The bass drum pedal is arguably the most personal and critical piece of hardware in a drummer’s arsenal, serving as the primary interface between the artist’s intention and the foundational pulse of the music.
In the world of elite drum hardware, Drum Workshop (DW) stands as a titan of innovation and quality, with its 5000 and 9000 series pedals representing two of the most revered options on the market.
The DW 5000 series has earned its legendary status as the industry-standard workhorse, a pedal celebrated for its robust power, unwavering reliability, and direct feel that has driven countless iconic performances.
In the other corner, the DW 9000 series represents the zenith of pedal engineering and performance, offering a supremely smooth, fluid action and a revolutionary level of adjustability that promises a truly bespoke playing experience.
For decades, drummers have debated the merits of each, making the “DW 5000 vs DW 9000” choice a significant rite of passage.
This article provides a definitive, comprehensive comparison between these two titans of the drumming world, designed to equip you with the knowledge necessary to make a confident and informed decision.
We will embark on a deep dive into the core philosophies and engineering that define each series, meticulously dissecting their key features, construction, and intended applications.
The journey will involve a detailed exploration of the DW 5000’s raw power and the distinct personalities of its Accelerator and Turbo drive systems.
Subsequently, we will unravel the sophisticated technology behind the DW 9000’s celebrated smoothness and its groundbreaking infinitely adjustable cam.
By placing them in a direct head-to-head comparison covering everything from subjective feel and response to objective value and build quality, this guide will illuminate the nuanced differences that matter most, helping you determine not which pedal is “better,” but which pedal is unequivocally the right one for you.
The DW 5000 Series: The Industry Standard Workhorse
The DW 5000 series pedal is defined by its legacy as the quintessential professional bass drum pedal, a piece of hardware that has built a formidable reputation on sheer reliability and performance.
For generations of drummers, the 5000 has been the trusted engine for every genre imaginable, from the explosive power of rock to the intricate subtleties of jazz.
Its design philosophy is rooted in providing a direct, powerful, and consistent connection between the drummer’s foot and the bass drum, prioritizing a solid feel and road-worthy durability above all else.
This focus has cemented the 5000’s status not merely as a product, but as an institution—a benchmark against which other professional pedals are often measured.
Its widespread adoption by touring and studio musicians globally is a testament to its ability to perform flawlessly, night after night, under the most demanding conditions.
Key Features of the DW 5000
The enduring success of the DW 5000 pedal stems from a collection of meticulously engineered features that enhance its performance and durability.
Each component is designed with the working drummer in mind, ensuring stability, smoothness, and a powerful stroke.
These core features have been refined over decades, solidifying the pedal’s reputation for quality and creating the characteristic feel that so many drummers have come to rely on.
- Tri-Pivot Toe Clamp:
- This innovative clamp system ensures a secure and non-damaging connection to any bass drum hoop, regardless of its size or thickness.
- Utilizing three independent, rotating rubber pads, the clamp grips the hoop from multiple points, preventing any lateral slipping or movement during aggressive playing.
- This design is not only effective but also protects the finish of the bass drum hoop, a crucial detail for drummers who cherish their instruments.
- Dual-Bearing Spring Rocker:
- The smoothness of the 5000’s action is significantly enhanced by the Dual-Bearing Spring Rocker.
- This feature delivers a quick, responsive feel by minimizing friction in the spring assembly, allowing the pedal to cycle more efficiently.
- The result is a fluid stroke and return that feels both fast and powerful, reducing player fatigue and enabling more precise control over dynamics.
- Choice of Drive Systems:
- Perhaps the most defining characteristic of the 5000 series is the choice between two distinct drive systems, or cams.
- This allows drummers to select a pedal that is pre-configured to their preferred playing style right out of the box.
- Accelerator (AD4) Drive System:
- The Accelerator model features an offset cam shape.
- This design creates an indirect relationship between the footboard and the beater, causing the beater’s velocity to increase—or accelerate—during the final portion of its forward stroke.
- This translates to a noticeable increase in punch and volume, making it a favorite among rock, metal, and pop drummers who need to cut through a dense mix.
- Turbo (TD4) Drive System:
- The Turbo model, in contrast, utilizes a concentric, single-radius cam.
- This creates a direct, one-to-one relationship between the footboard and beater movement.
- The feel is exceptionally consistent and smooth throughout the entire stroke, offering a pure and direct translation of the player’s foot motion.
- This makes the Turbo an excellent choice for jazz, funk, and studio players who prioritize nuance, control, and a consistent dynamic response.
- Accelerator (AD4) Drive System:
- Solid Construction and Build Quality:
- The DW 5000 is built like a tank.
- Its heavy-duty, all-metal construction, including a solid steel baseplate, ensures that the pedal remains stable and does not fold or flex under pressure.
- Every component, from the hinge to the chain and sprocket, is engineered for longevity, making the 5000 a long-term investment in reliable hardware.
Who is the DW 5000 For?
The DW 5000 series is the ideal choice for a broad spectrum of drummers who prioritize reliability, power, and a direct feel.
It appeals most strongly to players who have a clear preference for a specific type of pedal response and do not require extensive on-the-fly adjustability.
Ideal User Profiles for the DW 5000 Series
| User Profile | Primary Needs & Playing Style | Why the 5000 is a Good Fit | Recommended Drive System |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Gigging Workhorse | Durability, reliability, quick setup, consistent performance across different venues.
Plays rock, pop, country, or cover band material. |
The 5000’s legendary build quality means it can withstand the rigors of the road.
Its straightforward design is easy to maintain and performs predictably every time. |
Accelerator (AD4) for power and punch in live settings. |
| The Hard Hitter | Maximum power, volume, and attack.
Plays hard rock, metal, or punk. Needs a pedal that can translate aggressive footwork into a thunderous kick sound. |
The solid feel and heavy-duty construction provide a stable platform for powerful playing.
The Accelerator cam is engineered specifically for this kind of velocity. |
Accelerator (AD4) without question. |
| The Budget-Conscious Pro | Professional-grade performance and feel without the premium price tag of a flagship model.
Needs a pedal that will last for years. |
The 5000 offers a significant portion of the performance found in higher-end pedals at a more accessible price point, representing incredible value. | Turbo (TD4) for versatility or Accelerator (AD4) for power, depending on their primary genre. |
| The Purist | A direct, no-frills connection to the bass drum.
Prefers a consistent and predictable response without complex adjustments. Often plays jazz, funk, or R&B. |
The Turbo drive offers one of the most direct and consistent feels on the market, translating every nuance of the player’s footwork faithfully. | Turbo (TD4) for its pure, linear response. |
The DW 9000 Series: The Pinnacle of Performance and Adjustability
The DW 9000 series pedal embodies the concept of ultimate performance through unparalleled customization, representing the flagship of DW’s engineering prowess.
It is designed for the discerning drummer who demands not just a pedal, but a perfectly calibrated extension of their own body.
The core philosophy of the 9000 is to provide a playing experience that is as close to frictionless and effortless as possible, while simultaneously offering a vast range of adjustments to tailor the pedal’s feel to the exact preferences of any player.
This commitment to a “buttery” smooth action and granular control has made the 9000 the top choice for many of the world’s most respected and technically demanding drummers, from studio virtuosos to stadium-touring icons.
Key Features of the DW 9000
The sophisticated and fluid feel of the DW 9000 is the result of several patented, high-performance features working in perfect harmony.
These components are engineered with the tightest tolerances and most advanced materials to eliminate resistance and maximize the transference of energy from the player’s foot to the drumhead.
- Infinitely Adjustable Cam:
- This is the crown jewel of the 9000 series and its most significant advantage.
- Unlike pedals with fixed or interchangeable cams, the 9000 features a revolutionary system that allows the player to choose any cam profile they desire, from a power-focused Accelerator shape to a consistent Turbo shape, and every conceivable setting in between.
- This adjustment is made via a standard drum key, enabling a drummer to find their absolute sweet spot and fundamentally alter the pedal’s feel in seconds.This feature makes the 9000 a “do-it-all” pedal, capable of being perfectly dialed in for any musical situation.
- Floating Rotor Drive System:
- This proprietary DW technology is central to the 9000’s legendary smoothness.
- The drive shaft and beater assembly are mounted on a “floating rotor,” which is not rigidly fixed to the pedal’s axle.
- This allows it to rotate independently via a friction-reducing bearing.
- The result is a dramatic reduction in inertia and resistance, creating an incredibly fluid, “weightless” feel that makes fast, complex patterns feel effortless and light.
- Free-Floating Swivel Spring:
- Further contributing to the pedal’s frictionless feel, the spring assembly is designed to move with the natural arc of the stroke.
- This prevents the spring from binding or creating unwanted resistance as it compresses and expands, increasing the efficiency of every stroke.
- This small but crucial detail ensures that the pedal returns to its starting position with maximum speed and minimal energy loss.
- Included Chain and Nylon Strap:
- Recognizing that different players prefer different drive feels, the DW 9000 includes both a dual-chain drive and a high-quality nylon strap in the box.
- This adds another layer of customization, allowing the user to switch between the solid, classic feel of a chain and the lighter, quieter response of a strap, further enhancing the pedal’s versatility.
Who is the DW 9000 For?
The DW 9000 series is engineered for the drummer who views their pedal as a high-performance instrument and refuses to compromise on feel or adjustability.
It is the definitive choice for players who need to adapt their setup to diverse musical contexts or for those engaged in a relentless pursuit of their own perfect playing feel.
- Drummers Seeking Ultimate Customization:
- Players who are sensitive to the nuances of pedal response and love to tinker with their gear will find the 9000 to be a dream come true.
- The ability to fine-tune the cam allows for a level of personalization that is simply unmatched.
- Technically Demanding Players:
- Drummers who play fast, intricate music—such as progressive metal, gospel, or fusion—will benefit immensely from the 9000’s effortless and efficient action.
- The pedal’s design minimizes fatigue and allows for greater speed and control over complex patterns.
- Studio Drummers and Session Aces:
- For professionals who need to cover a wide range of genres in a single day, the 9000 is an invaluable tool.
- Its ability to transform from a hard-hitting rock pedal to a subtle jazz pedal in moments makes it the ultimate studio chameleon.
- Players Seeking the Smoothest Possible Feel:
- Any drummer who has ever felt that their pedal was “heavy” or “slow” will be astonished by the 9000’s fluid response.
- It is for those who want their pedal to feel as if it’s floating on air, responding to the slightest touch with immediate and graceful action.
Head-to-Head Comparison: DW 5000 vs. DW 9000
Choosing between the DW 5000 and 9000 requires a direct comparison of their most critical attributes.
While both are professional-grade pedals built to the highest standards, their design philosophies diverge significantly, resulting in distinct playing experiences.
This section breaks down the key differences to help clarify which pedal’s characteristics align best with your priorities as a player.
DW 5000 vs. DW 9000: Feature-by-Feature Showdown
| Feature | DW 5000 Series | DW 9000 Series | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cam System | Fixed Cam (Choice of Accelerator or Turbo at purchase) | Infinitely Adjustable Cam (From Accelerator to Turbo and everything in between) | DW 9000 |
| Primary Feel | Powerful, solid, direct, connected | Smooth, fluid, effortless, “buttery” | Subjective (Player Preference) |
| Adjustability | Standard adjustments (spring tension, beater height/angle) | Extensive adjustments, including the revolutionary cam setting | DW 9000 |
| Core Technology | Dual-Bearing Spring Rocker, Tri-Pivot Toe Clamp | Floating Rotor Drive System, Free-Floating Swivel Spring | DW 9000 |
| Included Drive | Dual-Chain Drive | Dual-Chain Drive AND Nylon Strap included | DW 9000 |
| Build Philosophy | Road-worthy durability, powerful performance | Ultimate performance, maximum smoothness, and customization | Subjective (Player Needs) |
| Price Point | Upper-Mid Range (Professional) | Premium (Flagship) | DW 5000 |
| Primary Advantage | Legendary reliability and proven power at an excellent value. | Unmatched smoothness and the ability to perfectly tailor the feel. | Depends on priority |
Feel and Response
The most significant difference between the two pedals lies in their subjective feel.
The DW 5000 offers a very direct and solid connection to the beater; you can feel the weight of the stroke, which many drummers interpret as power and control.
It has a satisfying heft and feels like a powerful machine.
The DW 9000, by contrast, feels almost weightless under the foot.
Its design is focused on eliminating all sources of friction and resistance, resulting in an action that is incredibly smooth, fast, and fluid.
Many users describe it as feeling like a natural extension of their foot, where the pedal itself seems to disappear, allowing for a more direct translation of musical ideas.
Adjustability and Customization
This category marks the clearest technical victory for the DW 9000.
While the DW 5000 offers the standard suite of professional adjustments (spring tension, beater height, and footboard angle), its core feel is predetermined by the choice between the Accelerator or Turbo cam.
The DW 9000, with its infinitely adjustable cam, blows the doors wide open.
A player can literally dial in the exact amount of acceleration they desire, effectively creating their own custom cam profile.
This, combined with the option to switch between a chain and a strap, gives the 9000 a level of versatility that the 5000 simply cannot match.
Hardware and Build Quality
Both pedals exhibit the exceptional build quality that DW is famous for, and either one represents a long-term investment.
They both feature heavy-duty, all-metal construction and are designed to withstand the rigors of professional use.
However, the 9000 showcases a higher level of machining and more complex, precision-engineered components, such as the Floating Rotor assembly.
This reflects its status as a flagship product where performance and refinement are prioritized, whereas the 5000 is engineered with a greater emphasis on rugged simplicity and proven durability.
Price and Value
The DW 5000 series provides what many consider to be one of the best value propositions in professional drum hardware.
It offers truly professional performance, feel, and durability at a price point that is significantly lower than the 9000.
For the vast majority of drummers, the 5000 delivers everything they could ever need from a pedal.
The DW 9000 commands a premium price for its advanced technology and unparalleled adjustability.
The “value” of the 9000 is therefore tied directly to how much a player prioritizes its unique features.
If you will take full advantage of the adjustable cam and crave the smoothest possible action, the extra cost is easily justified as an investment in your craft.
Is the DW 9000 Worth the Upgrade?
Deciding whether the premium price of the DW 9000 is a worthy investment over the venerable 5000 is a personal calculation based on your playing style, needs, and budget.
There is no single correct answer, but by asking the right questions, you can arrive at the right conclusion for you.
For a current DW 5000 user, the question of upgrading hinges on whether you feel any limitations with your current setup.
If you are perfectly happy with the feel of your Accelerator or Turbo cam and value the pedal’s raw power and reliability, there may be little reason to change.
However, if you find yourself wishing for a slightly different response—perhaps something “in-between” the two 5000 models—or if you experience foot fatigue during long or fast playing sessions, the 9000’s smooth, efficient, and highly tunable action could be a game-changer.
For a new buyer, the decision is a classic trade-off between proven performance and ultimate potential.
The DW 5000 is a safe, reliable, and fantastic-feeling choice that will serve you well for decades.
The DW 9000 is an investment in your potential as a player, offering a tool that can adapt and grow with you as your style and needs evolve.
Consider the following points to guide your decision:
You should strongly consider the DW 9000 if:
- You play a wide variety of musical genres and need a pedal that can adapt quickly.
- You are a technically-focused player who practices fast or complex footwork.
- You are highly sensitive to the feel of your pedal and enjoy fine-tuning your equipment.
- You have experienced foot fatigue and are looking for a more efficient, ergonomic pedal.
- Your budget allows for a premium, flagship piece of hardware and you want the best-of-the-best.
The DW 5000 is likely the perfect pedal for you if:
- You primarily play one style of music and know you prefer either a powerful (Accelerator) or direct (Turbo) feel.
- You are a hard-hitting player who values a solid, connected feel and maximum durability.
- You are a working drummer who needs a reliable, road-worthy pedal that is easy to maintain.
- You are seeking professional-level performance and build quality at an excellent value.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
In the ultimate showdown between the DW 5000 and the DW 9000, there is no undisputed champion, only a champion for the individual drummer.
The choice is not about which pedal is superior overall, but about which pedal’s design philosophy and feature set best align with your personal playing style, musical demands, and artistic goals.
Both pedals are phenomenal pieces of engineering that have rightfully earned their place at the top of the industry.
To summarize the core of the decision: The DW 5000 is the legendary workhorse.
It is a testament to the power of refined simplicity, offering a direct, powerful, and incredibly durable playing experience.
It is the trusted choice for the drummer who values reliability and a proven feel, providing exceptional performance and an unbeatable value.
The DW 9000, in contrast, is the high-performance virtuoso.
It is a marvel of sophisticated engineering, offering an unparalleled level of smoothness, efficiency, and customization.
It is the ultimate tool for the drummer who seeks to eliminate all barriers between their musical ideas and their execution, providing a truly bespoke feel that can be tailored to perfection.
Ultimately, the best advice is the most traditional: if at all possible, try both.
A few minutes playing each pedal will tell you more than a thousand words ever could.
Let your foot make the final decision.
Whether you choose the steadfast power of the 5000 or the fluid grace of the 9000, you can be confident that you are investing in a piece of hardware that will serve as the faithful heartbeat of your drumming for many years to come.
