How Drum Hoops/Rims Affect Drum Sound

With the ever increasing range of drums available, understanding what we're buying is more important than ever.

By understanding a few basics of drum design and construction we can better understand why our drums sound like they do (and how we can influence or change them if necessary).

This short article looks at the influence of the drum counterhoops or rims on drum sound.

Metal Rims

Pressed steel hoops (those which have been shaped from a ring of steel) increase the overtones and resonance of the head, leading to a bigger, more 'open' sound, producing a stronger fundamental (basic note) tone. Great for toms.

Die-Cast hoops are thick, much more rigid hoops made by casting metal (these were the mainstay of the original Premier drums). Diecast hoops reduce overtones and resonance, producing a drier (less ring) tone with more attack (top end when your stick hits the head). They work well on snare drums and where less ring and resonance is desired.

Wooden Rims

Some drum companies such as Ayotte and Yamaha make wooden hoops as an option on some of their drums. Wooden hoops are a step up in resonance from pressed steel hoops, producing a much more resonant and bigger sound overall. However, they do sit much higher on the head so the 'rim' produced is much deeper, which takes some adaptation when playing and is not everyone's preference.

Hope this helps.

Until next time ...