Best Floor Tom to Bass Drum Conversion Options for Compact Setups
Looking to convert a 16″ floor tom into a bass drum for a lighter, more flexible kit? This guide highlights five reliable conversion solutions ideal for small stages, jazz, hip‑hop, or low‑volume gigs. Each option is evaluated for best for, benefits, and a practical caveat. Whether you want a quick digital pedal setup or a fully integrated tom-to-kick system, these picks help you tailor bass tone and space usage.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl JG16 Jungle Gig Adapter | Jazzers and session players needing quick conversion | Lifts tom for use with standard pedal |
| Pearl Jungle Gig 16” Floor Tom to Bass Drum Adaptor Kit | Live gigs with minimal setup | No permanent modifications required |
| Gibraltar Floor Tom Cocktail Conversion Kit | Low-volume or compact stages | Vertical bass drum with adjustable pedal mount |
| Trick Drums Floor Tom to Bass Drum Conversion Kit (16″) | 16″ floor tom players seeking simple kit | Dedicated conversion kit for 16″ toms |
| Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift | General bass drum resonance optimization | Lifts bass drum off ground for better beater placement |
Tip: Use the product details and compatibility notes to pick a system that matches your floor tom size, pedal type, and stage needs. The following sections provide concise, product-specific insights to help you choose quickly.
Pearl JG16 Jungle Gig Adapter
The Pearl JG16 Jungle Gig Adapter converts a 16″ floor tom into a bass drum for use with a standard bass pedal. It lifts the tom off the ground, enabling quick conversion without permanent changes. Best for players who need a lightweight, temporary setup on small stages. Limitation: you may need compatible hardware (OPT1516) for full use.
Pearl Jungle Gig 16” Floor Tom To Bass Drum Adaptor Kit
This kit transforms a 16″ floor tom into a mini kick drum with no permanent modifications when paired with the included I.S.S. Tom Mount system. It’s ideal for jazz gigs or hip‑hop sets needing a punchier bass tone while preserving resale value. Caution: ensure the I.S.S. mount hardware fits your tom legs, as this may vary by setup.
Gibraltar Floor Tom Cocktail Conversion Kit
Converts a floor tom into an upright bass drum for space-saving setups. The kit includes an angle-adjustable pedal mount with grabber arms and a single chain cocktail pedal with a reversed cam for bottom-head play. Best for low‑volume venues or small stages. Limitation: may require a compatible mounting area on your floor tom legs for secure attachment.
Trick Drums Floor Tom to Bass Drum Conversion Kit – 16 Inches
Trick Drums offers a straightforward 16″ floor tom to bass drum conversion with compatible hardware, designed specifically for 16″ floor toms with eight-lug die-cast or triple-flanged hoops. Best for players seeking a dedicated, simple conversion without extensive modification. Caution: ensure your tom hoop type matches the kit’s mounting hardware.
Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift (EBDL)
The Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift raises the bass drum 2–3 inches off the floor, enabling improved resonance and beater striking location. It’s compatible with bass drums from 16″ to 24″. Pedals clamp directly onto the lift rather than the hoop. Best for players chasing resonance enhancement or pedal positioning flexibility. Limitation: not a full conversion kit; pairing with a bass drum pedal remains necessary.
Buying Guide
Is a full conversion kit or a lift solution better for my needs?
Full conversion kits typically turn a floor tom into a bass drum with dedicated mounting and hardware. Lifts improve resonance and pedal action without altering hardware. Choose a kit if you want a traditional bass feel; opt for a lift if you prioritize tonality tuning and quick setup.
Will my floor tom’s hardware work with these options?
Check hoop type, leg mounts, and bracket compatibility. Some kits require specific lugs or rails, while others use the tom’s existing legs or standard spurs. Mismatched hardware can prevent secure mounting or alter tension and tuning.
What stage and playing style influence my choice?
Staging constraints favor space-saving upright conversions (like the Gibraltar Cocktail Kit). Jazz and hip‑hop performances often benefit from a punchier response and quicker setup (Pearl Jungle Gig options). For indoor venues with tight beater placement, a lift or rail system might be preferable.
What are common limitations to expect?
Non-permanent modifications limit resale flexibility. Some kits require additional mounting hardware or brackets. Compatibility with your bass pedal type and beater clearance should be verified before purchase.
How should I measure for compatibility?
Confirm floor tom size (16″ is common here), hoop type (die-cast or triple-flanged), leg configuration, and whether the product supports standard bass drum pedals. If possible, verify with the seller or support team before ordering.
FAQ
- Can I convert any 16″ floor tom to a bass drum? Most 16″ floor toms can be converted with a suitable adapter kit or mounting system, but verify hardware compatibility first.
- Do these conversions affect the drum’s resale value? Some options preserve resale value by avoiding permanent modifications; others may alter it if permanent changes are involved.
- Will I need additional pedals or stands? A conversion kit typically includes mounting hardware, but you may still need a bass drum pedal compatible with the new setup.
- Is a lift more affordable than a full kit? Lifts are often a lower-cost option focused on resonance and placement rather than complete conversion.
- Which option is best for small venues? Upright conversion kits and collapsible systems tend to save space and adapt easily to tight stages.
- Are there any safety concerns? Ensure secure mounting to prevent wobble or detachment during performance. Always follow installation instructions.