If you’re considering purchasing a drum set, here are some tips for buying a quality used set. Following these suggestions will help ensure you don’t waste your money.

1. Take your time: Be patient when choosing a drum set. Carefully assess the drums’ overall condition, checking the skins for rips or tears, especially on the snare drum. Also, inspect the snare release to ensure it functions properly – it should release and reapply quickly and smoothly.
2. Check the snare sound: When the snare is released, there should be no buzzing from the snare drum. It should sound like a tom-tom.
3. Inspect the drum shells: Ask if you can remove a head to examine the inside of the drum. Look for the material the drum shell is made of – Maple or Birch wood shells are heavier and of higher quality than plywood or plastic shells.
4. Examine the drum hardware: Check the drum lugs (tensioners) by tightening each one with a drum key to ensure they turn smoothly and aren’t rusted. Make sure the drum lugs are secure, and tighten them with a spanner if necessary.
5. Assess additional hardware: Inspect the snare drum stand, cymbal stands, and hi-hat stand for shiny chrome and proper functioning. Ensure the hi-hat pedal operates smoothly and check the grips on the stand’s base for stability. Placing the stand on a carpet Carpet making - Here's a very interesting article on the Art of carpet making, written by Alhan Keser. Alhan is in in charge of communications for Tip Top Design, a company that specializes in interior design with oriental rugs. He has lived in Turkey and France, working as a freelance journalist and documentary maker. Carpet making The story… or using a rubber stop can help anchor it if needed.
6. Assemble and adjust: Put the drums together in kit form and arrange them in a comfortable playing position.
7. Invest in a quality bass drum pedal: Spend as much as you can on a high-quality pedal for better performance and ease of play. Test the pedal’s responsiveness and ease of use to find the one that suits you best.
8. Negotiate: Once you’re satisfied with the drum set, haggle on the price or try to get a cymbal case or other accessories included. If possible, invest in cases for your drums and cymbals, as well as a stick case for your drumsticks and brushes.
9. Choose a reputable brand: Look for used drum sets from well-regarded manufacturers such as Ludwig, Yamaha, Pearl, Premier, Sonor, Gretsch, or Trixon (though no longer in production). Aim for the best sounding drums in the best condition, preferably with Maple or Birch shells.

Good luck in your search for the perfect used drum set!