An apparatus and method are provided for maximizing the punch of a bass
kick-drum and simultaneously minimizing the ringing of the drum. An
insert is provided having a cylindrically shaped body adapted to be slid
into a conventional circular opening formed in the resonant membrane of
the drum. The cylindrical insert is held in contact with the resonant
membrane by one of several mounting techniques. The weight of the insert
and the length and diameter of the body of the insert are sized in a
manner to lower the fundamental frequency of the resonant membrane and to
increase the amplitude of the fundamental resonant frequency and to
simultaneously dampen the vibration of the resonant membrane, which three
factors are all part of increased "punch." The ringing of the drum is
minimized by quickly dampening the vibration of the resonant membrane
wherein the increased dampening is caused by the weight and shape of the
insert. A method of optimizing the sound of the drum is provided whereby
the sizing of the insert is adjusted to maximize the punch and minimize
the ring of the resonant membrane.