The Ultimate Guide to A2E (Acoustic-to-Electronic) Drum Conversion
For years, drummers faced a tough choice: The authentic look and feel of an acoustic kit, OR the unlimited sounds and volume control of an electronic kit.
But why choose?
A2E (Acoustic-to-Electronic) Conversion is the bridge that connects these two worlds. It allows you to transform your beautiful wooden shells into a powerful digital workstation.
Whether you are an apartment dweller needing silence, a gigging pro needing consistent sound, or a studio geek, converting your kit is the ultimate upgrade. Here is how to do it right.
What Is A2E Conversion?
A2E is the process of retrofitting a standard acoustic drum set with electronic components.
By swapping out Mylar heads for Mesh Heads and installing Sensors (Triggers), you keep the physical presence and ergonomics of your full-size kit, but the sound is generated by a drum module (or computer).
The Result: A kit that looks like a rockstar's rig but possesses the brain of a supercomputer.
Why Convert? (The Benefits)
Silent Practice with Real Feel:
Mesh heads are whisper-quiet. You can practice at 2 AM in an apartment while hearing stadium-rock sounds in your headphones.
Zero "Toy" Factor:
Most e-kits have tiny 8" or 10" pads. With A2E, you keep your 14" snare and 22" kick. Your muscle memory stays intact.
Unlimited Sounds:
Switch from a vintage jazz kit to a modern trap kit at the push of a button.
Essential Components for a Pro Conversion
To build a truly responsive A2E kit, you need more than just duct tape and piezo discs. You need precision gear.
1. The Heart: Snare & Tom Triggers
The most critical part of an A2E kit is the snare trigger. Standard "clip-on" triggers often suffer from "hotspots" (where the center is too loud) and missed hits.
The Beatello Solution:
We recommend replacing your main snare internals with the Beatello 14" Electronic Snare Trigger System.
6-Point Multi-Sensor: Unlike single-cone triggers, our 6-point system captures hits from the center to the edge with 100% dynamic accuracy. No hotspots.
Silicone Silent Hoop: Our specialized hoop allows for realistic rimshots and cross-sticks without the loud acoustic "clack" of rubber rims.
2. The Surface: Mesh Heads
You need to replace your loud plastic heads with Double-Ply Mesh Heads.
Why Double-Ply? Single-ply mesh can feel too "bouncy" (like a trampoline). Beatello’s double-layer design mimics the resistance of a real Mylar head, giving you an authentic stick response while cutting acoustic volume by 90%.
3. The Metals: Electronic Cymbals
Bad e-cymbals ruin the experience. You need something that swings and responds like bronze.
The Innovation: Black Knight 12" Hi-Hat
One of the biggest failure points in DIY conversions is the hi-hat cable breaking.
The Beatello Black Knight 12" Hi-Hat features a revolutionary Cable-Free Design.
No Internal Wires: Eliminates the most common wear issue.
2-Piece Motion: Top and bottom cymbals move independently for a real "chick" feel.
Installation Tips for Success
Tension Matters: Even though they are mesh, tune your heads tight! A tight mesh head triggers better and provides better rebound.
Masking: If you are using internal triggers, adjust your module's "Mask Time" to prevent double-triggering.
Cable Management: Use velcro ties inside your shells to keep cables from rattling against the mesh heads.
Conclusion: Full Control, Real Feel
Converting your kit is easier than you think. You don't need to be an engineer; you just need the right components.
With the Beatello Electronic Series, you can build a hybrid monster that looks amazing on stage and performs flawlessly in the studio.
Ready to transform your kit?