Oh, cool!

I don't think there is any "definitive" drum tuning method, since there are so many different types of mechanisms used to tension a drumhead. For example(s):

Rope-tensioned heads are really "weird" to tune, if you've ever tried it.

Then, there are many vintage single-tension systems that require different methods of approach in terms of tuning.

Then, there are "unconventional" tuning mechanisms, e.g., both of Ivor Arbiter's "Autotune" and "AT" systems.

Then there are parameters that have to do with the thickness of the heads and the density of the shell and the type of rims and the type of bearing edge...and so on.

The only type of tuning guide there could ever be is a very general guide that would list several options and suggestions gathered from people who have been playing drums on the scene for 30+ years -like most of the people who post on this forum. Our collective wisdom will teach everyone.

It's cool that you have some inside experience. I have had this idea for a tuning system that uses fewer lugs (possibly, as few as three-per-drum!) and then would require a special "scalloped" rim profile that would use a type of spring-tension for a portion of the flesh hoop and then...well...just fewer eyelets for lug screws, obviously. Think it would work?

Hey O-lugs!

Check out this article I'm working on about different types of tuning systems.

Types of Tuning Systems

I'm still in phase "one" of the article, lots more to add and update.

David

COOOOOOOOOL!

"Davoli" drums???? Never heard of them in my life!

I LOVE this forum!!!

That's some cool information, David! Thanks for sharing!

Just read an old NSMD magazine article on the evolution of drum tuning mechanisms.... Very interesting, and some really wild innovations along the way.

Far beyond my scope, but interesting just the same.

The pneumatic tuning system was in there too !! Crazy stuff !!

The NSMD article was very cool. The author was a big buyer on eBay years ago, buying all of the strange drums he could find.

When eBay used to show ID's we were always bidding on the same items. He would always outbid me :)

He does some great articles and we usually talk at the Chicago Show.

It would be great to see his collection of drums.

David

I'm not sure, but was it David Heusling or was he mentioned in the article and not the author ???

Dang, I just finished reading it earlier today....

Yep it is David, he has another article in the last issue as well.

David

Cool, thanks.... I've been borrowing them from Vintagemore.... maybe that one will be next.

Let me call him now, lest it slip my mind !!

Kev, your correct it is David Huelsing a long time NSMD member!!! and thats the next Issue you'll be getting!!!