Best
Overall Beginner Drum Set
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Overall: Double-braced hardware for durability and stability
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Best Feature: 9-ply poplar shells for a warm and punchy sound
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Value Beginner Drum Kit
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Overall: 6-ply birch shell construction provides cutting drum tones
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Best Feature: Ball mount and clamp deliver a secure playing experience
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Budget Beginner Drum Kit
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Overall: Complete set up - perfect for beginner drummers
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Best Feature: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Have you ever found yourself tapping a beat on your knees or wanting to drum along to your favorite song? You’re not alone! I’m excited to explore the exciting world of drumming with you, where we’ll take a tour through the different parts of a drum kit, which are the heartbeat of rhythm in music.
The essential parts of a drum set include the bass drum, snare drum, tom-toms, hi-hat, cymbals, and hardware such as the stands and pedals. Each component plays a vital role in creating the rhythmic foundation and sonic texture of the drum set.As we look at each part, you’ll see how they bring their unique sound to the group.
So, keep your drumsticks close because I bet you’ll be eager to start your drum solo by the end of this!
Basics of a Drum Kit
A drum kit, also known as a drum set, is a musical instrument comprising various percussion instruments, primarily drums and cymbals.
It’s played by a drummer, who produces sound using drumsticks, rods, brushes, and occasionally mallets. The parts of drum set is a versatile instrument used in various music genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and blues.
Main Components of a Drum Kit
From the powerful thump of the bass drum to the sharp snap of the snare, each part of the drum set plays a crucial role in creating captivating rhythms. As we explore the different drum set parts, you’ll see how each adds a unique voice to the music ensemble.
Snare Drum
The snare drum is one of the most important component of a drum kit. It’s a shallow drum usually placed between the drummer’s legs. The snare drum is responsible for producing a sharp and crisp sound.
It’s used to keep the rhythm of the song or music and create a backbeat.
Bass Drum
The bass drum is the largest drum in a kit. It produces a deep and low sound used to keep the tempo of the music.
The bass drum is played with a foot pedal operated by the drummer’s foot.
Toms
Toms are cylindrical drums that come in different sizes. They produce a deep and resonant sound that adds depth to the music.
Toms are usually mounted on the bass drum or a separate stand.
Cymbals
Cymbals are an essential part of a drum kit. They produce a bright tone and shimmering sound that accentuates the music.
There are different types of cymbals, which includes the ride cymbal, crash cymbal, hi-hat cymbal, splash cymbal, and china cymbal.
Best Drum Kits for Beginners
Pearl Roadshow 5pc USA Fusion Drum Kit
The Pearl Roadshow 5pc USA Fusion Drum Kit is a complete, high-quality set with everything aspiring drummers need to start playing right out of the box. This kit features a 5-piece configuration with poplar shells, delivering a punchy, balanced tone suitable for various musical genres.
The included Sabian cymbals add brilliance and clarity to the overall sound, while the durable hardware ensures stability and reliability during performances or practice sessions.
Pearl Roadshow 5pc USA Fusion Drum Kit w/Sabian Cymbals
FEATURES: everything you need to start playing straight away
OTHER INFO: Double-braced hardware for durability and stability
- The affordable price point for an entry-level drum set
- Comes with everything you need to get started
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Great sound quality for the price
- Available in multiple finishes to suit your style
- Not as high-quality as more expensive drum sets
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Alesis Nitro Mesh Complete Expansion Bundle
The Alesis Nitro Mesh Complete Expansion Bundle is an all-inclusive electronic drum kit that provides a realistic drumming experience for players of all skill levels. With its 8-piece mesh head kit, powerful drum module, and USB-MIDI connectivity, this bundle is perfect for practice, recording, and live performances.
Alesis Nitro Mesh Complete Expansion Bundle
FEATURES: Built-in coaching
OTHER INFO: 350+ built-in sounds
- Headphones, drum sticks & stool included
- The cozy sponge and leather pads also cut down on outside noise
- Everything you need to get playing right away
- The trade off for having everything you need is that this is a large electric kit, so you will need a good size space to set-up before playing
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20" 5pc Shell Pack
The Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20″ 5pc Shell Pack is a professional-grade drum kit that delivers exceptional tone, clarity, and projection. The kit features a 20″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ rack toms, a 14″ floor tom, and a 14″ snare drum, all equipped with durable hardware and Yamaha’s Air Seal System for improved resonance and tuning stability.
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20" 5pc Shell Pack
FEATURES: Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System ensures clear drum sounds can be achieved
OTHER INFO: 6-ply birch shell construction provides cutting drum tones
- With a large range of technologies and features to improve your overall drumming experience
- Provides playing stability with an equally professional sound
- This Yamaha shell pack does not include cymbals or hardware
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ludwig Accent 22" Drive 5pc Drum Kit
The Ludwig Accent 22″ Drive 5pc Drum Kit is an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate drummers, offering quality, affordability, and versatility. The set includes a 22″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ rack toms, a 16″ floor tom, and a 14″ snare drum, all equipped with durable hardware and triple-flanged hoops for reliable tuning stability and rim shot performance.
Ludwig Accent 22" Drive 5pc Drum Kit
FEATURES: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
OTHER INFO: With a 45-degree bearing edge for a healthy combination of attack and sustain
- Perfect for various genres, especially rock
- A drum kit with plenty of volume
- The cymbals included in the kit may not be of the best quality.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tama Imperialstar 22" 5pc Drum Kit
The Tama Imperialstar 22″ 5pc Drum Kit is a reliable, high-quality set designed for aspiring drummers and working musicians alike. Crafted with poplar shells, this kit delivers a rich, balanced tone with excellent projection and clarity, making it suitable for various musical styles.
The Imperialstar features a 22″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ rack toms, a 16″ floor tom, and a 14″ snare drum, all equipped with durable hardware and precision-engineered bearing edges for easy tuning and consistent sound quality.
Tama Imperialstar 22" 5pc Drum Kit
FEATURES: Poplar shells deliver power and versatility
OTHER INFO: Omnisphere tom holder offers optimum positioning
- Delivers a dynamic response with powerful attack and bright tones
- Comes with chrome hardware that perfectly complements the overall quality aesthetic
- The drum throne included in the kit may not be comfortable for extended playing sessions.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Additional Components of a Drum Kit
When it comes to drum kits, the basics are pretty straightforward. You have your snare, toms, bass drum, and cymbals. But a few additional components can make a big difference in your playing experience.
Let’s look at some of a drum kit’s most important additional components.
1. Hardware
Hardware refers to all metal components that hold your drum kit together. This includes things like cymbal stands, tom mounts, and clamps. Good drum hardware alone is essential for keeping your drum kit stable and secure while you play.
When shopping for hardware, look for sturdy materials like steel or aluminium. Also, consider the weight of the hardware – heavier hardware is generally more stable, but it can also be more cumbersome to move around.
The Straight Cymbal Stand by Gear4music, Black is a sturdy and reliable option, providing excellent stability and adjustability for drummers of all levels.
Straight Cymbal Stand by Gear4music, Black
FEATURES: Fully height-adjustable with two telescopic poles
OTHER INFO: Sturdy and durable, featuring a double-braced construction
- Black finish looks great with any drum kit
- Comes with anti-slip rubber feet
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The Yamaha CL940BBP Short Tom Holder is a robust and versatile mounting solution, offering secure positioning and easy adjustments for optimal drumming performance.
Yamaha CL940BBP Short Tom Holder
FEATURES: Synthetic resin ball and die cast joint offer robustness
OTHER INFO: Tom tom holder with short rod and pipe for accuracy
- Features Yamaha's original ball mount for exceptional flexibility
- Quick and simple one-touch operation
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The KitRig Right Angle Drum Clamp by Gear4music is a dependable and flexible accessory, ensuring secure attachment and precise positioning for various drum components.
KitRig Right Angle Drum Clamp by Gear4music
FEATURES: Fully adjustable clamp for different cymbal holders
OTHER INFO: Attach an additional cymbal to your existing rack setup
- Robust and secure fitting
- A useful and valuable tool for drum rack owners
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. Drum Throne
Your drum throne is your seat while you play, and choosing one that is comfortable and supportive is important.
Look for a throne with a padded seat and adjustable height. This will help you avoid back pain and other discomfort while you play.
The Pearl D-50 Drum Throne offers exceptional comfort and stability, making it an ideal choice for drummers seeking reliable support during extended playing sessions.
Pearl D-50 Drum Throne
FEATURES: Rubber feet keep throne firmly in place at all times
OTHER INFO: Vinyl-covered cushion provides comfort throughout your sessions
- Tripod legs fold flat for easy transport & storage
- Height-adjustable from 18'' to 23.25'' & locks with pin
- Higher price range
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3. Bass Drum Pedal
The bass drum pedal is what you use to play your bass drum. There are a few different made drum and bass drums pedals, but most are designed to be played with your foot.
When shopping for a kick or bass drum pedal, look for one that’s smooth and responsive. You should be able to play fast and accurately without feeling like you’re fighting against the pedal.
The Mapex Tornado Single Pedal delivers smooth and responsive action, making it a great value choice for drummers looking for dependable performance on a budget.
Mapex Tornado Single Pedal
FEATURES: Non-marring hoop clamp
OTHER INFO: Hard felt beater for an accurate response
- Provides precise and reliable kick performance
- Highly functional design at a competitive price point
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
4. Hi-Hat Stand
The hi-hat stand is what holds your hi hat cymbals in place. A good hi-hat stand should be sturdy and adjustable, allowing you to position your cymbals exactly where you want them.
When shopping for a hi-hat cymbal stand, look for one that’s easy to adjust and doesn’t wobble or move around while you play.
The Heavy Duty Hi-Hat Stand by Gear4music provides robust construction and reliable performance, ensuring steady and precise hi-hat control for drummers of all skill levels.
Heavy Duty Hi-Hat Stand by Gear4music
FEATURES: Anti-slip rubber feet
OTHER INFO: Sturdy double-braced construction
- Durable - can withstand life on the road
- Simple to set up and comes complete with a hi-hat clutch
- Slightly pricier compared to other drums
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Specialised Drum Kit Components
If you want to expand your drumming horizons, consider adding specialised drum kit components to your setup. These components can add unique sounds and textures to your playing and inspire you to try new things and explore different genres of music.
Cowbell
The cowbell is a classic percussion instrument that has been used in a variety of musical genres, from Latin music to rock and roll. It’s a simple instrument that consists of a metal bell that’s struck with a drumstick, and it can add a bright, cutting sound to your playing.
You have a few options if you want to add a cowbell to your acoustic drum kit yourself.
You can purchase a standalone cowbell and mount it to your drum set using a clamp or bracket, or you can purchase a drum set that includes a cowbell as part of the package.
The Pearl PCB-6 Primero 6″ Cowbell produces a clear, resonant tone and is built with durable materials, making it a perfect addition for any percussion setup.
Pearl PCB-6 Primero 6" Cowbell
FEATURES: 6’’ Size projects a loud sound with clarity
OTHER INFO: Mounts onto any drum kit offering great play-ability
- Can be securely mounted onto any drum kit providing a high level of play-ability
- Offers great affordability alongside cutting tone and volume levels Cons:
- Slightly more expensive compared to other brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Blocks
Blocks are another popular percussion instrument that can add a unique sound to your drumming. They’re typically wood or plastic and come in various sizes and shapes. They can be struck with a drumstick or played with a mallet, and they can be used to create rhythmic patterns or add accents to your playing.
Like cowbells, blocks can be purchased as standalone instruments or as part of a drum set package. They can be mounted to your drum set using clamps or brackets, or you can purchase a set of blocks with a mounting system.
The Wood Block by Gear4music delivers a crisp, resonant sound and features solid construction, making it a versatile and reliable choice for percussionists.
Wood Block by Gear4music
FEATURES: a mounting bracket for easy installation.
OTHER INFO: Made of high-quality wood material.
- Produces a clear and resonant sound.
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around for performances.
- Limited range of sound compared to other percussion instruments.
- May not be suitable for all music genres.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Electronic Drums
Electronic drums have come a long way in recent years, and they are now a popular choice for many drummers who want to expand their sound palette and explore new genres of music.
Electronic drum sets typically include drum pads, a drum module, and a set of triggers that can be used to trigger additional sounds and effects.
One of the biggest advantages of electronic drums is their versatility.
They can be used to replicate the sound of acoustic drums, or they can be used to create entirely new sounds and textures. They can also be used to practice quietly, thanks to their headphone outputs and volume controls.
If you’re interested in electronic drums, various options are available, from basic drum pads to full-featured electronic drum sets.
Remember that an electronic drum kit can be more expensive than an acoustic drum kit but offer a wider range of sounds and features.
The Digital Drums 200X Mesh Electronic Drum Kit by Gear4music offers a responsive playing experience with its mesh heads and a wide range of customizable sounds, ideal for both practice and performance.
Digital Drums 200X Mesh Electronic Drum Kit by Gear4music
FEATURES: Includes 31 drum kits and 44 songs to play along to
OTHER INFO: A complete mesh pad kit ensures an authentic drumming experience
- Helps you master the art of drumming with ease
- Includes a comprehensive drum module
- May require regular tuning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Drumstick Features
When it comes to playing drums, drumsticks are an essential component. They’re the tools a drummer uses to create the rhythms and beats that make up the sound of a drum kit.
Knowing the different features of a drumstick can help you choose the right one for your playing style. Here are some of the key features of drumsticks:
Parts Of A Drum Kit
Summary
After checking out all the drum kit parts, I liked how they all sound together. The bass drum hits hard, the snare drum snaps and the toms add depth. The cymbals are super shiny, and the hardware keeps everything steady.
I’ve been amazed at all the different sounds and beats you can make with this setup. It’s like a whole world of music right in front of me! Every drum kit is like a little world, showing off the drummer’s style and personality.
So, whether you’re just starting or a pro, take good care of your drum set. Treat it right, and it will make your music sound amazing!
Here’s a nifty breakdown of what we covered:
- Snare Drum: The crisp, distinctive voice defines a drummer’s style.
- Bass Drum: This is the thumping heartbeat of any drum kit.
- Toms: These fellows inject melody and fill the gaps with resonant tones.
- Cymbals: They shimmer with accents and define the energy of a performance.
- Hardware: It’s what keeps everything in place, the strong, silent type.
Remember, each part of your drum kit is a piece of the puzzle that makes up the marvelous world of drumming. Keep the rhythm alive!
Before you go…
Check out this next article to help you start your musical journey:
Drumstick features section made me hungry, lol. Anyone else?
Lol, now that you mention it, kinda craving chicken wings!
Guess it’s time to hit up a snack before the next drum session. Drumsticks and chicken sticks, the perfect combo.
I must commend the inclusion of electronic drums in your article. Incorporating electronic components into traditional jazz setups can really evolve the sound. It’s fascinating how these kits blend with acoustic elements to create something new yet familiar. Keep spreading the word, Sam Jowett.
Just picked up the Yamaha Stage Custom Birch based on your advice. Setting it up felt like unboxing a new console, super exciting. Can’t wait to jam out this weekend, thanks for the rec!
Congrats on the new kit! The Yamaha Stage Custom is a solid choice. Happy drumming and gaming!
Hey Sam, is there a bit of an overlap between the precisions needed in drumming and, say, intricate cooking techniques? Kinda found myself drumming on my pots and pans while waiting for my souffle!