There’s nothing as exciting as buying new gear, especially when you’re first starting to play an instrument. But for aspiring drummers, it can feel like there’s a lot to learn before you even pick up a set of sticks. With so much choice, you can – and should – get a kit that’s just right for you. Buying a drum kit for a beginning student can be overwhelming, so we’ve broken down what you need to know, from the types of kits to consider for a beginner to essential hardware that’s required to play the songs that will keep your student motivated.
When to invest in buying a drum kit?
This boils down to two different types of personality. The first type of person wants to know they can reach a certain goal or level on the drums before committing to buying a drum kit. The second type of person wants to dive straight in with owning a drum kit in order to ensure that he/she stays committed to learning the drums.
There are of course other factors including cost and having space in your house to put the drums which will influence when you’ll be able to invest in a drum kit.
What are the options?
There are few different basic drum kit configurations to consider
A SIMPLE, MINIMAL DRUM KIT:
These are just the basics that a beginner would need to be able to start working on the necessary coordination and groove exercises. This would include at minimum:
- Bass drum and bass drum pedal
- Snare drum and stand
- Hihat cymbals and stand
- Sticks and a drum stool
However it’s not likely that this minimal set will be available as a unit. This is fine if you want to start of minimal and expand your kit as you move forward in your drumming journey.
A 5-PIECE DRUM SET:
This is the most recommended option and a very standard setup that will be available widely as a unit at retailers and online.
It will include:
- Bass drum and bass drum pedal
- Snare drum and stand
- 3 toms and mounting hardware
- Hi-hat, crash, and ride cymbals and hardware
- Sticks and a drum stool (sold separately)
A setup like this covers all the necessary equipment for any beginner to make great progress in any style of playing.
AN ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT:
This is the best option for students living in apartments & homes with limited space & close neighbours. Electronic Drum Kits are becoming more and more popular these days due to the wide variety of sounds they can generate, and the fact that they can be practiced silently. The technology of electronic drums is extremely advanced and they are often fully professional instruments. The setup can vary based on how pads are assigned and programmed but often mimics the 5-piece set described above. Sticks and drum stool will still be sold separately.
Bonus Tip for Beginners learning Drums
Every beginner drummer should also have a metronome and practice pad to practice with – after all our main job is to keep time in a band! You can access any online metronome for free and start with a simple practice pad. If you want to know how a practice pad can help you, read here.
3 points when Choosing your First Drum Kit
To summarise there are 3 main points to consider while investing in your first drumkit.
- The first is -Do you need an electronic or acoustic kit?
- Second-What size drumkit will suit you best at your drumming level
- Third- How long will you get out of the drumset before you will need to upgrade.
Do your research, weigh up the options, and be sure to get an opinion from the budding drummer themselves.
Start your Drumming Journey
In conclusion, choosing your first drum kit can be a daunting task, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. And once you’ve decided to buy a kit, don’t forget to check out our online shop for electronic drums and drum accessories. Our electronic drums are perfect for home practice, whether you’re a beginner or a professional. And if you’re just starting out, don’t forget to take advantage of our Beginner’s Offer for private drum lessons. Let’s get drumming!
Good luck!
Note: All images are used for illustrative purpose only and not owned by The Drum Camp
