Enhancing your drumming setup doesn’t require expensive equipment. Small, affordable tools can address everyday challenges, improve sound quality, and make your setup more efficient. These five accessories, all under $25, are versatile and practical additions to any drummer’s gear collection.
5. MoonGel: Dampening Made Simple
MoonGel helps control overtones and reduce unwanted resonance on your drums. These gel pads attach directly to the drumhead, allowing you to fine-tune your sound with minimal effort. Whether you’re in a recording session, practicing, or playing live, MoonGel offers an easy way to achieve a more focused tone.
Reusable and durable, MoonGel outlasts traditional dampening solutions like tape, which can leave a sticky residue and lose effectiveness. Washing the pads with soap and water restores their stickiness, making them a cost-effective option for regular use. Available for around $7, they’re an indispensable tool for drummers seeking consistent, clear drum tones.
4. Little Booty Shakers: Improve Rack Tom Resonance
Little Booty Shakers optimize the resonance of rack toms mounted on snare drum stands. By isolating the drum from the stand, these foam pads prevent sound absorption and allow for fuller, natural sustain. They’re easy to install and don’t require any permanent modifications to your hardware.
These simple pads make a significant difference for studio recordings or live performances. Lightweight and compact, they fit easily into your gear bag for transport. For $16, they offer an affordable way to elevate the sound quality of your toms without requiring additional gear or complex adjustments.
3. Remo Quick Clutch: Simplify Hi-Hat Adjustments
The Remo Quick Clutch allows drummers to lock and adjust their hi-hats quickly and securely. Unlike traditional clutches that require multiple steps and can loosen during play, this clutch uses a simple twist mechanism for a reliable, stress-free setup. It’s a game-changer for drummers who play in multiple venues or rely on backline kits.
Whether you’re performing on stage or in a rehearsal space, the Quick Clutch eliminates common hi-hat issues that interrupt focus. Its durable design and easy usability justify the $23 price tag, making it an essential accessory for professional and gigging drummers.
2. Magnetic Drum Key: A Secure Tuning Tool
The Evans Torque Key is more than just a tuning tool—it combines functionality and convenience. Its magnetic base keeps it attached to drum hardware, reducing the chance of misplacing it during performances or setups. The torque feature also ensures consistent tuning tension for optimal sound.
For drummers who value precision and efficiency, this drum key is a practical addition to their toolkit. Small enough to carry anywhere, it eliminates the hassle of searching for a lost key at critical moments. At $23, it’s a smart investment for tuning consistency and on-the-go convenience.
1. Vic Firth Ear Plugs: Protect Hearing Without Compromising Sound
Vic Firth ear plugs reduce sound levels by 20 dB, protecting your hearing while preserving the clarity of what you hear. Whether you’re rehearsing, performing, or attending a live event, these plugs reduce harmful noise without muffling the natural frequency range of your drums.
Hearing protection is essential for musicians, especially drummers exposed to prolonged high-volume environments. At $17, Vic Firth ear plugs are reusable and come with a compact carrying case, ensuring they remain part of your gear for the long term. Their design prioritizes both comfort and sound quality, making them a practical solution for maintaining ear health.