Top Drum Brands: Best 9 Comparison
Did you know that the global percussion instruments market is expected to reach $2.6 billion in the next 3 years? That’s a whole lot of drumming! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, choosing the right drum brand can make or break your musical journey. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of top drum brands, exploring everything from budget-friendly options to premium kits that’ll make your heart skip a beat (pun intended). So, grab your sticks, and let’s roll into the exciting realm of percussion perfection!
Which Are The Top Drum Brands?
Pearl Drums: The Industry Standard
Pearl’s been in the game since 1946, if you can believe it. That’s older than rock ‘n’ roll itself! They started out in Japan, making music stands of all things. But when they switched to drums, they really hit their stride. By the 1960s, Pearl drums were making waves all over the world.
The Export series has been Pearl’s bread and butter since 1982. It’s like the Ford Mustang of drum kits – classic, reliable, and it just keeps getting better.
Now, let’s talk about some of Pearl’s popular series. The Export series I mentioned? That’s their entry-level kit, but don’t let that fool you. It’s built well and sounds way better than its price tag suggests.
Then there’s the Masters series. Oh boy, these are something special. They’re made with premium maple shells and have this thing called “Superior Shell Technology.” Basically, it means the drums are super resonant and have amazing sustain. I played a Masters kit a few times and have been really impressed.
But if you really want to talk about top-of-the-line, you gotta mention the Reference series. These bad boys are the cream of the crop. Each drum in the kit is made with a specific wood combination to get the perfect sound for its size and purpose. It’s like having a custom kit, but straight off the shelf.
One thing I love about Pearl is how they’re always innovating. Take their ISS mounting system, for example. It’s this cool suspension system that lets the drums resonate more freely. When I first tried it, I was blown away by how much fuller my toms sounded.
For the gigging drummer, the Roadshow series is a real winner. It’s affordable and it’s built to withstand the rigors of the road.
Oh, and I can’t forget about Pearl’s snare drums. The Sensitone series is killer. They make ’em in all sorts of materials – brass, steel, aluminum, you name it. Each one has its own unique voice.
At the end of the day, there’s a reason Pearl is considered the industry standard. Whether you’re a beginner picking up sticks for the first time, or a seasoned pro headlining festivals, Pearl’s got a kit that’ll make you sound your best. And isn’t that what it’s all about? Making great music and having a blast doing it.
DW (Drum Workshop): Premium Quality for Pros
DW, or Drum Workshop, started out as a teaching studio back in 1972. Their journey from a small drum school to a premium drum manufacturer is pretty inspiring. It just goes to show, that when you’re passionate about something, the sky’s the limit.
Now, let’s talk about their innovative drum-making techniques. DW’s not afraid to think outside the box, and it shows in their drums. Take their HVLT (Horizontal/Vertical Low Timbre) shell technology, for example. Basically, they alternate the grain direction of the wood plies in the shell.
Another cool thing DW does is their shell customization. They’ve got this thing called the Collector’s Series where you can mix and match different wood types to create your perfect sound.
DW’s pedals are legendary. There was a time where I couldn’t turn my head and not see drummers using a DW 5000 bass drum pedal. It’s been a crowd favorite for years, and it’s smooth as butter. They’ve got all these little adjustments you can make to get it just right for your playing style, and it comes in a variety of different models.
Now, when it comes to signature artist series, DW really knows how to bring the heat. Check out the kits of the late Neil Peart and Terry Bozzio’s massive setup for example.
For us mere mortals, there’s the Icon series. These kits pay tribute to legendary album covers or artists. I played an Icon snare drum based on Pink Floyd’s “The Wall” once. Not only did it sound killer, but it looked like a piece of art. It’s the kind of drum that makes you want to practice more just so you can stare at it!
When it comes to high-end options for discerning drummers, DW really pulls out all the stops. Their Collector’s Series is where it’s at. These drums are the cream of the crop, with every detail meticulously crafted.
One thing that really sets DW apart is their commitment to customization. With the Collector’s Series, you can choose everything from the shell configuration to the finish. Want a 24″ kick drum with an exotic wood veneer? No problem. Prefer your toms in odd sizes? They’ve got you covered. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, except the candy is really expensive drums.
DW also offers some seriously high-end snare drums. Their brass snares are to die for. I also really like this concrete snare that Thomas Lang played a few years ago.
At the end of the day, DW drums are for those who want the absolute best and are willing to pay for it. They’re not cheap, but as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. And with DW, you’re getting some of the finest drums on the planet.
Whether you’re a pro looking for that perfect studio sound, or a serious hobbyist who wants to invest in a kit that’ll last a lifetime.
Tama: Japanese Precision and Power
I remember playing Tama drums early on in my career – there was an old set of Tama drums at the brass band hall which had fiberglass shells which had a clear attack, powerful low end and a clean tone. And they’re still going strong even after 30 years!
The Imperialstar series is nothing to sneeze at either. It’s Tama’s more budget-friendly option, but they don’t skimp on quality. They’re perfect for beginners who want a solid foundation without breaking the bank. Plus, they can take a beating.
One thing that really sets Tama apart is their hardware. I mean, have you seen their Iron Cobra pedals? These things are built like tanks, and are a very popular pedal choice for many drummers.
Tama’s impact on metal and rock drumming can’t be overstated. Some of the most iconic drummers in the genre have pounded on Tama kits. I’m talking Lars Ulrich, Stewart Copeland, Simon Phillips, Mike Portnoy – the list goes on. There’s a reason these legends chose Tama. The power and precision you get from a Tama kit is unmatched, especially when you’re playing heavier styles.
Ludwig: American Classic with a Rich History
Let’s start with the vintage kits. Ringo Starr famously played a Ludwig kit with The Beatles, and that sound defined an era.
Now, Ludwig hasn’t just been resting on its laurels. They’ve taken what made those vintage kits special and brought it into the modern age. Take the Legacy Mahogany series, for example. It’s like they bottled the essence of those classic kits and added a dash of modern engineering. The result? A drum set that sounds like it’s straight out of Abbey Road Studios, but with the reliability and consistency drummers need today.
Speaking of shaping popular music, Ludwig’s fingerprints are all over the place. From John Bonham’s thunderous beats in Led Zeppelin to the tight grooves of Questlove with The Roots, Ludwig drums have been the backbone of countless hits.
But Ludwig isn’t just about high-end, professional kits. They’ve got some great options for beginners too. The Accent Drive series is a perfect example. It’s affordable, but it doesn’t skimp on quality.
One thing I love about Ludwig is their commitment to innovation while respecting their heritage. Take their Atlas mounting system, for instance. It’s a clever design that allows for maximum resonance while keeping everything stable.
For the more experienced players, the Classic Maple or Legacy series are hard to beat. They’re a bit pricier, but the sound quality and craftsmanship are top-notch. Plus, there’s something special about playing a kit from a company with such a rich history in music.
At the end of the day, what makes Ludwig special isn’t just the quality of their drums – it’s the stories behind them. It’s like being part of a legacy, you know? Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for decades, there’s a Ludwig kit out there that’ll inspire you to create your own musical story.
Gretsch: Vintage Charm Meets Modern Innovation
Gretsch drums have been a staple in jazz circles for decades, and for good reason. The warmth and resonance you get from a Gretsch kit is perfect for those subtle, nuanced jazz grooves.
But don’t think Gretsch is just for jazz cats. These drums can rock with the best of them. I’ve seen some killer rock performances where Gretsch kits were front and center, holding their own against wailing guitars and thumping basses. The versatility of these drums is seriously impressive.
Now, let’s talk about those unique shell compositions. Gretsch has always marched to the beat of their own drum (pun intended) when it comes to shell construction. Their signature 6-ply maple shells with silver sealer interior have a very distinct look.
One thing that sets Gretsch apart is their use of die-cast hoops on many models. These hoops give you this focused, almost pre-EQ’d sound that’s become a hallmark of the Gretsch tone.
Speaking of Gretsch’s signature sound, there’s something almost magical about it. It’s hard to put into words, but there’s a certain ’roundness’ to the tone that’s uniquely Gretsch. The toms have this beautiful, singing quality that makes even simple fills sound musical.
One of the coolest things about Gretsch is how they’ve managed to keep that vintage mojo while embracing modern innovation. Take their Brooklyn series, for instance. It’s like they’ve taken all the best elements of their classic kits and refined them for the modern drummer. The result is a kit that sounds vintage but performs like a cutting-edge instrument.
If you’re in the market for a new kit, and you want something that blends old-school cool with modern reliability, Gretsch should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or anything in between, there’s a Gretsch kit that’ll fit the bill. Whatever it is, Gretsch has managed to create something special – a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern innovation that keeps drummers coming back for more.
Yamaha: Versatility and Reliability
If there’s one brand that’s been a constant throughout my journey, it’s Yamaha. These folks know how to make a drum, no doubt about it. From the first time I sat behind a Yamaha kit in my high school band room to the gigs I play now, Yamaha has always delivered.
One thing that really stands out about Yamaha is their range. They’ve got something for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro.
Let’s talk about the Recording Custom series. The attack, the sustain, the overall tone – it’s all there. These drums were designed with studio recording in mind, and it shows. The birch shells give you this punchy, focused sound that cuts through a mix like a hot knife through butter.
But here’s the thing – you don’t have to be a pro to get your hands on a great Yamaha kit. The Stage Custom series is a prime example. They’re built like tanks, they sound great right out of the box, and they won’t break the bank. Plus, they’ve got this versatility that makes them suitable for pretty much any genre you can think of. Plus the Yamaha hardware is super solid.
Now, let’s geek out about Yamaha’s electronic drum innovations for a sec. These guys have been pushing the envelope in the e-drum world for years. I remember when I got my first DTX kit. It was a game-changer for me, especially for those late-night practice sessions when my neighbors weren’t too keen on acoustic drums.
The thing that really blew me away was how realistic the feel was. Yamaha’s silicon pads have this bounce and response that’s eerily close to acoustic drums. And the sound module? The samples are top-notch, and you’ve got more sounds at your fingertips than you’ll know what to do with.
One piece of advice for anyone looking at Yamaha e-drums: don’t skimp on the module. The higher-end modules give you so much more flexibility in terms of sounds and customization. It’s worth saving up for if you can.
Over the years, I’ve learned that Yamaha drums are like a trusty old friend. They’re always there when you need them, they never let you down, and they’ve got your back whether you’re practicing in your bedroom or playing to a packed house.
If you’re in the market for a new kit, whether acoustic or electronic, Yamaha should definitely be on your radar. For beginners, the Rydeen or Stage Custom series are solid choices.
Intermediate players might want to look at the Tour Custom or Live Custom lines. And if you’re a pro or serious enthusiast, you can’t go wrong with the Recording Custom or PHX series.
Whether you’re laying down grooves in your garage or recording in a top-notch studio, Yamaha’s got a drum set that’ll help you make the music you hear in your head.
Sonor: German Engineering at Its Finest
You know, when I think about Sonor drums, I can’t help but smile. These German-engineered beauties have been a part of my drumming journey for years now, and they never cease to amaze me.
The first time I heard the resonance of the SQ2 snare drum I ordered was a pivotal moment for me. I honestly don’t think I’m going to play anything else. I started with a Sonor Force 3005 kit, then got a Sonor Delite, then a big Sonor SQ2 kit, then another Sonor Delite and now I have a Sonor Vintage Series… but I digress…
You’ll find that some of the cheaper Sonor kits are made in China, and the more expensive lines are made at their factory in Germany which is really where the magic happens (mainly the Prolite, Vintage, and SQ2 series).
Speaking of sound, that’s where Sonor really shines. These drums have a voice that’s all their own. There’s a clarity and resonance to Sonor drums that I haven’t found in any other brands.
One thing that really sets Sonor apart is their SQ2 customization system. It’s like the ultimate drum nerd’s playground. You can choose everything from the shell material and thickness to the finish and hardware color. It’s like building a custom car, but for drums.
Sonor has had a huge impact on European drumming styles, especially in jazz and progressive rock circles. Their drums have this precision and articulation that lends itself really well to complex, technical playing.
One thing I’ve learned is that Sonor drums with a 45 degree bearing edge are super sensitive to small adjustments. The Sonor Vintage series is the exception, as it has rounded bearing edges which are a little bit more forgiving when it comes to turning.
What I love most about Sonor is their commitment to excellence. In a world where corners are often cut to save a buck, Sonor stands firm in its dedication to quality.
Just be prepared – once you go Sonor, it’s hard to go back! 🤪
Mapex: Budget-Friendly Excellence
Mapex has this knack for making quality kits that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Their entry-level kits, like the Tornado and Voyager, are solid choices for beginners. Sure, you might need to replace the heads sooner than you would with a high-end kit, but that’s par for the course with any budget-friendly option.
I owned a Mapex Saturn Pro kit for a few years and found it has a great low-end punch from the thin maple shells. I’ve used it for everything from jazz gigs to metal shows, and it always delivers.
The Armory series is another great option for drummers looking to step up their game. It’s a bit more affordable than the Saturn, but still packs a punch.
If you’re in the market for a new kit, whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, Mapex is definitely worth checking out.
Roland: Electronic Drum Pioneers
When it comes to electronic drums, Roland is the name that always pops into my head first. These guys have been at the forefront of e-drum technology for as long as I can remember.
My first encounter with Roland drums was way back in the day when I was just starting out. I had a Roland TD-8 e-kit with mesh heads which really helped with late night practice!
The V-Drums series has been a game-changer in the world of electronic percussion. I’ve seen these kits evolve over the years, and each new iteration brings something exciting to the table. The latest models, like the TD-50 and TD-27, are so realistic that sometimes you forget you’re not playing an acoustic kit.
You’ll see a lot of drummers adding a Roland SPD-SX sampling pad to their acoustic setup. This is super handy to trigger additional percussion sounds such as tambourines or cowbells rather than having to bring all that kind of stuff separately.
Roland’s impact goes way beyond just drums. They have made some serious contributions to modern music production as a whole. Their drum machines, like the legendary TR-808 and TR-909, have shaped the sound of countless genres. Hip-hop, techno, pop – you name it, chances are there’s a Roland drum machine in there somewhere.
Getting into the world of electronic drums can be a bit daunting at first. There’s a learning curve, especially if you’re coming from an acoustic background. The mechanics of the movements are the same, but there are some subtle differences in technique.
The cool thing about Roland is that they’re always pushing the envelope. Every time I think they’ve reached the pinnacle of what’s possible with electronic drums, they come out with something new that surprises me. Whether it’s a more realistic feel, better sound modeling, or innovative features like Bluetooth connectivity, they’re always moving forward.
How to Choose the Right Drum Brand for You
If you’re just starting out, look for brands that offer good beginner kits. Brands like Pearl and Yamaha have some great options that won’t break the bank. These kits are perfect for learning the basics and developing your skills.
If you’re an intermediate or advanced player, you might want to consider brands known for their pro-level kits, like Sonor, DW or Tama.
Think about your musical goals too. Are you into jazz? Maybe check out Gretsch or Ludwig for that classic, warm tone. More of a rock drummer? Pearl or Tama might be more your speed. It’s all about finding a brand that vibes with your style.
Pro Tip: set a realistic budget, but don’t be afraid to stretch it a little for quality. A good mid-range kit from a reputable brand will serve you way better in the long run than the cheapest option available.
Try before you buy if you can! Last but not least, seek advice from experienced drummers and music educators. These folks have been around the block and can offer invaluable insights and are always keen to talk shop.
I think that choosing a drum brand is a very personal journey. It’s okay to make a few mistakes along the way – that’s how we learn! Start with a brand that fits your current needs and budget, but don’t be afraid to explore as you grow as a drummer.
We’ve taken a whirlwind tour through the top drum brands, and a bit of a walk down memory lane. Remember, choosing the right drum brand is like finding your perfect dance partner – it’s all about that magical connection between you and your instrument.
Drum kits come in many different forms and variations. Check out these articles for help on choosing a drum kit, the best drum sets for beginners, and the best electronic kits if you need to keep the noise down. 🤘
