How to Set Up a Double Bass Pedal
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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Clamp the main pedal to the bass drum hoop and link the auxiliary pedal with the drive shaft. Set the beaters to strike the head together, then adjust the beater angle and the spring tension until each pedal moves the same way. Press each pedal and watch the beaters hit the head to check the setup.
Clamp the main pedal to the drum
Set the main pedal against the bass drum hoop and tighten the hoop clamp until the pedal sits firm and square to the head. The beater should rest close to the head without touching it, and the footboard should sit at a height that lets your foot rest on it without strain. Check that the pedal does not rock or slide when you press it.
Link the auxiliary pedal with the drive shaft
Connect the drive shaft between the main pedal and the auxiliary pedal, and set the universal joint so the shaft runs straight between them. Place the auxiliary pedal where your other foot rests on it without reaching, and tighten the shaft clamps on each end. Press each pedal and watch the beaters: each beater should strike the head at the same point and return to the same rest position.
Set the beater angle and height
Loosen the beater holder and set the beater angle so the beater face meets the head flat at the point of impact. Set the beater height so the beater strikes near the center of the head. Tighten the holder and check each beater in turn, matching the auxiliary beater to the main beater so each strike lands the same way.
Adjust the spring tension
Turn the spring tension adjustment to set how quickly the beater returns after each strike. Tighten the spring if the beater feels slow to return, and loosen it if the pedal fights your foot on the way down. Set the tension on each pedal to match, so the main pedal and the auxiliary pedal move the same way under each foot.
What you need
Foraineam Drum Kit Pedals Heavy Duty Single
A single bass drum pedal with a single chain drive, adjustable beater angle and height, and a felt beater.
- Drive: Single Chain
- 2.2 lb, the lightest here
Pearl P532 Double Bass Drum Pedal
A double bass drum pedal with a double chain drive, a fully adjustable universal joint and a wide hoop clamp for quick setup.
- Double pedal
- Drive: Double Chain
AZEAM Bass Drum Pedal
A single kick drum pedal with a chain drive, adjustable spring tension and an adjustable beater on a metal frame.
- Drive: Chain Drive
Pearl P2052C Eliminator Double Bass Drum Pedal-Chain
A double bass drum pedal with a chain drive, an interchangeable cam system and a click-lock spring adjustment.
- Double pedal
- Drive: Chain Drive
These come from our ranked list Best Bass Drum Pedal, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Why do my double pedal beaters hit at different times?
The beaters hit at different times when the spring tension or the beater angle differs between the pedals. Match the beater angle and the spring tension on each pedal, check the drive shaft clamps, and press each pedal to see that the beaters strike together.
Where does the auxiliary pedal go?
The auxiliary pedal sits beside the main pedal, linked by the drive shaft, where your other foot rests on it without reaching. Set it on the side of the hi-hat stand that leaves room for your foot, and tighten the shaft clamps once it sits where you want it.
Can I use a single pedal with a double pedal setup?
A single pedal cannot drive an extra beater on its own, since a double pedal links the main and auxiliary pedals with a drive shaft. Use a double pedal for the extra beater, and keep a single pedal as a spare or for another drum.
Ranked bass drum pedals lists
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.