What’s the Difference Between Cympad Optimizer and Moderator?

What’s the Difference Between Cympad Optimizer and Moderator?

Cympad has become one of the most popular and reputable brands in drumming. It is well-known for its advanced, cellular foam-based drum accessories, Optimizers and Moderators, which are considered the best cymbal washers available today. Most drummers can easily identify these two accessories. However, if you have just started drumming or they are new to you, you’ve come to the right blog.

In basic terms, Cympad Optimizers and Moderators are both foam cymbal washers that enhance the drum kit’s performance. However, they each work differently to achieve their missions.

Know More About Cympad Optimizer

Not only is the Optimizer considered to be a much better cymbal washer than conventional felt washers, but they are also available in a diverse selection of sizes and types. These modern washers are highly efficient for enhanced cymbal suspension. Because the Optimizer better isolates the cymbal from the stand, it protects the cymbal from damage and improves its tone.

When you want to improve your cymbal sound and feel, Cympad Optimizers are the ultimate solution.

Know More About Cympad Moderator

A Cympad Moderator is made up of a softer foam than that of an Optimizer. Where an Optimizer allows a fuller, more resonant sound from cymbals, a Moderator is designed to reduce cymbal volume and control its overtones by dampening and absorbing the sound. Also, these washers are larger than Optimizers. Moderators are available in a wide range of sizes (from 50 to 100mm) so that you can incrementally dampen your cymbal sound as needed.

Differences Between Cympad Optimizer and Moderator

Now that you understand what these two accessories are intended to do, it is easier to identify the differences between them.

Material Used in the Making

The material used in the making is one of the most essential factors that differentiates both these two accessories. The Cympad Optimizer is made up of a high-density cellular foam. However, a softer and less dense foam is used in the making of the Moderator.

What is the Purpose?

Cympad Optimizer is used in place of traditional cymbal felt to enhance cymbal sound and suspension. However, the Cympad Moderator is used to reduce cymbal volume and control overtone.

Where is the Accessory Placed?

Where an optimizer can be used under the bell of the cymbal or on top of it, a Moderator is only intended to be used under the cymbal bell. 

Sustain Effect

As their names imply, an Optimizer optimizes or enhances resonance and sustain while a Moderator moderates or reduces cymbal sustain.

Reduction in Volume

Using a Cympad optimizer maximizes the cymbal tone. The purpose of a Moderator is to reduce cymbal tone.

Uses of Optimizer and Moderator

With their respective features, Optimizers and Moderators are recommended for different drumming applications. An Optimizer is used for sound improvement and enhanced cymbal suspension, clarity and resonance. It is highly suitable in any situation where you want your cymbals to sound open and vibrant. Moderators, on the other hand, are suggested for situations where you need to “tone down” the cymbals, such as teaching studios, practice rooms, recording studios or even when performing in a smaller venue.

While this article discussed the differences between Cympad Optimizers and Moderators, they do have one thing in common that you should know about: both of them are compatible with virtually all types and brands of hardware and cymbal options. Therefore, both of them are the perfect choice for drummers when they want to customize their drum setup for better performance in any acoustic environment or musical style.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many sizes are Cympad Optimizers are available in?

Cympad optimizers are available in heights of 8mm, 12mm, 15mm, and 18mm.

What determines the size of the Optimizer size you should use?

The size of the Optimizer used should be based on the size and weight of the cymbal as well as the application.

Can I use different Optimizer sizes on the top and bottom of the cymbal?

It is generally recommended to use a 15mm or 18mm Optimizer beneath the cymbal for maximum musical and physical benefit but any size Optimizer can be used below or above or below the cymbal and different sizes can also be used effectively.