Which Electronic Drum Kit is Better, Alesis Nitro or Behringer?

Introduction

When considering an electronic drum kit, many musicians and enthusiasts get caught in the dilemma: Which kit should I choose, the Alesis Nitro or the Behringer? Both options have their unique features and price points, making them appealing to different types of users. Here, we will explore the key features, sound quality, build quality, and pricing of both kits to help you make a well-informed decision.

The Alesis Nitro Electronic Drum Kit

Features

8-piece drum kit with mesh drum heads, providing a more realistic feel. Module with 385 sounds and 40 preset kits. Built-in metronome and recording capabilities. USB/MIDI connectivity for integration with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).

Sound Quality

Generally praised for its sound quality, the Alesis Nitro offers a decent range of drum sounds suitable for various genres. The mesh heads contribute to a more natural and realistic sound. While not identical to acoustic drums, the sound is significantly improved compared to traditional rubber pads.

Build Quality

With a good build quality for its price, the Alesis Nitro is a solid choice for beginners and intermediates. The components, though, like the rack, may feel less sturdy compared to higher-tier kits. Despite this, the overall design is sturdy and reliable, especially considering the price.

Price

Typically affordable, the Alesis Nitro makes it a great entry-level option for those looking to get into electronic drumming without breaking the bank.

The Behringer Electronic Drum Kits (e.g., Behringer XD8USB)

Features

Variety of sounds and customizable kits, depending on the model. Typically includes USB connectivity and MIDI output. Competitively priced, making them appealing for budget-conscious buyers.

Sound Quality

While the sound quality can be good, it may not reach the same level of realism and variety as the Alesis Nitro. The rubber pads, although comfortable, may not provide the same level of feedback and natural feel as mesh heads.

Build Quality

The build quality is generally decent, but some users report that the pads may not be as durable as those on the Alesis kits. The hi-hat and cymbal pads, in particular, may not match the quality and responsiveness of the Alesis models.

Conclusion

Best for Realism

The Alesis Nitro is the better choice for realism due to its mesh drum heads and superior sound module, providing a more authentic feel and a wider range of drum sounds.

Best for Budget

Depending on the specific Behringer model, it can be more affordable, making it a suitable option for those looking to purchase a drum kit within a tighter budget. However, you may have to sacrifice some features and sound quality.

Overall Recommendation

If you prioritize realism and sound quality, the Alesis Nitro is likely the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option and are willing to compromise on some features, a Behringer drum kit could be sufficient. It's essential to consider your needs and budget before making a decision.

Personal Experience with Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit

I purchased an Alesis Nitro Mesh kit three years ago, and I am quite satisfied with it. The mesh heads are less noisy and have more natural rebound than rubber pads, making them closer to acoustic drum heads. You can adjust the mesh tension with a drum key, similar to tuning acoustic drums, but without changing the tone. The dual zone snare pad allows for more versatility, and the three tom pads, while single zone, support dual zone pads. The pads are all 8 inches, which works fine as they will sound the same regardless of where you hit.

The three rubber cymbal pads are okay but may not be as durable as the mesh heads. The hi-hat controller pedal is limited, offering open, closed positions, and a hi-hat "splash" with only the pedal's ability to trigger a "half-closed" sample, which is challenging to use. The nitro module has 10 preset kits and space for 30 additional user-defined kits. The samples library is decent for an entry-level module, and the module supports additional inputs for a 4th tom dual zone and a second crash cymbal single zone.

The kit's build quality is sturdy considering the small weight of the hardware. With 4 separate legs, it is quite stable. However, it is a bit low, which might be an issue for tall players. The kick tower and hi-hat pedal have been modified for stability, using industrial strength velcro and additional adjustments.

Overall, the Alesis Nitro Mesh kit offers a great balance of features, sound quality, and build quality, making it a solid choice for those looking for an entry-level electronic drum kit.