The DW 5000 series kick pedal is an undisputed icon in the drumming world, a benchmark for performance and a workhorse piece of hardware trusted by countless professionals on stages and in studios across the globe.
Its legendary status is built on a foundation of rock-solid durability and a remarkably smooth feel that has defined the industry standard for decades.
However, when choosing a 5000, drummers face a critical decision that fundamentally shapes the instrument’s feel and response: selecting between the Accelerator and the Turbo drive systems.
This choice is not merely a matter of preference but a defining factor in a drummer’s connection to their bass drum, as the primary difference lies in the pedal’s cam design—the mechanical heart that translates footwork into sound.
The Accelerator’s offset cam offers a “whipping” motion that increases beater velocity for power and speed, while the Turbo’s concentric cam provides a direct, 1:1 response for unparalleled nuance and control.
This article will serve as the definitive guide to navigating this crucial choice, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the technology, feel, and ideal applications for each model.
We will begin by demystifying the core mechanical difference—the pedal cam system—to establish a firm understanding of how each drive functions.
From there, we will take a deep dive into the specific characteristics of both the DW 5000 Accelerator and the DW 5000 Turbo, exploring their unique playing feels, the musical styles they are best suited for, and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
To further clarify the comparison, we will present detailed tables and lists that distill this information into an easily digestible format.
Finally, we will examine the world-class features shared across the 5000 series and conclude with a clear set of recommendations, empowering you to select the pedal that will not just complement, but elevate your drumming.
Understanding the Core Difference: The Cam System
A bass drum pedal’s cam is the crucial mechanical heart that translates the motion of your foot into the swing of the beater, directly shaping the pedal’s overall feel and power curve.
This component, which connects the chain or strap to the beater assembly, functions much like the gearing on a bicycle; just as different gears make pedaling feel easier or allow for greater speed, the shape of the pedal’s cam dictates the relationship between the footboard’s movement and the beater’s velocity.
The geometry of the cam determines the amount of leverage you have throughout the stroke.
A change in the cam’s shape from the start of the stroke to the end will create a non-linear response, altering the speed and power of the beater.
Conversely, a perfectly symmetrical cam will provide a consistent, direct response.
This single component is the most significant factor distinguishing the Accelerator and Turbo models, and understanding its function is the key to choosing the right pedal for your technique and musical application.
The Accelerator (Offset Cam)
The DW 5000 Accelerator drive system is defined by its distinctive offset cam, a design engineered to maximize beater speed and power.
An offset, or eccentric, cam is not perfectly round; its shape creates an indirect and dynamic relationship between the sprocket and the footboard.
As you begin to press the pedal down, the chain engages with a larger-radius section of the cam, which provides greater leverage and makes the initial part of the stroke feel lighter and easier to initiate.
As your foot continues through the motion, the chain rolls onto a progressively smaller radius section of the cam.
This change in geometry effectively shortens the stroke length relative to the beater’s travel, causing the beater to rapidly accelerate as it approaches the drumhead.
This engineering creates a powerful “slingshot” or “whip-like” effect, delivering a potent and punchy impact with less physical leg effort from the player.
This design is the source of the “Accelerator” name, as it is built to generate maximum velocity and volume, making it a favorite among drummers who need to cut through a dense mix.
The Turbo (Concentric Cam)
In direct contrast to the Accelerator, the DW 5000 Turbo drive system utilizes a concentric cam, which is perfectly round.
This simple, elegant design is engineered for consistency, precision, and a direct transfer of energy.
Because the cam is a perfect circle, the distance from the center axle to the point where the chain makes contact remains constant throughout the entire pedal stroke.
This creates a direct, 1:1 relationship between the movement of the footboard and the movement of the beater.
The feel is entirely linear and predictable—the resistance and response you feel at the beginning of the stroke are identical to what you feel at the end.
There is no “slingshot” effect or engineered change in velocity; the pedal’s output is a direct reflection of the player’s input.
This design is favored by drummers who demand absolute control over their dynamics and articulation, as it allows for subtle nuances, from feather-light taps to full-force strokes, to be executed with unwavering consistency.
The “Turbo” name, in this context, refers not to speed in the sense of acceleration, but to the smooth, efficient, and uncolored performance of a finely tuned machine.
DW 5000 Accelerator: The Need for Speed and Power
The defining characteristic of the DW 5000 Accelerator is its unique and powerful feel, which is immediately noticeable to any player.
The offset cam creates a distinct sensation of the beater gaining momentum throughout the stroke, culminating in a forceful impact that feels almost effortless.
This “whipping” motion can be incredibly satisfying, as it provides a tangible boost of power, allowing for loud, punchy bass drum notes without requiring excessive leg strain.
For drummers playing in high-volume situations, this can be a significant advantage, reducing fatigue over long gigs or practice sessions.
However, this non-linear response also means there is a slight disconnect between the foot’s motion and the beater’s impact.
While many players adapt to and even leverage this feel, those who prioritize a direct, literal translation of their foot’s dynamics may find it less intuitive for more nuanced applications.
This pedal truly shines in musical genres where power, volume, and driving energy are paramount.
For rock drummers, the Accelerator provides the punch and authority needed to anchor a powerful backbeat that can be felt as much as it is heard.
In the world of metal and punk, where rapid-fire single strokes and blistering speed are often required, the cam’s design helps generate the necessary beater velocity to make every note articulate and powerful, cutting through walls of distorted guitars and cymbals.
Any style that demands a strong, assertive bass drum presence will benefit from the Accelerator’s design.
It is the quintessential tool for the heavy-hitting drummer who wants to make a statement with every kick.
Accelerator: Pros and Cons
- Pro: Effortless Power and Volume:
- The offset cam multiplies the force from your foot, allowing for thunderous bass drum tones with significantly less physical exertion.
- Pro: Enhanced Speed:
- The design assists in achieving higher beater velocity, making it easier to execute fast single-stroke patterns with clarity and impact.
- Pro: Responsive for Heavy Hitters:
- The pedal feels lively and powerful underfoot, providing immediate and satisfying feedback for aggressive playing styles.
- Con: Less Nuanced Dynamic Control:
- The engineered acceleration can make it more challenging to play very quiet ghost notes or execute subtle dynamic swells with precision.
- Con: Non-Linear Feel:
- The indirect relationship between the footboard and beater can feel “jerky” or less connected for players accustomed to a direct-drive or concentric-cam pedal.
- Con: Steeper Learning Curve for Finesse:
- Drummers who play a wide variety of styles may need more time to adapt to the pedal’s unique response when playing softer passages.
| Musical Scenario | Why the Accelerator Excels |
|---|---|
| Live Rock/Metal Concert | Cuts through high stage volume with authority and reduces player fatigue over a long set. |
| Fast, Driving Punk Rock | Provides the raw power and aggressive attack needed to drive the energy of the music. |
| Modern Pop/Funk Gigs | Delivers a consistently punchy, studio-ready kick sound that sits perfectly in a modern, produced mix. |
| Recording Heavy Music | Creates a powerful, sharp transient on the bass drum track that is easy for engineers to capture and mix. |
DW 5000 Turbo: The Choice for Control and Nuance
The experience of playing a DW 5000 Turbo is one of pure, unadulterated connection to the instrument.
Its concentric cam delivers a perfectly linear and predictable response, meaning the motion of the beater directly mirrors the motion of your foot with unwavering fidelity.
The mantra for the Turbo is “what you put in is what you get out.” There are no surprises, no engineered boosts of speed; there is only the smooth, fluid motion of a perfectly balanced machine.
This creates a feeling of absolute control, allowing the drummer to dictate the exact volume and timbre of every single stroke.
This direct feedback loop is invaluable for developing precise foot technique and mastering dynamic expression, making the pedal feel like a true extension of the player’s body.
The Turbo’s characteristics make it the undisputed choice for musical styles that rely on intricate dynamics and articulate footwork.
Jazz drummers, who often use the bass drum as a melodic voice, rely on the Turbo’s consistency for everything from quiet “feathering” to explosive accents.
Funk and fusion players will appreciate the pedal’s clarity for executing complex, syncopated patterns where every note must be perfectly placed and weighted.
For Latin music, where the kick drum often plays a clave-based pattern, the Turbo’s predictable response ensures rhythmic integrity.
Furthermore, it is a phenomenal choice for the studio, as its consistency provides engineers with a reliable and easily managed bass drum sound, take after take.
Any drummer who values subtlety, control, and a direct relationship with their instrument will find a perfect partner in the Turbo.
Turbo: Pros and Cons
- Pro: Exceptional Dynamic Control:
- The linear response allows for a massive range of expression, from the quietest ghost notes to full-volume strokes, with perfect predictability.
- Pro: Smooth and Consistent Feel:
- The 1:1 relationship between the foot and the beater provides a fluid, intuitive playing experience with no surprises.
- Pro: Promotes Precise Technique:
- Because the pedal does not “help” the player, it encourages and rewards the development of clean, controlled foot mechanics.
- Con: Requires More Effort for Power:
- Achieving the same level of volume as the Accelerator demands a greater physical input from the player.
- Con: Can Feel Less “Exciting” for Heavy Hitters:
- Drummers accustomed to the kick-back of an offset cam might find the Turbo’s response to be too tame or lacking in power.
- Con: Less Forgiving of Sloppy Technique:
- The pedal’s directness means that any inconsistencies in the player’s footwork will be accurately translated into the sound.
Techniques Enhanced by the Turbo Drive
- Feathering:
- The art of playing extremely quiet, consistent notes on the bass drum, a staple in jazz.
- The Turbo’s linear response makes this technique feel natural and controlled.
- Heel-Toe and Slide Techniques:
- The smooth, predictable footboard action allows for fluid execution of advanced foot techniques without the interruption of a non-linear cam.
- Dynamic Swells (Crescendos/Decrescendos):
- The 1:1 control makes it easy to execute smooth, gradual increases or decreases in volume.
- Intricate Syncopation:
- For funk, fusion, or progressive music, the Turbo’s clarity ensures that every complex rhythmic pattern is articulated precisely as intended.
Head-to-Head Comparison
To provide a clear, at-a-glance summary of the two pedals, the table below contrasts their key attributes.
This is not a matter of which is “better,” but which is better suited to a specific player’s needs and musical goals.
| Feature | DW 5000 Accelerator | DW 5000 Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Cam Type | Offset (Eccentric) | Round (Concentric) |
| Core Philosophy | Engineered Power & Speed | Uncolored Control & Finesse |
| Feel | Accelerates through the stroke; “Whip-like” | Consistent & Smooth; “Direct Drive” feel |
| Response | Non-Linear | Linear (1:1) |
| Best For | Rock, Metal, Punk, High-Volume Gigs | Jazz, Funk, Fusion, Studio, Dynamic Music |
| Fatigue Factor | Lower; requires less effort for volume | Higher; requires more effort for volume |
| Learning Curve | Adapting to the non-linear feel | Mastering consistent foot technique |
| Famous User Archetype | The hard-hitting rock powerhouse | The nuanced jazz/fusion technician |
Shared Features of the DW 5000 Series
While the drive system is the primary point of divergence, it is crucial to recognize that both the Accelerator and Turbo models are built upon the same legendary 5000 series platform.
This means they share a host of professional-grade features that contribute to their status as an industry standard.
- Tri-Pivot Toe Clamp:
- This patented DW innovation ensures your pedal stays securely connected to any bass drum hoop.
- Using three independent, rotating rubber pads, the clamp can accommodate nearly any hoop diameter and angle without causing damage.
- This design provides a far more secure grip than traditional clamps, eliminating pedal creep even during the most intense playing.
- Dual-Bearing Spring Rocker:
- The smoothness of a pedal is largely dependent on minimizing friction.
- The Dual-Bearing Spring Rocker delivers an exceptionally fluid and responsive action by suspending the spring between two high-quality ball bearings, ensuring that the spring compresses and expands with virtually zero resistance.
- Heavy-Duty All-Metal Construction:
- DW 5000 pedals are famously “built like a tank.” Constructed from heavy-duty aluminum and steel, from the footboard and heel-plate to the hex shafts and linkages, these pedals are designed to withstand the rigors of constant touring and heavy use for decades.
- Two-Way Beater:
- Out of the box, the 5000 series offers sonic versatility with the included 101 Two-Way Beater.
- One side features a medium-density felt for a classic, warm, and punchy attack, while the other side is hard plastic, providing a brighter, sharper, and more clicking attack perfect for genres like metal.
- Legendary Durability and Reliability:
- The combination of these high-quality components and meticulous manufacturing has earned the 5000 series a reputation for being one of the most reliable pieces of drum hardware ever made.
- It is an investment in a tool that will not fail you when it matters most.
Conclusion: How to Choose
The decision between the DW 5000 Accelerator and the DW 5000 Turbo is a personal one, rooted not in a question of which pedal is superior, but which pedal is the right tool for your specific musical voice and technical approach.
The choice hinges entirely on the feel you desire and the demands of the music you play.
The Accelerator is a specialist in power, designed to give you an explosive, high-velocity stroke with less effort.
The Turbo is a master of control, offering a pure, direct connection to the drum that rewards precision and dynamic subtlety.
To make your final decision, ask yourself these key questions: Do you primarily play in high-volume settings like rock or metal, where you need to drive the band with power and speed?
Is your goal to achieve the loudest possible kick sound with the least amount of fatigue? If so, the DW 5000 Accelerator is almost certainly the pedal for you.
Conversely, do you value a vast dynamic range, from the quietest whispers to loud roars?
Is your music built on intricate, nuanced footwork, as in jazz or funk, or do you spend a lot of time in the recording studio where consistency is king? If this describes you, then the DW 5000 Turbo will be your most trusted ally.
Ultimately, the best advice is to try both pedals if you have the opportunity.
Visit a local drum shop and feel the difference for yourself.
However, if that is not an option, you can make a confident choice by honestly assessing your needs and playing style based on the information in this guide.
Whichever path you choose, you are investing in a piece of legendary hardware that has proven its worth under the feet of the world’s greatest drummers.
What’s Your Choice?
Which pedal do you use, and why? Do you prefer the power of the Accelerator or the control of the Turbo? Share your experience and help fellow drummers in the comments below!
Still unsure which model suits you best? Our comprehensive DW 5000 Pedal Review lays out everything you need to know—from cam design to musical applications.
