Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit Review: A Game-Changer for Drum Kit Ergonomics?
If you have been playing the drums for any significant amount of time, you know the physical toll it can take. For decades, the standard drum set architecture has forced us into a “cross-handed” playing style. Your right hand reaches over your left to hit the hi-hats, while your left hand is tucked underneath to strike the snare. While this is the “classic” way to play, it isn’t necessarily the most ergonomic. Many of us suffer from chronic back pain, shoulder tension, or even hip issues because of the twisted posture required to reach a traditional hi-hat stand tucked away on the left.
Beyond ergonomics, there is the issue of kit expansion. When you start adding a double bass pedal or multiple floor toms, the real estate on the left side of your kit becomes incredibly crowded. I found myself constantly fighting for floor space, trying to wedge a tripod stand between my slave pedal and a snare stand. We needed a way to move the hi-hats without losing the foot control we’ve spent years perfecting. This is where the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit enters the conversation, promising a solution that saves space and saves your posture without breaking the bank. Failing to address these ergonomic issues can lead to long-term injuries, making a remote hi-hat not just a luxury, but a necessity for the aging or high-frequency drummer.
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What to Consider Before Buying a Remote Hi-Hat Stand
Choosing a remote hi-hat stand is a significantly more complex decision than picking out a standard straight stand. A Cymbal Hi-Hat Stand with remote capabilities is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for drummers who need total freedom over their setup geometry. Whether you are a left-handed drummer playing a right-handed kit, a double-bass enthusiast, or someone who wants to place their hats directly in front of the snare for an “open-handed” style, the remote stand is the bridge to that freedom. It solves the problem of physical constraints, allowing the cymbals to be mounted on a rack or a separate stand while the pedal stays exactly where your foot feels most natural.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing space limitations or ergonomic discomfort, as well as creative percussionists who want a secondary set of “X-hats” on the right side of their kit. However, it might not be suitable for those who demand a 1:1 mechanical feel identical to a direct-pull stand, as all cable-driven systems have a slight, unique resistance. If you are a traditionalist who never moves their hats from the 10 o’clock position, a standard two-legged stand might be a better, simpler alternative. Before you check the latest price and availability for this specific kit, consider the following technical factors.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Cable Length and Flexibility: The length of the cable determines where you can place your cymbals. A 6-foot cable is generally the “sweet spot,” allowing for placement anywhere from the far right of the kit to high above the rack toms. However, the cable must be flexible enough to snake through your hardware without kinking, which can cause the action to become sluggish or “mushy.”
- Pedal Stability: Because remote hi-hat pedals often lack the tripod base of a traditional stand, they rely on weight and floor spikes to stay put. Look for a pedal with a heavy base plate and adjustable spurs. If the pedal slides away every time you “chick” the hats, it will ruin your performance flow.
- Spring Tension Adjustability: Cable stands naturally have more internal friction than rod-driven stands. Therefore, having a high-quality, adjustable spring tension system is vital. You need to be able to “crank” the tension to compensate for the cable’s resistance, ensuring the top cymbal snaps back up instantly.
- Clutch Reliability: The clutch on a remote stand undergoes different stresses than a standard one. It needs to be lockable and sturdy because the remote head is often mounted at odd angles. A slipping clutch on a remote hat is a nightmare to fix mid-song.
While the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit is an excellent choice for those looking to balance cost and performance, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, including those designed specifically for double-kick setups, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 【 Heavy Duty Hi-Hat Stand 】- KINGDO hit hat stand are made of sturdy and stable alloy. The hi-hat pedal is responsive,not a tad heavy feeling. The adjustment is simple,locking in place well once...
- UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL: This hi-hat stand is a game-changer for gigging drummers who want to take their performance to the next level.
- Quick-Release Hi-Hat Clutch
First Impressions and the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit Experience
When the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit first arrived at our studio, I was immediately struck by the weight. At over 11 pounds, this isn’t a “budget” piece of flimsy tin; it feels like a serious piece of industrial hardware. Unboxing it reveals a sleek chrome finish that looks significantly more expensive than the price tag suggests. The assembly was straightforward, though it’s important to note that you will need a multi-clamp or a rack to mount the “hat” side of the unit, as this kit is designed to be auxiliary.
The initial feel of the pedal is robust. The double spine weighted pedal plates give it a “stout” presence on the floor. While some high-end competitors from brands like Pearl or DW can cost upwards of $500, the Griffin version aims to provide about 90% of that performance for a fraction of the cost. Out of the box, the action felt a little tight, which is common for cable stands, but the “QuickAction” name refers to the power cam system which we were eager to test. It certainly looks the part of a professional kit, and once you see its full feature set and user reviews, you’ll realize why it’s gaining traction in the drumming community.
What We Like
- Incredible value-to-performance ratio compared to “big name” brands.
- The 6-foot cable offers immense flexibility for creative kit layouts.
- Heavy-duty metal construction that feels road-worthy and stable.
- Includes a lockable clutch and drum key, saving on hidden costs.
What We Didn’t Like
- The internal cable may require initial lubrication to achieve peak smoothness.
- Pedal lacks a traditional tripod, relying solely on floor spikes for grip.
A Deep Dive into the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit’s Performance
Ergonomic Freedom and the 6-Foot Advantage
The primary reason anyone buys the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit is the cable. In our testing, the 6-foot length proved to be the perfect distance. I was able to mount a pair of 14-inch hats over my secondary floor tom on the right side of the kit while keeping the pedal positioned comfortably next to my primary bass drum pedal. This “remote” capability completely changes the way you approach the instrument. Instead of being “caged” by your hi-hat stand, you can open up your chest, pull your shoulders back, and play in a much more natural, athletic stance.
We found that for drummers with back or shoulder issues, this is a literal career-saver. One user we spoke with mentioned they keep the hats centered behind the snare, which eliminates the need to cross hands entirely. The cable is flexible enough to take a few wide turns around cymbal stands without introducing too much drag. To ensure the best experience, a feature that really sets it apart is how well the cable housing is shielded, preventing external damage during transport and setup.
The Power Cam System and Pedal Response
There is a common stigma that cable hi-hats are “sluggish” or “laggy.” To be fair, some budget models are. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the “QuickAction” power cam system in the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit. This system uses an offset cam to give you more leverage as you press down, which helps overcome the natural friction of the cable. While it doesn’t feel exactly like a direct-pull stand—no cable stand does—it is remarkably close. We found the response to be “buttery smooth” once the tension was dialed in.
Regarding that “sluggishness” some users mention: in our expert evaluation, we found that the factory settings are often a bit conservative. By utilizing the double locking spring tension rod knob, you can significantly increase the “snap-back” of the top cymbal. We also recommend a tiny drop of lithium grease or mineral oil at the cable entry points if you find the action stiff out of the box. Once optimized, this pedal keeps up with fast “chick” patterns and syncopated footwork with impressive accuracy. It’s a professional-grade feel that makes you wonder why the “big names” charge triple the price.
Build Quality: Heavy-Duty Metal vs. Price Point
It is rare to find a piece of hardware in this price bracket that eschews plastic for almost entirely all-metal construction. The Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit is built like a tank. The “shiny plate coating” (chrome) is thick and resistant to the usual dings and scratches that come with gigging. The pedal plate is particularly impressive; it’s a double-spine weighted design that feels substantial under your foot. It doesn’t flex or wobble, which is a common failure point in cheaper remote pedals.
The “Auxiliary 6FT Cable” is reinforced at the connections, which is where most remote stands fail. We’ve seen $400 stands where the cable snaps at the pedal-to-cable interface, but Griffin seems to have reinforced these stress points with sturdy alloy steel housing. For the traveling drummer, this durability is paramount. You want to know that when you pull this out of your hardware bag, it’s going to work. When you invest in this level of hardware, you are buying peace of mind for your next live performance.
Stability and Floor Grip: The Spike Solution
One design choice that we scrutinized was the lack of support legs on the pedal base. Most hi-hat stands have a tripod, but the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit relies on its “double spine” weighted base and adjustable floor spikes. At first, we were skeptical—would it slide away during a heavy rock set? In our testing on both drum rugs and hardwood (with a mat), the spurs did an admirable job of anchoring the unit. The foot stop at the top of the pedal also helps prevent your foot from sliding forward and pushing the unit away.
However, we noticed that if you are a particularly aggressive player who “kicks” the hi-hat pedal, you might want to add a small strip of Velcro to the bottom of the base plate for extra security. For 90% of players, the weight of the unit combined with the spikes will be more than enough to keep it stationary. It’s a clever design that saves space, allowing the pedal to fit into tight gaps where a tripod leg simply wouldn’t go. This makes it an ideal companion for drummers using large double-bass drum kits where floor space is at a premium.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among the drumming community is that the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit is a “serious bang for the buck.” Many users who were initially skeptical due to the low price point have come away impressed. One long-time drummer noted that they previously owned a DW remote hat that cost nearly $600, and they found the Griffin to be “absolutely on par with it” in terms of construction and action. This sentiment of “why pay more?” is a recurring theme in user feedback.
However, the feedback isn’t without its caveats. Some users reported that the action felt “stiff” or “sluggish” initially. One user mentioned they had to spend about an hour taking it apart and lubricating the moving parts with WD-40 or mineral oil to get it to work smoothly. Another noted that the spring tension might feel a bit weak for those using very heavy, 15-inch or 16-inch “fat” hats. We believe this feedback is vital: while the build quality is pro-level, it may require a “tinkerer’s touch” to get the settings exactly where you want them. Once adjusted, however, the majority of users agree that it “does exactly what it needs to do” at a fraction of the cost of its competitors.
Comparing the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit to Alternatives
While the Griffin kit is an excellent remote solution, it’s helpful to see how it compares to other hi-hat hardware on the market. Some drummers might be looking for a standard stand, while others might just want a fixed “X-hat” arm.
1. Gibraltar Double Braced Hi-Hat Stand
- UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL: This hi-hat stand is a game-changer for gigging drummers who want to take their performance to the next level.
- PRECISION AND SPEED: The smooth and fast touch pedal board and chain drive system allow for seamless transitions and precision, so you can focus on your playing without any distractions.
The Gibraltar 5707 is a “traditional” hi-hat stand rather than a remote cable stand. If you don’t actually need to move your hats to the other side of the kit and are simply looking for a reliable, medium-weight primary stand, this is a gold standard. It features double-braced legs for extreme stability and a direct-pull action that is naturally faster than any cable stand. We would recommend the Gibraltar for students or gigging drummers who want a “set it and forget it” standard setup. However, it offers none of the ergonomic flexibility that the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit provides.
2. Meinl Percussion Cymbal Stand Arm with Clutch
- EASY AUXILIARY HIHAT SETUP: mounts stationary hihats anywhere on your kit with minimal, quick setup; solid chrome plated steel holds everything in place
- WHY IT MATTERS: you can play grooves open handed instead of cross hand; or place an auxiliary hihat/stack next to your main hats to open up your sound—the options are endless
This Meinl “X-Hat” arm is a completely different beast. It is not a pedal-driven unit; instead, it is a fixed arm that holds your hi-hats in a closed or slightly cracked position. This is perfect for drummers who want a secondary set of hats for double-bass rolls but don’t need to open and close them with their foot. It’s much cheaper and takes up less space, but you lose all foot control. If you require the ability to play “chicks” and splashes, stick with the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit. If you just want a static “trash stack” on your right, the Meinl arm is a great space-saver.
3. Meinl Percussion 12′ Trash Stack Cymbal Pair
- UPGRADE FROM STOCK CYMBALS: replaces the flimsy cymbals most entry-level kits include—Meinl HCS sounds real and feels solid
- WHY IT MATTERS: better sound makes practice more fun—and durable brass stands up to regular playing
Often, drummers buy a remote hi-hat stand specifically to mount an effects cymbal like this 12-inch Trash Stack. These cymbals provide a short, biting, “trashy” sound that is perfect for modern metal or electronic music. While the Griffin stand provides the hardware to play them, this Meinl pair provides the actual sound. If you are looking to expand your kit’s sonic palette, pairing the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit with these cymbals is a killer combination. The 12-inch size is also lighter than standard hats, which makes the Griffin’s cable action feel even faster and more responsive.
Final Verdict: Is the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit Worth It?
After putting the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit through its paces, our verdict is clear: this is perhaps the best value in drum hardware today. It successfully bridges the gap between overpriced professional gear and flimsy “entry-level” accessories. It offers the heavy-duty construction needed for the road and the ergonomic flexibility needed for modern, creative drumming. While it may require a little bit of initial lubrication and tension adjustment to suit your specific playing style, the foundation of the kit is rock solid.
We recommend this kit to any drummer who is tired of the physical strain of a traditional setup, or anyone looking to add a secondary hi-hat without spending half a month’s rent. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a studio professional, the Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit provides the performance you need at a price that makes sense. If you are ready to reclaim your kit’s ergonomics and explore new setup possibilities, click here to grab your Griffin QuickAction Hi-Hat Pedal Kit and start playing more comfortably today!
Last update on 2026-07-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API