When you’re a percussionist, investing in the best drum set can make a big difference in your playing. The trick? Finding the right set for your available space, playing style, and skill level. If you’re just learning to play for fun, you’ll want a different drum set than if you’re playing professionally in a rock band. As you look at different sets, look at the price, the number of drums, and the construction. It’s also important to decide whether you want a standard acoustic set or a space-saving electronic set. Then, consider the included accessories; some sets come with drumsticks and a seat, while others do not.
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1. Gammon Percussion Full Size Adult Drum Set
The best beginner drum set for adults is this Gammon Percussion model. It’s a complete set — that means that it comes with all of the pieces and supplies you need to get started. The included stool features generous padding to keep you comfortable, and the drumsticks allow you to try playing right away. With both a hi-hat and a crash cymbal, you can create a percussion backing for almost any type of music. Most importantly, this set includes five drums that produce a wide range of sounds and beats. With its high-gloss finish, this set looks beautiful on stage or in your basement.
2. Pearl Roadshow 5-piece Complete Drum Set
Beautiful and professional, the Pearl Roadshow 5-piece drum set is a great option for more experienced players. Each of the drums features a poplar shell for durability and a beautiful sound. The included crash cymbal and hi-hat add a pleasant dimension to your playing, and the two sets of maple drumsticks deliver a satisfying feel. Designed with an aqua-colored exterior and finished with a bold splash of glitter, this drum set stands out on stage.
3. Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set
Set up a percussion practice area using this complete drum set from Ashthorpe. With its full-size design, this set is ideal for adults and older teenagers. Each of the five included drums is built with a Remo UT-Series head to ensure a classic sound. Sit comfortably on the padded stool, and use the chain-driven pedals to deliver a rich, deep bass drum beat. Built with poplar hardwood shells and triple-flanged hoops, each drum is durable and engineered to stand up to frequent concerts.
4. Alesis Drums Nitro Mesh Kit
Save space in your home with this Nitro Mesh Kit from Alesis drums. This electronic drum set instantly expands your playing capabilities — with 385 sounds, you can create the perfect beat for any type of music. This set also comes with 60 play-along tracks to help you learn. With four drum pads and three cymbals, you can play like a pro. The integrated control model makes for fast configuration, and the headset-compatible design allows you to keep your neighbors happy.
5. Roland Electronic Drum Set
One of the best electronic drum kit models on the market, the Roland electronic drum set is a great option for people who need to keep the noise level down. The magic is in the Supernatural-enhanced sound engine, which creates a surprisingly natural feel and response for each drum pad. We love that this kit comes with play-along tracks, which you can use to practice playing with a group. Use the recording functions to lay your own beats, and rely on the COACH function to improve your learning.
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6. Rise by Sawtooth Full-Size Student Drum Set
The Rise by Sawtooth full-size student set is the best beginner drum kit available. It’s designed specifically for new players, so you can learn to use the drums without breaking the bank. Five drums and two cymbals give you access to a full range of sounds. Plus, since this kit comes with a stool, drumsticks, and stands, it provides everything you need to get set up. Choose from multiple drum shell colors to find the one that motivates you to practice frequently.
7. ddrum HYBRID6BLKRED Electronic Drum Set
Enjoy the best of acoustic and electronic drum sets with this ddrum HYBRID6BLKRED kit. It’s built like a full acoustic kit, with six drums and five cymbals to expand your playing options. Inside, the Acoustic Pro triggers allow you to reinforce and adjust your sound using the included electronic system. This means that you can achieve a wider dynamic range without sacrificing the look and sound of a traditional drum set. With its sleek design, this set looks gorgeous onstage or off.
8. Best Choice Products 5-Piece Adult Drum Set
Affordable and sturdy, this Best Choice Products drum set is a great option for adults who want to get the feel for percussion. Five different drums enable you to make sounds ranging from deep bass beats to rich tom taps. Two cymbals round out the audio spectrum with bright, attention-grabbing audio. We love that this set comes with all of the stands you need for installation, as well as a stool, pedals, and drumsticks. The glossy drum shells look cool and professional, and the solid wood construction is built to last.
9. Ludwig LC178X025 Questlove Pocket Kit
Working with a small amount of space? The Ludwig LC178X025 Questlove Pocket kit is a great solution. With four drums and two cymbals, this compact set is a breeze to set up in an apartment or a tiny practice area. The 16-inch bass drum creates a rich, booming lower line, and the snare drum adds a satisfying crack to your beats. Finished with a sparkling red wine color, this drum set looks bold and elegant.
10. Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set
Achieve your drumming dreams with the help of this adult drum set from Ashthorpe. It includes five drums, each finished with a rich, shining color. The genuine Remo heads deliver a delicious sound, and the premium brass cymbals add a big, bold crash to key moments. Built with durable, high-end materials, this drum set is ideal for intermediate and higher players.
A drum set is a great way to break into the world of percussion playing. It includes multiple drums and cymbals, so you can do a solo or back up a band. Since these sets are a considerable investment, it’s worth your time to research the best drum set for your needs.
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By BCR Staff
September 2019