Things To Consider When Purchasing Drums

Drumset
Photo by randomgong

So, it’s time for you to graduate from banging on your parents’ pots and pans and step up to real drums, or perhaps you’re already on your way to becoming the next Neil Peart. That’s cool! Regardless, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be able to focus on your music rather than the gear.

The first consideration is your budget. It will determine what you can and cannot afford to purchase. Start by covering the basics: your bass drum, snare, tom-toms, hi-hats, and cymbals. Before moving on to other components of the drum kit, make sure these essential pieces are of sufficient quality. It’s okay to buy a used set, especially if you’re just starting out, but make sure the wear and tear are not too severe, or you’ll end up spending money on replacing broken drumheads. Beginners don’t necessarily need a perfect tone, but it’s a physical instrument, and you don’t want to feel like you’re constantly playing on a fragile instrument. It is possible to learn with fewer than five pieces, but it’s more enjoyable to have a complete set. You want to ensure that playing is fun at this early stage, so you’ll be motivated to continue.

There’s a saying that a drum kit isn’t one instrument but many instruments put together. With this in mind, once you’ve gained a certain level of experience, pay attention to the sound of each piece you’re adding to your kit. A good kit usually requires a solid snare and a quality bass drum, so prioritize these. You can start adding more cymbals once you have the necessary experience. By this point, you’ll notice that some cymbals produce a thin, tinny sound compared to the expressive richness offered by top-quality cymbal brands like Zildjian and Sabian. Also, consider the acoustics of the store itself when you’re testing out these drums. Carpeted floors may deaden the sound, and if you’re in a large open space, the sound may get lost in the room. Ask a store attendant if the drums are properly tuned.

In general, when you walk into a store, let them know that you’re genuinely interested in purchasing a drum kit. Even the least attentive staff members will perk up. Ask them as many questions as possible and listen carefully to their responses. Don’t limit yourself to just one store. Comparing different stores allows you to play more instruments, gather diverse information, and get a feel for the different establishments. All other things being equal, it’s better to buy from staff members who know what they’re talking about. They’re more likely to provide better guidance and carry high-quality instruments. People who both play and love the instruments they sell tend to offer products they are proud of, while indifferent stores are primarily focused on moving inventory. Compare your options and resist the urge to make impulsive purchases. Patience is a virtue in this process.

Manuel Marino

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