7. Head Accessories: Tuning Keys and Aids

Without a drum key, tuning a drum is practically impossible. While this isn’t groundbreaking news, having a good tuning tool is essential. It should feel comfortable and inviting to use, as every tuning session helps you become more skilled at achieving the perfect drum sound. You’ll quickly realize that one drum key isn’t enough, especially when you lose it. So, it’s wise to keep a few on hand in different places: one at the practice set, one in the stick bag, and even one on your keychain. There are also some very practical models available, including those with an integrated hex head for use with a power drill or ones with a torque function.

Unlike a guitar or piano, drumset drums can’t be tuned to specific clear notes. Reproducing the perfect snare drum sound once found can also be challenging. Good ears, a solid sense of taste, and some practice in tuning certainly help, but there are also technical aids that can get you to the desired sound quicker. Two devices have become popular for this. First, there’s the DrumDial Drum Tuner, which mechanically measures and displays the head tension at each tuning screw. Then there’s the TuneBot, which, similar to a digital guitar tuner, “hears” the drum tones and can even isolate overtones. While these devices don’t replace experience and taste, they can help you reproduce the sounds you’ve discovered.