Best Drum Sets For Beginners
Are you ready to embark on your drumming journey but don’t know where to start? You’re in the right place! Did you know that learning to play the drums can improve coordination, reduce stress, and even boost your IQ? However, finding the right drum set as a beginner can be overwhelming. So in this guide, we’ll explore the best drum sets for beginners, helping you find the perfect kit.
Understanding Drum Set Basics
Alright, let’s dive into the world of drums! I remember when I first started playing, I was totally clueless about what all those different pieces were called or what they did. Talk about a learning curve!
So, what makes up a standard drum set? Well, first off – the bass drum (that big one you hit with a pedal), the snare drum (the one that makes that crisp, sharp sound), and usually two or three tom-toms which are usually mounted above the bass drum, and to the side(s) of the snare drum.
Then you’ve got your cymbals – typically a pair of hi-hats, a crash cymbal or two, and a ride cymbal. Oh, and don’t forget the drum throne! That’s just a fancy name for the stool you sit on. But also because the drummer is the boss, hey? 🤪
Now, here’s where it gets interesting: acoustic vs. electronic drums. Acoustic drums are the traditional kind – they’re loud, they’re expressive, and they feel amazing to play. There’s nothing quite like FEELING the air you are moving in those big cylinders… but they may not suit your situation if noise is going to be a problem. That’s where electronic drums come in handy.
Electronic drums are great for beginners because you can practice with headphones on. No angry neighbors banging on your door at 11 PM! Plus, they usually come with a built-in metronome and allow you to connect an external audio source, so you can play along to songs on your phone! This is super helpful when you’re just starting out. The downside? They don’t quite have the same feel as acoustic drums, and some purists argue that they don’t help you develop proper technique. But ultimately, being able to play on SOMETHING is better than nothing!
When it comes to choosing your first drum set, there’s a bunch of stuff to think about. First off, consider your budget. Drum sets can range from a couple hundred bucks to thousands of dollars (even tens of thousands if you want a customized one). But as a beginner, you don’t need to break the bank. Remember the old saying: buy nice or buy twice.
Space is another big factor. If you’re tight on space, a compact or electronic kit might be your best bet compared to a full sized acoustic kit. This is because most affordable electric kits have 8″ to 12″ pads which makes for a tighter setup.
Think about your goals, too. Are you just looking to noodle around for fun, or do you have dreams of playing in a band someday? This can help you decide whether to invest in a more professional-grade set or stick with something basic to start and upgrade later.
Lastly, consider the style of music you want to play. Different genres often use slightly different drum configurations. For example, jazz drummers might prefer a smaller kit with smaller drum sizes, while rock drummers typically go for larger diameter drum setups with more toms and cymbals.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to get a kit that makes you excited to sit down and play. Whether it’s acoustic or electronic, big or small, as long as it gets you practicing and having fun, that’s what matters most. Just be prepared for a lot of trial and error – and maybe invest in some earplugs for your family members!
Which Is The Best Acoustic Drum Set For Beginners?
Alright, let’s talk about acoustic drum sets for beginners! I’ve been teaching drums for years, and I gotta tell you, picking the right set when you’re just starting out can make or break your drumming journey. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen!
So, let’s dive into my top 5 picks for newbie drummers. These are the kits that I’ve seen work wonders for my students, and I’ve even played a few of them myself back in the day.
Sonor AQX Studio Drum Set
First up, we’ve got the Sonor AQX Studio. This bad boy is a solid choice for beginners who want a taste of that professional sound without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Great sound quality for the price
- Comes with drum sticks, a stick bag, and a polishing cloth
- Patented Tunesafe feature built into the lugs to keep it in tune for longer
Cons:
- No cymbals included (so you’ll have to pick those up separately)
Value for money: I love the tunesafe feature from this brand!
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch Drum Set
Next up is the Yamaha Stage Custom Birch Drum Set. Yamaha’s been in the game for ages, and they know their stuff when it comes to solid gear – especially the hardware!
Pros:
- Excellent build quality (these things are built to last!)
- Nice, balanced sound across all drums
- Comes in some pretty cool color options
Cons:
- The stock heads aren’t great – you might want to replace them
- It can be a bit pricey compared to some other beginner sets
Value for money: It’s on the higher end for beginners, but the quality justifies the price. You won’t need to upgrade for a long time.
Pearl Roadshow 5-Piece Drum Set
The Pearl Roadshow Drum Kit is a solid choice for beginners. It’s from a reputable brand, comes with everything you need to start playing, and the hardware is pretty sturdy.
Pros:
- Cymbals are included in the price
- Looks professional
Cons:
- The cymbals and throne (seat) are not so crash hot
- I wish the cymbal stands had memory locks
Value for money: Pretty good! You’re getting a name-brand kit for a reasonable price.
Tama Imperialstar
Now, let’s talk about the Tama Imperialstar. Tama has been making drums since 1974 so they’ve got a solid reputation.
Pros:
- Great sound with larger sized bass drum and floor tom
- Meinl cymbals included (that’s rare for a beginner set!)
Cons:
- The tom sizes are a bit bigger than the other kits I’ve mentioned
- The bass drum can be a bit overpowering in small rooms
Value for money: Great brand reputation and larger drum sizes if that’s the sound you are looking for.
Mapex Venus
Last but not least, we’ve got the Mapex Venus Drum Set. Another solid contender!
Pros:
- 9 ply Poplar shells
- Versatile – good for multiple genres
Cons:
- No memory locks on the cymbal stands
- Doesn’t come with cymbals (you’ll need to buy those separately)
Value for money: Affordable price, but cymbals will be extra.
So there you have it! My top acoustic drum sets for beginners. Remember, the best drum set for you is the one that makes you want to sit down and play. Don’t get too hung up on brands or specs – focus on finding a kit that feels good and sounds good to you.
Pro Tip: No matter which set you choose, budget for some decent drumheads and maybe a cymbal upgrade down the line. It’ll make a world of difference!
Best Electronic Drum Set For Beginners
Electric drums have come a long way since I started playing and are now some of the best drum sets for beginners. They’re great for quiet practice and early exposure to playing along to a metronome which is a valuable practice tool. Let’s dive into the world of electronic drum kits, shall we?
Alesis Nitro Max
First off, let’s talk about some of the top electronic drum sets for newbies. The Alesis Nitro Max kit is a real game-changer, as it’s one of the cheaper options that uses mesh drum heads. It’s got a module with 385 sounds, 60 play-along tracks, and a built-in metronome. Plus, it’s super affordable, usually around $400.
Roland TD-1DMK
Another great option is the Roland TD-1DMK. Roland’s been in the e-drum game forever, and it shows. This kit’s got a fantastic feel, thanks to its dual-ply mesh heads. It’s a bit pricier, usually around $700, but the quality is top-notch.
Yamaha DTX402K
For those on a tighter budget, the Yamaha DTX402K is a solid choice. It’s got rubber pads instead of mesh, which isn’t quite as nice to play on, but it’s got a ton of features for learning.
Now, let’s talk about why electronic drums are so awesome for beginners. First off, volume control! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had students quit because their parents or neighbors couldn’t handle the noise. With e-drums, you can practice with headphones at 2 AM if you want to!
Another huge benefit is the built-in learning tools. Most e-drum modules come with play-along tracks, recording functions, and metronomes. It’s like having a practice buddy available 24/7! I wish I had these tools when I was starting out – it would’ve saved me a lot of frustration. They usually support an external audio source, so you can plug in your phone and play along to your drumming playlist!
Oh, and let’s not forget about the variety of sounds. With acoustic drums, you’re pretty much locked in with one sound unless you want to spend hours tuning or changing heads. But with e-drums, you can switch from a rock kit to a jazz kit to a latin percussion setup with the push of a button. It’s amazing for exploring different styles quickly and keeping practice interesting.
Best Mid-Range Electronic Drum Kit
Roland TD-07KV
When it comes to features and prices, there’s a pretty wide range out there. Mid-range options like the Roland TD-07KV (around $1000) offer more realistic playing experiences, better sound modules, and more durable construction. These are great if you’re sure drumming is going to be a long-term hobby.
Yamaha DTX6K-X
The Yamaha DTX6K-X electric drum kit offers drummers a highly realistic playing experience with its TCS (Textured Cellular Silicone) pads, which closely mimic the feel of acoustic drums. I actually like the silicone pads more than mesh ones.
This kit features a three-zone snare and ride cymbal, along with a real hi-hat stand, providing nuanced expression and authentic control. Powered by the DTX-PRO module, the kit boasts over 700 built-in sounds, 40 preset kits, and space for 200 user kits, offering extensive tonal variety and customization options.
With its USB audio/MIDI interface, the DTX6K-X seamlessly integrates with recording setups, making it a versatile choice for practice, performance, and studio work.
Best Electronic Drum Set For Professionals
Roland TD-27KV2
At the high end, you’ve got kits like the Roland TD-27KV2, which can run up to $3500 or more. These offer incredibly realistic playing experiences, tons of sounds and features, and top-notch build quality.
Roland TD-50K2
Are you looking for the best of the best of electric kits? Few would argue that the Roland TD-50K2 is anything but.
With this kit, Roland is pushing the status quo of electric drums, by introducing the first digital snare drum (PD-140DS) and digital ride cymbal (CY-18DR), delivering an unprecedented level of expressiveness and realism.
These advanced components utilize high-resolution sensing technology to capture the subtlest nuances of playing technique and position.
These digital components significantly contribute to closing the gap between electronic and acoustic drumming experiences, making the TD-50K2 an excellent choice for drummers seeking the utmost in playability and sound quality in an electronic kit.
One thing to keep in mind: don’t get too caught up in the number of pads or fancy features. What really matters is the quality of the playing surface and the sound module. I’ve seen plenty of students get frustrated with cheap kits that have tons of pads but feel terrible to play.
In my experience, a good sweet spot for beginners is around $600-$999. This’ll get you a kit with decent mesh heads, a good variety of sounds, and enough features to keep you learning and growing for years.
Pro Tip: If you want to “future proof” your purchase a bit, look for kits with drum modules which support MIDI out, either via a MIDI cable or by USB. This will allow you to plug the module into a computer and load up some external drum software which can expand the available sounds (as opposed to just using what’s on the module itself).
Remember, the best drum kit is the one that makes you want to practice! So if possible, try out a few different models before you buy. And don’t forget to budget for a good pair of headphones – they can make a world of difference in your playing experience!
Drum Set Sizes: Which is Right for You?
Figuring out the right drum set size can be a real head-scratcher. When I first started banging on the skins, I had no clue what all those numbers meant. 4-piece, 5-piece, 6-piece… it was like trying to decipher some secret drummer code!
So, let’s break it down. A 5-piece kit is your basic setup – you’ve got your snare, bass drum, and three toms. This was my first love, and lemme tell you, it taught me a lot. It’s perfect for beginners or if you’re tight on space. I remember cramming my first kit into the corner of my bedroom. My neighbors weren’t all thrilled, but hey, you gotta start somewhere, right?
If you’re feeling fancy, there’s the 6-piece and beyond. These kits add even more toms, maybe a second bass drum if you’re feeling wild. But here’s the thing – more isn’t always better. Massive kits are great fun, but not so much if you have to move them around all the time.
Honestly though, I tend to leave most of my drums at home these days. If I’ve got a jazz gig, it usually only calls for a bass drum, snare, and two toms. So I end up playing this 4-piece more often than not. Here’s one such setup I used when feeling particularly lazy:
So, how do you choose? First off, think about your space. If you’re practicing in a shoebox, a compact 4-piece might be your best bet. But if you’ve got room to spread out, why not go bigger?
Your goals matter too. Are you just noodling around for fun? A simple setup will do ya. But if you’re dreaming of playing in a prog rock band, you might want more options at your fingertips.
Pro Tip: Start small and expand later. Most drum sets are expandable, so you can always add pieces as you grow. Or even get multiple kits and combine them! This one I called the Spaghetti Monster!
Speaking of expandability, it’s like a whole world of possibilities. You can add toms, cymbals, even electronic pads if you wanna get real fancy. Just be careful – it’s addictive! I started with a modest 5-piece and somehow ended up with a kit that barely fits in my car.
One thing to keep in mind is that bigger kits can be intimidating. I remember feeling overwhelmed when I first sat behind a 7-piece monster. It was like being in the cockpit of a spaceship! But don’t let that scare you off. If you’ve got the space and the desire, go for it. Just remember, it’s not the size of your kit that matters, it’s how you use it.
Ultimately, the right drum set size is the one that makes you want to sit down and play. Whether that’s a compact 4-piece or a sprawling Mike Portnoy style setup, the most important thing is that it inspires you to make music.
If you’re still unsure, why not head to a music store and try out different size kits? Just, uh, maybe give them a heads up first, and if there’s no sign which says “no drum solos”, then go for it!
Drumming Accessories: The Essentials
Alright, let’s talk about the gear you need to get rockin’ on those drums! When I first started out, I had no clue what accessories I needed. Man, I wish someone had given me a heads up back then.
First things first, you gotta protect those ears, trust me! Invest in some good earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Your future self will thank you, big time.
Now, let’s talk sticks. They’re like extensions of your arms, so finding the right pair is crucial. I remember trying out different sizes and weights, until I found the ones that were just right (which by the way, changes over time). Start with a standard 5A size and experiment from there. And hey, always have a spare pair handy. I’ve had sticks fly out of my hands mid-song more times than I’d like to admit!
When it comes to cymbals, don’t go breaking the bank right away. A basic hi-hat and crash-ride combo will do you just fine to start. Look for beginner-friendly options from brands like Meinl, Zildjian or Sabian. They’ve got some great starter packs that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
As for hardware, a sturdy throne (that’s fancy drummer-speak for a seat) is a must. Your back will thank you later. You need one with 3 or 4 legs which is comfortable to sit on for long periods. Good double-braced cymbal stands and hi-hat stand are also essential. They’ll keep your cymbals from taking a nosedive mid-performance.
Now, here’s where the fun really begins – practice tools! A metronome is your new best friend. It’ll help you nail that timing and develop a rock-solid internal clock. There’s also these nifty things called practice pads. They’re quieter than actual drums, so you can practice your rudiments without driving your family or neighbors crazy.
Oh, and don’t forget a drum key (or 10, as they can get lost easily)! It’s this little tool that helps you tune your drums and adjust hardware. It’s always a good thing to have a bunch in your stick bag.
One last thing – get yourself a good drum bags or cases. It’ll protect your gear when you’re hauling it around.
Remember, you don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials and build your collection as you go. It’s all about finding what works for you and your style. And hey, half the fun is in the journey of discovering new gear!
Pro Tip: If you’re playing gigs regularly, put a spare drum key in the glovebox of your car, and also chuck in a pair of sticks and a snare drum head. These three things are great to have on hand when you need them!
So there you have it – my two cents on essential accessories for new drummers. Now get out there and make some noise! Just, uh, maybe warn the neighbors first.
Caring for Your First Drum Set
Giving your drums some TLC every now and again can go a long way. So first up, let’s talk about keeping those bad boys clean.
Dust is your enemy, folks. It leads to rust and prevention is better than cure! A quick wipe down with a soft, dry cloth after each session goes a long way. For tougher grime, I’d use something like Groove Juice Shell Shine to protect the finish on the shells and leave them sparkling!
If you won’t get a chance to play for a week or two, just throw a sheet over the whole kit. Simple. But effective.
You’ll need to tune your drums every now and again, with which there is a secret: patience and practice. Start by getting all the lugs finger-tight, then use your drum key to tighten each one in a star pattern. Small adjustments are key – like, half turns max, then start the same star pattern again. And don’t be afraid to use your ears! Play the drum as you’re tuning and listen for that sweet spot.
Speaking of drum keys, always keep some handy. Realizing you left them at home can lead to a facepalm moment!
Let’s chat about those heads for a sec. They’re gonna wear out eventually, no matter how gentle you are. I used to try and squeeze every last beat out of mine, but trust me, changing them regularly makes a world of difference. A fresh drum skin can make even a cheap drum sound like a million bucks. Plus, it’s way more fun to play on responsive heads than ones that feel like you’re hitting a wet paper bag.
When it comes to storage, think of shade and cool and dry. Extreme temperatures and humidity are not your drum set’s friends. If you can, keep ’em in cases or at least throw a sheet over them to keep the dust off.
Transportation is another beast entirely. If you’re gigging (or just moving your kit around), invest in some good cases or bags. Hard cases are best, but they can be pricey. Padded bags are a decent alternative. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your drums snugly, and will fit in your car.
Taking care of your drums might seem like a chore, but trust me, it’s worth it. A well-maintained kit not only sounds better but also lasts way longer. Plus, there’s something kinda zen about the whole process. It’s like you’re bonding with your instrument, you know?
So there you have it – my crash course in drum care. Now go forth and make some noise!
Learning Resources for Beginner Drummers
When I first started I learned at school for many years before taking private drum kit lessons. I also remember buying drum tapes and slowing them down frame by frame to see what the drummer was doing. But these days, there are far more resources available.
First up, online tutorials. These things are a godsend, I’m telling ya. YouTube is the obvious choice to find covers and free lessons. Channels like Drumeo and Mike Johnston’s were my go-to. They’ve got everything from basic beat tutorials to advanced techniques.
Your favourite drummer likely has a course or community if you check out their website. Otherwise Udemy offers some other alternatives. These courses usually cost a bit, but they’re worth every penny if you’re serious about learning.
There’s heaps of books you can work your way through as well, such as “Stick Control” by George Lawrence Stone. Another one I love is “The Drummer’s Complete Vocabulary” by Alan Dawson. It’s got some killer exercises that’ll really help you develop your chops.
For video series, you can’t go wrong with the “Drumeo Method”. It’s like a full curriculum for drums, starting from absolute beginner to advanced stuff. I wish I’d had this when I was starting out! It would have saved me a lot of time figuring things out on my own.
If you get the chance to take drum lessons in person though, this is the best! There’s nothing quite like having someone watch you play and give you real-time feedback. They caught things I never would’ve noticed on my own. Plus, lessons in person enable you to learn more quickly.
The best part about lessons is the personalized approach. A good teacher will tailor the lessons to your goals and learning style. Want to play in a rock band? They’ll focus on that. More into jazz? They’ve can do that too. Plus, having regular lessons keeps you accountable. No more slacking off on practice when you know you’ve got a lesson coming up!
One thing I’ve learned is that it’s all about consistency. Whether you’re using online resources, books, or taking lessons, the key is to practice regularly. Even just 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference. I used to think I needed to practice for hours to get better, but that’s not true at all. Consistent, focused practice beats long, irregular sessions any day.
Oh, and don’t forget about play-along tracks! These were a lifesaver for me when I was learning. It’s one thing to practice on your own, but playing along with actual music? That’s where the real fun begins. Plus, it helps you develop your timing and feel, which are crucial for any drummer.
Remember, everyone learns differently. What worked for me might not work for you, and that’s okay. The important thing is to find resources that keep you motivated and excited to play. Drumming should be fun, after all!
So there you have it, my two cents on learning resources for beginner drummers. Now get out there and start making some noise! Just maybe warn your neighbors first, yeah?
Choosing the best drum set as a beginner is an exciting step in your musical journey. Whether you opt for an acoustic powerhouse or a space-saving electronic kit, the most important thing is to start playing and have fun!
Remember, every legendary drummer started as a beginner too. With the right drum set and a bit of practice, you’ll be laying down killer beats in no time. So what are you waiting for? Grab those sticks, sit behind your new kit, and let the rhythm flow through you. Your drumming adventure starts now!
