Transforming Acoustic Drums into Electronic Powerhouses (A2E Conversion Guide)
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The world of drumming has evolved rapidly over the past decade. With advancements in electronic technology, drummers are no longer confined to the traditional acoustic setup. The ability to convert acoustic drums into electronic drums (A2E conversion) has opened a new dimension of sound, flexibility, and control - all while preserving the natural feel of real drums.
Whether you’re looking to practice silently, record professionally, or perform live with versatility, A2E drum conversion allows you to turn your existing acoustic set into a powerful electronic kit with minimal effort.
What Is A2E Conversion?
A2E stands for “Acoustic-to-Electronic”, a process that transforms your standard acoustic drum kit into a hybrid or fully electronic system. This is achieved by installing drum triggers, mesh heads, and electronic cymbals that send signals to a drum module. The module then translates your playing dynamics into digital sound - accurately reproducing every hit, rimshot, and nuance.
Unlike purchasing a prebuilt electronic drum kit, A2E conversion lets you keep your acoustic shells, hardware, and setup - preserving your comfort and natural drum feel while gaining access to the versatility of electronic sounds.
Why Convert to an Electronic Setup?
Drummers convert to A2E systems for several key reasons:
Volume Control: Play silently using mesh heads and headphones - ideal for apartments or studios.
Sound Variety: Access hundreds of drum sounds and samples instantly.
Recording Efficiency: Connect directly to your DAW or audio interface for precise tracking.
Customization: Maintain your preferred shell sizes and hardware layout.
Hybrid Performance: Combine acoustic resonance with electronic sound layering.
Essential Components for A2E Conversion
To successfully convert your drum kit, you’ll need a few core elements that bring the electronic system to life. Let’s break them down:
1. Drum Triggers
Drum triggers are the core of any A2E setup. They detect stick impact and vibration on your drum head or shell and send a digital signal to your sound module.
Explore our full selection of drum triggers here.
For bass drums, the 20" Bass Drum Trigger Head (Previous Generation) provides excellent response, durability, and deep sensitivity for low-frequency hits.
For toms and snares, the Dual Zone Acoustic Drum Trigger Adjustable Cone is ideal - it captures both head and rim shots with precision, allowing for expressive dynamics and realistic playability.
If you want a professional-grade system with superior sensitivity, the Electronic Drum Trigger Plate 12" Dual Zone with 6 Trigger Points offers cutting-edge accuracy and balanced triggering across the head.
2. Mesh Heads
To reduce volume and improve playability, replace your drum’s standard heads with mesh heads. These provide realistic rebound and quiet operation, allowing drummers to practice or perform without disturbing others. Mesh heads also work perfectly with internal or external triggers.
3. Electronic Cymbals Conversion
Acoustic cymbals can also be converted or replaced with electronic cymbals, giving you full control over volume and sound design.
If you’re upgrading from quiet practice cymbals, our 17" Electronic Cymbal 360° Edge Trigger provides a full playing surface with bow, edge, and choke detection - a professional solution for all dynamic levels.
For drummers seeking a realistic ride experience, the 360° Ride Bell Trigger for Electronic Cymbals adds precise bell response and excellent articulation across the entire cymbal surface.
This setup lets you play expressively without sacrificing your acoustic layout or natural motion.
From Quiet Cymbals to Fully Electronic
Many drummers begin with low-volume cymbals or practice cymbals for noise control. The next step toward a professional hybrid setup is upgrading those quiet cymbals into triggered electronic cymbals.
With the right conversion tools, you can keep your cymbal’s look and feel while integrating electronic triggers that respond accurately to every strike. These electronic cymbals replicate the sensation of real metal while remaining silent enough for home environments.
The result? A setup that feels like your traditional acoustic kit but delivers a fully customizable digital experience.
Installation Tips for a Smooth Conversion
Use consistent trigger placement for accurate signal detection.
Secure cable routing to avoid interference or accidental disconnection.
Calibrate sensitivity in your module to balance volume between drums.
Experiment with velocity curves to match your playing dynamics.
Combine zones smartly - for example, assign rimshots, sidestick, or effects to the rim trigger.
If you’re new to A2E conversion, start with your snare and kick. Once you’re comfortable, expand to toms and cymbals for a complete hybrid experience.
Full Control, Real Feel
Converting your acoustic drums into electronic ones unlocks endless possibilities. You’ll enjoy:
Natural playing feel with customizable sounds
Silent practice with powerful headphone monitoring
Studio-quality recording output
Freedom to perform any style, anywhere
With products like the Phantom Trigger Series and 360° Electronic Cymbals, you can achieve a pro-level hybrid setup without losing the authentic experience of real drumming.
