Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: Vintage Simmons Drums (UK) Users Group

Hello everyone, I'm new to the group and Simmons. I had used a Tama
Techstar kit back in the 80's because I couldn't afford Simmons at
that time. I recently purchased an sds8 set that "looks" in near
perfect condition. Since the techstars were actual heads over foam,
the rubber over wood is uncharted territory for me. I need to know
if the following observations are normal or problems which can be
fixed. First, the module has an audible hum which seems to get
louder as the unit is moved closer to the guitar amp I'm using (I
would imagine this would be a much bigger problem through a PA
system). Second, I'm noticing granular fragments of rubber along
with pitting in the strike area of the pads. I know rubber drys with
age, but since the pads looked like they'd never been played I'm not
sure if this is normal. If the rubber has dryed out, is there a
fix? Third, when using the pads with an Alesis Dm-5 module (with the
velocity set at max) it is necessary to use the butt end of the stick
to get consistent triggering between the four pads. I'm using 5A's
with moderate force. I use an overhand grip and this produces quite
a stinging sensation on the palm of my snare hand (stick
reverberation) unless I really keep a tight grip. Is there a more
sensitive replacement trigger available? Fourth, are the pad casings
stappled to the wood top section? If so, is there a better method of
fastening these casings to make access to the trigger easier?

Thanks,
Rich