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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TedScoreâ„¢: 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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TedScoreâ„¢: 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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TedScoreâ„¢: 8.5/10
A drum kit is not just any ordinary musical instrument – it’s a multi-piece percussion wonderland! With various drums and cymbals, a drum kit provides the rhythmic foundation for many popular music genres.
Have you ever wondered what makes up a drum kit? Well, a standard five-piece drum kit is the most common type of drum kit, and it’s made up of different parts that work together to create a cohesive and dynamic sound.
But wait, there’s more!
A drum kit is incomplete without accessories like drumsticks and a drum throne. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced drummer, understanding the parts of a drum kit is essential for creating and playing music.
So, get ready to be amazed by the fascinating world of drum kits!
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 uses drumsticks, rods, brushes, and occasionally mallets to produce sound. The drum kit is a versatile instrument used in various music genres, including: rock music, pop, jazz, and blues.
Main Components of a Drum Kit
When it comes to drumming, the drum kit is the most important instrument. It comprises various components that work together to create a unique sound.
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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
COMES WITH: everything you need to start playing straight away
FEATURES: Double-braced hardware for durability and stability
Pearl Roadshow 5pc USA Fusion Drum Kit w/Sabian Cymbals
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!
- 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
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Built-in coaching
FEATURES: 350+ built-in sounds
Alesis Nitro
Mesh Complete
Expansion Bundle
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!
- 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
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System ensures clear drum sounds can be achieved
FEATURES: 6-ply birch shell construction provides cutting drum tones
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20'' 5pc Shell Pack
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!
- 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
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
FEATURES: With a 45-degree bearing edge for a healthy combination of attack and sustain
Ludwig Accent 22'' Drive 5pc Drum Kit
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!
- 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.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Poplar shells deliver power and versatility
FEATURES: Omnisphere tom holder offers optimum positioning
Tama Imperialstar 22'' 5pc Drum Kit
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!
- 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.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
COMES WITH: Fully height-adjustable with two telescopic poles
FEATURES: Sturdy and durable, featuring a double-braced construction
Straight Cymbal Stand by Gear4music, 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!
- Black finish looks great with any drum kit
- Comes with anti-slip rubber feet
- None!
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Synthetic resin ball and die cast joint offer robustness
FEATURES: Tom tom holder with short rod and pipe for accuracy
Yamaha CL940BBP Short Tom Holder
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!
- Features Yamaha's original ball mount for exceptional flexibility
- Quick and simple one-touch operation
- None!
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
COMES WITH: Fully adjustable clamp for different cymbal holders
FEATURES: Attach an additional cymbal to your existing rack setup
KitRig Right Angle Drum Clamp by Gear4music
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!
- Robust and secure fitting
- A useful and valuable tool for drum rack owners
- None!
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
COMES WITH: Rubber feet keep throne firmly in place at all times
FEATURES: Vinyl-covered cushion provides comfort throughout your sessions
Pearl D-50 Drum Throne
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!
- Tripod legs fold flat for easy transport & storage
- Height-adjustable from 18'' to 23.25'' & locks with pin
- Higher price range
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
COMES WITH: Non-marring hoop clamp
FEATURES: Hard felt beater for an accurate response
Mapex Tornado Single Pedal
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!
- Provides precise and reliable kick performance
- Highly functional design at a competitive price point
- None!
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
COMES WITH: Anti-slip rubber feet
FEATURES: Sturdy double-braced construction
Heavy Duty Hi-Hat Stand by Gear4music
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!
- 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
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.Â
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.
COMES WITH: 6’’ Size projects a loud sound with clarity
FEATURES: Mounts onto any drum kit offering great play-ability
Pearl PCB-6 Primero 6" Cowbell
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!
- 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
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
COMES WITH: a mounting bracket for easy installation.
FEATURES: Made of high-quality wood material.
Wood Block by Gear4music
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!
- 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.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.Â
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.
COMES WITH: Includes 31 drum kits and 44 songs to play along to
FEATURES: A complete mesh pad kit ensures an authentic drumming experience
Digital Drums 200X Mesh Electronic Drum Kit by Gear4music
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!
- Helps you master the art of drumming with ease
- Includes a comprehensive drum module
- May require regular tuning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
Understanding Drum Kit Sounds
When it comes to drum kits, the sound produced by each drum is a crucial factor to consider. Various factors, including pitch, diameter, size, thickness, and resonance, influence a drum’s sound. In this section, we will explore each of these factors and how they impact the sound of a drum.
Pitch
The pitch of a drum refers to the highness or lowness of the sound produced. The tension of the drumhead determines the pitch of a drum. The tighter the drumhead, the higher the pitch. Conversely, a looser drumhead will produce a lower pitch. You can adjust the pitch of a drum by tightening or loosening the tension rods around the drumhead.
Diameter
The diameter of a drum refers to the distance across the drumhead. The diameter of a drum influences the pitch and tone of the sound produced. Generally, larger drums have a lower pitch and a deeper tone, while smaller drums produce a higher pitch and a brighter tone.
Size
The diameter of a drum refers to the distance across the drumhead. The diameter of a drum influences the pitch and tone of the sound produced. Generally, larger drums have a lower pitch and a deeper tone, while smaller drums produce a higher pitch and a brighter tone.
Thickness
The thickness of a drum shell influences the sound produced. Thicker shells produce a warmer, resonant sound, while thinner shells produce a brighter, more focused sound. The thickness of a drum shell also affects its durability and weight.
Resonance
The resonance of a drum refers to the sustain or decay of the sound produced. The resonance of a drum is influenced by the type and quality of the resonant head, which is the bottom head of the drum. A thicker resonant head will produce a longer sustain, while a thinner one will produce a shorter decay.
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:Taper
A drumstick's taper refers to how the stick narrows towards the tip. A longer taper will create a lighter stick with a more delicate feel, while a shorter taper will create a heavier stick with a more powerful sound.
The taper can also affect the stick's rebound, which is how it bounces off the drumhead after striking it.Boom
A drumstick's boom refers to the stick's length from the tip to the shoulder. A longer boom will create a stick with more reach and power, while a shorter boom will create a stick with more control and finesse.
The boom can also affect the weight of the stick, which can impact how it feels in your hand.Beater
The beater of a drumstick refers to the tip of the stick that strikes the drumhead. Several types of beaters include round, acorn, and teardrop.
Each beater type can create a different sound and feel, so it's important to experiment to find the one that works best for you.Snare Wire
The snare wires of a drumstick refer to the wires that run across the bottom of the snare drums. These snare wires create a buzzing sound when the drum is hit, which can add texture and depth to the drum kit's sound.
Some drumsticks are designed with built-in snare wires, while others can be used with separate wires attached to the drum.Setting Up a Drum Kit
Setting up a drum kit can seem daunting, but with some guidance, you’ll play in no time! Here are some steps to follow when setting up your drum kit.
First, make sure you have all the pieces of your drum kit. Most rock drummers’ sets include a bass drum, snare drum, toms, cymbals, and hardware. Once you have everything, you can start setting up.
Place the bass drum in the desired position and attach the clamping mechanism and rack toms to the drum. Next, attach the snare drum to the snare stand and adjust the height.Â
Then, attach the toms to the tom mounts on the bass drum. Finally, attach the cymbals to their respective stands.
The snare strainer is an important part of the snare drum. It allows you to adjust the tension of the snare drums’ wires, which affects the sound of the drum. To adjust the snare strainer, turn the knob on the side of the drum until you reach the desired tension
Place it between the hairs and the bow at the centre.
Make sure at this point the bow isn’t too tight.
The hi-hat pedal controls the hi-hat cymbals. Attach the stand to the bass drum and adjust the height to set up the hi-hat. Then, attach the hi-hat cymbals to the stand and adjust the pedal’s tension until you reach the desired sound.
And that’s it! With these steps, you should be able to set up your drum kit and start playing. Remember to take your time and adjust as needed to get the sound you want.
Parts Of A Drum Kit
Summary
Great! You’ve now learned about the basic parts of a drum kit. As you can see, a drum kit comprises several components, each with its unique function.
The bass drum is the largest in the kit and produces the lowest pitch. The snare drum pairs with the bass drum to form the foundation of a five-piece kit, while the floor tom is a tom-tom that sits on the floor and has a stand or legs.
A drum kit also includes other cymbals too, such as hi hats, ride cymbals, and crash cymbals. These cymbals add a layer of complexity to the drum kit’s sound and are an essential part of any drummer’s setup.
Remember, when choosing a drum kit, it’s important to consider your musical style, budget, and personal preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced drummer, there’s a drum kit for you.
So go ahead, grab your sticks, and start jamming!
Before you go…
Check out this next article to help you start your musical journey:
FAQ's
The 6 parts of a drum kit are the bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat cymbals, tom-toms, crash cymbal, and ride cymbal. Each part serves a unique purpose in creating the rhythm and sound of the drum kit.
The common parts of a drum kit include the bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat cymbals double bass drum pedals, and a combination of tom-toms and cymbals that can vary depending on the drummer’s preferences and playing style. These parts work together to create the music’s rhythm and beat.
The names of the pieces in a drum set include the bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat cymbals, tom-toms, crash cymbal, and ride cymbal. Each piece has a unique sound and purpose, and they work together to create the music’s rhythm and beat.