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Vic Firth 5AN Drum Sticks
The Vic Firth 5AN are great all-purpose drum sticks. They seem to fit well into just about any size hand. The nylon (plastic) tip allows for greater articulation on the cymbal and extends the life of the stick. Unlike other companies, which glue the tips to the sticks, Vic Firth uses injection molding. This means that the tip actually becomes part of the stick.
Click here for Vic Firth 5AN sticks on Amazon.
For smaller hands, try the 7AN version below (similar to above, but thinner and a bit shorter).
Vic Firth 7AN Drum Sticks
This is slightly shorter and thinner than the pervious item. The 7AN works well for both kids and adults.
SD1 General Drum Sticks (2 Pair)
SD1 Generals are required by many middle and high school band directors. They work well on the snare drum as well as practice pad. They are not suggested for use on the drum set (see first products in this category for a drum set stick).
Since this stick can be a bit bulky, Vic Firth released the SCS2, a reworked, slightly slimmer version of the SD1 General See product below for the SCS2
Vic Firth SCS2 Concert Drum Sticks
The SCS2 is an updated version of the SD1 General. It is a bit thinner, has a great response (rebound), and is made of Stapac (laminated birch). They are to be used on snare drum and practice pad. They are not suggested for use on the drum set (see first products in this category for a drum set stick).
Vic Firth Heritage Brushes
Some brushes on the market are too stiff and use a heavy gauge of wire. Others have bristles that are too light, and easily bent. Jeff believes that these brushes are "just right." A great all-purpose brush!
Vic Firth Rute 606
Jeff always has at least one pair of Rute 606 in his stick case when he performs. They produce a sound somewhat in between that of a stick and a brush. They are great for reducing volume while practicing. They are also handy for lower volume "unplugged" style performances.
Vic Firth Swizzle Sticks
Jeff uses combo mallets when he needs to go from mallets to sticks quickly. The mallet head is on one side, with the stick tip on the other. It is also useful for quick instrument changes in concert band or orchestra.
Click here for Vic Firth combo mallets on Amazon.
For a smaller tip version (like Jeff uses)
Becken Cymbal Mallets by Vic Firth
These were especially designed for cymbal rolls. Jeff always has these on hand for ballads, or anytime cymbal rolls are called for. He often uses two in one hand (one mallet on top of cymbal, one on the bottom) when making changes from mallets to sticks/brushes.
Vic Firth EP1 Education Pack
This is a great starter pack for the beginning school band percussionist. It includes a stick bag, SD1 drum sticks, and two pair of bell/xylophone mallets (one rubber/one poly).
Vic Firth EP2 Education Pack (with mallets for marimba and timpani)
This is a great package for the school band percussionist. It includes a stick bag with SD1 drum sticks, bell/xylophone mallets, timpani mallets, and yarn mallets (for marimba/vibraphone).
Hingestix 5A
These sticks are meant specifically for practicing. The hinge allows the drummer to experience the response of a stick with uninhibited rebound. These sticks also allow the drummer to form a proper grip.
Jeff recommends the 5A model.
Vic Firth Chop-Out Rubber Tip Practice Sticks
These practice sticks have rubber tips, allowing them to be used without a practice pad. Jeff personally takes these sticks with him on vacation. When camping, he uses them on the kitchen table of his RV. He also likes to use them outside on the picnic table. Great for practicing "on the go."
Jeff recommends the 5B model of these sticks.
Click Here for the Vic Firth 5B Chop-Out sticks at Sweetwater.
Ahead 10" Drum Practice Pad
This is a sturdy pad of superior quality. The size is perfect for practicing, while still making it portable. Very highly recommended.
Vic Firth Double-Surface Practice Pad
This double-surface pad is great for practicing snare and cymbal parts.
Vic Firth Chop-Out Rubber Tip Practice Sticks
These practice sticks have rubber tips, allowing them to be used without a practice pad. Jeff personally takes these sticks with him on vacation. When camping, he uses them on the kitchen table of his RV. He also likes to use them outside on the picnic table. Great for practicing "on the go."
Click Here for the Vic Firth 5B Chop-Out sticks on Sweetwater.
Remo Putty Pad
People always ask, "What is a Putty Pad?" Well, it is actually a practice pad. It is similar to silly putty - but thicker, allowing it to be rolled out with a drumstick and formed into a practice pad. My students are always amazed at the amount of rebound that this pad produces.
Gibraltar Bass Drum Practice Pad
This pad from Gibraltar allows the drummer to practice bass drum technique. One needs to simply attach a bass drum pedal (not included). You can try this out at Jeff's studio before purchasing.
Click here for the Gibraltar bass drum practice pad on Amazon.
Pearl Bass Drum Pedal
This is a great pedal at a nice price! It is a great addition to the practice pad kit (above).
Stick Bag
Stick bags are essential for drummers. It is the preferred method for transporting sticks, brushes, and mallets to rehearsals, performances, etc. This bag has a ton of positive verified reviews by Amazon customers. Verified reviews are written by customers who ordered that same product.
Drumstick Caddy by Vic Firth
This stick holder clamps to a drum or cymbal stand for quick access to sticks. It comes in handy when you drop a stick in the middle of a song.
It holds two pair of drumsticks (sticks not included).
14" Genera Dry Drum Head
This is Jeff's "go to" snare drum head. It features a control ring on the underside as well as vent holes which reduce unwanted overtones and limits sustain. The link to the left is for the 14" model.
13" Genera Dry Drum Head
This is the same head as above, in a 13" version.
Evans G2 Drum Head Pre-Pack (12", 13", 16")
Jeff has experimented with many tom heads. The G2 has been the best sounding head he's found by far.
Click here for the Evans G2 12", 13", 16" Pre-Pack on Amazon.
While it is less expensive to purchase the pre-pack, the individual heads are listed below (with Amazon links).
Evans G2 Drum Head Pre-Pack (10", 12", 14")
This is the same as above (Evans G2 drum head pre-pack), but for fusion size sets with 10, 12, and 14" toms.
Click here for the Evans G2 10", 12", 14" Pre-Pack on Amazon.
Again, the pre-pack is less expensive, but for those that need a single head, the individual links are below.
This link will take you to the 14" clear version of the G2 on Amazon. Once you are on the page, you can select the specific size needed.
Manhasset Music Stand
Manhasset Music Stands are found in band classrooms throughout the world. They are sturdy and support large books with ease. These are the stands used in Jeff's teaching studio.
Stand-Out Shelf Extenders (Stand extenders for Manhasset Music Stands)
These extenders greatly increase the number of pages that can be placed on the stand. This allows the drummer to keep playing (instead of stopping for page turns).
*This product is manufactured to exclusively fit Manhasset music stands.
Gleam Music Stand
Students have asked for a sturdy stand at an affordable price. The stand has over 2,400 five-star reviews on Amazon!
It now comes with many bonus accessories.
Cymbal Boom Stand by Gibraltar
Gibratar makes great, sturdy hardware. This boom cymbal stand will work well with crash and ride cymbals.
This cymbal mute is meant for crash cymbals, but Jeff also uses one on his 20" ride cymbal in his teaching studio.
Gibraltar Drum Seat
This drum seat is lightweight, yet sturdy. Most seats within this price range only have a small number of settings. This seat is fully adjustable.
DW Drum Seat
This study seat is a great upgrade. It is the same one as in Jeff's studio.
LP 229SG Steve Gadd Mambo Cowbell
A cowbell is a nice addition to any drum set. The LP 229SG has that classic "Steve Gadd" sound.
Mounting Bracket for Cowbell
This mounting bracket attaches to the bass drum rim.
Drum Key
It used to be that drummers only needed a drum key to tune or change a drum head. Today, a drum key is needed for memory locks, pedal adjustments, and more. Jeff has a similar drum key on his key ring, so he is never caught without one. This pack includes four keys, so you'll have one when you need it!
Drum Keys (Pack of 5)
This is a pack of 5 drum keys at at great price. Please note that these keys do not have holes (for mounting on a keychain). For one with a keychain hole, please see the product above.
Drummer's Multitool
This is a great drummer's tool which combines a drum key with screwdrivers (one straight and and hex wrenches. Jeff carries a similar one in his stick/mallet case.
Moongel Damper Gels
These are useful for reducing the sustain and taking out unwanted overtones. Simply place them on a drum or cymbal. They adhere right to the drum, cymbal, or cowbell. When they get dirty, simply wash with water and a mild soap. They will then adhere like new.
Hand Exercise Balls
Jeff uses these to stretch out his hands and forearms. They help to keep the hands limber. Don't know how to use them? Jeff will show you.
Christmas Tree Drum Set Ornament
Jeff has a similar ornament hanging on his Christmas tree. He (and over 650 Amazon reviewers) love it!
The Level System by Jeff W. Johnson
Jeff wrote this book based on his studies with the legendary Joe Morello. It was runner up for the best book of the year when it came out (Drum Magazine Drummies Award). Jazz legend Ed Soph said of the book, "It's the most comprehensive and well-organized text on the subject that I've seen"
Note Groupings and Combinations for Drumset by Jeff W. Johnson
Jeff's newest book, Note Groupings and Combinations, demystifies the concept of note groupings: a system of arranging notes that span over the beat (and over the barline). We’ll start with the introduction to the groupings in their basic forms before using them as grooves and fills. Then, by combining note groupings together, we create even more rhythmic possibilities. The concepts in this book will increase your rhythmic vocabulary and creativity, all while remaining musical.
Online mp3 access is included.
Click here for Note Groupings and Combinations for Drumset on Amazon.
The Drummer's Lifeline: Quick Fixes, Hacks, and Tips of the Trade
This small book is packed with tips, tricks, and suggestions for all drummers. Written by Peter Erskine and Dave Black.
Tune Bot
This drum tuning device measures the frequency (overall pitch and frequency at each lug). It allows you to experiment with different tunings. Once you find a tuning that works for you, the TuneBot allows you to get back to that sound, even after a complete head change.
While online lessons only require a device and internet signal, here are
some items that can make things easier.
Logitech Webcam
This is the updated version of the webcam that Jeff uses for teaching online. It can be used with a camera-style tripod. You can also use Velcro to attach it to a sturdy music stand.
Obsbot Tiny 2 Lite Webcam
This is a PTZ (pant, tilt, zoom) webcam. It can follow you as you move. It can also zoom in on your hands. Features dual built-in microphones and gesture controls. An optional remote control is also available (also linked in this page)
Jeff uses the non-lite version (see next item on this page).
Click here for the Obsbot Tiny 2 Lite Webcam on Amazon.
Click here for Obsbot Tiny 2/remote control package on Amazon.
Obsbot Tiny 2 Webcam
This is the advanced version of the previous product. It features:
Better low-light performance
Larger CMOS sensor
Jeff uses two of these when teaching online lessons.
See product below for optional remote control.
Click here for the Obsbot Tiny 2 4K on Amazon.
Click here for the Obsbot Tiny 2 4K with remote control on Amazon.
Remote Control for Obsbot Tiny Webcams
This remote will work for both Tiny 2 Lite and Tiny 2 4K Webcams
Samson G Track Pro Microphone
The Samson G Track Pro allows Jeff to get a great sound when teaching online lessons. Now that the price has dropped, students are finding it to be a nice addition to their setup.
Those with electronic drum kits can use the input jack to send the sound directly into the USB mic.
Etymotic Earplugs
It is essential to protect your hearing! Many people dislike the feel of earplugs at first. These help you to get acclimated to wearing earplugs by offering three different tips for you to try.
Isolation Earmuffs
For times when you don't feel like having earplugs in your ear, these over-the-ear earmuffs will protect your hearing. They are also great for working with power tools, lawn equipment, etc.
These should work well for both adults and younger students.
These are for hearing protection only. They do not have speakers. For ones with speakers, see the Vic Firth Bluetooth Headphones (below in this list).
ClearArmor Safety Ear Muffs
For those in need of extra hearing protection, these have a 31 decibel reduction rating.
Vic Firth Bluetooth Headphones
This is a new product from Vic Firth. It is similar to the earmuffs listed above, but with headphone speakers and Bluetooth capability. It also includes a cable for plugging it into a phone, tablet or laptop (when Bluetooth is not used). Jeff recommends using a low volume on the headphones to protect the student's hearing. They reduce the outside volume from the drums by 20db.
Click here for the Vic Firth Bluetooth Headphones on Amazon.
Yamaha Bell Kit
Jeff has a number of used percussion kits available. Please contact him for details.
Mapex Bell and Snare Kit
Some school bands require students to have a bell and snare kit (instead of the bell and practice kit linked above). This Mapex kit includes a snare drum.
Tama Drum Set (Complete with Drums, Cymbals, and Hardware)
Jeff recommends drum sets with a 20" bass drum. This set has that plus more (cymbals, stand, seat, and pedals).
Alesis Nitro Pro Electronic Drum Kit
Alesis is one of the top names in electronic drums. This set allows the drummer to enter the world of electronic drums at a price similar to that of acoustic drums.
They can be used with headphones or an amplifier (see below). Many of Jeff's students own Alesis sets and are very pleased with them.
Alesis Nitro Ultimate Electronic Drum Kit
This is an upgraded version of the previously-listed set. It features an extra cymbal pad and more realistic hi-hat (hi-hat stand must be purchased separately - see below).
Hi-Hat Stand
This is a sturdy hi-hat stand that should work well with the Alesis Nitro Ultimate set.
Speaker/Monitor - PreSonus Eris E7 XT
Jeff uses this studio monitor with his electronic drums. While studio monitors are usually used in pairs, a single monitor is sufficient for electronic drum amplification.
Why studio monitors? Regular amplifiers will often add more "boost," making things sound boomy. Studio monitors are meant to reproduce the original sounds, providing a true sound.
Yamaha Stage Custom Drum Set
This is the same set that Jeff has used (and still uses) for touring and recording. It is a shell pack, so it only includes the drums and mounts for the toms (no cymbals, cymbal stands, pedals, etc.). For that reason, it is a great set for someone who is upgrading. You simply keep your stands and pedals - and add these all-birch drums!
Yamaha offers this set in a variety of colors. Jeff recommends the model with the 20" bass drum.
Sabian SBR Cymbal Pack
The Sabian SBR (brass) Series aims to deliver great sound at a great price. This pack includes a ride cymbal, pair of hi-hat cymbals, and a crash cymbal. At times, you might find a special offer with a free splash cymbal.
Sabian SB8 Cymbal Pack
This cymbal pack features a B8 Bronze composition, giving them a more complex sound than the SBR (brass) cymbals. They are sonically matched by technicians at Sabian to give a cohesive sound.
Sabian AAX Cymbal Pack
These are professional cymbals at a "package deal" price. Featuring B20 alloy. At times, you might find a free crash cymbal offered with the pack.
Sabian HHX Cymbal Pack
These are most similar to the cymbals that Jeff plays. They consist of a B20 alloy, similar to the AAX line. However, the HHX line tends to have a deeper, more complex tone.
21" Sabian HHX Raw Bell Dry Ride
This is an all-purpose cymbal. Jeff has used this model of cymbal for jazz, rock, and cruise ship (Broadway/Vegas-style) performances. It seems to be the "right" cymbal for almost every occasion.
Click here for the Sabian HHX Raw Bell Dry Ride on Sweetwater.
20" Sabian Artisan Medium Ride Cymbal
Jeff uses this as a second ride cymbal. It is great for jazz performances. It has a nice stick definition with just the right amount of sustain.
Click here for the 20" Sabian Artisan Medium Ride Cymbal on Amazon.
14" Sabian HHX Evolution Hi-Hats
Jeff uses these hi-hats because they sound great when played with either the stick or pedal. The two cymbals blend very well together. They have an clear, well defined sound.
18" Sabian HH Thin Crash Cymbal
While this crash cymbal is marked "thin," it is very durable. The cymbal is thinner than some other cymbal models, making it less "clangy." Ostinatos (repetitive patterns) can be played on the cymbal without the sound getting washy. It is a great all-purpose crash cymbal.
If Jeff only uses one crash cymbal, it is this one. When he uses two crashes, he adds the 16" version (below).
16" Sabian HH Thin Crash Cymbal
This is the 16" version of the cymbal listed above.
Click here for the 16" Sabian HH Thin Crash Cymbal on Amazon.
Many students have Tama drum sets. Here are some recommendations for add-on for Tama kits.
18" Crash Cymbal
This cymbal matches the type that often comes with Tama kits. The kits generally come with a 16" cymbal. This 18" crash will pair well with the existing cymbal.
Tama Cymbal Stand
This Tama boom cymbal stand will work nicely for the crash cymbal (above). It is priced lower than many other name-brand stands.
Drum mutes allow the volume to be dramatically reduced. They can be purchased individually or as a pre-pack. While the links below are for a Tama kit, the mutes can be used on other sets as well (just be sure to check your sizes).
RTOM Black Holes Drum Mute
Jeff uses the RTOM Black Hole mutes on his acoustic drums. They add one specific quality that lesser-expensive mutes do not: stick attack. You can hear the clarity of the stick hitting the pad. The mesh foundation provides a soft dynamic, while still retaining the pitch of the drum
*This is a 16" pad. They are available in a number of sizes to fit your drums.
Drum/Cymba Mutes
These mutes/pads are cut to fit drums and cymbals. They allow for softer practice. Choose the drum sizes that fit your set. The cymbal mutes are generally universal fit.
Tama Soft Sound Beater
Instead of a mute for the bass drum (which sometimes sag or need to be held up by rubber bands), Jeff prefers the Tama Soft Sound Beater. It works with a number of different pedal brands. For double bass drum beaters, see the next product on this page.
Tama Soft Sound Beater - Half Width
This version of the Soft Sound practice beater is shorter in width since, allowing it to be used on a double bass pedal. For double bass drum pedal application, two beaters must be purchased.
Click here for the Tama Soft Sound Beater (Half-Width Version) on Amazon.
As an Amazon Affiliate, this page earns from qualifying purchases.