Choosing the right hardware for your drum kit can significantly impact your playing experience. For tom-tom mounting, spade plate arms offer a versatile and often preferred solution. This guide delves into the world of spade plate arms, exploring their features, benefits, and considerations to help you find the perfect fit for your setup.
What is a Spade Plate Arm for Toms?
A spade plate arm is a type of drum hardware used to mount tom-toms to your bass drum or a drum rack. Unlike traditional L-arms or other mounting systems, a spade plate arm utilizes a flat, spade-shaped mounting plate that attaches to the tom's mounting lugs. This plate then connects to a cymbal stand or a dedicated tom arm, offering a stable and adjustable mounting solution. The design allows for a secure connection while maintaining flexibility in positioning and angle.
Benefits of Using Spade Plate Arms for Toms
Spade plate arms offer several advantages over other tom mounting systems:
- Versatility: They can be adapted to various drum rack systems and cymbal stands, offering flexibility in your drum setup.
- Stability: The broad surface area of the spade plate distributes the weight of the tom evenly, ensuring a secure and stable mount. This minimizes the risk of the tom shifting during playing.
- Adjustability: Spade plate arms allow for precise adjustments in height and angle, enabling you to optimize your tom placement for comfort and playing style.
- Compactness: Depending on the design, some spade plate arms can be more compact than other systems, potentially saving space on your drum rack.
- Durability: Reputable brands produce robust spade plates and arms, ensuring long-lasting performance.
How to Choose the Right Spade Plate Arm
Selecting the appropriate spade plate arm involves considering several factors:
- Tom Size and Weight: Larger and heavier toms require stronger and more stable arms. Ensure the arm's weight capacity suits your toms.
- Mounting System: Consider whether you're mounting the tom to a bass drum, a drum rack, or a cymbal stand, and choose an arm compatible with your system.
- Adjustability: Assess the range of height and angle adjustments offered. Greater adjustability allows for more precise placement.
- Material and Build Quality: Opt for arms made from durable materials like steel or aluminum for long-lasting performance. Check for sturdy construction and smooth mechanisms.
- Brand Reputation: Choose reputable brands known for producing high-quality drum hardware.
What are the Different Types of Spade Plate Arms?
While the fundamental design remains consistent, subtle variations exist in spade plate arms:
- Standard Spade Plate Arms: These are the most common type, offering a balance of stability, adjustability, and affordability.
- Heavy-Duty Spade Plate Arms: Designed for heavier toms, these arms feature reinforced construction and increased weight capacity.
- Tilting Spade Plate Arms: Some arms incorporate a tilting mechanism, offering additional angle adjustment for fine-tuning tom placement.
Are Spade Plate Arms Suitable for All Toms?
Most toms are compatible with spade plate arms, but it's crucial to verify the mounting hardware on your specific toms. Some toms may require additional adaptors or modifications to accommodate a spade plate mounting system. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for both your toms and the chosen spade plate arms to ensure compatibility.
How to Install a Spade Plate Arm
Installation typically involves attaching the spade plate to the tom's mounting lugs using the included hardware. Then, secure the arm to the mounting point (bass drum, rack, or cymbal stand) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Carefully follow the instructions to avoid damaging your drums or hardware. Always tighten the bolts securely to ensure stability.
Maintaining Your Spade Plate Arms
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your spade plate arms. Periodically inspect the bolts and connections for tightness. Clean and lubricate moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the components.
By carefully considering these factors and understanding the nuances of spade plate arms, you can select the ideal hardware for securely and effectively mounting your toms, significantly enhancing your drumming experience.
