the nov issue of modern drummer discusses setup tips / ergo for the drum set.... seat height analysis for some drummers -- bob gatzen, will calhoun, cindy blackman, stanton moore, bill brufford.
They say the setup arrangement depends on the type of music these drummers create and their playing style and technique (trad,matched, etc...).
they also suggest to spend time and experiment with your setup considering the following principles -- path of least resistance (everything should be placed within arms length), economy of motion and resistance to movement (lesser movements).
The study they made gave some tips:
- regardless of style and kit setup, resist leaning forward into the drums
- angle of back relative to thighs should not go below 90 degrees
- angle of thigh and shin should not be under 90 degrees as well
Sabi din dito na dati daw si bob gatzen eh very low yung seat.. ayaw daw nya palitan kasi naging habit daw nya.. pero nung sinubukan daw nya itaas ng 1 inch ung upuan nya, ang laki daw ng naging diperensya -- mas madali nya daw nagagawa yung iba nyang ginagawa, mas tumatagal daw sya sa tugtugan and mas konti daw ung soreness na nararanasan nya after...
hth...