Manuel is a passionate, driven, and techsavvy AV technician, 
Today’s drum manufacturers have benefited greatly from learning from the mistakes and successes of others, as well as from the advancements in technology. Modern methods have led to improvements in the quality of materials, adhesives, and standard control tests. The ability to create incredible drums has never been better!
Prominent drum makers today offer some truly remarkable products. Some also produce lower-priced goods, student-line or beginner-level products, where cost-saving measures and production techniques result in more affordable price tags. However, high-end drums generally exhibit more meticulous craftsmanship, closer specification tolerances, and higher-quality materials compared to their lower-tier counterparts.
Furthermore, there are exceptional custom drum makers who create treatments of extremely high quality tailored to the specific requirements and preferences of individual customers. Their meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship are evident in their work. I have witnessed and heard some incredible drums from these artisans.
I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to play many different drum kits from various manufacturers. Therefore, I can confidently say that, in my opinion, just like with cars, there are some variations in quality and features.
Features?
Many companies offer unique design characteristics that may be the reason you prefer their products over those of other companies. For example, Pearl’s Reference Series drums are made with different woods and ply constructions for each drum size. DW has “Timbre Matching” and “Vertical Grain” designs that appeal to many customers. Other companies incorporate various woods, lug designs, metals, special models, and more, all of which can affect the overall sound characteristics. There are more options than ever before, and it can be perplexing for someone looking to purchase their dream kit.
How do you choose? I believe that, like buying a car, the drum kit that suits you should meet your needs, playing style, and desired image. It should also give you a sense of pride and confidence when you sit down to play.
In addition to considering models and configurations, you need to explore the design variations and choose what best matches your specific performance requirements. For instance, do you prefer a warm, mellow tone? Do you want plenty of bottom end? Do you desire greater projection or more control? Do you need extended sustain or a more moderate sustain? Some drums are now designed to provide these different sound characteristics. Choices, options, and more options.
Which manufacturer offers counter hoops that feel and sound right to you? Which drums are easiest to tune? Which lug design holds the tuning most effectively? What specific features of a particular brand really speak to you? The answers to these questions will influence your choices of models and brands.
Looks?
Cosmetics are also a consideration. While cosmetics may have little or nothing to do with the sound or feel of the drums, they do influence how you feel when you look at your drum kit. Custom finishes, gold hardware, tube lugs—these are all personal choices that can add to the final cost. Perhaps, for you, the additional expense is worthwhile. Maybe you also want the satisfaction of having a distinct look that sets your drum kit apart from others.
Neil’s Sound Test
I recall that Neil Peart embarked on a quest for his perfect drum kit years ago. He chose to use a 9″ x 13″ rack tom as his constant element during the initial testing to evaluate the sound characteristics of drums from different drum manufacturers. While I’m not sure if I agree that drum size is the definitive factor for you or me to use as a test drum, Neil experimented with various 9″ x 13″ toms, different tunings, head combinations, and more until he finally determined which company produced the drum that he felt sounded the “best.” He then proceeded to test their other drums and eventually made his choices. This story might provide you with an idea or a systematic approach to navigate through the multitude of options a bit faster, or maybe not! Either way, I wanted to share that story with you.
The concept of “the right drums” is highly subjective. By now, you are aware of my opinion that there are numerous well-made, high-quality drums available today that sound fantastic. It is up to you to filter out the ones you don’t like and eventually narrow down your choices to a shortlist of ideal options for you.
Warranties
Some manufacturers offer better warranties, and some have earned reputations for quickly shipping repair components. These “after-sales” factors may influence your final decision.
Endorsements
I believe that some well-known drummers endorse specific brands because they genuinely believe that particular brand is the best. However, other drummers may endorse a brand not only because they produce great products but also because they receive a lot of free items and gain significant recognition. I understand that major companies may not appreciate me suggesting this, but does it truly matter to you that (fill in the name) plays (fill in the brand) drums? Big drum companies invest significant amounts of money to ensure that you believe it does.
Consider, for example, how many different brands Billy Cobham has gone through. Or Terry, Vinnie, or Bobby? Do you see the point? So, does it truly matter which brand your favorite drummer is playing this year?
Ultimately, you possess a mind and ears, and you know what sounds “good” and what sounds appealing to you. Isn’t that a better guideline than slick advertising?
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
