Purchasing Advice - Drums
Drum Kits for the beginner are inexpensive and not necessarily of poor quality. Entry-level drum kits are much cheaper to manufacture than they used to be. They are constructed with the beginning drummer in mind. Manufacturers use less expensive hardware to reduce the cost. An example of hardware would be drum rims (hoops) and drum shells. Many entry-level kits may also come with a cheaper kick drum pedal, hi-hat or cymbal stands. The beginning drummer will notice the monetary savings before he or she notices the difference in the hardware's quality if compared to a more advanced drum kit. It's important not to spend a lot of money on a drum set in the beginning should you decide that you don't enjoy the drums.
Pearl Drums have been one of the top selling beginner's drum kits along with Ludwig and Tama. Pacific Drums are becoming much more popular as well. There is such a huge selection of affordable, quality drum sets that it becomes difficult to choose. You might want to consult with your teacher before making a selection. I've used Pacific Drums in the past so I would recommend that brand. Your selection depends on whatever you and your wallet are comfortable with.
The checklist below is entry-level and is perfect for the serious beginning student or anyone on a tight budget. To start you really only need a 5-piece kit, a ride cymbal, and a hi-hat.
Beginning Drum Set List:
- 5-piece kit from Tama, Pearl Drums, Ludwig etc.
- Kick Drum pedal from Pearl Drums, Ludwig Drums etc?
- Drum throne
- Hi-Hat stand
- Ride Cymbal Stand
- Crash Cymbal Stand
- Hi-Hat Cymbals (see cymbal packages)
- Ride Cymbal (this can come later)
- Crash Cymbal
Musiciansfriend.com or chucklevins.com often have great deals on drum sets.