This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout for heel-up players demonstrates serious improvements. I’ve put it through extensive testing—pounding out fast, powerful heel-up strokes—and it consistently stays smooth and stable. Its wider, anti-slip pedal base combined with the heavy-duty, double-chain design really caught my attention, offering a level of stability that others lack. Plus, the adjustable spring tension and the high-density felt beater make precision control effortless, even during rapid shifts in style.
What truly sets the Double Bass Drum Pedal with 2 Chain, Beaters & Keys apart is how quickly it adapts to your playing. Setup is straightforward, allowing you to hit the ground running. For anyone serious about heel-up technique, this pedal offers the perfect blend of stability, power, and customization. After comparing several options, I can genuinely say this pedal outperforms many in feel and durability—it’s a game-changer for dynamic, fast-paced drumming. I confidently recommend it for drummers wanting maximum control with minimum fuss.
Top Recommendation: Double Bass Drum Pedal with 2 Chain, Beaters & Keys
Why We Recommend It: This pedal features a robust double-chain drive for smooth, stable action and a wide, non-slip base that prevents shifting during intense footwork. Its adjustable spring tension allows fine-tuning for heel-up precision, and the high-density felt beater delivers powerful hits without excessive effort. Compared to others, its durable build and full customization make it ideal for aggressive technique, ensuring reliability during every performance.
Double Bass Drum Pedal with 2 Chain, Beaters & Keys
- ✓ Very stable and sturdy
- ✓ Easy to adjust tension
- ✓ Quick to set up
- ✕ Slightly heavy for travel
| Chain Drive | Double metal chain for stability and durability |
| Pedal Plate | Wider bottom plate with non-slip surface |
| Spring Tension Adjustment | Adjustable spring tension from 13.8 inch to 21.2 inch width |
| Beater Material | High-density felt with metal rod |
| Pedal Width Adjustment | Width adjustable to suit playing style |
| Included Accessories | Three drum keys for quick setup |
Unlike most double bass pedals I’ve tried, this KINGDO model immediately grabs your attention with its hefty, metal build and the thick double chain that feels almost indestructible. The wider bottom plate offers a solid foundation, making it feel like a true extension of your legs rather than a flimsy accessory.
The pedal’s weight gives it a notable stability, which is key when you’re working on heel-up techniques that demand quick, controlled movements. Adjusting the spring tension is straightforward, and I appreciated how smoothly the tensioner moved—no stiff spots or awkward resistance.
Setting it up was a breeze—just attach the rods, tighten the screws, and you’re ready to go in about ten minutes. The included drum keys made it even easier, so I could tweak everything to my liking without digging through a toolbox.
What surprised me most was the beater’s high-density felt head combined with the metal rod. It produces a full, punchy sound that’s perfect whether you’re practicing jazz fills or heavy metal double-kicks.
The adjustable beater angle gave me even more control over my strike, helping me nail those heel-up strokes comfortably.
Overall, this pedal feels built to last and performs smoothly at high speeds. It’s a great choice if you’re serious about improving your heel-up technique and want a reliable, stable pedal that can handle intense practice sessions without slipping.
What Features Make a Kick Pedal Ideal for Heel Up Techniques?
The ideal kick pedal for heel up techniques includes several key features that enhance performance and comfort during play.
- Adjustable Spring Tension: Having adjustable spring tension allows drummers to customize the resistance of the pedal to suit their playing style. This is crucial for heel up techniques, as it enables smoother and more controlled strokes without excessive effort.
- Lightweight Design: A lightweight pedal can significantly improve speed and response, making it easier for drummers to execute rapid foot movements. This is particularly beneficial for heel up techniques where quick, precise strikes are essential.
- Dual Chain Drive: A dual chain drive mechanism provides a more consistent and powerful connection between the pedal and the drumhead. This feature helps maintain momentum and ensures that heel up playing remains fluid and dynamic.
- Wide Footboard: A wider footboard offers more surface area for the foot, allowing for better stability and control during heel up techniques. This can lead to improved accuracy and comfort, especially during extended playing sessions.
- Non-slip Grip: A non-slip grip on the footboard is essential for maintaining control, particularly when playing with heel up techniques where foot positioning is vital. This feature ensures that the drummer’s foot stays in place, preventing unwanted slips during vigorous play.
- Adjustable Beater Angle: The ability to adjust the beater angle can help drummers find the optimal striking position for their playing style. This is important for heel up techniques as it allows for maximum power transfer from the foot to the drumhead.
- Durable Construction: A pedal made from high-quality materials ensures longevity and reliability, which is especially important for drummers who play frequently or in various settings. A durable construction can withstand the demands of heel up techniques without compromising performance.
- Quick Release Mechanism: A quick release mechanism allows for easy setup and teardown of the pedal, making it convenient for drummers on the go. This feature is helpful for those who frequently transport their gear and need a pedal that can be adjusted or removed quickly.
How Do Different Brands Compare for Heel Up Playing?
| Brand | Price | Features | Durability | Weight | Warranty | User Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | $120 – Mid-range pricing suitable for serious players | Double chain drive, adjustable tension | High-quality materials, built to last | 3.5 lbs | 1 year | 4.5/5 |
| Brand B | $80 – Budget-friendly option for beginners | Single chain drive, basic adjustability | Decent durability for casual use | 2.8 lbs | 6 months | 4.0/5 |
| Brand C | $150 – Premium choice for professionals | Advanced features, quick release | Exceptional durability, designed for heavy use | 4.0 lbs | 2 years | 4.8/5 |
| Brand D | $95 – Versatile option for various playing styles | Dual chain drive, customizable settings | Good durability for regular use | 3.2 lbs | 1 year | 4.3/5 |
What Are the Advantages of Using the Heel Up Technique with Kick Pedals?
The heel-up technique offers several advantages for drummers aiming to enhance their performance with kick pedals. Here are key benefits associated with this approach:
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Increased Speed and Control: By using the heel-up method, drummers can achieve faster pedal strokes. This technique allows for more precise foot positioning, enabling rapid double strokes or intricate patterns.
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Enhanced Power: Raising the heel while striking the pedal helps generate more force with less effort. This enables drummers to produce louder and more dynamic sounds without straining their legs.
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Improved Flexibility: The heel-up technique promotes greater foot flexibility, allowing for a wider range of motion. This is particularly beneficial for executing complex rhythms and filling seamlessly within a song.
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Better Foot Placement: The technique provides better control over foot placement on the pedal, which is crucial for consistent bass drum sound. A secure footing enhances stability and responsiveness to the drummer’s movements.
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Reduced Fatigue: Drummers often experience less fatigue when employing the heel-up style, as it distributes the effort more evenly across the leg muscles, making longer practice sessions and performances more manageable.
Mastering the heel-up technique can significantly elevate a drummer’s overall playing experience.
Which Kick Pedals Are Recommended Specifically for Heel Up Players?
For heel up players, several kick pedals are highly recommended for their responsiveness and feel:
- DW 9000 Series: This pedal is known for its smooth action and adjustability, making it ideal for heel up players who need precision and control.
- Axis A Longboard: The longboard design provides a larger surface area, allowing for better foot placement and faster response, which is perfect for heel up techniques.
- Pearl Eliminator Redline: This pedal features interchangeable cam systems, allowing heel up players to customize their feel and action depending on their playing style.
- Tama Iron Cobra: With its unique Cobra Coil design, this pedal offers a quick return and a consistent feel, making it a favorite among heel up drummers.
- LP (Latin Percussion) Pedal: Designed for versatility, this pedal allows for a comfortable heel up playing position while providing excellent feedback and responsiveness.
The DW 9000 Series is celebrated for its durable construction and the ability to fine-tune tension and beater angle, catering specifically to the needs of heel up players who demand precision in their playing. It also features a dual-chain drive that offers an incredibly smooth feel, which is crucial for executing fast beats.
The Axis A Longboard pedal stands out with its extended footboard that allows for more comfortable positioning when playing heel up. The design not only enhances speed but also provides a solid grip, which is essential for maintaining control during intense playing sessions.
The Pearl Eliminator Redline sets itself apart with its innovative cam system options, enabling the drummer to switch between different settings to find the best response for heel up playing. This adaptability ensures that players can achieve their desired sound and feel, regardless of the musical style.
The Tama Iron Cobra pedal is engineered with a spring-loaded Cobra Coil that helps in returning the beater quickly, making it easier for heel up players to maintain a rapid tempo without sacrificing control or accuracy. Its robust construction ensures longevity, even under heavy use.
Lastly, the LP Pedal is crafted for flexibility, making it suitable for various playing styles, including heel up. Its design facilitates a natural foot movement while ensuring that each stroke is met with a satisfying response, making it a great choice for drummers who emphasize technique and speed.
What Do Reviews Say About the Best Kick Pedals for Heel Up Techniques?
The Tama Speed Cobra is known for its lightweight design and fast response, making it an excellent choice for drummers who rely on heel up techniques. Its unique linkage system allows for a quicker action, giving players the ability to perform fast double strokes and complex rhythms with ease.
The Axis A Series pedal is engineered with cutting-edge technology that delivers rapid and direct action, appealing to heel up players who prioritize speed and precision in their playing. The innovative design minimizes lag, enabling drummers to execute intricate bass drum patterns with remarkable accuracy.
The Mapex Falcon pedal combines robust construction with adjustable features to accommodate heel up techniques effectively. Its customizable beater angle and smooth action provide drummers with the power and control they need to execute dynamic performances while ensuring a comfortable playing experience.
How Can You Choose a Kick Pedal Based on Your Unique Playing Style?
Choosing the best kick pedal for your unique playing style, especially for heel-up players, involves considering several key factors.
- Response Time: Kick pedals vary in how quickly they respond to foot pressure, which is crucial for heel-up players who rely on rapid foot movement. Look for pedals with a direct drive system for minimal lag and immediate feedback.
- Weight and Stability: The weight of the pedal impacts its stability during play. Heavier pedals often provide a solid base that prevents unwanted movement, which is beneficial for heel-up players who exert force from their ankles.
- Adjustability: Features such as adjustable spring tension and beater angle allow players to customize the pedal to their playing style. This is especially important for heel-up players, as they may require specific settings to achieve their desired sound and technique.
- Beater Type: The choice of beater can significantly affect your sound and playing experience. For heel-up players, a heavier beater may provide a fuller sound, while lighter beaters can facilitate faster playing without sacrificing tone.
- Pedal Design: The design and mechanism of the pedal can influence how easy it is to play. Chains or straps may affect feel and control, so heel-up players should try different designs to see which one complements their technique best.
- Durability: As heel-up players often engage in vigorous playing, the durability of the pedal is vital. Look for pedals made from high-quality materials that can withstand the intensity of frequent use without breaking down.