Introduction
The Tama Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal (HP200PTW) is engineered to deliver reliable performance for drummers. Developed with design principles from the Iron Cobra 900 series, this pedal offers a smooth and responsive feel. Its Power Glide cam mechanism ensures a light yet powerful action, suitable for various drumming styles without compromising speed or control.
Figure 1: Overview of the Tama Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal (HP200PTW).
Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to properly set up your Tama Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal:
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure all parts are present: main pedal, slave pedal, drive shaft, beaters, and any adjustment tools.
- Attaching to Bass Drum:
- Position the main pedal directly in front of your bass drum.
- Loosen the hoop clamp screw on the main pedal.
- Slide the pedal's clamp onto the bass drum hoop, ensuring a secure fit without overtightening.
- Tighten the hoop clamp screw firmly to prevent movement during play.
- Connecting the Drive Shaft:
- Connect one end of the drive shaft to the main pedal's linkage.
- Connect the other end of the drive shaft to the slave pedal's linkage.
- Ensure both connections are secure and the drive shaft is extended to the desired length for comfortable positioning of the slave pedal.
- Positioning the Slave Pedal: Place the slave pedal to the left of the hi-hat pedal (for right-handed drummers) or in your preferred position. Ensure it is stable and does not interfere with other drum kit components.
- Beater Adjustment:
- Adjust the height of the beaters so they strike the center of the bass drum head.
- The beater angle can also be adjusted to fine-tune the feel and response.
- Spring Tension Adjustment:
The spring tension can be adjusted to control the pedal's rebound and feel. Higher tension provides a quicker rebound, while lower tension offers a softer, more fluid response.
Figure 2: Spring tension adjustment point.
- Locate the spring tension adjustment knob/screw near the base of each pedal.
- Turn clockwise to increase tension, counter-clockwise to decrease tension.
- Adjust both pedals equally for a consistent feel.
- Footboard Angle Adjustment: The footboard angle can be adjusted to match your playing style and comfort. Refer to the pedal's specific mechanism for this adjustment.
Operating Instructions
The Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal is designed for smooth and powerful performance. Here are general guidelines for operation:
- Foot Placement: Place your feet comfortably on the footboards. Experiment with heel-up or heel-down techniques to find what suits your style.
- Dynamic Control: The Power Glide cam provides a balanced feel, allowing for both subtle dynamics and powerful strokes. Practice varying your foot pressure to achieve different sound intensities.
- Speed and Responsiveness: The single-chain drive system and cam design are optimized for quick response. Adjust spring tension as needed to fine-tune the pedal's speed and rebound to your preference.
- Synchronization: For double bass drumming, focus on synchronizing both feet. The drive shaft ensures consistent action between the main and slave pedals.
Figure 3: Power Glide cam and single-chain mechanism.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your double bass pedal:
- Cleaning: Wipe down the pedal surfaces with a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove dust and sweat. For stubborn grime, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by immediate drying.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a small amount of light machine oil to moving parts such as hinges, springs, and the drive shaft connections. Avoid over-lubricating.
- Check Fasteners: Regularly inspect all screws, bolts, and clamps for tightness. Loose fasteners can affect performance and lead to wear.
- Beater Inspection: Check beaters for wear and tear. Replace them if they become excessively worn or damaged to maintain consistent sound and response.
- Spring Condition: Inspect the springs for any signs of fatigue or damage. Worn springs can lead to inconsistent pedal action.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Squeaking Noise | Lack of lubrication on moving parts (hinges, springs, cam). | Apply a small amount of light machine oil to all pivot points and spring connections. |
| Inconsistent Pedal Response | Uneven spring tension between pedals, loose drive shaft, worn springs. | Ensure spring tensions are matched. Check drive shaft connections for tightness. Inspect and replace worn springs. |
| Pedal Slides on Floor | Hoop clamp not securely fastened, rubber feet worn or missing. | Tighten the bass drum hoop clamp. Ensure rubber feet are present and clean. Use a drum mat for added stability. |
| Beater Strikes Unevenly | Beater height or angle incorrectly set. | Adjust beater height and angle to ensure it strikes the center of the bass drum head squarely. |
Specifications
| Model Number | HP200PTW |
| Brand | Tama |
| Item Weight | 10.55 pounds (approximately 4.78 kg) |
| Product Dimensions | 15 x 11.55 x 7.6 inches (approximately 38.1 x 29.3 x 19.3 cm) |
| Body Material | Iron |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Color Name | Chrome |
| Drive System | Single-chain Power Glide Cam |
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Tama website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For further assistance or technical inquiries, please visit the Tama official website.