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: Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System Ensures Clear Drum Sounds Can Be Achieved
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Best Feature: 6-Ply Birch Shell Construction Provides Cutting Drum Tones
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Budget Beginner
Drum Kit
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Overall: Hardwood Shells Produce Punchy Beats With A Short Sustain
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Best Feature: With A 45-Degree Bearing Edge For A Healthy Combination Of Attack And Sustain
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Well, you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve got the lowdown on the best beginner drum set for adults that’ll have you banging those drums like a pro in no time.
From acoustic to electronic drum sets, we have all the deets on the top kits that’ll suit your style and budget. So, whether your favourite band inspires you or wants a new hobby, we’ve got you covered.
By the end of this article, you’ll be drumming circles around your friends and family and impress them with your wicked skills. So, let’s get this drumming party started!
But first, let’s rewind a little bit to the basics…
Components of a Drum Set
Drum Shells
They are the actual drums that produce the sound. The number and size of the drum shells in a drum set can vary, but most beginner drum sets come with a standard five-piece set. This typically includes a snare drum, bass drum, and three toms (high tom, mid tom, and floor tom).
When selecting drum shells, consider the material they’re made from. Common materials include maple, birch, and mahogany. Each material produces a slightly different sound, so choosing one that suits your playing style and preferences is important.
Cymbals and Hardware
Cymbals are metal discs that produce a ringing sound. Most beginner drum sets come with a basic set of cymbals, including a hi-hat, ride, and crash cymbal.
Hardware refers to the stands and mounts holding the drum shells and cymbals. This includes cymbal stands, hi-hat stands, snare stands, and straight stands.
When selecting hardware, consider the durability and stability of the stands and mounts.
Pedals and Stands
These allow you to control the sound and playability of the drums. The bass drum pedal is used to play the bass drum, while the hi-hat pedal controls the opening and closing of the hi-hat cymbals.
When selecting pedals and stands, consider the adjustability and ease of use. The bass drum pedal should be easy to adjust and play, while the hi-hat stand should be stable and easy to open and close.
Importance of choosing the right drum set for beginners
Choosing the right drum set for beginners is crucial as it can make or break their interest in learning.
A suitable drum set should provide the necessary components to build fundamental skills without adding hardware or pieces that can distract the student.
Factors such as the number of drums and cymbals, material, size, and brand can help beginners find the perfect drum set to start their musical journey.
What to Look For in the Best Adult Beginner Drum Set
1. Shell Packs Vs Complete Drum Sets
When on a beginner drum set, it’s important to consider whether to choose a shell pack or a complete drum set. Shell packs only include the drums, while complete drum sets come with cymbals and hardware. While shell packs may be higher quality, complete drum sets are typically more affordable and convenient for beginners.
Differences and pros and cons of each
When choosing between shell packs and complete drum sets, there are some key differences to consider.
Shell packs are of higher quality and ideal for advanced drummers who want to upgrade their kit piece by piece.
Complete drum sets, on the other hand, are cheaper and require less decision-making, making them a better option for beginners.
However, complete drum sets may have lower-quality components than shell packs. Ultimately, it depends on your skill level and budget.
2. Number of Drums and Cymbals
Regarding the recommended number of drums and cymbals for beginner drum sets, start with a basic four-piece shell pack. This includes a bass drum, snare drum, and two toms.
As for cymbals, it’s good to start with a hi-hat and a ride cymbal. It’s important to keep the kit simple and not be overwhelmed with too many options. You can add more drums and cymbals to your kit as you progress.
3. Music Styles and Preferences
When choosing a drum set, it’s important to consider your music style and preferences.
For example, jazz and funk drummers may prefer smaller shell sizes, while rock and metal drummers may opt for larger sizes. It’s also important to consider the type of music the drummer wants to play and if they prefer a deeper or brighter sound.
Choosing a drum set that aligns with the drummer’s musical preferences and style will make for a more enjoyable playing experience.
4. Using a Double Bass Drum
Playing with a bass drum set gives drummers more tools and allows them to explore new sounds. The style also looks and feels more professional.
However, using a double bass drum set may not be practical as it is expensive, takes up more space, and is more difficult to transport. Bass drum pedals are a more affordable alternative, but they may not provide the same crisp sound as a double bass drum kit.
Alternatives like double bass drum pedals and their benefits
Double drum pedals provide greater sound and versatility to drummers compared to using separate bass drums. They allow for fast and accurate kick drum strokes with both feet. With double bass drum pedals, drummers can express themselves more fully in their playing style.
5. Larger and Smaller Shell Sizes
When it comes to shell sizes, the difference between larger and smaller options can impact the sound and style of music played. Larger shells are ideal for heavier styles like rock, while smaller sizes are better for lighter playing. When choosing between shell sizes, it’s important to consider the preferred music genre and playing style.
Ideal shell sizes for different music genres and playing styles
Ideal shell sizes for different music genres and playing styles vary. Larger shell sizes are better for heavy rock music, while smaller shells are ideal for lighter playing styles. Consider your playing style and musical genre when choosing the right shell size for your beginner drum set.
6. Budget
For beginner drum sets, the ideal price range is between $/£600 to $/£1000. Anything less may result in a toy-like instrument, while anything more may not be worth it for a complete set.
It’s always good to read up on reviews and reputations of different brands and find something with a good reputation that fits your budget.
7. Material and Their Impact on Sound Quality
Different types of wood used in drum set manufacturing possess different sonic characteristics contribute to the drum’s overall tone. Each type of wood has its characteristics, tonality EQ, and timbre.
Factors like the number of plies in construction, shell size, bearing edge type, drum head, and tuning also contribute to a drum’s sound.
Popular wood types like poplar and maple deliver great tones and are more affordable. Birch and beech drums offer clear projection and expressive tonality.
Mahogany and bubinga are expensive woods that produce a warm and fatter tone with excellent sonic projection.
8. Brand
Many popular drum brands offer beginner options, including Tama, Ludwig, Gretsch, and Pearl. These brands offer kits at various prices, with different shell materials and sizes to suit different preferences and styles.
It’s important to do some research and try out different options before making a purchase.
9. Used vs. New Drum Sets
Buying drum sets can be a great way to save money, especially for beginners just starting. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider, such as the condition of the drums, potential hidden damages and missing parts.
It’s important to research and thoroughly check the used drums before purchasing.
Top Beginner Drum Sets
Pearl Roadshow
This 5-piece drum set is perfect for beginners and comes with everything you need to get started, including cymbals and hardware. With its durable construction and great sound quality, the Pearl Roadshow is a fantastic option for any aspiring drummer.
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and intermediate drummers
FEATURES: 9-ply poplar shells for a warm and punchy sound
OTHER INFO: 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!
- Cymbals included: 16" crash/ride and 14" hi-hats
- 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 TedScore™.
Alesis Nitro Mesh
It’s an electronic drum set perfect for beginners who want to practice quietly. With its mesh drum heads and responsive pads, this drum set offers a realistic playing experience without the noise.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner drummers
FEATURES: Mesh drum heads for a realistic playing experience
OTHER INFO: 8" dual-zone snare pad for rim shots and cross-sticks
Alesis Nitro Mesh Electronic 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!
- Three 8" tom pads and three 10" cymbal pads
- Hi-hat controller pedal and kick pedal included
- Quieter than traditional acoustic drum sets
- Realistic playing experience with mesh drum heads
- Nitro drum module offers a wide range of sounds and features
- May not be suitable for advanced drummers who require a more complex and customizable drum set
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™.
Gretsch Catalina Club
The Gretsch Catalina Club is a premium drum set that offers excellent value for money. It features poplar shells with a wrap finish, which gives it a classic look.
Remo, a trusted brand in the drumming world, makes the drum heads. The set includes a drum throne, drum key, and a set of Meinl HCS cymbals. The cymbals are made of brass and are a great choice for beginners who want to learn to play the drums without breaking the bank.
PERFECT FOR: beginner drummers
FEATURES: 7-ply mahogany shells provide a vintage, warm tone
OTHER INFO: Gretsch mini lugs provide easy and consistent tuning
Gretsch Catalina Club Jazz 18'' 4pc 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!
- Gretsch by Remo drum heads for a reliable response
- A classic configuration with vintage, warm tones aimed at jazz styles of drumming
- Available in a range of different finishes
- May not be suitable for playing heavier styles of music, such as metal or hard rock
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 Drive
The Ludwig Accent Drive is a popular drum set for beginners that offers excellent value for its price. It features a 5-piece configuration, including a bass drum, snare drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom.
The shells are made of poplar wood, which produces a warm and balanced tone. The drum set also comes with cymbals, drum thrones, and drumsticks, making it a complete package for beginners. Overall, the Ludwig Accent Drive is a reliable and affordable option for those looking to start their drumming journey.
PERFECT FOR: beginners
FEATURES: With a 45-degree bearing edge for a healthy combination of attack and sustain
OTHER INFO: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short 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!
- Deep 22" bass drum projects depth and volume
- 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 TedScore™.
Mapex Tornado
This series has become the go-to choice for many beginners and is a best-seller in the UK. Despite its affordability, the quality is top-notch. The same factory makes these kits and undergoes the same quality control as Mapex’s higher-end products.
The Tornado starter drum kit includes everything you need to get started, including heads made by Remo, a complete hardware package, a cymbal set, and a pair of sticks.
PERFECT FOR: beginners to advanced players
FEATURES: Hand-selected Basswood produces a well-rounded, loud and pronounced tone
OTHER INFO: Double-braced hardware offers stability during the performance and for learning technique
Mapex Tornado III 22'' Rock Fusion 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!
- Widely considered the best beginner kit around due to versatility and quality
- Includes a 5-piece drum kit with cymbals, sticks and hardware
- The snare drum may need some tuning and adjustments to produce a better 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™.
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch
The Yamaha Stage Custom is a high-quality drum set perfect for beginners who want to learn how to play in various styles.
This mid-range flagship drum set features 100% birch shells, delivering short decay, quick attack, and tight sound with good separation.
The Yamaha Stage Custom Birch provides superior functionality beyond its class with metal parts and traditional ball mounts and clamps. It comes in various finishes and shell sizes, allowing you to customize your drum setup.
PERFECT FOR: beginner to intermediate players
FEATURES: 6-ply birch shell construction provides cutting drum tones
OTHER INFO: Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System ensures clear drum sounds can be achieved
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!
- Ball mount and clamp deliver a secure playing experience
- 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 TedScore™.
Tama Imperialstar
This kit comes with everything you need to get started, including drums, hardware, and Meinl HCS cymbals. The poplar wood shells offer a warm tone, while the double-braced hardware provides stability during heavy playing.
The matching wood hoops on the bass drum add a stylish touch. Overall, the Imperialstar is a great choice for beginner drummers of any music genre.
PERFECT FOR: professionals and beginners alike
FEATURES: Omnisphere tom holder offers optimum positioning
OTHER INFO: Poplar shells deliver power and versatility
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!
- Accu-tune bass drum hoops deliver tuning accuracy
- 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 TedScore™.
PDP Concept Maple
Made with 7-ply European Maple shells, these drums offer pro-level features like STM suspension tom mounts and True-Pitch tuning rods.
The kit includes a 22-inch kick drum, two rack toms, a floor tom, and a matching 14×5.5 snare drum. With striking finishes, the PDP Concept Maple drum kit will impress any aspiring drummer who wants a gig-worthy upgrade.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and intermediate players
FEATURES: 7-Ply maple shells offer rich, warm sound with bright overtones
OTHER INFO: STM tom mounts ensure maximum sustain and resonance
PDP Concept Maple 22'' 7pc 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!
- Graduated hoops provide additional resonance and richer tones
- A re-imagined series of boutique-inspired drums
- Powerfully versatile and designed kit for every drummer
- Available in a wide range of premium lacquer finishes
- The drum set may require some assembly and tuning before it can be played at its best.
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™.
Roland TD-1DMK
This drum kit comes with all mesh snare and tom drum pads, perfect for quieter playing and a more natural feel. The frame is solid and stable, allowing for moderate adjustments, and it supports double bass pedals.
You can also access 15 preset drum kits with authentic sounds, a built-in metronome, and 10 onboard coaching functions. And with the Melodics app, you can take your drum skills to the next level.
It’s easy to use, hassle-free, and an excellent investment that will last years.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and gigging drummers
FEATURES: With all mesh heads for incredible responsiveness
OTHER INFO: Fully adjustable for players of any height and style
Roland TD-1DMK V-Drums Electronic 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!
- Offer a playing feel and response as close to an acoustic drum as possible
- Roland's most affordable all-mesh kit
- Easy-to-use module packed with great V-Drums sounds
- Connect to training apps to develop your skill
- The kick drum pedal is not included
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™.
BDK-20 Fusion Drum Kit
This kit is designed for beginners, providing all the necessary elements to build fundamental skills without overwhelming you with unnecessary hardware or pieces.
The fusion kit is perfect for drummers of any ability level, allowing you to play various styles of music. With a smaller bass drum size, moving and playing at gigs or roadshows is easier. Plus, the toms and snare drum are smaller, making them easier to play and reach.
PERFECT FOR: beginners
FEATURES: Bright, articulate tone with increased lows thanks to poplar build
OTHER INFO: The double-braced design ensures great durability, allowing children to express themselves
BDK-20 Fusion 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!
- The all-inclusive package provides the perfect platform to learn drums
- Boasts a gorgeous gloss finish
- The drum set may not be as durable as other options on the market.
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 Beginner Drum Set For Adults
Summary
Yay! You’ve reached the end of our discussion about the best beginner drum sets for adults. We hope you’ve found our guide informative and helpful in your quest for the perfect drum kit.
Learning to play the drums is an exciting journey. Having the right equipment is key to reaching your full potential.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have some experience, there’s a drum set out there that will suit your needs.
So don’t hesitate. Take the plunge and start your drumming adventure today! Keep practising, and who knows, maybe one day you’ll be rocking out on stage with your band!
Before you go…
If you’re torn between the classic thump of an acoustic drum set or the futuristic beats of an electronic kit, fear not, drumming friends!
In the next article, we’ll dive into the epic battle of acoustic vs electric drums and help you decide which is worthy of your drumming skills!
Check it out here: Acoustic vs Electric drums
Thank you for the comprehensive guide! PDP Concept Maple caught my eye – seems perfect for my living room setup. Keep up the great work!
Interesting list, though I’m on the fence about including both acoustic and electronic options without deeper comparison. From a technical standpoint, electronic kits like the Roland TD-1DMK offer immense value in terms of volume control, space saving, and variety of sounds. These features might not fully resonate with traditionalists but are invaluable for urban dwellers or parents. Additionally, the capacity for silent practice with headphones is a game changer for late-night sessions. Would love to see more analysis on the practical benefits against traditional sets, particularly for beginners who might prioritize convenience over authenticity.
totally get the emphasis on shell sizes. When I started drumming, had no clue how much it mattered. Ended up with a kit that was all wrong for the jazz I wanted to play. Got myself a Gretsch Catalina Club later, game changer. Wish I had read something like this back then, might’ve saved a couple of bucks haha.
oh definitely, it’s versatile but just sings for jazz. you won’t be disappointed whichever way you go with it.
Do you think the Catalina Club works for other genres or is it just for jazz?
Hey Sam , great rundown on the drum sets! Quick q: Do you think electronic drum kits like the Alesis Nitro Mesh are better for beginners than acoustic sets? It’s just, space and noise are big concerns for me. Cheers!