Tools for the Task: Pedalboard Percussion

September 02, 2016

If you’re a solo guitarist looking to add some rhythm to your set or phase out the drummers in your life, the 10 foot-governed percussion devices here can bring a fun, totally new component to your pedalboard dance.

BEATBUDDY

BeatBuddy Mini
With over 200 songs in 24 genres available right out of the box, players can create a convincing live-drummer effect—including fills, breaks, and transitions—through a guitar-pedal format.
$99 street
mybeatbuddy.com

DIGITECH

TRIO+
This practice, writing, and performance tool with a built-in looper listens to your guitar and instantly churns out drum (and bass) parts to accompany your playing.
$299 street
digitech.com

SIDEKICK DRUMS

Acoustic Foot Operated Drum Pack
Go all-out with this double-head kick/snare combo that includes drums with Keller maple shells and Evans heads, plus the snare-riser stand.
$699 street
sidekickdrums.com

Associate Editor Rich Osweiler started playing guitar at the tender age of 8, but over the years bass has become his main instrument. Prior to joining Premier Guitar, Rich worked at Acoustic Guitar for close to 10 years, most recently as associate publisher and director of marketing. He loves all types of music—from gypsy jazz to lo-fi and grindcore—provided the genre name isn’t preceded by the “contemporary” tag. Outside of music, Rich enjoys travel, skiing, woodworking, coaching baseball, and being a dad. He lives in Marin County with his 9-year-old daughter and their dog, Kiko.