A method of optimizing the output sound of a bass drum, wherein the punch of the output sound is maximized and the ringing of the output sound is minimized, wherein said drum has a batter head membrane and a resonant membrane, a circular opening in said resonant membrane, and wherein an insert having a cylindrical body with a length and diameter is adapted to slide into said opening and be connected to said resonant membrane, and the weight of said insert is adjustable, comprising the steps:
- adjusting the weight of said insert to lower the fundamental frequency of said resonant membrane, and simultaneously minimize ringing of said output sound, and
- sizing the length and diameter of said cylindrical body to cause momentary restriction of sound waves through said insert and through said opening in said resonant membrane, thereby maximizing the amplitude of vibration of said resonant membrane after said batter head membrane is struck.