Best Acoustic
Drum Set
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Overall: 9.5/10
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Best Feature: Exceptional performance, resonance and tone
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Electronic
Drum Set
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature: Stunning high-gloss finish
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best Hybrid
Drum Set
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Overall: 10/10
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Best Feature: Accu-tune bass drum hoops with hardware and cymbals
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Ever found yourself drumming your fingers and pondered, “What’s the price of a drum set?” Here’s the inside track on that!
Whether for a first garage band or an upgrade to a professional kit, drum set prices vary widely from a few hundred bucks to several thousand. Each drum set is a unique blend of craftsmanship and character, much like the drummer who plays it.
I’ll explore what factors influence the price. We’re talking about the types of wood used, brand names, and whether it’s brand new or has already been used for gigs. It’s a symphony of variables, but don’t worry—I’ve got the details to help you navigate the array of choices.
Cost Factors of a Drum Set
1. Quality of Materials
One of the most significant factors that affect the cost of a drum set is the quality of the materials used.
High-end drum sets are typically made from high-quality woods like maple, birch, or mahogany, which are more expensive than cheaper woods like poplar or basswood.
Additionally, the quality of the hardware, such as the cymbals, pedals, and stands, can also impact the cost.
2. Number of Pieces
A basic drum set typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, one or two toms, and a floor tom.
However, some sets can include additional toms, cymbals, and other percussion instruments or electronic kits, significantly increasing the cost.
3. Brand Name
The brand name of a drum set can also impact the cost. Well-known, reputable brands like Pearl, Tama, and Yamaha are often more expensive than lesser-known brands.
However, these brands are often associated with higher quality and better performance so the extra cost may be worth it for professional drummers.
4. New vs. Used
Buying a used drum set can be a great way to save money, but it’s essential to keep in mind that the condition of the set can impact the cost.
A used set in good condition can be a great deal, but a set that needs repairs or replacement parts can cost more in the long run.
5. Professional Drum Set Cost
If you’re a professional drummer, you’ll likely need a high-end drum set that can handle the demands of live performances and studio recordings.
These sets can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the brand, materials, and number of pieces.
6. Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, there are still plenty of options available. Cheaper drum sets can be found for as little as $200, although these cheap sets may not be as durable or sound as good as more expensive sets.
Setting a budget and sticking to it is essential, but remember that investing in a higher-quality drum set can afford to pay itself off in the long run.
Major Drum Set Brands
Here are some major drum set brands you should consider when purchasing a drum set.
Pearl Roadshow
Pearl Roadshow is a popular drum set brand known for its affordability and quality.
This brand offers a range of beginner drum kits and intermediate level drum sets.
The Pearl Roadshow drum sets are made from high-quality materials and offer excellent sound quality.
Yamaha
Yamaha is another popular drum set brand that offers a range of drum sets for drummers of all levels.
Yamaha drum sets are known for their durability and excellent sound quality.
The Yamaha Stage Custom and Yamaha Tour Custom drum sets are two of this brand’s most popular drum sets.
Remo
Remo is a well-known electronic drum kit and head brand offering a range of drum sets.
The Remo drum sets are known for their excellent sound quality and durability.
The Remo drum sets are suitable for drummers of all levels and are a great entry-level choice for those who want a high-quality drum set.
Tama Superstar Classic
Tama Superstar Classic is a high-end drum set brand with excellent sound, build quality and durability.
This brand is known for its innovative designs and high-quality materials.
The Tama Superstar Classic drum sets are a great choice for professional drummers who want a drum set that can handle heavy use.
Gretsch Catalina Maple
Gretsch Catalina Maple is a popular drum set brand known for its excellent sound quality and classic design.
This brand offers a range of drum sets suitable for drummers of all levels.
The Gretsch Catalina Maple drum sets are made from high-quality materials and offer excellent durability.
DW Design Series
DW Design Series is a high-end drum set brand known for its excellent sound quality and innovative designs.
This brand offers a range of professional drum kits and sets suitable for professional drummers.
The DW Design Series drum sets are made from high-quality materials and offer excellent durability.
Pearl Export
Pearl Export is a popular drum set brand known for its affordability and good quality throughout.
This brand offers a range of beginner and intermediate kits and intermediate drummers.
The Pearl Export drum sets are made from high-quality materials and offer excellent sound quality.
Best Budget Range Drum Sets ($/£200-500)
FEATURES:
- Hardwood shells produce
punchy beats with a short sustain
- Deep 22" bass drum projects depth and volume
Ludwig Accent 22'' Drive 5pc Drum Kit, Black Sparkle
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Ideal for various genres, especially rock
- An affordable option for beginner to intermediate drummers
- May not be suitable for more advanced drummers who require a higher level of customization
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™.
FEATURES:
- 9-ply poplar shells provide a
warm and resonant sound
-Cymbal and hi-hat stands are included,
making it a complete drum set package
Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit, Jet Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Compact size makes it perfect for younger players or those with limited space
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for beginners
- Limited sound options compared to larger, more advanced drum sets
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™.
FEATURES:
- Full-size drum set with 5-piece configuration,
including cymbals and hardware
-Comes with a practice pad, drumsticks,
and an instructional DVD for beginners
BDK-1 Full Size Starter Drum Kit + Practice Pack, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for beginners
- Full-size configuration allows for a more authentic playing experience
- Limited sound options compared to larger, more advanced drum sets
- Quality of hardware and cymbals may not be as high as more expensive sets
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™.
Best Mid-Range Drum Sets ($/£500-2,000)
FEATURES:
- Exceptional performance, resonance
and tone all at an affordable price
-Hybrid shells and low-contact
hardware for maximum performance
- Powerful 'Tomahawk' steel
snare is perfect for cutting backbeats
Mapex Armory 22'' LA Fusion 6pc Shell Pack w/Bags, Rainforest Burst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Completed with a stunning Rainforest Burst lacquer finish
- Includes a full set of Mapex LA Fusion drum bags
- May not be the best option for drummers who prefer a more traditional or vintage sound
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™.
FEATURES:
- Omnisphere tom holder offers optimum positioning
- Poplar shells deliver power and versatility
- Accu-tune bass drum hoops deliver tuning accuracy
Tama Imperialstar 22'' 6pc Drum Kit w/Cymbals, Hairline Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes hardware and cymbals
- Developed by a unique brand that prioritises tonal quality and aesthetics
- May be a bit heavy and difficult to transport
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™.
FEATURES:
- 100% birch shells for a warm, balanced tone
-YESS mounting system for
increased sustain and resonance
- Triple-flange steel hoops for
durability and consistent tuning
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20'' 5 Piece Drum Kit, Raven Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Versatile and suitable for a wide range of musical styles
- High-quality construction and components for a professional sound and feel
- May be a bit pricey for some beginner drummers
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™.
Best High-End Drum Sets ($/£2,000+)
FEATURES:
- Premium wood shells with
a stunning high-gloss finish
-Strike Performance Module with
136 custom kits and 1800 instruments
- 14" dual-zone snare pad, 8" and
10" dual-zone tom pads, and 14" kick drum pad
Alesis Strike Pro Special Edition Electric Drum Set
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Realistic and responsive feel with mesh drum heads and cymbal pads
- Versatile and customizable with advanced features like dynamic articulation and multiple outputs
- Relatively higher electronic drum set cost compared to other brands
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™.
FEATURES:
- North American hard rock
maple provides a powerful tone
-Innovative hybrid HVX shells
that really sing
DW Drums Performance Series 5 Piece Shell Pack w/Snare, White Marine
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Open volume - ideal for a variety of styles
- Quarter turret lugs offer reliable tuning
- Heavy weight of the drums may not be suitable for those who need to transport their drums frequently
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™.
FEATURES:
- Core wenge ply sandwiched
by maple for clear, balanced tones
-Advanced YESS III Tom Mounting
System provides maximum resonance
- 3mm die-cast hoops offer
maximum tuning reliability and consistency
Yamaha Absolute Maple Hybrid 20" Shell Pack, Vintage Nat w/Bag Set
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Stunning vintage natural finish looks great on any stage
- Includes a full range of Protection Racket bags
- High price point may not be accessible for beginner or intermediate drummers
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™.
How Much Does A Drum Set Cost?
Summary
The cost of a drum set can vary greatly depending on the brand, quality, and features. From budget-friendly options for beginners to high-end professional sets for advanced drummers, the price range for professional kits can start from as low as a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand.
Here’s a nifty breakdown:
- Beginner Kits (Children): Average Cost $175
- Beginner Kits (Adults): Average Cost $750
- Intermediate Kits: Average Price $1,000
- Professional Kits: Price Range $2,000 – $8,000
Regardless of your budget, investing in a drum set can be a rewarding experience leading to a lifetime of musical enjoyment.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to rock out with your very own drum set!
Before you go…
Are you curious about how drumming accessories can enhance your experience? From drumsticks to cymbals, these accessories can add up to the total cost of a full drum set, so it’s essential to understand what you need and how much you can expect to spend!
Learn more about them here: 11 Drumming Accessories
Read somewhere that shell material doesn’t matter as much as how you tune the drums. Is that true? Your section on shell material seems to imply it’s pretty crucial for sound.
Really appreciate this comprehensive guide, Sam Jowett! As a parent diving into the unknown world of drums for my kid’s upcoming birthday, this article has been a lifesaver. I’m leaning towards a budget-friendly option, but I’m also considering quality that will last as my child grows. Any advice on striking the right balance here?
Appreciate your insights on the Gretsch Catalina Maple. It’s indeed a superior choice for jazz.
Gotta say, while DW and Gretsch get a lot of hype, some underrated brands out there give you way more bang for your buck. Anyone else feel like some high-end brands are just selling the name rather than quality improvements at that point?
Check out some mid-range Sonors, solid quality without breaking the bank.
Any specific brands you recommend, BeatMaster83? Looking to get the most value.
Good breakdown on the cost factors. Buying drums for the school band and trying to balance quality with our tight budget. Brand name seems to bump the price a lot, but I guess you get what you pay for.
always thought that shell material was kinda overhyped in terms of sound quality but after switching from poplar to maple, i totally get it now. those tones are crispier than i expected.
Hey Sam , really digging into the differences between the acoustic and electronic drum sets you outlined. Been on the fence about which route to take for a small home studio setup. Do you think an electronic set’s versatility outweighs the authentic feel of an acoustic for recording purposes? Also, how do those shell materials play into the sound quality? Cheers!
Don’t overlook the shell material! Maple’s warm tones are unbeatable for acoustics. Just sayin’
MagsJ, good Q. got an electric myself, way easier for small spaces n sounds tight!
Super helpful breakdown, thanks! But I’m torn between an acoustic and electronic set for my first buy. Is there one you’d recommend for beginners, Sam Jowett?