Whether you’re a beginner searching for your first instrument, a student needing a reliable practice tool, or a seasoned professional seeking the perfect sound for the stage or studio, the choices for a new DRUM SET can be overwhelming. This review aims to navigate that landscape, exploring the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of a variety of DRUMS to help you find the ideal match for your musical journey.
This review is not as much for the professional, but rather for the parent who’s sending their child to weekly lessons; all sets are ranging from $100-$1000, “BEGINNER” to “PRO”; and all instruments can be purchased on AMAZON (links and prices are provided). This review is also from the perspective of an owner of a music school, playing for over 50 years and teaching for 25 years – and a parent, who wants the best buy for their buck.
BEGINNER – The DONNER DED-80 Electronic Drum Set with 4 Quiet Mesh Pads, 180+ Sounds, 2 Pedals, Throne, Headphones, Sticks, and Melodics Lessons
Price: $229
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/4lzJt2s
Basic electric drum set, great for beginners – and parents needing a quieter experience, at a good price. To be honest, electric drum sets are not a top pick of most players (it doesn’t feel the same as an acoustic set, a “real” set), but it’s great to get started! However, with over 700 5-star reviews on Amazon, it must be a fan favorite for many players.
BEGINNER / INTERMEDIATE – The ASHTHORPE 5-Piece Complete Full Size, Older Child / Adult Drum Set with Remo Batter Heads
Price: $375
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/4fKfX99
The electric set is convenient for the family, but there’s nothing like a real drum set – and the Ashthorpe company has done well with this set – beginners and beyond. FOUR different color options, and REMO drum heads (these are what you hit when you play, mom). This set includes a 22″ x 16″ eight-lug bass drum, 16″ x 16″ floor tom, 13″ x 10″ and 12″ x 9″ mounted toms, 14″ x 6″ snare with wires, 14″ hi-hat cymbals, 16″ crash/ride cymbal, all stands, padded throne (stool), drumsticks, hardware, chain-driven pedals, and drum adjustment key. In other words, it’s got everything you need!
PRO – The Roland TD-27KV2 Generation 2 V-Drum Kit
Price: $3,000
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/45IDrH1
YES – we know, we know – it’s pricey. But WOW what a set! The Roland set is the best of both worlds – perfect for the family needing a little peace, but it sounds and feels like a real set. PLUS Roland is one of the most trusted names in the business. 75 ready-to-play preset kits, including 10 all-new kits and a variety of new samples – meaning it can sound like different sets. 14-inch digital snare, 14-inch digital hi-hat, and 18-inch ride cymbal with high-resolution, multi-sensor triggering for unparalleled dynamics and accurate positional detection. It’s a definite investment – for the serious player only (or maybe if you’re rolling in money). Give the Roland a try.
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