Best and Cheapest Drum Kits for Electronic Drum Lovers

Are you tired of relying on electronic drums and are looking for a real drum kit to add some depth and warmth to your sound? This guide will help you find the best and cheapest drum kits, whether you are a beginner looking to start playing or an experienced drummer wanting to upgrade without breaking the bank.

Choosing the Right Budget Drum Kit

If you have some experience or are a seasoned drummer, a well-built second-hand kit from a major manufacturer can be a fantastic investment. Whether you are shopping at a pawn shop, visiting an instrument store, or browsing eBay, there are plenty of options available. For the best sound for your money, consider a set of Pearl Exports from the early 2000s. These kits are highly recommended as they offer great value and are well-built, allowing for numerous upgrades to enhance their sound over time.

For those who prefer new kits, Pearl is often praised for providing excellent value. Pearl drums come in a range of prices and offer numerous small tweaks and adjustments that can significantly improve the kit's sound. Even the cheapest drums from Pearl can be upgraded with bearing edges re-cutting, head changes, and even careful interior finishing. The brand's robust construction means that there are multiple options for improving the sound and performance of your kit.

Identifying Quality Instruments

When choosing a new or second-hand drum kit, it's essential to focus on the quality of the hardware and shell. Many expert drummers recommend that you look for kits in the $300 to $800 range. Brands like Pearl, Tama, Yamaha, Ludwig, Mapex, and Premier all offer excellent entry to intermediate-level drums. Each of these manufacturers ensures that the hardware and shell quality are superior, offering a rich and responsive sound.

A second-hand kit can often be a great option, especially if it includes all the additional bits such as stands, stool, cymbals, and accessories. Many people sell their old kits complete with everything needed to start playing. You can find some great bargains on eBay, Gumtree, or other online marketplaces. Even the cheaper kits today offer good quality, making them suitable for practice sessions. Proper tuning and quality drum heads can make any kit sound great, and you might even find a well-maintained used kit with good, non-abused heads.

Upgrading Your Sound

When it comes to upgrading your kit, focus on the components that make the most difference to the sound and performance. Cheap snares and cymbals can be a major downside, but with practice and patience, you can upgrade these elements as you become more sensitive to the benefits they bring. A great-sounding snare doesn't have to be expensive, and you can find affordable proper cymbals on eBay if you are patient.

Here are some well-known drum kit manufacturers who offer affordable options:

By following these tips and focusing on quality, you can find the best drum kit to suit your needs and budget without sacrificing performance or sound.

Conclusion

Online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist offer a wealth of options for finding a great drum kit, whether used or new. By doing your research and focusing on well-known manufacturers with a reputation for quality, you can find the best deal on a drum kit that will last and offer years of enjoyment.