When it comes to learning a musical instrument, few are as captivating and versatile as the drums. Whether you're drawn to the thunderous beats of rock or the intricate rhythms of jazz, the drums have a unique ability to set the tone and drive the music forward.
For beginners, choosing the right drum kit is crucial. It sets the foundation for your musical journey and can greatly impact your learning experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of drum kits available, their features, and which one may be best suited for beginners like yourself.
When starting out, it's important to remember that bigger isn't always better. Drum kits come in various sizes and configurations, but for beginners, a basic four-piece drum kit is often the ideal choice. This includes a bass drum, snare drum, rack tom, and floor tom. These components provide a solid foundation for learning and allow for versatile playing styles.
Most beginners will usually want a drum kit set up like we have in this image:
The bass drum, also known as the kick drum, is the largest drum in the kit and is played using a foot pedal. It provides the low-end beats and is fundamental in setting the rhythm of most songs. The size of the bass drum can greatly influence the overall sound of the drum kit, with larger bass drums producing deeper tones. This drum is labelled (1) in the image.
The snare drum is known for its sharp, distinct sound that cuts through other drum sounds. Positioned between the drummer's legs, it is typically used for the backbeat in many music styles. The snare is equipped with metal wires (snares) on the underside, which vibrate against the bottom drumhead to create its characteristic sound.
Toms add melody and depth to drumming patterns. The rack tom is mounted on top of or beside the bass drum and is usually smaller and higher-pitched than the floor tom. The floor tom, which stands on the floor on its own legs, produces a deeper, more resonant sound. Together, these toms are used for fills and solos, adding rhythmic variety to music.
Cymbals are crucial for adding accents and color to your drumming.
Hi-Hat: Consisting of two cymbals mounted on a stand and operated by a foot pedal, the hi-hat can produce a range of sounds from a subtle closed 'tick' to a loud, open 'crash'.
Crash Cymbal: Often used for accentuating certain beats or marking the end of a musical phrase, the crash cymbal delivers a sharp, explosive sound.
Ride Cymbal: Larger than the crash, the ride cymbal is used for steady rhythms and produces a sustained, shimmering sound, ideal for maintaining a constant rhythm pattern.
Cymbals are obviously an essential part of a drum kit. The hi-hat, crash, and ride cymbals add depth and character to your playing.
As a beginner, it's important to familiarize yourself with the different drum sizes and cymbal options to find a kit that suits your needs and preferences.
When deciding on a drum kit, you'll need to consider whether an acoustic or electronic drum kit is the best fit for you.
Acoustic drum kits are the traditional choice and are known for their rich, authentic sound. They are played by striking the drumheads with drumsticks or hands, producing a dynamic range of tones. Professional drummers frequently favor acoustic kits because they are adaptable and suitable for various genres.
On the other hand, electronic drum kits offer a more modern and convenient approach to drumming. These kits use electronic pads, which produce sound when struck. They offer the advantage of being quieter, making them ideal for practice sessions in apartments or shared living spaces. Electronic drum kits also provide a wide range of sounds and effects, allowing you to experiment with different genres and styles.
Volume control
Acoustic drum kits can be loud, especially when played with enthusiasm. This can be a concern for those living in apartments or shared spaces where noise restrictions may apply. Electronic drum kits offer the advantage of adjustable volume levels, allowing you to practice without disturbing others.
Sound quality
Acoustic drum kits are renowned for their authentic and dynamic sound. The resonance and tone produced by the acoustic drums and cymbals create a rich and immersive playing experience.
Experimentation with Sonics
Electronic drum kits offer a wide range of customizable sounds and effects, allowing you to explore different sonic possibilities. For that reason, electronic drum sets might better suit drummers looking to experiment with different sounds or music production techniques.
Check out our more detailed guide on Acoustic Drums vs Electronic Drums
Both acoustic and electronic drum kits offer various learning and practice tools to support beginners in their musical journey. Acoustic drum kits provide a tactile and hands-on experience, allowing you to develop technique and feel the vibrations of the drums.
Electronic drum kits, on the other hand, often come with built-in metronomes, practice routines, and learning applications. These tools can be invaluable for beginners, providing guidance and structure to your practice sessions. They can also offer features like recording and playback, allowing you to assess your progress and track your improvement over time.
Melodics is the easiest way for beginners to get started with a huge range of online drum lessons:
When it comes to performance, both acoustic and electronic drum kits have their advantages. Acoustic drum kits are the preferred choice for live performances and studio recordings, as they offer an authentic sound and a wide range of tonal possibilities. The physicality and presence of acoustic drums on stage can also enhance the overall performance experience.
Electronic drum kits, on the other hand, are highly versatile and adaptable for different performance settings. They can be easily connected to sound systems and offer the advantage of customizable sounds and effects. Electronic drum kits are particularly popular in genres like electronic music, where their versatility and ability to replicate various percussion sounds make them a valuable tool for musicians.
Choosing between acoustic and electronic drum kits ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs as a beginner drummer. Consider factors such as volume control, portability, sound options, and the style of music you want to play. It's also important to try out different drum kits, if possible, to get a feel for their sound and playability.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a drum kit that inspires you and suits your learning journey. Whether you opt for the classic sound of an acoustic drum kit or the versatility of an electronic drum kit, the drums offer endless possibilities for creativity and expression.
Getting familiar with how to set up a drum kit the way you want it will also help when deciding which type works best for you.
In conclusion, understanding the different types of drum kits is essential for beginners embarking on their musical journey. Acoustic drum kits offer an authentic and dynamic playing experience, while electronic drum kits provide versatility and convenience. Consider factors such as volume control, sound options, and portability when making your decision.
Ultimately, the best drum kit for you is the one that inspires you to practice, learn, and explore the world of drumming. Embrace the diversity of drum kits and let your rhythm guide you on an exciting musical adventure. Happy drumming!
NEW LESSON DROP!
NEW LESSON DROP!
Come Together
As made famous by The Beatles
Learn to play this and over 500 songs in Melodics
Play this song now