Vintage Simmons Drums (UK) Users Group

Hi!

> Hello everyone, I'm new to the group and Simmons.  I had used a Tama
> Techstar kit back in the 80's because I couldn't afford Simmons at
> that time.  I recently purchased an sds8 set that "looks" in near
> perfect condition.

Good for you!

> Since the techstars were actual heads over foam,
> the rubber over wood is uncharted territory for me.  I need to know
> if the following observations are normal or problems which can be
> fixed.  First, the module has an audible hum which seems to get
> louder as the unit is moved closer to the guitar amp I'm using (I
> would imagine this would be a much bigger problem through a PA
> system).

Fix it to ground (unless already done) and see if it helps... Ground hum is
my guess...

> Second, I'm noticing granular fragments of rubber along
> with pitting in the strike area of the pads.  I know rubber drys with
> age, but since the pads looked like they'd never been played I'm not
> sure if this is normal.

Never heard of - must've been lying in a dry attic or something... :(

> If the rubber has dryed out, is there a fix?

Not that I know of...

> Third, when using the pads with an Alesis Dm-5 module (with the
> velocity set at max) it is necessary to use the butt end of the stick
> to get consistent triggering between the four pads.  I'm using 5A's
> with moderate force.  I use an overhand grip and this produces quite
> a stinging sensation on the palm of my snare hand (stick
> reverberation) unless I really keep a tight grip.  Is there a more
> sensitive replacement trigger available?

Have you checked the Alesis input data? I mean, what voltage does it need to
trigger? Maybe a resistor could be replaced? I have had no problem trigging
anything with the Simmonspads I own. Quite the opposite...

> Fourth, are the pad casings
> stappled to the wood top section?

Yes!

> If so, is there a better method of
> fastening these casings to make access to the trigger easier?

I replaced two broken knobs on my SDS-1's and I removed the staples, made
the fix and replaced the casing. I didn't restapled it 'cause I felt it
seemed to stay in place anyway. Why would you need access to the trigger? I
have never felt the need on my pads? But if you're into destroying vintage
gear (a joke my friends!) I guess you could screw it in place instead. The
hardest part is removing those darn staples. They stick to the wood like
dogshit to the sole of my Getta Grips... ;)

Good luck!


electronically yours, jesper

http://www.bolina.hsb.se/hsidor/jesper
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