Embarking on a drumming journey is an exciting adventure filled with rhythm, creativity, and self-expression. But for beginners, choosing the right drum kit can be a daunting task. There are numerous factors to consider, from the size and type of the kit to the brand, quality, and of course, the price. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision when selecting a drum kit as a beginner.
Full-Size Drum Kits
Standard Configuration
A full-size drum kit typically consists of a bass drum, a snare drum, two toms (usually a floor tom and a mounted tom), and a set of cymbals. The bass drum, which is the largest drum in the kit, provides the deep, booming low-end sound. It’s usually played with a pedal using the drummer’s foot. The snare drum is known for its sharp, cracking sound and is an essential part of keeping the rhythm. Toms come in different sizes and produce a range of pitched sounds. Cymbals add a splash of brightness and can be used for accents and fills. For example, a common setup might include a 22-inch bass drum, a 14-inch snare drum, a 12-inch mounted tom, a 16-inch floor tom, and a ride cymbal, a crash cymbal, and a hi-hat.
Advantages for Beginners
Full-size kits offer a complete drumming experience right from the start. They allow beginners to learn all the fundamental techniques, such as using the bass drum pedal, playing different rhythms on the snare, and coordinating the use of toms and cymbals. The variety of drums and cymbals in a full-size kit also helps beginners develop a sense of musicality and creativity. Additionally, as a beginner progresses, a full-size kit will continue to be suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pop to jazz and funk.
Potential Drawbacks
The main drawback of a full-size drum kit is its size and weight. It can take up a significant amount of space in a room, which might be a problem for those with limited living quarters. Moving a full-size kit, for example, to a practice studio or a gig, can also be challenging. In terms of cost, a full-size kit with good-quality components can be relatively expensive, which may be a deterrent for some beginners on a tight budget.
Junior or Compact Drum Kits
Design and Features
Junior or compact drum kits are scaled-down versions of full-size kits. They are designed with smaller drums and often lighter-weight hardware, making them more suitable for younger drummers or those with smaller builds. The bass drum in a junior kit might be 16-18 inches in diameter, compared to 22 inches in a full-size kit. The toms and snare are also proportionally smaller. These kits may come with a more simplified cymbal setup, such as just a hi-hat and a small crash cymbal. Some junior kits are even designed to be more portable, with features like foldable hardware.
Suitability for Young Beginners
For young children just starting out, junior kits are ideal. The smaller size makes it easier for them to reach and play the drums comfortably. The lighter-weight hardware is also safer for kids, as they won’t struggle with the physical effort of moving or setting up the kit. Junior kits can help build a child’s confidence and interest in drumming without overwhelming them with a large, complex instrument. They are also a more affordable option for parents who may not be sure if their child will stick with the instrument long-term.
Limitations as Skill Develops
As a young drummer’s skills progress, a junior kit may quickly become limiting. The smaller drums may not produce the same volume or tonal quality as a full-size kit, which can be a drawback when playing in a band or in a more serious musical context. The simplified cymbal setup may also restrict the drummer’s ability to learn more advanced techniques. Eventually, a young drummer who shows dedication and growth will likely need to upgrade to a full-size kit.
Electronic Drum Kits
How They Work
Electronic drum kits use sensors on the drum pads and cymbal pads to detect when they are struck. These sensors then send an electrical signal to a module, which is essentially a small computer. The module contains a variety of pre-recorded drum and cymbal sounds. When the signal is received, the module plays the corresponding sound through speakers or headphones. Some advanced electronic kits even allow drummers to customize the sounds, adjust the volume of individual drums, and add effects like reverb or delay.
Benefits for Beginners
One of the biggest advantages of electronic drum kits for beginners is their versatility. They offer a wide range of sounds, from classic acoustic drum sounds to more modern, electronic-based sounds. This allows beginners to experiment with different musical styles and find their preferred sound. Electronic kits are also much quieter than acoustic kits. They can be played with headphones, which is great for practicing in apartments or at odd hours without disturbing others. Additionally, many electronic kits come with built-in practice features, such as metronomes and play-along tracks, which can be very helpful for beginners learning to keep time and play with music.
Differences from Acoustic Kits
While electronic kits have many benefits, they do feel different to play compared to acoustic kits. The drum pads on electronic kits may not have the same tactile response as real drum heads, which can take some getting used to. The sound, although it can be very realistic, lacks the natural resonance and overtones of an acoustic kit. In terms of durability, electronic kits may be more prone to technical issues compared to acoustic kits, especially if the sensors or the module malfunction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drum kit as a beginner is a crucial step in your drumming journey. Consider your budget, the type of kit that suits your needs (acoustic,electronic,full-size,or junior), and factors like sound quality and build quality. Remember, the goal is to find a kit that you enjoy playing and that will help you develop your skills. Whether you opt for an affordable entry-level acoustic kit like the Yamaha Gigmaker or a versatile electronic kit like the Alesis Nitro Mesh, the most important thing is to start playing and have fun.
