Abstract: An apparatus for simulating the playing surface response characteristics of conventional percussion instruments, including one or more metal base members and one or more corresponding percussion pad members with a magnetized pad for magnetic coupling with a metal base member. Each percussion member has response characteristics corresponding to the playing surface characteristic of a particular conventional percussion instrument and is removably positioned relative to each of the metal base members. Also provided is a device for simulating the playing surface response characteristics of a bass drum.

Abstract: A sound modification system for a musical drum comprising a drumshell, a drumhead with an inner surface and a playing surface, and one or more mounting members adapted to be mounted to the drumhead. Each mounting member includes a first coupling member, which is fixed to the drumhead and projects outwardly from the playing surface, and a second coupling member matable to said first coupling member. Also provided is a sound altering element, which is adapted to removably engage the playing surface of the drumhead and has means cooperable with the matable first and second coupling members to form a detachable connection between the sound altering element and the drumhead. The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a sound altering means in a hoop-like or ring configuration having a plurality of openings formed at regular intervals therein and means inserted through each of the openings to snap-fasten the sound altering means to the playing surface of the drumhead.