Help. Simmons Titan 90 Hi-Hat + volume

I just bought a Titan 90, upgraded from the Titan 50 and there's definitely a lot to get used to. My biggest frustration so far is with the hi-hat, which I had to buy a separate stand for. I don't know if the trigger zones are an issue or what, but this thing is so complicated. It's a lot more than closed hi-hat with the pedal down and open with the pedal up. I still get open hi-hat sounds even when the pedal is 100% closed. Also, I feel like my snare and kick drums aren't anywhere near as loud as they should be. Any help is greatly appreciated because I really want to enjoy this kit but all it's been so far is aggravating.