When it comes to electronic drums, the debate between rubber pads and mesh heads has become a defining factor for drummers choosing the right kit. Both options offer unique advantages, but the real question for many is: which feels better to play?
This article explores the key differences between rubber pads and mesh heads, focusing on playability, feel, noise level, and overall performance. Whether you're a beginner shopping for your first electronic drum set or an experienced drummer looking for a more realistic playing experience, understanding the feel of each surface is essential.
Understanding the Basics
What Are Rubber Pads?
Rubber pads are the traditional playing surface on many entry-level and mid-range electronic drum kits. They consist of solid rubber mounted over a sensor that detects your hits and triggers sounds accordingly.
What Are Mesh Heads?
Mesh heads are made from a woven synthetic material that mimics the look and tension of acoustic drumheads. These heads are tension-adjustable, providing a bounce and stick response closer to traditional drums.
Playability and Feel
Rubber Pads: Durable, but Rigid
Rubber pads offer a firm and consistent playing surface. While they are extremely durable and often more affordable, their harder surface can result in less natural stick rebound, making longer practice sessions more fatiguing for the hands and wrists.
Drummers transitioning from acoustic kits may find rubber pads too stiff or unresponsive, particularly for nuanced playing styles like ghost notes or soft rolls.
Mesh Heads: Realistic and Responsive
Mesh heads are widely regarded as offering a superior feel, thanks to their ability to replicate the rebound and sensitivity of acoustic drumheads. The tension can be adjusted, giving drummers the ability to tailor the response to their personal preferences.
Mesh surfaces also respond better to dynamics, enabling more expressive playing and accurate articulation.
Verdict: When it comes to feel, mesh heads offer a more natural and enjoyable playing experience, especially for drummers accustomed to acoustic kits.
Noise Levels
One often overlooked factor is how loud each surface is when struck. This matters greatly in shared living spaces or apartments.
- Rubber pads tend to be louder due to their dense construction. The tapping sound they produce can be noticeable, even when using headphones.
- Mesh heads are significantly quieter, making them ideal for late-night practice or use in sound-sensitive environments.
Durability and Maintenance
Rubber pads are virtually maintenance-free and can last for years with minimal wear.
Mesh heads, while durable, may eventually need to be replaced due to wear and tear from extended use.
However, most modern mesh heads are built to withstand thousands of hits and often outlast older generations of the material.
Cost Considerations
Generally, electronic drum kits with mesh heads are more expensive than those with rubber pads. This is due to the more complex construction and higher-quality feel. However, many mid-range kits now offer mesh snare drums while keeping rubber pads for toms as a cost-saving compromise.
Which Should You Choose?
If your primary concern is feel and realism, especially for extended practice or professional use, mesh heads are the clear winner. They provide a more natural response, better dynamics, and a quieter playing experience.
On the other hand, if you're just starting out, have a limited budget, or need a kit that can withstand heavy use without maintenance, rubber pads offer solid performance and value.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between rubber pads and mesh heads ultimately depends on your priorities. For the most realistic drumming experience, mesh heads deliver a superior feel that closely mimics acoustic drums. However, rubber pads remain a practical, budget-friendly option that still allows for effective practice and performance.
Before making a decision, try out both surfaces if possible, and consider how much feel, noise level, and budget matter for your playing environment and goals.