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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TedScoreâ„¢: 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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TedScoreâ„¢: 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
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TedScoreâ„¢: 10/10
Are you ready to rock out on the drums but unsure how much it’ll cost? Well, fear not!
The price of a drum set can vary depending on factors like the manufacturer, size, and material. Some sets are even made with exotic materials that can make them extra special!
So, let’s explore the exciting world of drum sets together! We’ll show you how much they cost and what factors can affect the price.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’ve covered you. Get ready to rock and roll!
Understanding Drum Sets
If you’re a beginner drummer, you might wonder how much a drum set costs. Before you hit the music shop, it’s important to understand the different components of a drum set and how they affect the price.
Acoustic vs. Electronic Drum Sets
Acoustic drums are the traditional type of drum set, and they produce sound through the vibration of the drumhead. On the other hand, electronic drums use electronic triggers to produce sound.
Electronic drum sets are more expensive than acoustic ones but offer several benefits.
For example, they are much quieter and ideal for practising in small spaces. They also offer a wider range of sounds and can be connected to a computer for recording and editing.
Components of a Drum Set
A typical drum set has several components, including the bass, snare, and tom-toms. The number of tom-toms can vary, but a standard drum set usually includes three toms.
In addition to the drums, a drum set includes drum hardware such as cymbal stands, pedals, and a drum throne (drum stool). These components can add significantly to the cost of a drum set.
Shell Packs vs. Complete Drum Sets
A shell pack includes only the drums, while a complete drum set includes the drum shells and all the necessary hardware.
A shell pack can be a good option if you’re on a tight budget. However, remember that you’ll need to purchase additional hardware separately, which can add to the overall cost.
5-Piece vs. Other Configurations
Drum sets are often classified by the number of pieces they include. A 5-piece drum set is a common configuration, and it typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, two tom-toms, and a floor tom.
However, drum sets can come in various configurations, from 3-piece shell sets to massive drum kits with dozens of drums and cymbals. The more pieces a drum set includes, the more expensive it tends to be.
Shell Material
The material used to make the shells of a drum set can also affect the price. High-end drum sets are often made from exotic woods such as maple, birch, or mahogany, while lower-end sets may be made from cheaper materials like poplar or basswood.
Generally, the type of wood used affects the sound of the drums.
 Higher-quality woods tend to produce a warmer, resonant sound, while cheaper ones may produce a more muted sound.
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.Â
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.Â
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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 TedScoreâ„¢.
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.
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
FAQ's
The price of a drum set can vary greatly depending on the quality and brand. On average, most beginner kits and intermediate kits can cost around £/$300-1000, while a professional drum kit can cost upwards of £/$2,000 or more.
Spending around £/$300-500 on a beginner drum kit is recommended. This will provide you with a decent quality kit that will allow you to learn and improve your skills without breaking the bank.
Learning drums can be challenging, requiring coordination between all four limbs and a good sense of rhythm. However, with consistent practice and dedication, anyone can learn to play the drums.
The price of a 4-piece drum set can vary depending on the brand and quality. On average, a mid-range 4-piece drum set can cost around £/$500-1,000, while a high-end professional 4-piece drum set can cost upwards of £/2,000 or more.