Thanks for the video. The Simmons SD1250 series has been very informative. You convinced me to buy a set. Just picked up from GC $999. Now I get to put together. Also thanks for the firmware tip and mentioning the app. Im very excited. Thank you.
Veteran (acoustic kit) drummer here. Been on the fence for a long while on an E-kit for myself. I think now I'm sold, thanks much!! I also liked your tips and info. all very helpful stuff. Keep on, keeping on! I've subscribed.
Hi Keithron...well, took the plunge today...still in box though...don't want to dive into it until I have the time to really do all the things I need to do to get it set up right and tweaked to my liking...thanks for taking the time to do these videos, I sure appreciate it! Hope you and yours are well.
Awesome review and info for Simmons SD eDrums users there Keithron. Your videos are entertaining, LOVE your style and stage presence, but you give great info, and info not found elsewhere. Your tag line says it best ... "Right here, right now!" Keep up the good work and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Just ordered one today; can’t wait to get my hands on it. Your videos definitely helped make the choice. The demo models at the local guitar center are poorly maintained, but at least they have something there to look at.
Now that I’ve been playing the set for a while, I’ve noticed that the volume changes on its own. It happens randomly, and usually in the middle of a song. Have you heard of this at all?
Thanks again for a great and informative video. I am working with an expanded 1200 kit but it all functions the same, one thing I would love to mention. When you were going over the app which really does make tweaking a whole simpler, another great feature is the ability to adjust the volume on each trigger, no matter if it is s cymbal either zone or a drum head or rim. Someone may be playing and just wondering why they can not really hear the bass drum or the snare is just popping to loud, you can adjust each one so the volume is at your liking. I was really happy when I stumbled on this one.
@@KeithronPowell If longer content is your goal may I suggest you do Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 etc? Continue to keep them short & to the point but more of them. Or is there another reason (e.g. lack of personal time?) that's holding you back?
@@ScrewballMcAdams it’s definitely time. I have a day job… so my time is limited to typically once a week… some times two days a week to film and edit.
@@KeithronPowell You're doing great, KP. Keep up the good work. Increasing your content might cause you to burn out, so keep doing what you're doing at the pace you're doing it. In the long run it might be better for you personally. Damn that day job! Steve
Keithron, firstly, thank you for all your videos on the SD1250. I was on the fence between this kit and the Roland TD-17KV2. However, I wanted the 2nd crash and 2nd floor tom that the Simmons kit provides, and I got it on sale @ MusiciansFriend for $899.00. I'm 62yrs old and was recently asked to fill a vacancy in an established band. I haven't played much in the last 40 years as my old kit was a Slingerland 22" double bass kit with 10" & 12" power toms and I currently live in an apartment. So, I got this electronic kit to sharpen the old chops. I appreciate your video validating the sounds and how to EQ and tweek the sounds. My favorite kit is the 019 Acrylic. What I wanted to point out though is in this video, I believe you may have mis-spoke. At 6:13 you state that adjusting the sensitivity effects the entire drum set. In the video you have the current trigger set to Tom 1. Sensitivity adjustments are not a global setting. When you're in the Utility app and [Follow Trigger] is set to [=on] which ever drum or cymbal you hit will make that the [Current Trigger] and any adjustments you make will affect only that specific drum or cymbal.
Hey man thanks for making these videos like you said these videos are hard work!! Also I just ordered my 1250 today and I got it on Black Friday sale for 800 bucks so I'm pretty pumped! Thanks for the tips
Hello Kiethron. I really enjoy your videos. The one that you made on the Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit waZ instrumental in my purchasing it. You definitely earned a Like and a Subscriber 🙂☕🥁🥁🥁
Maybe you can help me here… On my toms I have to hit like DIRECTLY on the center to have it loud and bassy. Is there a way to increase the hit zone so I don’t have to hit the exact center of the pad for the proper sound?
The App on the 1250 is what really sells it! I wish my Alesis had an app. If Simmons is smart, they will invest in that aspect going forward. As it makes changing and adjusting sounds so much easier.
I really wish they were since I am a dedicated android user. Almost purchased one of these cause I saw you mention a couple times they were making an android app. I figured I better check because that is the main selling point of this kit. It took 2 emails (never answered either of them) and numerous phone calls with HOURS of hold time. To finally get an incredibly rude CS rep that just flat out said no android app in development nor any plans to. Which kinda stinks but the worst part was the AWFUL customer service. I spent wayyy too much time trying to get that answer I couldn't imagine if I had one of these kits and it had an issue.. it would never get remedied. That's a Hard pass on any Simmons product for me.
@@jjmar66 NO better anyplace else for customer service these days pal. Get used to that, its become the new "norm". I'm an old pro. Trust me. Nothing is better most anyplace else. It's even US customer service too and on rare occasion you may get one. Horrible quality out there and more so over the past 5 years.
Keith- U R THE BEST! Great info on the 1250. Your info made me choose that kit. I love it! Ques - How tight do you make the heads? Mine seemed OK out of the box, but maybe I'm not judging them correctly. Does the tightness impact the response of the drum? Also - looks like the Kick pad doesn't use the drum key to tighten. Will chk further, maybe it's a screwdriver. Thanks!
I plan on possible covering this topic tonight when I go LIVE but a loose head will have an effect on your playing and the responsiveness… so too does a tight one
Just recently got this kit for my daughter [she let's me play it too], lol. She's really enjoyed it so far.. gonna try these tips.. haven't really had time to tweak it but it is a great kit. Simmons has come a looong way! Only thing i haven't figured out is when you power down it turns back on and then you repeat the process and it shuts down. Ever had that happen and if so, is there a fix for it?
I purchased the 1250 used . Definitely having issues with the symbols was kinda considered maybe the ride was broke because it has a huge difference in zone of play , and can’t get it set loud enough with the kit , will download app and try that
You have to do it through your phone to use ya Bluetooth headphones. If you have an iPhone you’re up and running in minutes! If not…..🥹 you have to wait until they make the Android app and there is no release date that I’ve been told about.
I appreciate your work Keithron. Had the SD1250 awhile, just started a Drumeo course. Working on maxing all of the sensitivity settings. I have been dubbing around with the Simmons set for some time, but now that I am taking a class, I am realizing how important setup is. I am a lefty, playing righty, absolute beginner. I wonder if you might have any advice? Thanks again for the detailed information about how to adjust settings and so get the most out of the SD1250!
Awesome and great way to learn. Left playing right handed is awesome. I always think about what would be had I learned lefty being a righty. Trust me you’ll appreciate the ambidextrous approach more later. Don’t switch!
Thank you for the video. I'm set up, everything working and sounds good. The heads came out of the box fairly tight. I gave them all a half turn and there was decent resistance. But on all of the drums, if I hit outside of dead on the trigger, it barely notices the stroke. The rims work fine, but hitting outside of center does not produce good hits. Half the volume at most. Do you think the heads need to be tightened more? They're all easy to roll on. Also, I went thru and raised sensitivity and volume. Thank you so much for any advice. ✌
I think you should play around with tightening them also, download the firmware update just to be sure everything is updated. It may not change it but it also won’t hurt it.
Great 👍 video Sir! About to buy this from Guitar Center. I’m sorta a beginner, played when I was a kid. Any ways.. Price seems fair &, your video helped sell it! So thank you 🙏🥁🙂 PS. Any suggestions on a double kick pedal?
Hello, thank you for all the info. Do you have a video showing how I can play to music? I have some nice wired headphones and the kit sounds awesome, but I want to be able to play to music. Is that possible without spending a lot of money? Thanks again…. I subbed for sure.
It’s simple… you have to download the Simmons app on your phone or tablet for iOS or Android. I think this is the correct video. Please note. This video was made before the Android release. th-cam.com/video/Y-_xmvEqXdw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=dR25tweMZCfUd-A-
@@KeithronPowell Thank you! I did watch that video, but maybe I’m setting it up wrong. When I connect with my Bluetooth and start a song, it doesn’t play through my headphone. It is iOS Im using, but nothing comes through my headphones. I even tried plugging my phone into the module. Thank you good sir! 👍
Yep. Thats true but it’s still amazing. Tune in to watch the LIVE Unboxing and Set Up of the Donner DED - 200. You can click to be reminded. th-cam.com/users/livesTM2ob4cwbk?si=EVKWSR2QG3kd7Q9C
Where I live there are no Guitar Centers. Judging by the videos the cymbals all look smaller than the claimed sizes. On these or any brand for that matter. Are they measuring the diameter so that a straight line follows the shape of the cymbal up and down the bell? Instead of a direct straight line? In all the videos the 12”s look like 8” or 10” and the 14” looks like a 12”
Once it's setup using the phone app does it save these settings to the module or do I always need my phone connected moving forward? Also - can you LOCK the module to prevent someone adjusting the settings once you have completely configured it? I play at church and sometimes people mess with the drums when I am not around and I would love to know I can lock them to prevent people changing it once finalized.
No matter what I do I can only get the snare to work 70% of the time. Got any tips for that? Edit: Opened the snare and reglued the cone. It wasn't loose in the first place but after doing it it registers all my hits. Also took the rim trigger and moved it up to the top right position.
Is tuning the mesh heads pretty similar to regular acoustic heads, or not even?? I'm about to purchase one of these in a few days here and like to know more about the small but big things (like the heads). This is gonna be my first electronic kit. Also, does this work with double pedals??
Double pedal - yes. It’s the same and different… here, tightening is about feel and not tuning. Make sure to not over tighten as you don’t want a super rigid surface but make sure it’s evenly tightened. So you do use the same technique from tuning
Hello, the 1250s are on a discount right now for around 850 at guitar center. As a beginner with no real drumming experience except drum clubs and practicing on drum pads, I am thinking of buying this set to get into drumming for the long term, although it seems that it starts having issues after a year or two (let me know if I am mistaken in that). I am thinking of either investing into this set, the roland td07dmk, save a little more to go for the Yamaha DTX6K-X, which has great processors, good quality control but way less drums, or go for the titan 70 that improves on a lot of the issues of the 1250 (However the larger snare pad on the 1250 is still very nice)? I don't really care about included drum sounds since I will probably use drum plugins anyway. I also want to ask if you know any good electric drum set deals at this price range, as I am not completely sure which brands have great value for money and hold up long term, since I'm new to this sphere and the only familiar brand to me is Yamaha
Hi Keithron, thanks to your videos I bought the SD1250 drum kit. I'm loving it. But after a few weeks with it I started having an issue. It’s the snare drum. It’s not sensing strikes correctly. It’s quite unsettling, because sometimes it works, but most of the times not. I was looking online and there are more people with the same issue with the snare drum of the SD1250. I like the kit overall, but I’d need the snare drum to work properly as well. What do you suggest? Try to replace the snare drum? The whole kit? Any fix fot the problem? Thanks!
This is going to sound crazy…. Check the soldering on the piezo. I’ve been told it comes loose. Let me know if that’s what has happened. I wanna pass the correct info to Simmons. If you contact them they’ve been replacing the snare I’ve been told.
@@KeithronPowell thanks for replying! I'll take a look inside it. If it's loose, what should I do? I already sent a contact email on their website yesterday, but they didn't reply yet. I'll let you know. Thanks!
@@carloseugeniotorres let them know if that’s the problem. I’ve gotten other comments that this has been the issue. There’s two of them in there so that’s a problem in manufacturing m. Someone is rushing and QC isn’t catching it
Hey Keith just set up my sd1250 .. when it comes to the hi hat and also the mapping my hi hat seems all over the place so I am going to try the sensitivity setting you mentioned. I have Android not Iphone. so doing the change from the module when I make the changles to the pads say on one kit and then I want to use a different kit do I have to make the mapping changes for each kit? Or will the sets afterwards recognize that there was a change? Or woould it just be better for me to use the user kits and create my own how I want them? Hope that makes sense.
Had to call Simmons support today. As after setting up my brand new SD1250 I was having the triggering issues with the cymbals and hi hats. I went on to there support site to downoads. They only had the .bin file for the sd1200 not sd1250. The support guy said they took the file down as there was a problem with it. People were doing the update and it turned some of the peoples modules into bricks. He said it will be a couple weeks hopefully they would have the update file back up again. Hope it's not to long. I don't want to have to send the set back
Hi K.P., I saw your video on the new Simmons Titan 50. Perhaps you recall, it was the Titan vs. The Alesis where you gave points to each set based on features within the drum set. You came to the conclusion the Titan was the better value [both sets around $500.] I remarked how I was sold on the Titan, however, with Christmas luring and sales going on I started to eye up the Simmons sd1250. I realize you can't compare apples to oranges from a price point perspective. The Titan coming in at $500.00 dollars and the Sd1250 at $929.00 nearly double. My question to you sir is; since you have had the opportunity to demo both sets exclusively, is the Sd1250 worth 2X the money?? Also would you consider either set sturdy enough and worthy of plaing small venues?? Thank You, Sincerely Dave Pugliese
If I’m doing gigs the 1250 is a no brainer. It still sounds great and it’s more acoustic drum feeling due to the size. If you watch my latest video on the Titan 50 I show some really awesome things about it but… in my studio connected to my system for making records… is the 1250.
I purchased the SD1200 a year and a half ago, its fine I guess, one thing though: all the samples I imported to the sound module were just gone a couple of weeks ago. IDK if the memory is faulty or what? I had those sample imported a right after I bought the kit, I'll try again and see what happens.
just got this set. Had it two days and love it but when using the simmons app via bluetooth changing sounds in cymbals does not work in the app. When I try after awhile the sounds get all jumbled up. I have to turn the blue tooth off and go back to playing the kits just with the module on. Also the module will not turn off. The screen goes blank but the fader light stays on and the screen is blank but still lit up. I have to unplug it to get it to go off. I am doing something wrong?
Any idea how to adjust the tension of the electronic hi hat controller? I just got the set, and the pedal feels way to springy. Opening/fully closing quickly is challenging. Alot of the time there's so much resistance, I get stuck part way open sounding
Wow! Now that’s a new one. First make sure the cable is plugged in all the way. If you’ve got the app check on the sensitivity settings. If not check the module sensitivity. If that doesn’t work download the firmware update. Now, if those don’t work… contact customer care you’ll likely need a replacement module
Ok so some gigs are a pain in the ass because of volume I double bass and have found most bass drum pads don't always trigger so can I gig with this thing for a smaller venue and use live cymbals ?
Hi. Thanks. Q: Do we have full access directly on the module or only the app? Because I got bad experience in the past with Roland stop updating app so it doesn't work anymore with Windows 10
Can you adjust the sensitivity on each individual pad/cymbal? Or just the entiter kit all at once? Also, not sure if you've seen the hi-hat issue 65 Drums had (it doesn't register alternating between bow and edge), but does the tweaking you mentiomed fix this? I'm looking for an e-kit to buy, and so far the 1250 is the front runner, but that hi-hat issue seems pretty big.
Yes you can…. Yes I did… made 2 videos on it… one showing how he wrong and how to fix it in the module… the other mentioning the patch that Simmons released like a week after both of our videos. They sent me the patch to test before releasing it to the public. Surprised he never did a follow up video on the fix.
Im a beginner drummer started playing about year ago i have simmons sd350.Is the simmons sd600 or 1200 or 1250 good for music production or should I get an and small acoustic kit.
You’ve given me a dilemma! 😂 as a drummer I always lean acoustic. In my other videos you can see my 7 piece Pearl. BUT!!!!!! The main issue is buying a drum and everything it takes to record it properly. I use my SD600 or SD1250 for my recordings because it cuts down on noise and the process of easier to control for mixing. The e-drum will give you control
@@emwilliams97 same with me. I can but… I choose to not bother my neighbors. Of the three I’d suggest the SD1200 or 1250 only because they feel the most like an acoustic. I’d go SD1250 over the other since it has the extra tom and cymbal.
I am thinking of moving from alesis Nitro Mesh to the Simmons SD1200 since it is on clearance it my GC for 400 bucks. Is it worth the move in your opinion?
You can adjust the volume as well in the module. It’s low… I can’t walk you through it now but it’s definitely down…. If you download the app it will be really easy to do. It’s in the module though
Honestly, I don’t think they’ll ever do one for Android. I used to have an app and I hated trying to make it work on all 10000000 versions of android. With apple it just works on all phones with no issues.
Just set up my sd1250 and did the firmware update - curious - is there a way to verify the version in the module? I want to make sure the update took... Thank you sir!
@@KeithronPowell thanks for the reply - i actually discovered - after leaving the comment - that it shows the current firmware version when you connect the module to a computer and load up the firmware updater program. on the bottom right of the blue screen that appears, it shows the current version 👍
I hope so! I really think that they need to but I also understand why they might be holding off. I used to make apps and I hated making them for android because you just never knew if it would work or work properly. Way too much fragmentation and inability to upgrade… just a lot of work
Just set mine up today and the zone detection on the cymbals is horrible for me. It's almost impossible to get an edge trigger. Everywhere I hit registers a bow it seems. This is after the latest firmware update and reset as well.
@@KeithronPowell They're all mapped correctly. The crosstalk settings are only per pad with no adjustments for zones within a pad from what I can tell. When I monitor the midi notes, it's just sending the wrong trigger signals. There's a fine location between the edge and bow that'll trigger an edge, but when striking the edge itself it's always a bow. I reached to Simmons as well and am waiting to hear back.
I like Simmons too because I noticed they're screens are far superior to Roland and Alesus is catching up I like them too but not Rolland too expensive too ugly too and too small what' are we smurfs we aren't Japanese homies big Americans big sticks wink wink it took 5 Trips to analyze the 3 drum makers but after I turned out lamo sales people who hate there lives failed musicians I chose the bad ass Simmons 1250 799 on sale with faith no bring back on clearance items but couldn't be happier first thing I noticed out the box the far superior Simmons cage frame super sturdy compared to the flemsy one my sons 369.00 Alesus kit has damn I had to spend two hours tightening it to make it almost like myns so 5 stars on no work Simmons frames or cage then the beautiful blue pads and super duty kick pad with heavy frame it never moves even on Mexican tile I put the Spears down its even better then the super duty hi hat pedal also very warriors style heavy spring I keep all my Simmons covered in plastic when not playing it's easy to turn those white heads black how do we clean them that's what I want to know ????
Thanks for the video. The Simmons SD1250 series has been very informative. You convinced me to buy a set. Just picked up from GC $999. Now I get to put together. Also thanks for the firmware tip and mentioning the app. Im very excited. Thank you.
Awesome
Veteran (acoustic kit) drummer here. Been on the fence for a long while on an E-kit for myself. I think now I'm sold, thanks much!! I also liked your tips and info. all very helpful stuff. Keep on, keeping on! I've subscribed.
Thanks for the sub. Hope you continue to watch my vids. I think you’ll fall in love with it.
Hi Keithron...well, took the plunge today...still in box though...don't want to dive into it until I have the time to really do all the things I need to do to get it set up right and tweaked to my liking...thanks for taking the time to do these videos, I sure appreciate it! Hope you and yours are well.
👍🏽
Awesome review and info for Simmons SD eDrums users there Keithron. Your videos are entertaining, LOVE your style and stage presence, but you give great info, and info not found elsewhere. Your tag line says it best ... "Right here, right now!" Keep up the good work and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Thanks and happ thanksgiving to you too
Just ordered one today; can’t wait to get my hands on it. Your videos definitely helped make the choice. The demo models at the local guitar center are poorly maintained, but at least they have something there to look at.
I despise how the stores treat the simmons products. Imma post some pics I took at my local store. It’s a shame.
Now that I’ve been playing the set for a while, I’ve noticed that the volume changes on its own. It happens randomly, and usually in the middle of a song. Have you heard of this at all?
Thanks again for a great and informative video. I am working with an expanded 1200 kit but it all functions the same, one thing I would love to mention. When you were going over the app which really does make tweaking a whole simpler, another great feature is the ability to adjust the volume on each trigger, no matter if it is s cymbal either zone or a drum head or rim. Someone may be playing and just wondering why they can not really hear the bass drum or the snare is just popping to loud, you can adjust each one so the volume is at your liking. I was really happy when I stumbled on this one.
True!!! I was gonna bring that up in another video.
Really enjoyed your presentation here as well as your other videos. Love your style. Short, straight to the point. Bravo!
Thanks…. It’s sad cause I wanna do longer content. 😂
@@KeithronPowell If longer content is your goal may I suggest you do Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 etc? Continue to keep them short & to the point but more of them. Or is there another reason (e.g. lack of personal time?) that's holding you back?
@@ScrewballMcAdams it’s definitely time. I have a day job… so my time is limited to typically once a week… some times two days a week to film and edit.
@@KeithronPowell You're doing great, KP. Keep up the good work. Increasing your content might cause you to burn out, so keep doing what you're doing at the pace you're doing it. In the long run it might be better for you personally.
Damn that day job! Steve
Exactly!! Great way to educate. I've subscribed to him now.
Keithron, firstly, thank you for all your videos on the SD1250. I was on the fence between this kit and the Roland TD-17KV2. However, I wanted the 2nd crash and 2nd floor tom that the Simmons kit provides, and I got it on sale @ MusiciansFriend for $899.00. I'm 62yrs old and was recently asked to fill a vacancy in an established band. I haven't played much in the last 40 years as my old kit was a Slingerland 22" double bass kit with 10" & 12" power toms and I currently live in an apartment. So, I got this electronic kit to sharpen the old chops. I appreciate your video validating the sounds and how to EQ and tweek the sounds. My favorite kit is the 019 Acrylic. What I wanted to point out though is in this video, I believe you may have mis-spoke. At 6:13 you state that adjusting the sensitivity effects the entire drum set. In the video you have the current trigger set to Tom 1. Sensitivity adjustments are not a global setting. When you're in the Utility app and [Follow Trigger] is set to [=on] which ever drum or cymbal you hit will make that the [Current Trigger] and any adjustments you make will affect only that specific drum or cymbal.
Thanks for the reply. Did you catch the live video? You should watch it
Hey man thanks for making these videos like you said these videos are hard work!! Also I just ordered my 1250 today and I got it on Black Friday sale for 800 bucks so I'm pretty pumped! Thanks for the tips
Congrats
Great video . I do believe Simmons is the one I want . Great info
You’re welcome
Hello Kiethron. I really enjoy your videos. The one that you made on the Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit waZ instrumental in my purchasing it. You definitely earned a Like and a Subscriber 🙂☕🥁🥁🥁
Thanks and you’re welcome! Can’t wait to see your videos
Maybe you can help me here… On my toms I have to hit like DIRECTLY on the center to have it loud and bassy. Is there a way to increase the hit zone so I don’t have to hit the exact center of the pad for the proper sound?
Download app (for simplicity over the module) and edit from there.
The App on the 1250 is what really sells it!
I wish my Alesis had an app. If Simmons is smart, they will invest in that aspect going forward. As it makes changing and adjusting sounds so much easier.
I’ve spoken with them and they’re working on the app for Android.
I really wish they were since I am a dedicated android user. Almost purchased one of these cause I saw you mention a couple times they were making an android app. I figured I better check because that is the main selling point of this kit. It took 2 emails (never answered either of them) and numerous phone calls with HOURS of hold time. To finally get an incredibly rude CS rep that just flat out said no android app in development nor any plans to. Which kinda stinks but the worst part was the AWFUL customer service. I spent wayyy too much time trying to get that answer I couldn't imagine if I had one of these kits and it had an issue.. it would never get remedied. That's a Hard pass on any Simmons product for me.
@@jjmar66 NO better anyplace else for customer service these days pal. Get used to that, its become the new "norm". I'm an old pro. Trust me. Nothing is better most anyplace else. It's even US customer service too and on rare occasion you may get one. Horrible quality out there and more so over the past 5 years.
Keith- U R THE BEST! Great info on the 1250. Your info made me choose that kit. I love it!
Ques - How tight do you make the heads? Mine seemed OK out of the box, but maybe I'm not judging them correctly. Does the tightness impact the response of the drum? Also - looks like the Kick pad doesn't use the drum key to tighten. Will chk further, maybe it's a screwdriver.
Thanks!
I plan on possible covering this topic tonight when I go LIVE but a loose head will have an effect on your playing and the responsiveness… so too does a tight one
Just recently got this kit for my daughter [she let's me play it too], lol. She's really enjoyed it so far.. gonna try these tips.. haven't really had time to tweak it but it is a great kit. Simmons has come a looong way! Only thing i haven't figured out is when you power down it turns back on and then you repeat the process and it shuts down. Ever had that happen and if so, is there a fix for it?
Thanks! Will join in
Check out the replay!
Keep your beats tight , and keep your screws even tighter!!!! 🥁
True
I purchased the 1250 used . Definitely having issues with the symbols was kinda considered maybe the ride was broke because it has a huge difference in zone of play , and can’t get it set loud enough with the kit , will download app and try that
The app will allow you to change the volume but also, download the firmware update.
Awesome review!! Just unboxed my 1250. Can I set output to my Bluetooth earbuds? Thank you in advance and I appreciate you!
You have to do it through your phone to use ya Bluetooth headphones. If you have an iPhone you’re up and running in minutes! If not…..🥹 you have to wait until they make the Android app and there is no release date that I’ve been told about.
I appreciate your work Keithron. Had the SD1250 awhile, just started a Drumeo course. Working on maxing all of the sensitivity settings. I have been dubbing around with the Simmons set for some time, but now that I am taking a class, I am realizing how important setup is. I am a lefty, playing righty, absolute beginner. I wonder if you might have any advice? Thanks again for the detailed information about how to adjust settings and so get the most out of the SD1250!
Awesome and great way to learn. Left playing right handed is awesome. I always think about what would be had I learned lefty being a righty. Trust me you’ll appreciate the ambidextrous approach more later. Don’t switch!
@@KeithronPowell thanks for your advice man. I set everything but the kick and hi hat pedal itself to trigger of 32 & it is great!
Thank you for the video. I'm set up, everything working and sounds good. The heads came out of the box fairly tight. I gave them all a half turn and there was decent resistance. But on all of the drums, if I hit outside of dead on the trigger, it barely notices the stroke. The rims work fine, but hitting outside of center does not produce good hits. Half the volume at most. Do you think the heads need to be tightened more? They're all easy to roll on. Also, I went thru and raised sensitivity and volume. Thank you so much for any advice. ✌
I think you should play around with tightening them also, download the firmware update just to be sure everything is updated. It may not change it but it also won’t hurt it.
Great 👍 video Sir! About to buy this from Guitar Center. I’m sorta a beginner, played when I was a kid. Any ways.. Price seems fair &, your video helped sell it! So thank you 🙏🥁🙂 PS. Any suggestions on a double kick pedal?
Rock on!
Hello, thank you for all the info. Do you have a video showing how I can play to music? I have some nice wired headphones and the kit sounds awesome, but I want to be able to play to music. Is that possible without spending a lot of money? Thanks again…. I subbed for sure.
It’s simple… you have to download the Simmons app on your phone or tablet for iOS or Android. I think this is the correct video. Please note. This video was made before the Android release. th-cam.com/video/Y-_xmvEqXdw/w-d-xo.htmlsi=dR25tweMZCfUd-A-
@@KeithronPowell Thank you! I did watch that video, but maybe I’m setting it up wrong. When I connect with my Bluetooth and start a song, it doesn’t play through my headphone. It is iOS Im using, but nothing comes through my headphones. I even tried plugging my phone into the module. Thank you good sir! 👍
@@ericcarter2714 are you using EarPods or wired?
Wired! Directly into the head unit
The only thing that’s wrong is the triggers on the snare. You either get rim or snare but not both. No Rimshot detection in 1250… and that hurts
Yep. Thats true but it’s still amazing. Tune in to watch the LIVE Unboxing and Set Up of the Donner DED - 200. You can click to be reminded. th-cam.com/users/livesTM2ob4cwbk?si=EVKWSR2QG3kd7Q9C
Where I live there are no Guitar Centers. Judging by the videos the cymbals all look smaller than the claimed sizes. On these or any brand for that matter. Are they measuring the diameter so that a straight line follows the shape of the cymbal up and down the bell? Instead of a direct straight line? In all the videos the 12”s look like 8” or 10” and the 14” looks like a 12”
12 inches across.
Thanks Keithron!
Once it's setup using the phone app does it save these settings to the module or do I always need my phone connected moving forward? Also - can you LOCK the module to prevent someone adjusting the settings once you have completely configured it? I play at church and sometimes people mess with the drums when I am not around and I would love to know I can lock them to prevent people changing it once finalized.
You can’t lock but if it’s off it’ll remain… this may sound petty but I’d just take the module home and bring it back. Problem solved.
No matter what I do I can only get the snare to work 70% of the time. Got any tips for that?
Edit: Opened the snare and reglued the cone. It wasn't loose in the first place but after doing it it registers all my hits. Also took the rim trigger and moved it up to the top right position.
👍🏽
Is tuning the mesh heads pretty similar to regular acoustic heads, or not even?? I'm about to purchase one of these in a few days here and like to know more about the small but big things (like the heads). This is gonna be my first electronic kit. Also, does this work with double pedals??
Double pedal - yes. It’s the same and different… here, tightening is about feel and not tuning. Make sure to not over tighten as you don’t want a super rigid surface but make sure it’s evenly tightened. So you do use the same technique from tuning
Hello, the 1250s are on a discount right now for around 850 at guitar center. As a beginner with no real drumming experience except drum clubs and practicing on drum pads, I am thinking of buying this set to get into drumming for the long term, although it seems that it starts having issues after a year or two (let me know if I am mistaken in that). I am thinking of either investing into this set, the roland td07dmk, save a little more to go for the Yamaha DTX6K-X, which has great processors, good quality control but way less drums, or go for the titan 70 that improves on a lot of the issues of the 1250 (However the larger snare pad on the 1250 is still very nice)? I don't really care about included drum sounds since I will probably use drum plugins anyway. I also want to ask if you know any good electric drum set deals at this price range, as I am not completely sure which brands have great value for money and hold up long term, since I'm new to this sphere and the only familiar brand to me is Yamaha
😳 if you can… BUY IT! Thats a deal
Hi Keithron, thanks to your videos I bought the SD1250 drum kit. I'm loving it. But after a few weeks with it I started having an issue. It’s the snare drum. It’s not sensing strikes correctly. It’s quite unsettling, because sometimes it works, but most of the times not. I was looking online and there are more people with the same issue with the snare drum of the SD1250. I like the kit overall, but I’d need the snare drum to work properly as well. What do you suggest? Try to replace the snare drum? The whole kit? Any fix fot the problem? Thanks!
This is going to sound crazy…. Check the soldering on the piezo. I’ve been told it comes loose. Let me know if that’s what has happened. I wanna pass the correct info to Simmons. If you contact them they’ve been replacing the snare I’ve been told.
@@KeithronPowell thanks for replying! I'll take a look inside it. If it's loose, what should I do? I already sent a contact email on their website yesterday, but they didn't reply yet. I'll let you know. Thanks!
@@carloseugeniotorres let them know if that’s the problem. I’ve gotten other comments that this has been the issue. There’s two of them in there so that’s a problem in manufacturing m. Someone is rushing and QC isn’t catching it
Hey Keith just set up my sd1250 .. when it comes to the hi hat and also the mapping my hi hat seems all over the place so I am going to try the sensitivity setting you mentioned. I have Android not Iphone. so doing the change from the module when I make the changles to the pads say on one kit and then I want to use a different kit do I have to make the mapping changes for each kit? Or will the sets afterwards recognize that there was a change? Or woould it just be better for me to use the user kits and create my own how I want them? Hope that makes sense.
The first thing you should do is the firmware update… my hi hat wasn’t working properly until I did that. Then I’d move to your other ideas.
@@KeithronPowell thank you sir :-)
Had to call Simmons support today. As after setting up my brand new SD1250 I was having the triggering issues with the cymbals and hi hats. I went on to there support site to downoads. They only had the .bin file for the sd1200 not sd1250. The support guy said they took the file down as there was a problem with it. People were doing the update and it turned some of the peoples modules into bricks. He said it will be a couple weeks hopefully they would have the update file back up again. Hope it's not to long. I don't want to have to send the set back
Hi K.P., I saw your video on the new Simmons Titan 50. Perhaps you recall, it was the Titan vs. The Alesis where you gave points to each set based on features within the drum set. You came to the conclusion the Titan was the better value [both sets around $500.] I remarked how I was sold on the Titan, however, with Christmas luring and sales going on I started to eye up the Simmons sd1250. I realize you can't compare apples to oranges from a price point perspective. The Titan coming in at $500.00 dollars and the Sd1250 at $929.00 nearly double. My question to you sir is; since you have had the opportunity to demo both sets exclusively, is the Sd1250 worth 2X the money?? Also would you consider either set sturdy enough and worthy of plaing small venues?? Thank You, Sincerely
Dave Pugliese
If I’m doing gigs the 1250 is a no brainer. It still sounds great and it’s more acoustic drum feeling due to the size. If you watch my latest video on the Titan 50 I show some really awesome things about it but… in my studio connected to my system for making records… is the 1250.
Thank you again for the useful information and quick response. ✌
How long did you keep your 1250? Are you still using them a year later?
The 1250 is my main set. I have 9 sets. It’s the one in the studio that I use for all recordings.
I purchased the SD1200 a year and a half ago, its fine I guess, one thing though: all the samples I imported to the sound module were just gone a couple of weeks ago. IDK if the memory is faulty or what? I had those sample imported a right after I bought the kit, I'll try again and see what happens.
Wow… I hope you get them all back.
The app is only for Apple, right?
Yes, I believe so. That’s why I showed both ways of doing it.
just got this set. Had it two days and love it but when using the simmons app via bluetooth changing sounds in cymbals does not work in the app. When I try after awhile the sounds get all jumbled up.
I have to turn the blue tooth off and go back to playing the kits just with the module on.
Also the module will not turn off. The screen goes blank but the fader light stays on and the screen is blank but still lit up. I have to unplug it to get it to go off.
I am doing something wrong?
😳 I think you need a new module. That’s a lot. Actually, go to the simmons website and download the firmware… it could fix it. I’d try that first.
Is there a Simmons app for Samsung or Google play
Nothing for android at this time. I did an entire video on the topic. From what I’ve been told it’s coming
My Simmons sd xpress has no sound only from headphones. Does it even have built in speakers ? Wasn't passing up one for 20.00 goodwill
None of them have built in speakers. You have to use headphones or an amplified speaker set up.
Thanks again i had no idea
Any idea how to adjust the tension of the electronic hi hat controller? I just got the set, and the pedal feels way to springy. Opening/fully closing quickly is challenging. Alot of the time there's so much resistance, I get stuck part way open sounding
I will have to look at mine and see what I can diwcover
How can I fix unwanted chokes on the ride cymbal? It's choking itself while playing and that's a big mass 🤨
Wow! Now that’s a new one. First make sure the cable is plugged in all the way. If you’ve got the app check on the sensitivity settings. If not check the module sensitivity. If that doesn’t work download the firmware update.
Now, if those don’t work… contact customer care you’ll likely need a replacement module
Ok so some gigs are a pain in the ass because of volume I double bass and have found most bass drum pads don't always trigger so can I gig with this thing for a smaller venue and use live cymbals ?
Absolutely… and use your double bass… check out the simmons amplified monitors. The new ones give you crazy options
Hi. Thanks. Q: Do we have full access directly on the module or only the app? Because I got bad experience in the past with Roland stop updating app so it doesn't work anymore with Windows 10
Full access… on both
Started haveing issues with my snare missing 🙄
I comments on your other post on how to fix it
Can you adjust the sensitivity on each individual pad/cymbal? Or just the entiter kit all at once? Also, not sure if you've seen the hi-hat issue 65 Drums had (it doesn't register alternating between bow and edge), but does the tweaking you mentiomed fix this?
I'm looking for an e-kit to buy, and so far the 1250 is the front runner, but that hi-hat issue seems pretty big.
Yes you can…. Yes I did… made 2 videos on it… one showing how he wrong and how to fix it in the module… the other mentioning the patch that Simmons released like a week after both of our videos. They sent me the patch to test before releasing it to the public. Surprised he never did a follow up video on the fix.
Also, I’m filing an unboxing if the Alesis Crimson II today. That is the direct competition to the SD1250… check out my other videos on the two.
My snare head from thr simmons is getting quieter and quieter, the rimshots work but not the actual head, any ideas?
Have you checked the sensitivity settings or the volume settings in the module?
Im a beginner drummer started playing about year ago i have simmons sd350.Is the simmons sd600 or 1200 or 1250 good for music production or should I get an and small acoustic kit.
You’ve given me a dilemma! 😂 as a drummer I always lean acoustic. In my other videos you can see my 7 piece Pearl. BUT!!!!!! The main issue is buying a drum and everything it takes to record it properly. I use my SD600 or SD1250 for my recordings because it cuts down on noise and the process of easier to control for mixing.
The e-drum will give you control
@@KeithronPowell Okay thank you. Because I cannot have acoustic drums in our subdividsion
@@emwilliams97 same with me. I can but… I choose to not bother my neighbors. Of the three I’d suggest the SD1200 or 1250 only because they feel the most like an acoustic. I’d go SD1250 over the other since it has the extra tom and cymbal.
Okay thank you would I be good with 5 peices
@@emwilliams97 of course
I am thinking of moving from alesis Nitro Mesh to the Simmons SD1200 since it is on clearance it my GC for 400 bucks. Is it worth the move in your opinion?
At $400 yes!!!!!!!
My snares isn’t reading right anymore got it in nov I don’t play to too often but wtf 🙄 I tryed everything
You may need to do the firmware update. Go to simmons.net and look for the update.
Noticed my Tom 4 just doesn’t seem as loud as my others no matter how hard to hit. Adjusted sensitivity but didn’t notice any difference. Any advice?
You can adjust the volume as well in the module. It’s low… I can’t walk you through it now but it’s definitely down…. If you download the app it will be really easy to do.
It’s in the module though
I'm trying to record drum midi files off of my Cubase 12 proDAW to my sd1250 with no luck and no you tube videos to explain how to. Any help please
I wanted to respond sooner. I don’t have experience with that though.
Is there a ink to the video that can show how to do this using the module? Man I wish they had an android version of the app 🙁
You don’t even have to now… they released the patch.
simmonsdrums.net/downloads/
Honestly, I don’t think they’ll ever do one for Android. I used to have an app and I hated trying to make it work on all 10000000 versions of android. With apple it just works on all phones with no issues.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate it! Thank you for these videos, they're so helpful.
@@Jaymzdrmz you’re welcome
Just set up my sd1250 and did the firmware update - curious - is there a way to verify the version in the module? I want to make sure the update took...
Thank you sir!
I’d contact customer support … but if you did the update it too
@@KeithronPowell thanks for the reply - i actually discovered - after leaving the comment - that it shows the current firmware version when you connect the module to a computer and load up the firmware updater program. on the bottom right of the blue screen that appears, it shows the current version 👍
So if I don't have an I phone I'm shit out of luck ?
You can do everything in the module… they just haven’t made an app for android
Will Simmons ap ever go to android?
I hope so! I really think that they need to but I also understand why they might be holding off. I used to make apps and I hated making them for android because you just never knew if it would work or work properly. Way too much fragmentation and inability to upgrade… just a lot of work
Just set mine up today and the zone detection on the cymbals is horrible for me. It's almost impossible to get an edge trigger. Everywhere I hit registers a bow it seems. This is after the latest firmware update and reset as well.
th-cam.com/video/Z3hvjA5gE4s/w-d-xo.html
You need to verify that the sounds are mapped right in the module. Also, the crosstalk seems to causing issues check the level in that as well.
@@KeithronPowell They're all mapped correctly. The crosstalk settings are only per pad with no adjustments for zones within a pad from what I can tell. When I monitor the midi notes, it's just sending the wrong trigger signals. There's a fine location between the edge and bow that'll trigger an edge, but when striking the edge itself it's always a bow. I reached to Simmons as well and am waiting to hear back.
@@sporadic29414 I must say I’ve not see when I saw in your video on any other. That’s unique.
@@KeithronPowell Here's a better example - th-cam.com/video/jIHa8_3PfLA/w-d-xo.html
I like Simmons too because I noticed they're screens are far superior to Roland and Alesus is catching up I like them too but not Rolland too expensive too ugly too and too small what' are we smurfs we aren't Japanese homies big Americans big sticks wink wink it took 5 Trips to analyze the 3 drum makers but after I turned out lamo sales people who hate there lives failed musicians I chose the bad ass Simmons 1250 799 on sale with faith no bring back on clearance items but couldn't be happier first thing I noticed out the box the far superior Simmons cage frame super sturdy compared to the flemsy one my sons 369.00 Alesus kit has damn I had to spend two hours tightening it to make it almost like myns so 5 stars on no work Simmons frames or cage then the beautiful blue pads and super duty kick pad with heavy frame it never moves even on Mexican tile I put the Spears down its even better then the super duty hi hat pedal also very warriors style heavy spring I keep all my Simmons covered in plastic when not playing it's easy to turn those white heads black how do we clean them that's what I want to know ????
Funny, I never thought about cleaning them. Gonna have to put some thought into it.
You really don't have to worry about that ! The mesh is easy to clean (even stains can be wiped away with a moist cloth).