I prefer single bass setup myself. I love hearing and appreciate double bass playing (ala Michael Giles, Neil Peart, Ginger Baker, Carl Palmer, Jon Hiseman, the list goes on...)

I can play using the DB setup but it's just not for me, heck Ringo Starr even experimented w/ a DB setup on the song "Good Morning, Good Morning, tis true!

I might eventually get a double pedal for fills, but for now I like the feel of a single bass kit.

Some drummers could get that double bass drum feel w/ just using one pedal:

John Bonham
Ian Paice
Phil Collins
Nicko McBrain

Those guys are my heroes, but I love having a double pedal. I don't think it's necessary at all for most music, but it's nice to have as an option. To be honest, I would feel naked, rolling out of here without it though.

Agree with double-pedal bass for the option, although the single bass has a cleaner look. Speaking of double-bass, the last time I saw Kansas (2003?), Phil Erhart's double-bass set-up was miked so loud, that it sent pressure waves through my chest. I was setting four rows back from the stage and I like bass, but the basses overpowered all of the other instruments.

John "BONZO" Bonham, Ian Paice.

Nuff' said.