Umair Gaines
Playing the drums is a rewarding activity that positively affects your health and well-being. If you're interested in learning how to play the drums, you might consider purchasing an electronic drum kit. Electronic drum kits are compact, quiet, and excellent tools for learning to play the drums. They are also typically more affordable and accessible than acoustic drum kits. When purchasing an electronic drum kit, it is important to consider the age and generation of the technology, as well as investing in a good pair of headphones or in-ear monitors. Additionally, you can find many online drum courses or free lessons offered by drum companies to help you get started.
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of electric vs. acoustic drums
Acoustic drum kits rely on the physical impact of drumsticks on a drum skin (or drumhead) to generate sound. Each strike causes the top and bottom drumheads to vibrate, resulting in the note you hear. The shell material, its size, the type of drumhead, and what you hit it with all affect the sound. Acoustic drums offer a full spectrum of volume and superior dynamics, allowing for more nuanced playing, from delicate wire brushes to full-bodied flams. They also offer a wide range of materials and customization options, enabling drummers to create their unique signature sound.
On the other hand, electronic drum kits use a trigger sensor and drum module (or “brain”) to generate sound on impact. This sound, a “sample,” is triggered by the hit. Electronic drums can be played using headphones as the sole output for audio, making them ideal for practice without bothering others. They are also more compact, lightweight, and easier to transport. They come loaded with various pre-set 'kits', offering a wide range of sounds and customization options.
However, electronic drums have a different feel and response compared to acoustic drums, which can make transitioning from electronic to acoustic more difficult. They also need electricity to operate, which could be limiting for performances in outdoor venues or areas without power sources. The sensitivity of pads and triggers may degrade over time, especially in cheaper models.
While electronic drums have their advantages, the joy of playing a well-tuned acoustic kit is hard to match for any drummer. Acoustic drums provide the raw power and immediacy that can inspire performances in ways that electronic kits cannot.
Ultimately, the decision between electric and acoustic drums depends on your specific needs and goals. Many drummers have both, and some prefer one over the other, while others use a hybrid kit that combines the benefits of both types.
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Tips for switching between electric and acoustic drums
When switching between electric and acoustic drums, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand that electric drums are not considered "real" drums, and this has implications for the setup, response, and perceived sound. Your grip, stroke, and other mechanics will remain the same, but the sound produced and your perception of it will differ significantly.
One of the main challenges when transitioning to acoustic drums is the inconsistent levels of bounce or rebound across the kit. Each component of the acoustic drum kit, such as the cymbals, snare, and floor tom, will respond differently when struck, requiring adjustments in your playing technique. To compensate for this inconsistency, professional drummers often employ the technique of "mixing yourself at the kit," which involves adjusting the intensity of strikes on different components to achieve a balanced overall sound.
Another key difference is the spacing between the drums. Acoustic drums are generally larger and deeper, resulting in greater distances between the drums and cymbals. This expanded layout may require adjustments to your posture and playing style. It is advisable to set up your electronic kit with spacing that matches your acoustic kit to facilitate smoother transitions between the two.
When playing acoustic drums, you may also need to focus more on your limb independence and volume control. Unlike electric drums, where increasing the volume on a drum or cymbal is as simple as adjusting a knob, acoustic drums require precise control over the force of your strikes. Practising with one side of your headphones on can help you refine your playing by providing feedback on the actual volume and intensity of your strikes.
Lastly, it is important to protect your hearing when playing acoustic drums. Acoustic drums can be significantly louder than their electric counterparts, and prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage your hearing. Always wear adequate hearing protection, such as foam earplugs or worksite earmuffs, when practising with acoustic drums.
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Buying a second-hand electric drum kit
Buying a second-hand electronic drum kit can be a great way to save money, but there are some important things to keep in mind and look out for. Firstly, it is likely that a second-hand kit has been well-used, so it may need some maintenance or repairs. Ask the seller about the service history, and be aware of potential issues such as worn-out heads, unpredictable triggers, or broken connectors. Test each component of the kit, including the cymbals, pads, rack, and electronics, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
When buying second-hand, it is important to consider the specifications of the kit and how they fit your needs. While you may not feel that certain features, such as Bluetooth or USB connectivity, are important now, your needs may change over time, and you don't want to be limited by your kit in the future. It is also worth considering the compatibility of the kit with other equipment, as you may want to add extra pads or cymbals in the future.
You should also be mindful of your budget and the potential costs of upgrading a second-hand kit. While you can save money upfront, the cost of upgrading and maintaining an older kit may add up over time. Consider the cost of individual parts and whether you are comfortable with the potential time and effort required to source and install them.
When testing a second-hand electronic drum kit, play each drum and cymbal at different volumes to ensure they are registering as expected. Check that soft hits play softly and loud hits play loudly, and that there is no crosstalk. Pay particular attention to the drum module, as this is typically the most expensive part to replace. Ensure the screen is in good condition, all sounds play correctly, and all knobs and buttons work.
Finally, be aware of potential scams or sellers trying to offload faulty equipment. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might be worth walking away to avoid potential issues and hidden costs.
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Online drum courses
One of the benefits of online drum courses is the flexibility they offer. You can find a variety of courses tailored to your specific needs, whether you're looking for a comprehensive introduction to the drums or seeking to improve your skills in specific areas such as technique, speed, coordination, or musicality. Some courses even offer structured lessons that guide you through various drumming techniques step by step, ensuring a steady progression in your learning journey.
When choosing an online drum course, it's important to consider the quality of the course content and the instructor's expertise. While some free lessons are available on YouTube, investing in a paid course can provide a more curated and staggered flow of information. Websites like Udemy offer courses from drum instructors, while platforms like DrumSpy offer structured courses with video lessons, play-along tracks, and community features for feedback and sharing progress.
Additionally, online drum courses can save you the expense of buying a full drum kit or an electronic drum set. Most courses only require you to have a good-quality practice pad and some drumsticks to get started, making it a more affordable option to explore your interest in drumming.
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Accessories for your electric drum kit
There are several accessories that can enhance your electric drum kit and improve your overall experience as a drummer. Here are some essential accessories to consider:
Drum Rug
A drum rug is a great accessory that serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it helps to prevent floor damage by providing a protective layer between your drum kit and the floor. Additionally, a drum rug allows you to mark the positions of your stands and bass drum, ensuring consistent and precise setup each time you play. Meinl offers a range of drum rugs in various finishes and sizes, including one specifically designed for electronic kits with cable outlets for a tidier setup.
Drum Tech Tool
The Pearl PTT13 Drummer's Tech Tool is like a Swiss Army Knife made specifically for drummers. It includes various tools that will come in handy during practice or performances, ensuring you're prepared for any minor adjustments or issues with your kit.
Accessory Table
If you like to keep your smartphone nearby during practice or jamming sessions, an accessory table like the Gibraltar SC-MAT medium accessory table is a great option. This table clamps onto any cymbal stand and provides a stable surface to hold your phone, sheet music, or even a beverage. Its compact size and lipped edge ensure that your items stay securely in place.
Expansion Packs and Mounting Hardware
To expand the capabilities of your electric drum kit, consider expansion packs like the Alesis Drums Nitro Max Expansion Pack, which includes a mesh tom pad, cymbal, and connection cables. Additionally, mounting hardware such as the Alesis Module Mount allows you to securely attach multi-pad electronic percussion instruments to any drum hardware.
Stick Bag
While a stick bag may not be essential, investing in a high-quality one will ensure the protection and organization of your drumsticks. Look for features like extra pouches and a detachable strap that allows you to attach it to your floor tom or let it stand alone.
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