Electronic Drum Modules
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Get in the Groove with an Upgraded Drum Module
Electronic drum modules are the heart and soul of your electronic drum setup. Not only do they produce the sounds you hear when you strike your pads, but they’re also the conduit through which you experience your music.
Are you ready to take your eDrumming to the next level? A new drum module can transform your hybrid setup or last-gen electronic drum kit into a performance powerhouse with the latest samples, practice features, pad compatibility, and connectivity options.
Fortunately, today’s eDrum manufacturers have made it easier than ever to upgrade your module as your needs evolve. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect module for your setup.
What Does an Electronic Drum Module Do?
An electronic drum module — often referred to as a “brain” or controller — serves two primary purposes. The first is giving you complete control over your drum sounds and samples. Secondly, the module is the interface through which you customize your sounds and settings.
Some modules include a touchscreen and mobile app control, which provides easy access to selecting and adjusting your sounds. Other modules rely on hardware knobs and faders.
There’s no better choice between the two types; just different options for different players. Regardless of your preference, all of our electronic drum modules are equipped to help you reach your potential with ease and flexibility.
Are Drum Modules Universal?
Not typically. It's best to choose a module from the same brand and era as your drum pads to ensure compatibility.
Why? For starters, mismatched modules may not have the appropriate hardware inputs (TRS, TS, USB, DB-25) to connect your pads. And even if your hardware can connect, modules from other manufacturers may expect to “see” different signals than your pads are able to deliver: polarity, zone information, on/off signals, and more.
For this reason, we recommend pairing a Yamaha pad setup with a Yamaha module, an Alesis pad set with an Alesis module, and so forth. That’s not to say other brands won’t work; but sticking with your current brand tends to offer the smoothest experience.
Do You Need a Drum Module to Use Triggers?
Traditionally, yes — you’d need to connect your triggers or pads to a brain of some sort (module, sample pad, or synth) to interpret the data of your strokes and convert it to relevant drum sounds. But for players today, there are options that exist outside the traditional module paradigm.
Take the Evans Hybrid Sensory Percussion lineup. This system connects special proprietary triggers directly to your computer by way of an included interface — in effect, making your laptop the CPU.
The ddrum DDTi is another option for today’s ITB virtual drummers who don’t want a traditional module. This USB trigger interface accepts quarter-inch inputs from standard pads. But instead of processing sounds inside the interface, the DDTi passes clean MIDI data along to your tablet or DAW with low latency.
Tips for Choosing a Drum Trigger Module for Your Setup
Choosing the right module can help you discover and establish your unique sound. Electric drum kits have their advantages, and a proper controller will take your drumming experience to the next level.
Pad inputs
Perhaps the most important consideration when choosing an upgraded drum module is how many trigger inputs you'll need. To help you decide, consider whether you'll expand your setup in the future. Bear in mind that it’s always best to choose a module with more inputs than you think you’ll need so you’ll have room to expand as your kit grows.
Output channels
Advanced users will also want to identify the number of output channels available to send discrete audio sources (kick, snare, and so on) for mixing.
Sound generation
Another important factor is sound generation. Do you prefer the realism of a module that triggers one-shots or multi-velocity drum samples? Or do you want synthesis-based sound generation for greater configurability without artifacts? Understanding your preferences will help you choose the right module.
Drum Module Bundles Take the Guesswork Out of Upgrading
If you feel your setup might be slightly lacking, a bundle option including an electronic drum module plus drums/cymbals is likely your best option. The module will still work in concert with your existing kit, and you can use all the additional pieces to augment your current setup. Bundles help simplify the expansion process, as they take the guesswork out of matching pads and modules.
Get Expert Advice on Your Next Drum Module at Sweetwater
Eyeing your next drum module? Sweetwater has you covered. We’re proud to carry top drum modules from industry leaders Roland, Yamaha, ddrum, and more. Are you searching for a custom solution to simplify your setup and enhance your grooves? Sweetwater's Sales Engineers are fellow drummers and gearheads who can help guide you to the right tools for your needs.
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Why shop Electronic Drum Modules at Sweetwater.com?
With a massive selection of Electronic Drum Modules, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Electronic Drum Modules, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
