Acoustic Drum Triggers
Acoustic drums have one of the longest histories of any musical instrument, and they're not going anywhere soon. But that doesn't mean there isn't room for new things, as the 1980s proved with the widespread adoption of electronic drums. Both types are great options for drummers - but maybe you want the best of both worlds? In that case, you're probably looking for some acoustic triggers. When attached to your acoustic drums, these gadgets allow them to trigger electronic drum machines, and that gives you all kinds of options from amplification to adding effects or even triggering MIDI samples when you hit certain drums or cymbals. The possibilities are virtually endless!
There are a few different types of acoustic triggers to choose from, most of which are small devices that clip onto the drum's rim, with a short arm that contacts the surface of the drum head. A few examples of these would be the Ddrum Red Shot 5-Piece Drum Trigger Pack and the Roland RT-30K Acoustic Bass Drum Trigger. Another type of trigger is similar but doesn't bother with the clamp at all, such as the Simmons Piezo Drum Trigger and Yamaha DT-20 Acoustic Drum Trigger for Kick and Large Diameter Drums, which simply stick right onto the drumhead. Looking for a similar trigger for your cymbals? Check out the Zildjian Gen16 series to get started on that front.
Maybe you're interested in a type of trigger that can unlock all the capabilities of an electronic drum module, while still fitting onto acoustic drums? In that case, the Aquarian onHEAD Portable Electronic Drumsurface Bundle Pak might be for you. These are full-featured electronic drums that can fit right into the rims of your acoustic ones, giving you a genuine acoustic look and feel while acting as fully electronic drums. They're perfect for drummers who want to transition back and forth between acoustic and electric onstage, or if you want to try electric drums but are determined not to part with the stage presence an acoustic set gives you.