3 Best Electronic Drum Sets Beginners Will Love
Are you ready to embark on an electrifying drumming adventure? Did you know that electronic drum sales have skyrocketed by 30% since 2020? It’s no wonder as these digital dynamos offer an incredible way to learn, practice, and perform without driving your neighbors crazy. As a beginner, choosing the right electronic drum set can feel overwhelming, but fear not! I’ve been in your shoes, and I’m here to guide you through the rhythmic jungle of options. Let’s dive into the best electronic drum sets beginners should consider and find the perfect set to kickstart your musical journey!
What Are Electronic Drum Sets?
Alright, let’s dive into the world of electronic drum sets! I’ve been tinkering with these bad boys for years now and they have they come a long way.
So, what exactly are electronic drum sets? Well, they’re basically the cool, tech-savvy cousins of traditional acoustic drums. Instead of hollow shells that resonate when you hit ’em, e-drums use rubber or mesh pads that are way quieter. These pads are hooked up to a electronic drum module, which are also sometimes called drum brains. When you smack a pad, it sends a signal to the module, which then plays back a pre-recorded drum sound at a certainly volume depending on the velocity of the stroke. Pretty nifty, right?
The basic components of an e-drum kit usually include a snare pad, a few tom pads, a kick drum pad, a hi-hat pad, and a couple of cymbal pads. Oh, and don’t forget that all-important drum module I mentioned earlier. Some kits even come with a rack to hold everything together, which makes setup a breeze compared to acoustic kits.
Now, I remember when I first switched from my old beat-up acoustic kit to an electronic one. It was… an adjustment, to say the least. The feel is definitely different. With acoustic drums, you’re dealing with the natural rebound of the drumhead, while e-drums can sometimes feel a bit, well, dead in comparison. But here’s the thing – technology has improved so much that high-end e-kits now have mesh heads that feel surprisingly close to the real deal.
One massive advantage of e-drums? Volume control, baby! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had neighbors banging on my door complaining about my late-night practice sessions with my acoustic kit. With e-drums, I just plug in my headphones and drum away to my heart’s content, even at 2 AM. No more angry neighbors!
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. E-drums do have their drawbacks. For one, they need power to work. And while the sounds have gotten incredibly realistic, purists might argue that they still don’t quite capture the full nuance and character of acoustic drums.
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane, shall we? Electronic drums have been around longer than you might think. The first commercially available electronic drum kit hit the scene way back in 1976 – the Syndrum from Pollard Industries. But it was the 1980s when things really started to take off. Remember those iconic gated reverb drum sounds in Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight”? Yep, that was partly thanks to electronic drums.
Over the years, e-drums have evolved from clunky, unrealistic-sounding novelties to sophisticated instruments that can hold their own against traditional kits. The introduction of mesh heads in the late ’90s was a game-changer, making the playing experience much more natural.
These days, top-of-the-line e-kits can do some pretty mind-blowing stuff. We’re talking about hundreds of built-in sounds (which can be expanded to thousands via MIDI), the ability to load your own samples, and even recreating the subtle nuances of acoustic drums like shell resonance and cymbal swell. It’s crazy how far we’ve come!
But you know what? Despite all the bells and whistles, at the end of the day, it’s still about the music. Whether you’re rocking an acoustic kit, an e-kit, or heck, even a bunch of overturned buckets, what matters most is the groove you lay down and the joy you get from playing. That’s something that’ll never change, no matter how much technology advances.
Benefits of Electronic Drum Sets
Let me tell you, electronic drum sets have been a game-changer for me and countless other drummers I know. They take up less space and are a valuable practice tool. You can use headphones to play any time, or you can also hook up an external speaker for those occasions you want others in the room to be able to hear you too.
But here’s the thing – it’s not just about being quiet. E-kits give you incredible control over your sound, as you can adjust the volume of each individual drum and cymbal. It’s like having a sound engineer at your fingertips!
Now, let’s chat about recording. This is where I really fell in love with my e-kit. Back in the day, recording acoustic drums was a nightmare – mics everywhere, sound bleed, the whole shebang. With an e-kit, you just plug it into your computer and boom – studio-quality drum tracks. I’ve even done some session work thanks to this feature. It’s opened up a whole new world of opportunities. Admittedly, it’s probably not a good choice if you are recording jazz as a lot of the dynamics and nuances in your playing doesn’t really get translated so well (yet). But for rock and metal, it’s awesome!
Portability is another huge plus. Even with a rack system for mounting, it’s much easier to move an electric kit around, and you should be able to fit it all in any car. Not to mention, it’s easier to carry up stairs compared to any acoustic drums.
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. There was definitely a learning curve when I first started with e-drums. The feel is different from acoustic drums, and it took some time to adjust. (In fact, I think playing an acoustic kit vs an electric kit requires a slightly different skill set, despite the mechanics of the movements being the same). I also had to learn how to tweak the sensitivity settings to get the response I wanted.
If you’re on the fence about getting an electronic kit, my advice would be to go for it. Start with a mid-range kit if you can – something like the Roland TD-07KV or Yamaha DTX6K-X. These offer a good balance of features and quality without breaking the bank. And don’t forget to invest in a good pair of headphones or in-ear monitors. Trust me, it makes all the difference in the world.
At the end of the day, whether you’re a beginner looking for a quiet way to practice, or a pro needing a versatile kit for gigs and recording, an e-kit can be a fantastic tool. Just remember – like any instrument, it’s not about the gear, it’s about the music you make with it. Now go make some noise… or don’t, if you’re using headphones! 🎧🤪
Top Electronic Drum Sets for Beginners
Let’s talk budget-friendly options. There are some seriously awesome options out there that won’t break the bank. Now, when you’re looking at starter kits, there are a few key features you’ll wanna keep an eye out for. Having a mesh head on at least the snare drum is great if you get a Roland, or the silicone DTX pads if you get a Yamaha. They’re quieter than the rubber pads and feel better too which is important considering you’ll be hitting the snare much more often than the toms.
Another biggie is the number of pieces in the kit. Most beginner sets come with a snare, three toms, a kick drum, hi-hat, and a couple of cymbals. That’s plenty to get you started. Oh, and make sure the kit comes with a decent drum module. That’s the brain of your e-kit, and it determines what kind of sounds you’ll get. If it has a MIDI out feature via either MIDI or USB cable this will be great to expand the number of sounds later on.
Alesis Nitro Max
So, what about specific recommendations? Well, if you’re on a super tight budget, the Alesis Nitro Max is a solid choice. It’s got all the basics and mesh heads to boot.
Yamaha DTX402K
Moving up a notch, the Yamaha DTX402K is fantastic. It’s a bit pricier, but Yamaha’s build quality is top-notch.
Roland TD-1DMK
If you can stretch your budget a bit more, the Roland TD-1DMK is absolutely killer. It’s typically around $700, but man, the feel of those mesh heads and the quality of the sounds are worth every penny.
Oh, and one more thing – headphones! You’re gonna want a decent pair to really appreciate the sounds of your new kit. Earbuds are OK, but over the ear headphones will give you a much more immersive experience. You don’t need to go crazy expensive, but something in the $50-100 range will make a world of difference.
Remember, the most important thing is to just start playing. Don’t get too hung up on having the perfect kit right away. Even a basic set will let you develop your skills and have a blast doing it. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next Neil Peart or Dave Grohl!
So there you have it – my two cents on getting started with electronic drums. It’s an awesome journey, and I’m stoked for you to get started. Happy drumming, and don’t forget to have fun with it!
Setting Up Your Electronic Drum Set
First things first, assembly. Check out Google for some images of the exact model electric kit you have to show you what it is supposed to look like according to the manufacturer – you can always tweak things later. Then, grab that instruction manual – I know, I know, real drummers don’t need instructions, right? Wrong! Trust me, it’ll save you a headache later. Start with the rack or stands. Most kits these days come with a sturdy metal drum rack that looks like a jungle gym for your drums. Take your time getting this part right. Make sure all the clamps are tight, but not so tight you’ll need the jaws of Life to adjust them later.
Next up, mounting the pads. This is where the fun begins! Start with your snare and kick drum – these are the foundation of your kit. Then add your toms, working from low to high. Don’t forget to leave space for your cymbals. Oh, and pro tip: use a drum key to tighten those pad clamps. Your thumbs will thank you later.
Now, let’s talk ergonomics. This is super important, folks. You want to be comfortable when you’re laying down those sick beats. Position your snare so it’s just above your knees when you’re sitting down. Your rack toms should be angled slightly towards you, kinda like they’re giving you a hug. Floor toms? Keep ’em low and to the side, just like on an acoustic kit.
Cymbals are next. Your crash should be easy to reach without stretching, and your ride cymbal should be just over your floor tom. The hi-hat’s a bit tricky – you want it close enough to your snare that you can play both comfortably. I’d aim to keep the crash cymbals no more than head height, so that they are within reach and you won’t get fatigued.
Alright, we’ve got everything in place. Time to plug in! Most e-kits have a central module where all the pads connect. It’s like the brain of your kit. Make sure each cable is securely plugged in – nothing kills the vibe faster than a pad cutting out mid-solo. Each module has got labels on the back, so you know where each cable needs to go.
Roland PM-100
Now, let’s talk about sound. If you’re playing through an amp, make sure it’s designed for electronic drums, like the Roland PM-100. (Guitar speaker cabinets won’t cut it, as they don’t have the full range frequency response you need, so don’t use those or else you could damage them). If you’re using headphones (your neighbors will love you for this), get a good pair designed for drummers. They’ll give you better sound and protect your hearing.
Finally, let’s set up your practice space. You want somewhere comfortable where you can really let loose. A converted corner of your garage? The spare bedroom? Put down a drum rug under your kit to dampen vibrations and keep your pedals from sliding around. Good lighting is key – you don’t want to be squinting at your module in the dark. And if you can, set up a mirror next to you. I know it sounds weird, but being able to watch yourself play can really help improve your technique.
One last thing – don’t forget to have fun! Your e-kit is a tool for creativity, so once you’ve got it all set up, take some time to explore all the sounds and features.
Setting up an electronic drum kit might seem daunting at first, but take it step by step, and you’ll be rocking out in no time. And remember, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to adjust it. Your kit should work for you, not the other way around. Now get out there and make some noise! Well, figuratively speaking – that’s the beauty of e-kits, right?
Maintaining Your Electronic Drum Kit
Let’s chat about keeping your electronic drum kit in tip-top shape. First up, cleaning. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “It’s electronic, how dirty can it get?” Trust me, you’d be surprised!
So here’s the deal: give your kit a good once-over with a soft, dry cloth at least once a month. Pay extra attention to the mesh heads if you’ve got ’em – they’re like dust magnets. For tougher grime, a slightly damp cloth will do the trick, but be careful not to get any water near the electronic bits.
If you’re not going to be playing for a while, just chuck a sheet over the top of the whole kit to keep the dust off it. Easy done!
Now, let’s talk troubleshooting. The most common issue I’ve run into is wonky trigger sensitivity. You know, when you tap the drum gently and it sounds like you’ve hit it with Thor’s hammer? Yeah, that. Usually, this can be fixed by tweaking the sensitivity settings in your module. But if that doesn’t work, check your cables. Loose connections can cause all sorts of weird behavior.
Speaking of cables, they’re often the culprit when a pad suddenly goes silent. Before you panic and think your triggers have kicked the bucket, double-check those connections.
Another common headache is ghost notes – you know, when your kit triggers sounds even when you’re not playing. This is often caused by vibrations from other pads. The fix? Adjust your threshold settings or tweak your pad positions. And if you’re using a kick tower, make sure it’s on a solid surface.
Now, when should you start thinking about replacing parts? Well, it depends on how hard you play and how often. Mesh heads can last for quite a while, usually longer the more layers they have – try to get a double or triple ply. Rubber pads tend to last much longer than mesh heads before experiencing triggering issues. Keep an ear out for any changes in sound quality or responsiveness. If your pads start feeling less sensitive or produce weird sounds, it might be time for a replacement.
Cymbals usually last a good long while, but if you start noticing dead spots or inconsistent triggering, it could be time for an upgrade. And don’t forget about your pedals! The springs and bearings can wear out over time. If your pedal starts feeling sluggish or makes more noise than usual, it might be crying out for some TLC (get the dust off them, and lube the bearings with some oil).
One last thing – don’t neglect your module! Keep it updated with the latest firmware. New sounds and better responsiveness could be just around the corner!
Remember, a little bit of regular maintenance goes a long way. Treat your e-kit right, and it’ll be your faithful drumming companion for years to come. And hey, even if something does go wrong, don’t sweat it too much. Troubleshooting is all part of the journey, and you might just learn something new about your kit in the process. Now go make some noise – er, I mean, music!
Enhancing Your E-Drumming Experience
Alright, drum enthusiasts, let’s dive into the world of enhancing your e-drumming experience! Let’s kick things off with compatible software and apps. The right software can take your playing to a whole new level.
Apps like EZdrummer and Superior Drummer are like having a professional sound engineer in your pocket. The samples are so realistic, I sometimes forget I’m playing an e-kit! And don’t even get me started on the MIDI grooves – they’re a lifesaver when you’re stuck in a creative rut. These apps need your drum module to be connected to your computer via USB (or into an audio interface via MIDI cable).
Now, let’s talk about expanding your kit. Adding extra pads or cymbals is usually possible if your module has the capability, but check your module’s inputs before you go on a shopping spree.
Another thing I have done is use a y-cable to split the signal, which allowed me to plug two pads into the same input on the module. This usually means those pads can only be “single zone” triggers and will only play one sound, but that’s OK.
When you’re ready to expand, start with the basics. An extra crash cymbal or a ride with a bell trigger can make a world of difference. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, try adding a percussion pad to add in congas, tambourines and cowbells. It’s like having a whole percussion section at your fingertips!
Lastly, let’s geek out about using electronic drums with DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) for recording. This, my friends, is where the magic really happens.
Recording with a DAW opens up a whole new world of possibilities. You can quantize your beats to tighten up your timing. You can layer different drum sounds, experiment with effects, and even mix your drums with other instruments when song writing.
But it can get complicated quickly. My advice? Start simple. Begin by just recording a basic beat and get comfortable with the process. Then, gradually start exploring all those shiny features.
One trick I’ve learned is to record your MIDI performance, but also record the audio output from your module at the same time. This gives you the flexibility to use the MIDI data to trigger virtual instruments in your DAW, but you also have the original sounds as a backup to “reamp” your performance later on (if your module had MIDI in and out for example).
Enhancing your e-drumming experience is all about exploring and finding what works for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and most importantly, have fun! Whether you’re diving into new software, expanding your kit, or venturing into the world of recording, each step is an opportunity to grow as a drummer. Now go make some noise – or in this case, make some seriously awesome electronic beats!
Congratulations! You’re now armed with all the knowledge you need to choose the perfect electronic drum set and start your rhythmic journey. Remember, the best drum set is the one that inspires you to play every day. Whether you’re dreaming of rocking out on stage or just want to groove in your bedroom, electronic drums offer an accessible, versatile, and neighbor-friendly way to express your musical passion.
