Drum set buying guide

Are you considering buying a drum set?

buying a drum set
Image by vecstock on Freepik

Even if you don’t plan to buy a drum set right away, wouldn’t it be good to have some basic knowledge about drums if you’re into music?

So, here’s the first drum-buying guide for drum beginners!

Open your eyes wide and focus!

1. Consider the Purpose of Drum Purchase (When you are buying a drum set)!

When buying a drum set, you should first consider where and how you will play. If you need drums for performances in large spaces, it’s advisable to buy a set with a voluminous sound from the original drum sets. On the other hand, if you need drums for practicing in narrow spaces, I recommend electronic drums with headset output or smaller drums.

In general, the larger the bass drum, the louder the volume. However, volume includes not only the sound’s size but also resonance, low-frequency density, reverberation, the instrument’s size, etc. Therefore, it’s good to try playing and judging the volume that suits you after experiencing the actual performance.

In other words, depending on whether the purpose of purchase is for performances or practice and where you will play, you need drums that fit that purpose.

Now, it’s time to consider personal preferences. Let’s move on to the next tip!

2. Definitely Hit the Bass and Toms!

Now it’s time to explore the tone and feel of the drums.

Among them, it is important to examine the bass (kick), which plays the central role in the drum, and the toms that are often favored for tone preferences.

Even among drum sets of various brands and price ranges, directly tapping the bass and toms that catch your eye and comparing the sound differences is crucial. Consider whether the impact is deep and heavy or light, whether the sound spreads or resonates inward, how loud the volume is, and whether the toms have a single or double-ply.

Considering these differences, you need to find the sound that is most suitable for the music genre and style you want to play.

Don’t assume that higher prices mean better sound when you are buying a drum set! Even among low-priced drums, you may find your preferred style, so it’s good to explore various price ranges.

Wait a moment; choosing the bass and toms is essential, but tuning and maintenance also have a significant impact on playing.

For beginners, tuning should be approached with caution! After purchasing, consult with an expert to play a more stable and long-lasting, well-balanced drum.

3. Cymbal Sound Adds Color to Drums!

Cymbals are usually sold separately from drum sets. Cymbals are also essential in terms of sound preference.

Therefore, preparing multiple cymbals according to your preference and using different cymbals for each piece is common.

Cymbals vary greatly in tone depending on the product and brand.

Light and shimmering tones, strong and solid tones, sharp tones, etc. – there are so many varieties. Choosing cymbal sounds is as crucial as choosing the tone itself.

Cymbals also come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. The typical cymbal size is between 14 inches and 18 inches. Smaller sizes produce higher and lighter sounds, while larger sizes produce more solid and majestic sounds.

There are also differences in color depending on the degree of alloying in the material, and there are also differences in how they are made, such as being stamped or hammered.

Selecting cymbals requires careful consideration during purchase, and post-purchase maintenance is essential for sustaining good sound. It’s advisable to clean them with cymbal cleaner every two months and store them in a cymbal case after use to maintain a pleasant sound.

4. Drum Sticks Are as Important as Drum Sets!

Although not drums, drumsticks are as important as drums since they come together to produce music. Let’s look at what to consider when choosing drumsticks:

  1. Are the sticks straight?

You can visually confirm this, but rolling the stick on the floor one by one will definitely let you know. If it rolls well, it has extended straight.

  1. Is the wood grain in one piece?

Visually check the wood grain. If the wood grain is in one piece, it’s sturdy.

  1. Check the stick balance.

Stick weight varies slightly from product to product. The front may be heavier, or the back may be heavier. This is about finding what suits your playing style, and there’s no good or bad.

Apart from these, there are various types of sticks with different shapes and materials.

Buying a drum set online?

If the price and the convenience is the most important factor online might be the better place for beginners. Leave a note on the instrument price enquiry form.

buying a drum set

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Find drumsticks online.

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