For musicians looking to expand their MIDI capabilities without breaking the bank, repurposing gaming peripherals like a Guitar Hero Drum Set can seem like an attractive option. Instead of investing in expensive electronic drum kits and trigger modules, the readily available and affordable Guitar Hero drum set presents itself as a potentially cost-effective alternative. But how feasible is it to use these game controllers with DAWs like Ableton or Max for MIDI generation? Let’s delve into the key considerations.
Key Considerations for MIDI Game Drum Sets
When considering a Guitar Hero drum set as a MIDI controller, several factors come into play, mirroring the priorities of any electronic drum setup.
Feel and Noise
One of the primary concerns for drummers transitioning to electronic kits is the feel of the pads. Hard plastic pads, like those found on older electronic drums, can be off-putting. Guitar Hero and Rock Band drum sets vary in pad construction. Some, like the Logitech models, are known for having softer pads that offer a more pleasant rebound and are less noisy compared to rigid plastic alternatives. While not directly comparable to high-end mesh pads on professional e-drums, they can be a step up from basic, clicky plastic pads. The Ion Drum Rocker, while potentially offering a better feel, often comes at a higher price point, diminishing the budget advantage.
Latency
Latency is paramount when using any electronic instrument for MIDI triggering. A noticeable delay between hitting a pad and hearing the sound can be detrimental to performance. For MIDI drumming, ideally, latency should be virtually imperceptible, aiming for 2ms or less. The latency performance of Guitar Hero drum sets as MIDI controllers can vary and may depend on the specific model, the connection method (USB, wireless), and the DAW’s settings. User experiences suggest that with wired connections and proper configuration, acceptable latency levels can be achieved, making them usable for practice and even recording.
Expandability
Expandability is often a crucial factor for drummers who want to customize and grow their kits. Standard electronic drum modules typically offer 1/4 inch jack inputs for adding external triggers, cymbals, and pedals. Game drum sets, however, are inherently limited in this regard. They are not designed for expandability in the same way. While some resourceful users might find ways to modify or hack connections to add custom triggers, this is generally not a plug-and-play feature. If expandability is a high priority, a dedicated e-drum module and kit might be a more suitable long-term investment.
Wireless Connectivity
Wireless connectivity can offer convenience and a cleaner setup, especially for home studios. Some Guitar Hero drum sets, particularly Logitech models, include USB dongles for wireless connection. Xbox 360 wireless receiver dongles are also commonly used for connecting compatible drum sets wirelessly to computers. However, wireless connections can sometimes introduce latency or stability issues. For critical applications where latency is paramount, a wired USB connection is generally more reliable. If wireless is desired, it’s important to test for latency and ensure a stable connection in your specific setup.
Portability
Compared to acoustic drum kits or even full-sized electronic drum sets, Guitar Hero drum sets are significantly more compact and portable. Some models, like the Logitech drum kit, are designed to fold up for easier storage and transport. This portability can be advantageous for musicians with limited space or those who need to move their setup frequently.
Conclusion
Using a Guitar Hero drum set as a MIDI controller presents a compelling budget-friendly entry point into electronic drumming. While they may not match the nuanced feel, expandability, or professional features of dedicated e-drum kits, they can offer a usable and fun solution for MIDI triggering, especially for beginners or those on a tight budget. For musicians prioritizing affordability and compactness and willing to accept some limitations, exploring the world of game drum sets as MIDI instruments can be a worthwhile endeavor.
