What do cymbal felts do? Do you need cymbal felts? What are cymbal felts made of? When should I use cymbal felts? If you are curious about what a cymbal felt and how it can help you as a drummer, then stay right here as we can shed some light on your questions.
So, first, what is a cymbal felt? Cymbal felts are small, round discs that are placed on either side of a cymbal to help protect it from damage and to provide a better sound when the cymbal is struck. They are an essential part of any drum kit, and they come in a variety of sizes and materials.
Why Do You Need Cymbal Felts
Why do you need cymbal felts? Can cymbal felts really help you in your playing? As a drummer, cymbal felts may seem like a small and insignificant part of your drum kit, but they also play an important role in ensuring that your cymbals sound their best and stay in their optimal playing condition. Here are some ways how cymbal felts can help you as a drummer:
Protecting Your Cymbals
Cymbals are usually very expensive and are delicate instruments that can quickly become damaged if not correctly cared for. With cymbal felts, they act as a buffer between the cymbal and the metal parts of your drum kit, such as the stand and the wing nut, which helps to prevent scratches, dents, and cracks from forming on your cymbals, resulting in your cymbals to have ultimately prolonged their lifespan and allow you to save money on repairs or replacements in the long run.
Improvement On Your Cymbal Sound
Another advantage that you can get when using cymbal felts is they can also play a significant role in shaping your overall sound as a drummer. The type of cymbal felt can surely affect the way your cymbals vibrate, which can, in turn, impact the tone and sustain of your cymbal sound. So, if you are still new to cymbal felts, you should be experimenting with different types of cymbal felts; you can find the combination that works best for your style and sound.
Reduced Unwanted And Annoying Noise
Another advantage that you can get by using cymbal felts is you are able to reduce that unwanted and annoying noise from your cymbals. When you strike a cymbal, it can usually create unwanted noise and vibration that can be transmitted through your drum kit. This can result in a “washy” or “ringing” sound that can be distracting or difficult to control. By using cymbal felts, they can help to absorb some of this unwanted noise and vibration, creating a cleaner and more controlled sound.
Prevention Of Metal-To-Metal Contact
The fourth good thing that you can benefit from when using cymbal felts is that you protect your cymbals from any metal-on-metal contacts. When the metal parts of your drum kit come into direct contact with each other, it can create a loud and unpleasant clanging noise. This can happen when the wing nut or other metal parts of your cymbal stand come into contact with the cymbal. Cymbal felts act as a cushion between the metal parts, preventing this metal-on-metal contact and reducing the amount of unwanted noise produced.
Ensured Proper Cymbal Placement
Last on our list is it ensures that your cymbals are appropriately placed on their stand. Cymbal felts can also help to ensure that your cymbals are properly placed on your stand. By placing a felt on either side of the cymbal, you can create a more stable and secure platform for the cymbal to rest on. This can help to prevent the cymbal from moving or wobbling during play, which can be distracting or even dangerous.
What Are Cymbal Felts Made Of
So, what are cymbal felts made of? Here are some of the different materials that are used in making cymbal felts that you can use from when searching for in the market:
Felt
The first on our list, and is also the most common material used to make cymbal felts, is actually felt. A felt is a type of fabric that is made from wool or synthetic fibers, and it is known for its softness and durability. Felt cymbal felts are often found in beginner and entry-level drum kits, as they are a cheaper option and are easier to find than other materials. They are also easy to replace, as they can be cut to size using scissors. So, if you are still a beginner, this may be the first cymbal felt that you should check out.
Rubber
Another material that is usually used in making cymbal felts and is also a popular option to many is rubber. They are made from a type of synthetic rubber that is known for its durability and flexibility. Rubber cymbal felts are a perfect option for heavy hitters, as they are less likely to break or wear down over time. They are also easy to clean, as they can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Using rubber felts can really give you some advantages, especially if you do not want to maintain and replace your cymbal regularly.
Foam
Cymbal felts that are made of foam are a newer option that has become more popular in recent years. They are made from a type of foam that is known for its shock-absorbing properties. Cymbal felts made of foam are the ideal option for those drummers that love to play loud or aggressive styles, as they are able to reduce the amount of vibration that is transmitted from the cymbal to the rest of the drum kit. They are also less likely to cause damage to the cymbal over time, making them a cheaper option, as you do not have to replace them all the time.
Cork
Another material used in making cymbal felts that is starting to get some traction is the cork. They are made from a type of cork that is known for its elasticity and durability. Cork cymbal felts are ideal for drummers playing in a wide range of styles, as they balance softness and durability. They are also less likely to cause damage to the cymbal over time, making them a great option if you do not have any knack for regularly maintaining your gear.
Leather
The last material on our list is leather. Leather cymbal felts are a less common option, but some drummers still use them. They are made from leather known for their softness and durability. Leather cymbal felts are an excellent option for drummers who want a more traditional look and feel, as they provide a classic, vintage vibe. They are also less likely to cause damage to the cymbal over time.
So, what do cymbal felts do? Although they are a very small part of your drum kit and seem insignificant, they are still a huge help to you as a drummer. Cymbal felts can improve your sound, reduce its noise and vibration, prevent cymbals from any metal-on-metal contact, and ensure that your cymbals are properly positioned, which will result in your cymbals having a longer playing life.
