YAMAHABASSDRUMPEDALS

ZILDJIAN K
Custom cymbals –the
long-time Yamaha
endorser’s cymbal range
linkage consistingofametal rodbetween the
footboard and the beater cam. Because it’s
directly connected it affords the player a
feeling of being in complete control of the
beater.Onthe return stroke,the directlinkage
pushes the footboards up which means the
pedals feel quicker and moreresponsive,
makingintricate bass drum patterns much
easier – ‘fugga dugga’ never felt so good!
The standardcam profiles of the FP9500C
and FP8500C meant that the chain drive
pedals had alinear response,not quite as fast
as the DFP9500D but certainly on a par with
comparable pedals. The sturdy baseplate, stiff
uprights and double chain meant there was
little noticeable sideways flex.
One minor niggle: despite the myriad
adjustment features, none of the pedals
included a drum key – unusual for Yamaha, so
possibly just a one-off for the test pedals.
Verdict
Yamaha’s pedals tend to be overshadowedby
the flashy marketing gimmicks of other
companies, and it’s a shame. The DFP9500D
offers a product not readily available from
TRY IT WITH...
The direct drive pedals feel quicker and more
responsive,makingintricate bass drum patterns much
easier – ‘fugga dugga’ never felt so good!
LINKAGE CONSISTS
of ametal rodbetween the
footboard and beater cam
MACHINED FOOTBOARDS
with smooth steel playing
surface and recessed logo
YAMAHA STEVE
Gadd Signaturesnare–well,
if it’sgood enough forthe
session master. Plus...
other mainstream companies like Tama and
DW, and Pearl’s new direct-drive offering is still
young, whereas Yamaha has been offering a
d-d pedal foryears. Yamaha’s pedals aresolid,
sturdy, perform excellently and should last. If
you’re in the market for new pedals, take a
very long look at these. Just make sure you
have a drum key to hand!
Rating ✪✪✪✪✪
RHY168.gear_yama 93 12/8/09 4:07:32pm