex P800TW Armory Double Bass Drum Pedal is used by many drummers out there and for good reason. A well-designed double bass pedal that just looks right. Really easy to assemble and is also adjustable to personal preference.
For fast playing and durability to withstand long practice sessions. The issue with this product is the difficulty to link to an electronic drum kit, which is not a major issue in my opinion.
| Material Type: | Steel |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The Mapex P800TW Armory Double Bass Drum Pedal is a good product that has great value for money. With good durability and quality, all for a reasonable price.
9. GRIFFIN Deluxe Double Kick Drum Pedal
The GRIFFIN Deluxe Double Kick Drum Pedal might not be recognizable by many but with its credentials and quality, it is more than worthy to occupy this list. A professional drum pedal with a reasonable price and decent quality.
Pros
- Affordable bass drum pedal
- Versatile in terms of settings
Cons
- Not the sturdiest build
- Not as fast/smooth as higher-end options
The GRIFFIN Deluxe Double Kick Drum Pedal may not be the most durable on this list but it offers other much-needed qualities you want in a pedal.
Its affordable price is just the beginning, with customizable settings that offer great versatility and playability, all the while producing a decent sound. Another interesting thing to note is that it comes with a 1-year warranty for those debating its purchase.
| Material Type: | Steel |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
The GRIFFIN Deluxe Double Kick Drum Pedal is a good choice for beginners looking for a reasonably priced pedal with good sound and great versatility.
10. Signature Music Pro Double Bass Drum Pedal
The Signature Music Pro Double Bass Drum Pedal is a pedal with a highly affordable price tag that any beginner can afford. This pedal offers surprising comfort considering the price and a decent sound.
Pros
- Highly affordable product
- Solid components
- Beginner-friendly double bass pedal
Cons
- Not the most durable
- Not too versatile
- Not as fast/smooth as higher-end options
The Signature Music Pro Double Bass Drum Pedal is a straightforward product that is suited for beginner drummers looking for an affordable option while getting a decent sound in return. This is not the best pedal around but it does have reasonably solid components.
Granted, the build is not the most durable and not too versatile, but considering the price, I think that it’s fair.
| Material Type: | Aluminum, Metal |
| Pedal Type: | Chain Drive |
If you’re on a budget and want a starter pedal then the Signature Music Pro Double Bass Drum Pedal would suffice for now. Although you might want to think about upgrading after a year or so.
How Does a Double Bass Drum Pedal Work?
A double pedal is very common in the drumming world. It enables you to operate two foot pedals on one bass drum. A bar links both the right and left foot pedals, resulting in faster playing.
Double bass drum pedals have and control their own beater as opposed to a single pedal which only has and controls one. The kick (right) pedal is the same as a conventional single pedal, whereas the left is set up and controlled by your hi-hat (left) foot.
Types of Double Bass Drum Pedals
There are 3 types of double bass drum pedals: chain drive, belt drive, and direct drive pedals. Depending on your needs, each of these types come with their ups and downs.
Chain drive pedals are probably the most frequent ones you will encounter. They can be single chain and double chain (dual) pedals.
Single chain pedals incorporate one chain on both pedals that control the speed, motion, and overall control of the pedal. Usually, they offer less durability and control than all the others.
Double chain pedals or dual pedals incorporate two chains and provide more control and better durability which is understandable considering the bonus chain in the equation.
Belt drive pedals are not so frequent but are still viable. They are controlled by a solid belt leading from the foot pedal to the beater which results in a much better response and a more powerful stroke than the chain drive pedals.
Direct drive pedals, similar to belt drive pedals, connect directly but with a bridge instead of a belt. This is the most durable option that offers the best response, but in turn, lacks the adjustability of the pedal.
Why Buy a Double Bass Drum Pedal?
The main genre that necessitates a double pedal is metal, in which a single pedal would simply not be enough to get all those kick strokes in. Playing a double bass drum pedal is also extremely fun as you can work on more intricate foot and leg patterns.
If you’re thinking about getting a single pedal then check out our pick of the best bass drum pedals.
What are the Drawbacks of Double Bass Pedals?
Like most things, everything has its ups and downs. Double bass drum pedals, while being incredibly useful at times, have their own set of drawbacks.
The main drawback is that you can’t play the second double bass drum pedal and the hi-hat pedal at the same time (unless you’re using some sort of less conventional heel-toe technique). Therefore you get less dynamics on the hi-hat, though you can certainly work around it with good skills and a good hi-hat clamp.
The main complaint against double kick pedals is probably their overuse. Of course this is more an issue with how they are used rather than a problem with the pedals themselves. Many drummers tend to overuse this pedal, particularly when attempting to gain massive speed, which can reduce the overall musicality of the drumming.
Difference Techniques to Play Double Bass Drum Pedals
There are three techniques you will encounter when on the subject of double bass drum playing. You have the heel-up, the heel-down, and the heel-toe technique.
The heel-up technique is the most frequent one and offers the most power, speed, and volume. The key to this technique is to lower down your foot, keeping it about a quarter of the way down the pedal footboard, and steady it there as you extend your leg from the hip, pushing it down.
Heel-down is the more beginner approach and involves resting the heel on the bottom of the footboard and controlling the pedal by bending the ankle. This option often results in less power.
The Heel-toe technique is tapping your foot more frequently across the pedal with one downward movement of the leg in order to pull off two or even three strokes of the beater at a time. An expert technique that requires lots of practice.
Double bass drum pedals vs two bass drums
Double bass drum pedals are more convenient than having two bass drums in your set. Having a double pedal is also much cheaper than buying another bass drum. Not to mention the fact that you have to carry and set up the other bass drum whenever you play a gig. Overall having a pedal is much simpler, whereas two bass drums will sound fuller. For more information, and those considering two bass drums, you can check out our article on double bass drum sets.
What is a Reasonable Price for a Double Bass Drum Pedal?
A reasonable price for a double drum bass pedal would be somewhere around $100-400. You can find a good deal of pedals in the range of price that offers very good build quality and sound. Scrolling through the list you will see that most fall into this category so it comes down to personal choice. For professional pedals, the price can be much higher but they also tend to have better quality, speed, adjustability, and control.
What to Look Out For When Buying a Double Pedal?
The most consistent thing to keep an eye out for is the speed, smoothness of motion, control, and durability of the pedal. All these things factor into what a good bass pedal is supposed to provide. Check all of the above before deciding on which one.
Versatility and playability come with experienced drummers who are looking to upgrade their current setup. A lot of pedals offer great value for money with good versatility and comfort so be sure to do thorough research before buying one.
Lastly, consider the price and make sure you actually need a double bass pedal before buying one. If you play a more mellow genre and don’t really need a double pedal, chances are you are only spending money on a luxury item instead of a necessity.
Using Double Bass Pedals with Electronic Drum Sets
Check out our article on double bass electronic drum sets for more information on using a double pedal setup with e-drums. The setup of these can vary quite a lot, which is why it warrants a completely separate article!
Conclusion
Double Bass Drum Pedals are extremely fun to play, and are very widespread in many metal sub-genres!
Beginners looking for an affordable product with mid to high-range quality would do well to browse this list before buying so you can be sure that you are making the right choice.
My top recommended pick is the Tama Iron Cobra 600 Series Double Bass Drum Pedal which offers the best value for money and is a well-rounded pedal.
My budget pick is the PDP 400 Series Double Pedal for those looking to not break their bank while purchasing a decent pedal.
