AQ2 bass drum mount choking

[drummermark]

I'm a newcomer to Sonor and while I wait for my SQ2, also got an AQ2 Stage to hold me over and eventually be my backup kit. Just getting used to the tom mounting system as I've been on a Pearl kit for the last 20 years. One thing that surprises me is the amount of choking that occurs when mounting the tom while it rings nice and free when striking and holding it in my hand. I know that mounting will of course choke it some, but was wondering if there are any tips or tricks too lessen it. Or is this something inherent with the cheaper build kits?

[Jules]

Adjust how much of the L rod protrudes from the ball, of you can. I have found that the L rod has a tremendous effect on sustain/decay.

[Jules]

Even how high you clamp the tom itself up on the L rod can make a difference.

[Joe´s Drumgear]

At first I had the same issue with my SQ1. In comparison to my Starclassic Maple the sustain was almost non existent. Also changing my Gibraltar tom mount to an Sonor 600 one did not do the thing for me.

I tried almost any possible tuning over the last 3 weeks before finding the right tuning, which makes the drum sing and the sustain now is also there. So that‘s what did it for me, but the mounts are quiet different.

[drummermark]

Wow, thanks for the quick replies! What a cool group! I know I'll need to experiment but would you say that having the L rod closer to the ball is ideal? Seems like it would be less tension the closer it is. Also, is clamping higher ideal, to have less of the rod in the clamp?

[Jules]

I find that the further from the ball it is the better. Same with the L arm. Try keeping the tom mount flush with the top of the "L".

[drummermark]

Will give those suggestions a try. Once I'm sure my neighbors are awake.

[drummermark]

Was able to experiment with this. Having the L arm out as far as possible from the ball was what made the largest difference. These babies are singing the way the good Lord intended. Playing a wedding for their maiden voyage this weekend so can't wait to see how they perform. Thanks again for all the suggestions.