Snare drum vs. bass drum vs. kick drum: What are the main differences? If you are interested in this topic, you are in the right place. So let’s read on to see more!
Snare Drum vs. Bass Drum vs. Kick Drum: Comparison Table
A standard drum set will include a snare drum, a kick drum (or bass drum), a floor tom, rack toms, and various cymbals, including ride, hi-hat, and crash. Each musical instrument plays an essential role in the overall drum kit.
Through this comparison table, we want to show you clearly the differences between the types that are commonly included in a standard drum set: The snare drum, kick drum, and bass drum.
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Snare Drum |
Bass Drum |
Kick Drum |
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Compare Snare Drum vs. Bass Drum vs. Kick Drum
Now, we will compare these drums through a few basic factors.
Definition
- Snare Drum
This snare drum is an essential part of the drummer kit utilized in bands and orchestras. It features two drum heads made from varying materials.
Some call it the side drum since it is often put to one side of the Hanging toms. Moreover, it is the smallest drum in the drum set.
When struck with any beater, this drum will produce a sharp staccato sound, meaning it delivers a definite pitch that many artists have attempted to avoid before. Yet, today it seems necessary for various tracks.
- Bass Drum
This drum can be traced back to the Turkish davul. It was the first recorded predecessor of the bass drum.
The Bass drum features the deepest sound of the drum kit. It speaks the boldest and the biggest, both in sound and size.
A traditional bass drum comes with a cylinder shape, and its diameter should be greater than its depth. Its drumhead is made from animal hides or plastic.
- Kick Drum
It is a common type of bass drum and is smaller than the concert bass drum.
Size
- Snare Drum
The snare drum is the smallest, with the smallest measuring only 10 inches in diameter and not even the largest ones exceeding 15 inches. Their depth typically ranges from 3 to 8 inches.
- Bass Drum
The bass drum typically ranges in size between 16 inches and 40 inches in diameter and 14 to 20 inches in-depth,
- Kick Drum
Kick drum widths (diameters) range from 16 to 28 inches, with depths from 14 to 18 inches.
Playing Method
- Snare Drum
Drum players will play this type of drum with sticks.
- Bass Drum
The drummer plays this drum with beaters or sometimes a single pedal-operated stick.
- Kick Drum
Percussionists play this drum utilizing their feet through pedals attached to the beater side of a kick drum.
When the drummer steps on this pedal, a large felted mallet will strike this drum, creating a deep percussive tone that is rich in its bottom end.
Types
- Snare Drum
The snare drum comes in five popular variations, including:
- Concert or orchestral snare drum.
- Drum set snare drum.
- Marching snare drum.
- Field snare drum.
- Pipe band snare drum.
Bass Drum
Bass drums are available in three popular types. These include:
- Marching bass drum.
- The concert bass drum.
- The kick drum.
Location in the Drum Set
- Snare Drum
The snare drum is put between the legs of the drum players, where they can easily hit and reach without turning their upper body.
- Bass Drum
The bass drum is operated with the foot, so it is located in a way that makes pedaling and kicking comfortable.
Which Is for You?
Any type of drum has an essential and irreplaceable role in a drum set, except that a kick drum is a type of bass drum.
While each type of drum has different functions, the success of your entire performance will require a good combination of all of them.
FAQs
What is the difference between bass and snare drums?
The two differ in size, gameplay, and functions.
Why does the snare drum sound higher than the bass drum?
A snare drum’s resonance is short due to the smaller dimensions. The drum’s small resonant chamber leads to its pitch being relatively high.
Is a bass drum bigger than a snare drum?
Yes. The snare drum is the smallest in the drum set.
What makes a snare drum different?
The snare drum features different shells, and each can deliver a different tone.
Its cover refers to the drum itself, without hardware (lugs, bolts, and rims) or drum heads attached.
Why does the bass drum have the lowest pitch?
Bass drums are large drums that deliver a low definite or indefinite pitch note.
It is available in a variety of sizes; its size does not dictate the volume created by it. However, the sound and the pitch may vary much with different sizes.
What size bass drum is best?
The 20-inches diameter bass drum is the most popular, as it is a great all-purpose size. You can find good basic sound in 14 to 16 inches depths.
The deeper sizes 17 inches or 18 inches are still easily controllable, but you will lose some of the sensitivity.
The 22-inches one is an excellent rock size, and it features a significantly bigger sound when compared to 20 inches. Recommended size is 22″x 14″ or 16″.
A 24-inches kick drum is also a really great drum to play since you can truly feel the sound.
An 18-inches drum is surprisingly versatile, and the 16-inches drum is a nice kick with the same characteristics as the 18 inches one but with a bit less volume.
What are the different types of snare drums?
Snare drum comes in five popular varieties, including:
- Concert or orchestral snare drum.
- Drum set snare drum.
- Marching snare drum.
- Field snare drum.
- Pipe band snare drum.
How many snare drums do you need?
There’s not much logic to it. Just ensure you have at least one drum that you will possibly be willing to take on any gig and feel satisfied with.
What is the difference between a kick and a bass drum?
It is a common type of bass drum and is smaller than concert bass drums.