I have had lots of time to hang out with both the gray RealFeel practice
pad and the red "limited edition" Barney Beats pad from Evans.Both have
their purposes. The gray pad is a great all-around surface for regular
practice, and remains a popular choice for new drummers becauswe of its
relatively low cost (compared to other 12" pads on the market.
The red Barney Beats pad, made of the same material, is a little softer because of the additional 2mm of thickness. And for my older, arthritic hands it's actually a nicer pad to practice on.
The softer surface is especially great for those who continue to march with Mylar-headed drums.
So now I have to ask -- why make this a "limited edition" pad?
It's SO good that I use it way more than my gray RealFeel pad.
Evans ought to add it to their regular lineup, and even consider making an 8" travel size version.
Stay tuned for more highly opinionated practice pad reports.
..::wink::..
(Sticks: Vater MV-20)
UPDATE: I contacted someone at Evans and asked about contiuning the Red pad and possibly making it in a more portable size. I was told Evans has no plans to do either. When the Red pad is gone from dealers it will not be made again.
Glad I got one for myself when I did. Nearly ever dealer is out of them now.
