Speed King Bass Drum Pedal Options: 7 Best Picks Compared (2026)
Comparing the speed king bass drum pedal and seven other top kick pedals for beginners and gigging drummers. Find the right fit for your playing style.
By drumpath editorial team
Updated November 7, 2026
By Lily GrantAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links.
A speed king bass drum pedal is one of the most recognizable single-chain designs in the kick pedal world, and many drummers search for it when they want a fast, responsive feel without spending a fortune on a high-end setup. Choosing the right kick pedal comes down to a handful of practical factors: the drive system, the feel of the footboard, how easily the pedal adjusts, and whether you need one pedal or two. This guide walks through seven pedals from the Tama and DW lines, plus a Gibraltar single pedal, so you can match a pick to your practice routine or your gig schedule.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Tama HP310LW Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Double Pedal | Double bass players who want speed | Speed Cobra double-chain design |
| Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 Single Pedal | Beginners on a budget | Iron Cobra single-chain drive |
| Tama HP310L Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Single Pedal | Rock and fast single-kick playing | Speed Cobra single-chain action |
| DW 3000 Series Single Bass Drum Pedal (DWCP3000A) | Drummers who want a stable, durable single pedal | DW 3000 Series hardware |
| Gibraltar Bass Drum Pedal (GTC6DD) | Practice rooms and quiet setups | Silent spring rocker |
| Tama HP200PTW Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal | Beginners moving into double kick | Iron Cobra double-pedal setup |
| DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal | Gigging drummers wanting a reliable double | DW 2000 Series double-pedal platform |
Tama HP310LW Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Double Pedal
Tama HP310LW Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Double Pedal
This double pedal suits drummers who already play with two kick drums or who plan to add a second pedal for doubles and fast patterns. It is aimed at players who want the Speed Cobra action in a double configuration.
Key specs
- Double bass pedal configuration
- Speed Cobra double-chain drive
Pros
- Fast, responsive action for double-kick patterns
- Well-known drive system within the Tama lineup
- Suits players moving from single to double pedal
Cons
- Requires adjustment time for players new to double pedals
- Heavier setup than a single pedal
Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 Single Pedal
Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 Single Pedal
This is a practical choice for beginners who want a dependable single kick pedal without a complicated setup. It is commonly recommended as a starting point for learning foot technique.
Key specs
- Single bass drum pedal
- Iron Cobra 200 drive system
Pros
- Straightforward design that is easy to learn
- Good starting point for single-kick grooves
- Widely available replacement parts from the Tama line
Cons
- Limited for advanced double-kick work
- May feel less refined to drummers used to higher-end pedals
Tama HP310L Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Single Pedal
Tama HP310L Speed Cobra Bass Pedal – Single Pedal
This single pedal is a fit for rock, punk and metal drummers who want quick, punchy kick response. It keeps the Speed Cobra action in a single-pedal format, which many players prefer for straight-ahead playing.
Key specs
- Single bass drum pedal
- Speed Cobra single-chain drive
Pros
- Quick response for fast single-stroke patterns
- Consistent feel across repeated playing
- Good match for drummers who play mostly single kick
Cons
- Not designed for double-kick playing
- Some players find the action firm until they adjust tension
DW 3000 Series Single Bass Drum Pedal (DWCP3000A)
DW 3000 Series Single Bass Drum Pedal (DWCP3000A)
This DW single pedal is designed for drummers who want a stable, long-lasting kick pedal for regular practice and live work. It appeals to players who value solid hardware over flashy features.
Key specs
- Single bass drum pedal
- DW 3000 Series construction
Pros
- Sturdy hardware built for regular use
- Smooth, controlled feel that owners often describe as consistent
- Suits both practice and gig setups
Cons
- Heavier than some lighter single pedals
- Learning curve for drummers used to a faster response
Gibraltar Bass Drum Pedal (GTC6DD), Silver
Gibraltar Bass Drum Pedal (GTC6DD),Silver | Single Bass Drum Pedal, Fast Response Kick Pedal w/ Silent Spring Rocker and Compact Drum Hardware for Drum Set & Drum Kit
This single pedal is a practical pick for drummers who play in shared spaces or home studios and want less pedal noise. The silent spring rocker is the main selling point for quiet practice.
Key specs
- Single bass drum pedal
- Silent spring rocker
- Silver finish
Pros
- Quieter operation suited to apartments and practice rooms
- Fast-response design for single-kick work
- Pairs with compact drum hardware setups
Cons
- Not intended for double-kick use
- Some drummers prefer a more traditional feel
Tama HP200PTW Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal
Tama HP200PTW Iron Cobra 200 Double Bass Pedal
This double pedal gives beginners and intermediate players a way to explore double-kick playing without moving to a premium pedal. It pairs the approachable Iron Cobra 200 action with a second footboard.
Key specs
- Double bass pedal configuration
- Iron Cobra 200 drive system
Pros
- Accessible entry into double-kick playing
- Familiar Iron Cobra feel for players who started on single pedals
- Good value for practice-focused drummers
Cons
- May lack the refinement of higher-end double pedals
- Double-kick technique takes time to develop
DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal
DW 2000 Series Double Bass Pedal
This double pedal is aimed at gigging drummers who need a dependable two-pedal setup. The DW 2000 Series sits in a mid-range position and is often chosen for its reliability on stage.
Key specs
- Double bass pedal configuration
- DW 2000 Series platform
Pros
- Reliable hardware for live performance
- Consistent action across both footboards
- Good balance of durability and feel
Cons
- Requires careful alignment of two pedals
- More setup involved than a single pedal
Buying Guide
Before you pick a kick pedal, decide whether you need a single or double pedal, and what kind of music you play most. A pedal that feels perfect for metal may feel too stiff for jazz, and a lightweight pedal can slide around on a slick floor. Think about where you practice, how often you gig, and whether you plan to add a second kick drum later.
Selection criteria
- Drive system: Single-chain, direct-drive and double-pedal designs each feel different under the foot.
- Footboard: Check the size and angle. Drummers with larger feet or a heel-down style often prefer a wider board.
- Adjustability: Spring tension, beater angle and cam options all change the feel. Look for a pedal that allows fine tuning.
- Build quality: Hinges, clamps and the base plate should feel solid. Owners often report that loose hardware causes more problems than the pedal design itself.
Important features
- Spring tension adjustment range
- Beater type and weight (felt, wood or plastic)
- Footboard length and pitch
- Noise level, especially for home practice
Specs to check
- Single or double pedal configuration
- Drive type (chain, strap or direct)
- Compatibility with your drum hardware
- Replacement parts availability
Choosing by need
- Beginners: A straightforward single pedal lets you focus on foot technique before adding complexity.
- Practice rooms: Quieter pedals and softer beaters reduce noise for neighbors and housemates.
- Gigging drummers: Reliable hardware and consistent response matter more than novelty features.
- Double-kick players: Choose a double pedal with a footboard alignment you can set up quickly before each show.
Things to watch out for
- Pedals that feel great at the store may need several sessions of tension tuning before they settle.
- Check that the pedal clamp fits your bass drum hoop thickness.
- Double pedals take more floor space, so measure your kit layout first.
If you have questions about pedal setup or physical strain from long sessions, a qualified drum instructor or music medicine professional can offer personalized guidance.
FAQ
What is a speed king bass drum pedal?
A speed king bass drum pedal refers to a kick pedal design often associated with fast, responsive action. Drummers searching for it usually want a pedal that delivers quick rebound and smooth strokes for rock, metal or fast single-kick grooves.
Is a single or double bass pedal better for beginners?
Most teachers recommend starting with a single pedal. It lets you develop consistent foot technique before you add a second footboard, which adds coordination demands.
How do I set the spring tension on a kick pedal?
Start with moderate tension and adjust in small increments. Play a steady pattern and tune until the pedal returns quickly without bouncing back too hard. Many drummers make one adjustment per practice session until the feel is right.
Which beater material is best?
Felt beaters give a warmer tone, plastic beaters give a sharper attack, and wood beaters sit between the two. Your choice depends on the sound you want and the head on your bass drum.
Can I use a double pedal on any drum kit?
Most double pedals work with standard bass drum hoops, but you should check the clamp fit and confirm that your hardware can accommodate the second footboard without interfering with other pieces.
How often should I maintain my kick pedal?
Check hardware for loose bolts before each session, lubricate moving parts as the manufacturer recommends, and replace worn felts or beaters when the attack starts to change.
Are quiet kick pedals worth considering?
Yes, if you practice in shared spaces. Quieter spring rockers and softer beater materials reduce mechanical noise, though they may not suit every playing style.
Conclusion
For a dependable single pedal with a straightforward feel, the Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 and the DW 3000 Series suit beginners and steady players. Drummers who want a quieter setup for practice should look at the Gibraltar GTC6DD. If you are chasing fast single-kick response, the Tama HP310L Speed Cobra fits well. For double-kick playing, the Tama HP310LW, the Tama HP200PTW and the DW 2000 Series cover different levels of experience and budget. Match the pedal to your music, your practice space and the amount of setup time you want before each session.
Related reading
- Why Does My Bass Drum Pedal Spring Tension Feel Wrong? Causes and Fixes
- Parts of a Bass Drum Pedal: A Guide to Every Component
- DW 5000 Bass Drum Pedal Review (2026): Is It Worth It?
- Bass Drum Pedal Replacement Parts: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- Bass Drum Pedal Beater Guide: Types, Materials and How to Choose
About Lily Grant
Lily researches and writes buying guides and how-to articles on drums. Picks are based on product specifications, brand reputation and patterns in owner feedback, and are updated as new models come out.
About the author
drumpath editorial team writes reviews and buying guides for Drum Path.