Bass Drum Elevation

[salty 1322]

I use both my Supremes and Stars to play gigs. I like both. I prefer to keep the front of my bass elevated about half an inch. Accounting for the foot pedal thickness, I suppose that very little of my bass drum actually touches the hardwood or carpet. Last night, while playing a concert, another drummer told me that he prefers his bass to touch the stage. What do you guys think? Thanks.
Brian

[Mike T]

I have always used bass drum anchors so mine is always off the floor short of nailing it down it is the only way I can really get it to stay put when i play I hit very hard.. so mine is and always has been elevated..

[Sonorforlife2000]

I heard that it could go both ways...depending on what type of sound youre looking for.

An elevated bass usually has more resonance, and a clearer, not as choked sound as the shell is able to vibrate and resonate freely on every hit.
A non elevated bass would be a little dampened, due to the shell making contact with the floor or rug, or whatever you put underneath your bass.
Of course, Im going from something I was told about 10 years ago by my then music/drum teacher. I always keep my bass elevated to get more resonance, just due to the fact its not a "virgin" drum, and I like the big boomy sound of a 24" bass....and I love how well the Sonor combo rubber feet/floor spikes dig into the carpet....hehehehe

[salty 1322]

Thanks very much guys! My Stars also have those combo rubber tips and spikes. Nothing's gonna move them! I've been playing with my bass elevated for thirty years. I like the sound but can see the other side too. Thanks again.
Brian

[kurtdaniel]

yes your bass should be off the ground a few inches, it helps the bass resonate better

check this: drum lessons (http://takelessons.com/category/drums-lessons)