Review: Pearl RH-2000 Eliminator Remote Hi-Hat Stand

This is not really a review - I'm just going to spew my two cents on this thing since I couldn't find much information out there before I bought it.

The good:
- As sturdy and heavy as a ten ton truck.
- Swivelling 2 legged tripod ensures zero slippage. Heck, I've used it to prevent my left double bass pedal from moving too.
- The tension can easily be adjusted by turning the tension dial under the hihat.
- The included SGC200C drop clutch is an awesome bonus, although I can't use it with my Roland VH-11 hihat.

The OK:
- The response is smooth and barely noticeable. It also feels quite different from playing on a normal hi-hat stand.
- I didn't mess around much with the footboard settings, but it's product description claims it is super adjustable. You might need a B.Pd (Bachelors of Pedalboards) to work it all out though.

The bad
- The shaft is pretty long [insert sexual pun here], so it requires a lot of clearance space under the hihat (at least 50cm).
- The stand is as transportable as an elephant. The cable is not flexible enough to be curled up tightly, and the pedal is a very awkward shape. Don't expect to find any carrying cases to fit it nicely.
- It doesn't come with mounting gear either, so be prepared to shell out an additional $25 for a clamp.

All in all, I have no major complaints. As far as price goes, this is one of the cheapest Remote HH stands around, so its definitely worth a look.

Review: Inside Out: Exploring the Mental Aspects of Drumming by Billy Ward

An engaging ad inspiring read for drummers trying to go beyond the mere physical exercise of paying drums. The book is a collection of essays which encompasses everything from practicing, improving your time-keeping, being a session player, auditioning tips and getting gigs.

On the surface, it may sound like a "How-to" guide for drummers, but Billy digs very deeply into the issues. Drum beginners will likely find it boring and confusing, as some essays do get quite technical and reference drumming terminology and (not so notable) drummers. Intermediate-advanced players who have gigged, recorded or played in a band will definitely dig this book's material.

The best thing about this book is its breadth and depth. There are 20 essays and each one is about 4-5 pages in length (perfect for bedside or toilet reading). Each essay is enlightening and thought provoking, full of anecdotes and examples. It is also very personal and engaging - a breath of fresh air for drummers used to boring instructional books crammed with drum notation.

Definitely recommended for headbanging death-metal players who think playing 200bpm double bass is an achievement.