Best Bass Drum Mounted Cymbal Arm Options for Compact, Jazz, and Modern Kits
If you want a clean, space-saving cymbal setup directly on your bass drum, a bass drum mounted cymbal arm is the ideal choice. This guide highlights five well-suited options for players seeking stability, versatility, and quick adjustments. The listed products appeal to jazz drummers, vintage kit fans, beginners building a compact setup, and professionals needing reliable mounting solutions. Below, you’ll find concise comparisons, ideal use cases, and practical cautions to help you decide.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Gibraltar Bass Drum Mounted Cymbal Arm | Jazz, vintage, compact kits | Direct bass drum mount with geared tilter |
| Ludwig L1372 Shell-Mounted Cymbal Holder | Newbies to professionals | Shell-mounted space savings and ergonomic reach |
| DW DWSM770 Bass Drum Mounted Cymbal Arm | Solid, modern kits | Durable DW build with L-arm and bracket |
| RANMING Drum Hoop Clamp Cymbal Arm | Flexible setups and multiple cymbals | Drum hoop clamp for versatile mounting |
| Foraineam Drum Set Mounting Clamp | Budget-conscious setups | Chrome-plated arm with quick release nut |
Note: The selections emphasize direct bass drum mounting or hoop-clamp configurations that support 8–12 inch cymbals. Each option offers a balance of stability, install effort, and space efficiency. Use the “best for” notes to match your playing style and kit configuration.
Gibraltar Bass Drum Mounted Cymbal Arm
Best for jazz and compact kits, this Gibraltar arm mounts directly to the bass drum shell, delivering a clean, traditional look. The 12-inch cymbal arm includes a geared tilter for precise angle adjustments that stay locked in place during performance. Height adjustability allows custom positioning to keep your drum set uncluttered and within easy reach.
- Direct bass drum mount creates a classic aesthetic and saves space.
- 12″ arm with geared tilter enables precise, stable positioning.
- Height adjustable for comfortable playing angles.
Who it’s best for: players seeking a traditional, space-saving setup with reliable tension control. Caution: ensure your bass drum shell has adequate mounting points and hardware clearance for the arm’s footprint.
Tama CACLJ Cymbal Holder
For players who want a reliable, bass drum-mounted option on a budget, the Tama CACLJ is a compact holder designed to attach to the bass drum area used by Club-Jam kits. It features a dedicated bass-mounted cymbal holder and a setup that complements streamlined, mid-size drum configurations.
- 10.5mm bass-mounted holder is compact and stable.
- Designed to fit Tama Club-Jam drum kits and similar setups.
Best for: players who value a simple, affordable mount with straightforward installation. Caution: this solution may be best for lighter playing since its size is compact.
DW DWSM770 Bass Drum Mounted Arm
The DW DWSM770 is a robust choice for modern kits, offering a bass drum mounted arm with an L-arm and bracket for solid cymbal support. The product package emphasizes a stable setup suitable for aggressive playing styles and large volume settings.
- Durable DW hardware designed for high-use environments.
- L-arm and bracket provide strong cymbal support.
Best for: players needing durable construction and reliable seating for cymbals on bass drums. Caution: verify compatibility with your bass drum shell and mounting surface before installation.
RANMING Cymbal Clamps Arm Drum Hoop Mount
The RANMING hoop clamp system offers versatility by clamping to drum hoops up to 30mm and supporting 8–12 inch cymbals. This clamp-and-arm setup is ideal for expanding a drum kit’s cymbal configuration without crowding the shell area. The design supports stable positioning and can be separated for flexible use on different drums.
- Drum hoop clamp supports a variety of drums, including some bass drums.
- Sturdy construction with a Z-shaped arm for extended reach.
Best for: drummers who want a modular solution that can adapt to multiple drums and cymbal sizes. Caution: ensure the hoop clamp grip is secure on your drum’s hoop to avoid slippage during play.
Foraineam Drum Set Mounting Clamp
Budget-conscious players can turn to the Foraineam mounting clamp. It offers a chrome-plated finish for a clean look and a quick-release nut for easier setup. Although compact, this arm provides practical extension and reliable clamping on various stands and drums.
- Solid metal construction with chrome plating for durability and a sleek appearance.
- Quick-release prop for faster setup and breakdown.
Best for: beginners or budget-minded players building a bass drum mounted cymbal setup. Caution: check arm length and clamp compatibility with your existing hardware.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Bass Drum Mounted Cymbal Arms
- Mounting method: Direct bass drum mount saves space but may limit height adjustments. Hoop clamps offer more placement flexibility but require a sturdy hoop for support.
- Arm length and reach: Choose a length that places the cymbal at an ergonomic height relative to your snare and hi-hat, without forcing you to lean or twist.
- Tilting mechanism: A geared tilter or robust clamping mechanism helps maintain position during aggressive playing. Ensure it locks securely.
- Material and build: Steel and alloy arms deliver durability for frequent travel and heavy hits. Chrome finishes provide corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
- Installation effort: Some models require drilling or specific shell hardware; others are clip-on or hoop-mounted. Consider your comfort with modification tasks.
- Compatibility: Verify diameter range, drum shell thickness, and clamp capacity to avoid slippage or interference with other hardware.
- Best use-case: Jazz and vintage kits often favor clean, classic mounting; rock and metal setups might demand more rugged, adjustable arms.
- Weight and portability: Lighter arms are easier to transport but may be less stable under high-volume playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a bass drum mounted cymbal arm best for?
Directly mounting a cymbal to the bass drum saves space, reduces stand clutter, and offers quick access for certain playing styles such as jazz or compact setups. - Can I install these arms on any bass drum?
Most require compatible mounting points or hoops. Some may need drilling or specific shell hardware; always check the product’s installation requirements. - Are hoop-mounted arms as stable as shell-mounted ones?
Stability depends on the clamp, hoop size, and arm construction. Well-made hoop clamps with secure locking tend to be very stable for practical playing. - What cymbal sizes do these arms support?
Most listed options support 8–12 inch cymbals, though always confirm the maximum supported size in the product specs. - Is installation difficult for beginners?
Some arms are straightforward to install, while others may require drilling or a more involved setup. Refer to the manual or choose a model designed for easy installation if you’re new to mounting hardware. - Which option is best for a budget setup?
For price-conscious buyers, Foraineam and similar budget options offer reasonable durability with essential features, while keeping installation simple.