Selecting the right drum set is crucial for beginners embarking on their musical journey. A well-chosen kit can enhance learning, provide a satisfying playing experience, and inspire continued practice. This guide reviews five top-rated beginner drum sets available on Amazon, each offering a balance of quality, affordability, and features suitable for novice drummers.
1. Ludwig Questlove Pocket Kit
The Ludwig Questlove Pocket Kit is a complete drum set designed specifically for beginners. Developed in collaboration with renowned drummer Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, this kit aims to provide an affordable yet high-quality entry point into drumming.
- Components: The kit includes a 16″ bass drum, 10″ tom, 13″ floor tom, 12″ snare drum, hi-hat cymbals, crash cymbal, stands, drum throne, drumsticks, and a drum key.
- Features: The compact size makes it ideal for younger players or those with limited space. The drums are crafted from hardwood shells, delivering a warm and resonant tone. The kit also comes with a set of drumheads and a free 6-part online lesson plan to kickstart your drumming journey.
- Pros:
- Complete package with all necessary components.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Includes online lessons for guided learning.
- Cons:
- May require tuning adjustments out of the box.
- Hardware quality is suitable for beginners but may not meet professional standards.
2. Pearl Roadshow Drum Set
The Pearl Roadshow Drum Set is a full-sized kit that offers exceptional value for beginners seeking a comprehensive setup. Pearl, a reputable name in the drumming world, ensures that this kit meets the needs of novice players.
- Components: This 5-piece set includes a 22″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ rack toms, 16″ floor tom, 14″ snare drum, cymbals (hi-hat and crash/ride), hardware (stands and pedals), drum throne, and drumsticks.
- Features: The shells are made from 9-ply poplar, providing a balanced and punchy sound. The double-braced hardware ensures stability during play. The kit also includes a drum key and a poster with setup instructions and rudiments.
- Pros:
- Robust construction with quality materials.
- Comprehensive package with all essentials included.
- Suitable for various music styles.
- Cons:
- Cymbals are entry-level and may not satisfy more discerning ears.
- Assembly required, which might be challenging for complete novices.
3. Mendini by Cecilio Junior Drum Set
The Mendini by Cecilio Junior Drum Set is tailored for younger beginners, offering a scaled-down version of a full drum kit. It’s an excellent choice for children eager to learn the basics of drumming.
- Components: This 3-piece set includes a 13″ bass drum, 8″ tom, 10″ snare drum, cymbal, bass drum pedal, drum throne, and drumsticks.
- Features: The kit’s smaller size is perfect for children aged 3 to 8 years. The drums are made with hardwood shells and triple-flanged hoops, ensuring durability. The set is available in various colors, appealing to young players.
- Pros:
- Affordable and specifically designed for children.
- Compact size suitable for small spaces.
- Easy assembly with clear instructions.
- Cons:
- Not suitable for older beginners or adults.
- Limited sound quality compared to full-sized kits.
4. Alesis Nitro Mesh Electronic Drum Kit
For beginners interested in electronic drums, the Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit offers a quiet and versatile alternative to acoustic sets. It’s ideal for practice in noise-sensitive environments.
- Components: The kit includes an 8″ dual-zone mesh snare, three 8″ mesh toms, three cymbals (hi-hat, crash with choke, and ride), kick drum pad with pedal, and the Nitro electronic drum module.
- Features: Mesh heads provide a realistic and responsive playing experience. The module comes with 40 ready-to-play kits and 385 drum and cymbal sounds. It also offers coaching features, 60 built-in play-along tracks, and a metronome to improve timing.
- Pros:
- Quiet operation suitable for apartments.
- Wide range of sounds and coaching features.
- USB/MIDI connectivity for recording and software integration.
- Cons:
- Requires power source and amplification for optimal sound.
- Less authentic feel compared to acoustic drums.
5. Gammon Percussion Full Size Complete Adult Drum Set
The Gammon Percussion Full Size Drum Set is an affordable option for adult beginners seeking a complete acoustic kit. It provides all the necessary components to start playing right away.
- Components: This 5-piece set includes a 22″ bass drum, 12″ and 13″ mounted toms, 16″ floor tom, 14″ snare drum, hi-hat and crash cymbals, stands, drum throne, bass drum pedal, and drumsticks.
- Features: The drums are constructed with high-gloss black shells and chain-driven pedals. The kit comes with all hardware and accessories needed for setup and play.
- Pros:
- Budget-friendly full-sized kit.
- Complete package with all necessary components.
- Suitable for adult beginners.
- Cons:
- Cymbal quality is basic and may require upgrading.
