Ludwig's Speed King - a legendary drum pedal

Starting out playing with the drum-kit when I was just around 10, I had no idea about the brands, names and never gave value or care to the equipment I used. Only after several years did I realize that the first kit I ever played on was a classic Ludwig (have no recall on the model), Zildjian Avedis cymbals (of which I still have) and Ludwig's Speed King drum pedal. Now that the kit is no more, the pedal has been lost, I'd give up my new gear to get those old ones back.

I was using the Ludwig Speed King drum pedal, referred to many as the best drum pedal in world, period! Well, I actually have no recall of how it performed way back then, but I bought one of my own after about ten years. I've gotten a used Speed King but I'd prefer it from the new re-issues. I got the vintage ones but in top condition. Unfortunately, I lost it too during a concert tour somewhere when our gig was canceled due to earthquakes and volcano eruptions! I'm not making this up, it did happen. Anyway, enough of me and more of the Ludwig Speed King.

The new re-issues are priced at US100-120 which is not much for such a good quality and named single pedal. The main features of the Ludwig Speed King that differentiate it from other pedals is its direct drive system wherein a C shaped metal flat rod is used instead of a belt or chain; this eliminates lag when playing thus gaining more "Speed". The springs, unlike in other pedals, are hidden inside the main posts which prevents the springs from tangling with the drummers pants or shoe laces or legs and also giving a more faster response time. The Ludwig Speed King's design is effective and simple but revolutionary. Unfortunately, I can not use the Ludwig Speed King drum pedal for our gigs because it doesn't have a double-pedal version. To achieve double bass using the Speed King, I'd have to have 2 bass drums and 2 sets of single pedals; quite to bulky for most stages and a logistical nightmare to bring along.

Among the greats who used the Ludwig Speed King drum pedal are John Bonham and Ian Paice. When players like that used it, it's a bit hard to argue about its performance.

***A Gizmo Guerilla Music Gear Review