Tyler Wynn
The PVC pipe drum, also known as a thongophone or tubulum, is a unique percussion instrument that resembles a large xylophone. The instrument is played by striking the opening at the top of the PVC pipes with an open palm, which sends vibrations down the pipes and produces a sound. The width of the pipes does not change the pitch of the notes but does affect the volume and resonance. PVC pipe drums can be difficult to build, as they require cutting and aligning many pipes correctly. They produce a sound similar to a hand drum or bucket drum and have gained popularity due to acts like Dual Damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sound | Similar to a hand drum or a bucket drum |
| Construction | PVC pipes of different lengths attached to a frame |
| Playing technique | Striking the opening at the top with open palms or paddles |
| Volume | Wider pipes produce louder and more resonant sounds |
| Pitch | Not affected by pipe width |
| Diameter | Standard PVC pipe diameters may not fit drum heads |
| Thickness | Softer than acrylic |
| Sample libraries | Cylindrum, Omnisphere, Rury |
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What You'll Learn
- PVC pipe drums are played by striking the opening at the top to send vibrations down the pipes
- Wider pipes will make the sound louder and more resonant
- PVC drums are also known as thongophones, invented in Australia
- PVC kicks are the sound of a PVC pipe drum, distorted and turned into a hardstyle kick
- PVC is softer than acrylic, which would have an effect on the sound
PVC pipe drums are played by striking the opening at the top to send vibrations down the pipes
PVC pipe drums, also known as tubulums or thongophones, are unique percussion instruments that produce sound when the opening at the top is struck, sending vibrations down the pipes. Invented in Australia, these instruments resemble large xylophones and produce a sound similar to hand drums or bucket drums.
Constructing a PVC pipe drum involves attaching PVC pipes of varying lengths to a frame. The pipes can be cut to different sizes, with the length of the pipe determining the frequency of the sound produced. Longer pipes result in vibrations that travel farther, creating a sound similar to that of a hand drum. The width of the pipes also influences the volume and resonance of the sound, with wider pipes producing louder and more resonant sounds.
When playing a PVC pipe drum, individuals typically strike the opening at the top of each pipe with their open palms or paddles. This action causes air to move through the pipe, creating vibrations at the same frequency as the air movement. The use of paddles or closed-cell dense foam can provide a more comfortable playing experience, as playing with open palms may cause soreness.
The versatility of PVC pipe drums allows for creative exploration, as they can be played in a standing position or modified with elbow joints to accommodate deeper notes that require longer pipes. Additionally, the pipes can be attached using hot screwing or PVC cement, offering the option to disassemble and modify the instrument as desired.
Overall, PVC pipe drums offer a fun and engaging way to explore percussion, providing a unique sound and playing experience that differs from traditional drum kits.
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Wider pipes will make the sound louder and more resonant
While there is limited information on PVC drums, wider pipes in general will indeed make the sound louder and more resonant. This is because the size of the pipe affects the amount of sound produced. A wider pipe will allow for more sound to be produced, resulting in a louder and more resonant sound.
This principle can be observed in various contexts, such as in car exhaust systems. For example, a user on MustangForums.com observed that their car's original 2.5-inch pipe was quieter than the 3-inch pipe they installed subsequently, which resulted in a louder and deeper sound. Similarly, another user on the same forum noted that their 4-inch exhaust tips produced a louder sound than the standard 2.5-inch piping.
The impact of pipe diameter on sound is also acknowledged in a discussion on Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums. A user inquired about the potential sound difference between a 2.25-inch, 2.5-inch, and 3-inch pipe for their vehicle's exhaust. They were advised that a larger pipe would indeed result in a deeper and louder sound compared to a smaller pipe.
It is worth noting that while wider pipes generally increase volume and resonance, there are other factors at play as well. For instance, the packing design inside the pipe can influence the sound. Additionally, in some cases, having too much pipe with insufficient power can result in a louder sound than having more power and less pipe.
In the context of drums, the diameter of the pipe may not be the only factor influencing sound. The material of the drum, such as PVC, acrylic, or fiberglass, can also impact the sound produced. Therefore, while wider pipes may generally increase volume and resonance, the specific material and construction of the drum will also play a role in the overall sound produced.
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PVC drums are also known as thongophones, invented in Australia
PVC drums, also known as thongophones, were invented in Australia. They are part of a family of instruments called "plosive aerophones", which are based on bamboo instruments from Melanesia and surrounding areas of Southeast Asia. Thongophones are played by striking a rubber clapper, usually a thong or flip-flop, against the opening of one of many PVC pipes of varying lengths. The vibrations are transmitted through the hollow pipes, each resonating at a preset pitch.
Thongophones are most commonly associated with the Blue Man Group, who have used custom-built percussion instruments for years. Their unique design means that they can be played by multiple people at the same time, making them perfect for shared and cooperative play. For example, Child's Play Music's giant bass thongophone, made from a 90mm storm-water pipe mounted on a plantation pine frame, can be played by up to four children simultaneously.
PVC drums or thongophones produce a sound that is described as more subdued than that of other drums. The pitch can be adjusted by changing the length of the PVC pipes. The pipes are typically mounted on a recycled jarrah frame, as seen in the design by Child's Play Music. This organisation creates its own unique instruments, with each one being a one-off design.
The sound of PVC drums can be manipulated by factors such as the pipe diameter and thickness. Standard-sized PVC pipes found at home centres or plumbing supply stores may not fit drum heads due to size incompatibility. The softness of PVC, which is less dense than materials like acrylic, also impacts the sound produced.
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PVC kicks are the sound of a PVC pipe drum, distorted and turned into a hardstyle kick
PVC kicks are a unique type of percussion sound that has gained prominence in the hardstyle genre. Essentially, the sound is created by distorting the audio of a PVC pipe drum, such as those used by the Blue Man Group, and transforming it into a hardstyle kick. While Dual Damage is credited with popularizing this sound, it has been an experimental technique for many years.
PVC pipe drums produce a distinct sound due to the material's physical properties. PVC is softer than other materials like acrylic, resulting in a unique acoustic outcome when struck. The diameter of the pipe also influences the sound, with larger diameters creating a deeper, more hollow tone. This variation in diameter allows for a range of sounds to be produced, from higher-pitched to bass-heavy kicks.
To create a PVC kick, one can follow a process similar to the one described by a user seeking to replicate the sound. First, a PVC pipe of the desired diameter is chosen, along with a 32-size wrench. The wrench is then used to strike the pipe, and the resulting sound is recorded. By adjusting the reverb and distortion, the recorded sound can be manipulated to create the desired hardstyle kick.
The appeal of PVC kicks lies in their novelty and ability to elicit a reaction from audiences. Artists and DJs are constantly experimenting with new sounds to surprise and engage their listeners. The use of PVC kicks in hardstyle music showcases the genre's innovative nature and willingness to incorporate unconventional sounds to create a distinct listening experience.
While some listeners may not immediately associate the PVC kick with the sound of a PVC pipe, its unique character has earned it a place in the hardstyle genre. The process of distorting and transforming the original sound contributes to its appeal, resulting in a "kick" that stands out from traditional acoustic drum sounds.
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PVC is softer than acrylic, which would have an effect on the sound
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and acrylic are two of the most commonly used plastics in the world. They have unique properties that make them ideal for a variety of applications. PVC, for instance, is softer than acrylic. This difference in softness will have an effect on the sound produced by PVC drums.
PVC is known for its excellent insulating properties and low permeability, making it ideal for various purposes. It is also free from corrosion, robust against abrasion, and low in toxicity. Additionally, PVC can be recycled repeatedly without losing any critical properties due to its high molecular stability, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly energy production processes. However, PVC is not as strong as acrylic and is more susceptible to heat damage.
Acrylic, on the other hand, is a versatile and durable material with excellent optical clarity. It is widely used in many industries due to its unique properties, such as being strong, lightweight, and highly durable. Acrylic is also resistant to UV light, making it perfect for outdoor use and applications where long-term usage is desired. It is available in impact-resistant varieties to prevent scratches and scuffs, and can be tinted or coloured in any hue desired by the user while retaining its strength and structural integrity.
When it comes to sound, the softness of PVC will result in a duller sound compared to the clear sound produced by acrylic. This difference in sound quality can be attributed to the varying densities of the two materials, with acrylic having a lower density than PVC.
While the softness of PVC may have an impact on the sound, other factors such as the thickness and diameter of the PVC pipes used in drum construction will also play a role in the overall sound produced. Therefore, the choice between using PVC or acrylic for drums will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the drummer, taking into account factors such as cost, durability, aesthetics, and desired sound quality.
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Frequently asked questions
A PVC pipe drum, also known as a thongophone or tubulum, is a unique percussion instrument that looks like a large xylophone and sounds like a cross between a hand drum and a bucket drum.
You can make a PVC pipe drum by attaching PVC pipes of different lengths to a frame. The pipes are typically played by striking the opening at the top with an open palm, which sends vibrations down the pipes.
The width of the PVC pipes does not change the pitch of each note, but a wider pipe will make the sound louder and more resonant. Pipes that are 2 inches thick are a popular option as the volume is loud but not overbearing.
The easiest way to play a PVC pipe drum is to hit each note with an open hand. However, your hands may get sore pretty quickly if you play for too long.
PVC pipe drums were originally invented in Australia.
