Hi!
> 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.
Good for you!
> 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).
Fix it to ground (unless already done) and see if it helps... Ground hum is
my guess...
> 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.
Never heard of - must've been lying in a dry attic or something... :(
> If the rubber has dryed out, is there a fix?
Not that I know of...
> 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?
Have you checked the Alesis input data? I mean, what voltage does it need to
trigger? Maybe a resistor could be replaced? I have had no problem trigging
anything with the Simmonspads I own. Quite the opposite...
> Fourth, are the pad casings
> stappled to the wood top section?
Yes!
> If so, is there a better method of
> fastening these casings to make access to the trigger easier?
I replaced two broken knobs on my SDS-1's and I removed the staples, made
the fix and replaced the casing. I didn't restapled it 'cause I felt it
seemed to stay in place anyway. Why would you need access to the trigger? I
have never felt the need on my pads? But if you're into destroying vintage
gear (a joke my friends!) I guess you could screw it in place instead. The
hardest part is removing those darn staples. They stick to the wood like
dogshit to the sole of my Getta Grips... ;)
Good luck!
electronically yours, jesper
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