Question 1

Do you need to have a stand for this pad?

Accepted Answer

You don't need a stand, but it's better if you have one.  You could rest the practice pad on your lap or on a chair.  Mounting it in a snare drum stand is the best way to use this practice pad, as it allows you to sit comfortably (properly), and adjust the height and angle of the practice pad...so I would highly recommend getting a snare drum stand with this practice pad.

Question 2

We have a 7 year old just starting. Should we get the 12 inch or the 6 inch size? Related: Is one size better for "expanding" his practice set later?

Accepted Answer

I played the 6 inch for years and just recently got the 12 inch. The 12 inch is much more convenient as it sits in your lap better, works well with a typical snare stand, and just offers more area to play on. The only benefit I can see with the 6 inch is that it's easier to travel with.

Question 3

What is better? This or the Vic Firth 2-Sided Practice Pad also 12 inches. Pros? Cons? Final thoughts?

Accepted Answer

The Firth pad is slightly better. It is a shame because RealFeel made the best pad in history (or at least, the best I've played) and changed it about 5 or 8 years ago. You can still find the older pads on ebay. Honestly, though, for a new pad, I'd recommend the Firth or a Vater pad over this one.

Question 4

My son is a snare player in marching band. Will this give him the feel and sound he needs to practice?

Accepted Answer

"Sound," no way does it sound like a snare.  But most people aren't buying a practice pad because they want it to sound like a real drum.  The point is to practice more quietly.  But "feel," yes.  The rebound is similar to a well tuned snare.  I'm an older musician, but I'm new to drums, and I've developed a really nice buzz roll and other rudiments mostly through practicing on the pad.  When I go to my real drum kit, the feel is similar.  So it's effective to develop technique.  Also, since it's portable, your son can slip it in his backpack with some sticks and practice anywhere.You probably want to get nylon tipped sticks - the rebound from the pad feels more natural.

ASIN	B000FTFLRS
Best Sellers Rank	#3,555 in Musical Instruments ( See Top 100 in Musical Instruments ) #19 in Practice Pads & Devices
Body Material	Gum rubber, recycled rubber
Color Name	Gray
Customer Reviews	4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (1,197)
Date First Available	July 16, 2004
Item Weight	3.52 ounces
Item model number	RF-6D
Material Type	Rubber
Product Dimensions	15.1 x 15.1 x 15.1 inches
Size	6 Inch

Evans RealFeel - Drum Practice Pad - Drum Pad - Drummer Practice Pad - Gum Rubber & Neoprene, 2 Sided, 6 Inch,Grey | RealFeel practice pads provide realistic stick response, quiet practice, durable construction, and consistent rebound.

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