Axis XL2 or AL2

[meshuggah33]

Ok, so I am vacillating about either getting Axis XL2 or Axis AL2.
I've been reading about both of those pedals, but still don't think I have enough information, and just thought that I'd ask you guys.

Here is what I know or what I found out about these pedals.

XL2:
1) Runs at about $420.
2) Does not have a variable drive lever (VDL).
3) Is sold with this kind of beater: http://www.indoorstorm.com/axis/pax025.jpg

AL2:
1) Runs at about $100 more than XL2.
2) Has VDL which is an advantage.
3) sold with sonic hammers. http://axis.musimport.ru/pic/small/beater.jpg

After all this, I am still a little bit confused on what I should get. Local stores dont hold Axis, so I would have to order online.

Couple of things about AL2:
I heard it is better to use sonic hammers on AL2 because the design is so that the sweet spot is about 1.5 inches from where it strike the head with a regular beater. From what I heard, if you use a regular beater in lieu to a sonic hammer, the momentum would be lost before it reaches the head. Also, I heard that some people have problems with sonic hammers not staying in place. Is that true?

Couple of things about XL2:
Not having VDL is of course a disadvantage, but does it mean that I won't be able to adjust the pedal height?

Again, I would like to go for AL2, but I just don't think what I would do if they do come out of place all the time. or do they?
Also, does it mean that it is impossible to adjust the pedal height on XL2?

any help is appreciated

[scottevtv]

You can get the optional toe spacers if you want to adjust the footboard height on the XL2's. I have both the A and the X double pedals.. I am a pedal collector. They are both very good. I will tell you this the X line is easier to set up. The VDL is cool but it's just one more thing you have to worry about setting. The feel of the two pedals is very different. If you are use to the feel of a traditional chain pedal feel then go with the X line. The footboard is actually about a ½ " higher than the A line at the same exact beater angle. So if you like a higher footboard then the X line does not really need any toe spacers. Again, they are both good. I never once had my Sonic Hammer come loose, I really don't know where that all started. Then again I always keep my stuff in mint condition.

[meshuggah33]

You can get the optional toe spacers if you want to adjust the footboard height on the XL2's. I have both the A and the X double pedals.. I am a pedal collector. They are both very good. I will tell you this the X line is easier to set up. The VDL is cool but it's just one more thing you have to worry about setting. The feel of the two pedals is very different. If you are use to the feel of a traditional chain pedal feel then go with the X line. The footboard is actually about a ½ " higher than the A line at the same exact beater angle. So if you like a higher footboard then the X line does not really need any toe spacers. Again, they are both good. I never once had my Sonic Hammer come loose, I really don't know where that all started. Then again I always keep my stuff in mint condition.

Ok, so would I need 2 spacers or 1 for double pedal? How much do they cost usually?
I couldn't find any online, but I read on this forum that you have to actually order directly from Axis in U.S. right?
Also, what are the things that you can adjust on the XL-2s?
I know spring tension is one, then there is the beater distance from the head. Is that it? or is there something else that can be adjusted? Obviously footboard height would be another with spacers.

[scottevtv]

Ok, so would I need 2 spacers or 1 for double pedal? How much do they cost usually?
I couldn't find any online, but I read on this forum that you have to actually order directly from Axis in U.S. right?
Also, what are the things that you can adjust on the XL-2s?
I know spring tension is one, then there is the beater distance from the head. Is that it? or is there something else that can be adjusted? Obviously footboard height would be another with spacers.

Again, I never used the toe spacers. The pedals always felt great without them. I know some guys use them, but I never tried them. For a double pedal you would need two spacers you could even use two on each side if you wanted.. I don't really see a need for them. On the XL2's you can adjust: Beater height, Beater angle and spring tension. The A line has the VDL and the Sonic hammers and comes with the Heavy duty springs, other than that they are exactly the same.

[meshuggah33]

Again, I never used the toe spacers. The pedals always felt great without them. I know some guys use them, but I never tried them. For a double pedal you would need two spacers you could even use two on each side if you wanted.. I don't really see a need for them. On the XL2's you can adjust: Beater height, Beater angle and spring tension. The A line has the VDL and the Sonic hammers and comes with the Heavy duty springs, other than that they are exactly the same.

Ok, cool. I am probably going to go with XL2s. Are the springs different on 2 pedals?

Also, do XL2s come in Classic Black color? I've been looking on the web, but I can only seem to find them in chrome.

thanks for your help, scottevtv.

[meshuggah33]

Again, I never used the toe spacers. The pedals always felt great without them. I know some guys use them, but I never tried them. For a double pedal you would need two spacers you could even use two on each side if you wanted.. I don't really see a need for them. On the XL2's you can adjust: Beater height, Beater angle and spring tension. The A line has the VDL and the Sonic hammers and comes with the Heavy duty springs, other than that they are exactly the same.

I guess they only sell AL-2 and Axis X single pedal in Classic black. It's ok, chrome was my second choice, lol.

[meshuggah33]

I guess they only sell AL-2 and Axis X single pedal in Classic black. It's ok, chrome was my second choice, lol.

One last question, will the beater go as far as setting it 3 inches away from the head on XL2s?
I am just trying to get all my questions answered before I buy it, given that I won't have a chance to try it first.

thanks

[scottevtv]

You can select any beater angle just like the Pearl Eliminator.

[meshuggah33]

You can select any beater angle just like the Pearl Eliminator.

Hey scottevtv,
Since you are a pedal collector, do you mind doing a tiny review on Sonor GiantStep and Trick pedal?

[scottevtv]

Those are the only two pedals I don't have, lol..

[meshuggah33]

Those are the only two pedals I don't have, lol..

Trick pedal seems like a good solid design; I've heard some good things about it. I don't know anything about Sonor, except that Thomas Lang plays them.

scottevtv, do you mind telling us what your pedal collection consists of?
thanks

[scottevtv]

The Trick pedals are nice. They are very expensive though. I have never tried one yet. I have Axis pedals, IC, Pearl Eliminator, FG direct drive, and a DW 5000 double. I use to have the 9002's but I sold them..

[meshuggah33]

The Trick pedals are nice. They are very expensive though. I have never tried one yet. I have Axis pedals, IC, Pearl Eliminator, FG direct drive, and a DW 5000 double. I use to have the 9002's but I sold them..

They are expensive. This video gives a good idea of what Trick is like: http://youtube.com/watch?v=mxUoNtLOlLk

The big foot version of Trick reminds of the Longboards of Axis. Apparently the weakest link of the pedal is its beaters.
I think Trick is going to give Axis a good competition. Seems like a killer pedal.

[pasta]

I just bought a Trick Big foot. I was able to try Axis A Longboard and X and compare with the Trick (I spent about two hours). If I'd purchased the Axis, I would have gone with the A--I liked the extra adjustability and they felt faster and smoother so when spending this exorbitant amount I'd want to get what feels the best. Next to the Trick though, for me, the Axis just didn't compare. Have you tried a Pacific B.O.A.? They are very interesting, too. Keep your eyes peeled on Ebay. There, quite frequently, are Axis used pedals.
HTHS