Hole in middle of bass drum head

Hey guys, I really want to get that Lars Ulrich bass drum sound, my bass drum head has no hole in it, and Ive read all around that it helps alot to make that type of sound. I have two questions about it:

1. Ive read on some sites faq list that you shouldnt put the hole in the middle of the head, is that true? and if so why does lars do it?

2. How would I go about putting a hole in the head? I read one method of heating up a pan and burning the hole into the head, is there another way?

Also when I put pillows and stuff inside, should they be totally full (i mean touching both heads)?

Keep in mind that Lars is in a studio when you hear him,usually,and that you can make just about anything sound good with thousands of dollars with of pa,mikes,effects,etc.The hole-in-the-head is up to you consider the room acoustics,miking,drum type,heads used,your playing style etc.(I didn't mean that Napster Ulrich wasn't a good drummer).

Which faq are you referring to. I'd be interested in seeing why a faq author would be so close minded on the subject. The hole is for miking purposes. lars probably uses a bass drum beater patch with a metal or plastic disc in it for that cllick effect.

The faq being that different situations call for different measures,how does one here in this group,without going over to the posters house and hearing the kit, answer a question,other than what I replied? You can cut a hole to mike,but I play in clubs miked,and no hole,it's up to your preferences and situations,there are no rules to drumming.

By the way, Lars uses a Remo beater patch.

Paul, Don't heat up a pan to make a hole,get Remo's Dynamo's to do this,they stick on the head and you can cut them out.

Which faq is it?

its at http://www.rmmpfaq.club24.co.uk/toc.htm under section 6 'muffling'

Tell you what kind sir, I'll let you answer the gentlemans question,since you are a drumset teacher, I am just an average player with only 35 yrs drumming time,I never claimed to be a faq author,it appears that you want to start an issue over this,'there are no rules to drumming' Eric Singer

I didn't reply to you sir, I replied to the orignal poster. I appreciated your answer.

here is the faq poop on it from RMMP 9a faq to which I have contributed a small bit);

' An opening in the center of the drum may commonly have less low end and more beater attack than an off-center opening. This is a matter of personal choice, and you should listen to both before choosing. The trend in recent years among manufacturers is to put a small (typically 4'-6' off-center opening in their resonant heads. Ten years ago, pre-cut openings were typically larger and more centered. Today there is also a resurgence in closed heads. Again, a matter of personal preference. Be aware that most drum stores will cut a head to your choice of size and placement. You can also do this yourself.'

My take on the matter of why Lars Ulrich or any heavy metal drummer would use the center position for the hole is that they desire for more head/beater attack/click to escape from the hole. I personally think the response of the drum both sound wise and pedal feel wise is better with the off center positioning. Just an opinion.

Then accept my apologize please .Thanks.

I do know for a fact that Lars uses wood beaters and so do I ! It really gives you that click & punch that felt beaters will not do. But be sure you use a drum patch such as the remo falam slam patch which is made out of the same material as bullet proof vest! Without the patch and believe me that they will dent the head, 2 ply or not! Just wanted to share!

Leather Patch would work ....

I use to use them a lot back then ....

Leather patch last long time ...Make your own leather patch ..Or you can buy them ...Drum shop carry them ...Well i don't know now if they do .But back then they did ...Save's your bass heads ...