Electronic drums, also known as e-drums, are a type of percussion instrument designed to generate sound from digital samples or recorded sounds. These drums are typically used in rock, pop, and other genres of music that require a heavy percussion section. Electronic drums come in various shapes and sizes and can be used either as part of a drum kit or as a standalone instrument. Triggers are an important component of electronic drums and play a critical role in how the drums sound.
Triggers are electronic mechanisms designed to aid in playing electronic drums more accurately and efficiently. They are typically found on the shells of a drum kit, near the rim or the edge, and are activated by striking the head with a stick or foot pedal. When a trigger is hit, the resulting signal is sent to the drum's sound module, which then activates the selected sound sample. With triggers, drummers have the ability to enhance their performance by adding effects like reverb, delay, and compression to their sounds. Triggers can also be used to create unique beats by triggering multiple layers of sound simultaneously.
Triggers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made of plastic or metal. Types of triggers include piezo triggers, force-sensing resistor (FSR) triggers, and optical triggers. Piezo triggers are made of piezoelectric material and when struck, create an AC voltage that is then sent to the sound module. FSR triggers, also known as pressure-sensitive triggers, are sensitive to changes in pressure and when depressed, create a signal based on the amount of pressure applied. Optical triggers use light to sense when a trigger is activated, creating a signal when the light source is broken.
When purchasing electronic drums, it's important to pay attention to the quality and type of triggers included. Cheap triggers will produce unreliable signals that may cause the drum's sound to glitch or miss notes. Quality triggers will ensure the drum's sound is consistent and accurate. High-end triggers are constructed with superior components and are often quieter and more responsive than lower-end models. It's important to consider the type of triggering desired when deciding what type of electronic drums to buy.
Triggers are an essential component of electronic drums, allowing drummers to create new sounds and experiment with various effects. By paying attention to the type of triggers included on an electronic drum set, drummers can ensure they get the best performance possible out of their instrument. With quality and reliable triggers, drummers have the opportunity to explore creative new ideas and take their drumming to the next level.
