Just like buying any instrument, we’re lucky to live in a time where we’re completely spoiled for choice. As a beginner planning to get into drums, how do you know what’s right for your playing needs. What features do you need? Is it versatile enough for the music I want to play?
There are just so many things for one to consider before splashing the cash. Thankfully, drum makers like TAMA, Gretsch and more know their audiences best – today we have drum kits designed specifically for the novice. And that does not mean you ditch the kit for something better once you get good!
Here’s a list of drum gear perfect for those who want to pick up the sticks for the first time.
For the aspiring young-in
A joint collaboration between Questlove and the iconic Ludwig brand, the Ludwig Pocket Kit is an all-inclusive drum kit designed specifically to get beginning drummers set on the right course for percussive perfection.
These entry level drums are made with Ludwig’s stringent QC standards and are bundled together with all the hardware (pedals, stands, throne, drumsticks and drum key) and cymbals to get you going – they even come with free drum lessons so you know what you’re doing.
For the budding beginner
That great Gretsch sound has never been so obtainable at a great price point. Another great ready-to-play kit, the Gretsch Energy kits are the ideal instruments to start your drumming journey with.
The Gretsch Energy features 7-ply poplar shells with 30-degree bearing edges for a tasteful tone that cuts through in a mix. Gretsch also supplied the Energy with high quality 1.6 mm triple flanged hoops and Remo drum heads for maximum audio satisfaction.
The Energy comes in a standard size – a 22” bass drum, 10”and 12” mounted toms, a 16” floor tom and a 14” snare. These dimensions make the Energy perfect versatile setup for any kind of music style you’d like to play. The Energy also comes with all of the hardware needed to get you playing with a bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand, snare stand and cymbal stands coming stock within the package so you’ve got everything you need to get started.
For the mobile and space-conscious drummer
Released in 2018, the Tama Club-JAM kit is Tama’s take on the affordable bop size kits.
Taking design cues from beloved kits of the past, the Club-JAM employs the usage of a bass drum mounted cymbal holder and curved bass drum spurs for maximum visual impact. While the Club-JAM may be a petite set, don’t underestimate the amplitude this tiny terror can conjure! As expected of TAMA, the sound quality of this kit is excellent — 6plys of phoenix tree and poplar wood gives this kit a rich and cutting sound that goes well beyond its price point.
The compact form factor of this set also gives it two distinct advantages – a very punchy kick due to its 14×18 bass drum and its extremely small footprint that makes it ideal for the drummer who is always on the move or has space constraints.
The drum kit that grows with you
TAMA’s Rhythm Mate is redefining how entry level kits are designed. This 5-piece kit lets you cut through the hassle and allows you to quickly get the kit set up to what you need it to be.
Adjustable Beater Angle? Check. Adjustable Tom Holders? Absolutely. High quality hardware, pedals and stands? You got it!
TAMA has also outfitted the Rhythm Mate with its Accu-Tune Bass Drum Hoops and precise breaking edges. These hoops offer faster tuning capabilities and unparalleled stability for a wide tuning range.
The famous TAMA quality shines through with this kit – the sound and build quality is undoubtedly top-notch. An all-round great kit, the Rhythm Mate also comes in six stunning wrapped finishes to match your unique style.
A gem of a drum kit
30 years of being the best selling drum kit in the world simply does not lie. Crafted to give you the looks, feel and sound of a top-tier drum kit without breaking your bank account, the Pearl Export series just screams incredible value. Firstly, the Export Series utilises a poplar and Asian mahogany hybrid shell – a rare feature at this price range. This hybrid construction improves tone and enhances the durability of the kit to the elements.
The EXL‘s shells are made using Pearl’s “Superior Shell Technology” – a proprietary construction technique that maximises frequency response. This resonance is also helped with Pearl’s Opti-Loc mounting system – a suspension system that keeps your toms wobble free while reinforcing the resonance of the kit.
The Export kit has been the catalyst for thousands of drumming careers with their unbeatable quality. Now, you can also follow in those many footsteps on your very own drumming journey.
The best cymbals beginners can buy
You know what they say about German craftsmanship. The Meinl MCS series are made to offer you the ability to play any music style. Created with the B8 alloy for bright and clear sound profile, these cymbals have the uncanny ability to integrate into multiple genres of music.
The Meinl MCS set also has deep lathing grooves that significantly reduces its thickness and weight – this results in a quicker response and attack. The Meinl MCS Cymbal Pack contains 14″ medium hi-hats, a 16″ medium crash and a 20″ medium ride.
As an added bonus, these cymbals are all harmonically matched to each other to give you the most musical sound.
Raring to embark on your drumming journey? We’ve got just the right place. Head over to our Specialty Drum Store in Peninsular Shopping Centre and we’ll be more than happy to help find you the perfect kit regardless of your playing style and level. Or, you can check out the rest of our drum gear available on our online store here.
If you’re in Malaysia, head on over to our stores in Bangsar, Lot 10 KL and Sunway Putra Mall to get your drum and percussion fix. You can also get access to our full inventory of skins in Malaysia right here.
Watch this space as we explore more drum kits for different playing levels and budgets.
