Molly Ayala
When it comes to electronic drums, there are a variety of options for amplification. While some drummers use headphones, others prefer amplifiers designed specifically for electronic drums. These amps can be used for personal practice or performing live with an audience. It's important to note that guitar amps or amps designed for other instruments may not produce high-quality drum sounds and can wear out quickly. Drum manufacturers often make drum amps or monitors that pair well with their electronic drum sets. For example, Roland, a well-known brand in the electronic drum space, offers the PM-100 and KC-150 amps, which are compact and powerful. Other options include the Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor, Behringer, and the box MA120 MKII, which offer good value and features. For those on a budget, the Peavey KB 300 was a popular choice in the 1980s, but it may not provide the best sound quality. Ultimately, the choice of amp depends on factors such as budget, intended use, and desired sound quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of an amp | Amplify your electric drums |
| When to use an amp | When you want to amplify your drums through speakers |
| When not to use an amp | When a good pair of headphones is enough |
| Amp vs. Headphones | Headphones are more affordable and are often included in the electronic drum set bundle |
| Amp options | Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor, Roland PM-100, Alesis Strike Amp 12, KAT Percussion KA2, Porter & Davies BC2 amplifier, Simmons DA50, Peavey KB 300, BOSS SY-300, Headrush FRFR |
| Considerations when choosing an amp | Purpose, compatibility with the drum set, sound quality, affordability, portability |
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What You'll Learn
Headphones vs. amps
When it comes to practising electric drums, there are a few options to consider for audio output. The two most common choices are headphones and amplifiers. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on the drummer's preferences and requirements.
Headphones
Headphones are a popular choice for drummers, as they offer privacy and noise isolation. They are usually more affordable than amps, with prices starting at less than $150 for a good pair of noise-isolating, closed-back, over-ear headphones. Headphones allow drummers to focus on the sounds of the drum module rather than the sounds of their sticks hitting the pads, creating a more immersive experience. They also enable stereo sound, allowing the drummer to hear the positioning of the drums from left to right as they play. Additionally, headphones are a good option for those who need to keep the noise down, such as when practising at home in an apartment with close neighbours.
Amps
Amplifiers, on the other hand, provide a different experience. While they can be more expensive, with decent monitor amps starting at around $200, they offer the ability to play at higher volumes, which can be useful for practising with a band or performing live. Some monitor amps have enough volume and sound projection to play alongside guitar and bass amps. For personal use, a small amp or a drum monitor is a good option, allowing drummers to practise at low volumes and perform for family and friends. Some amps, like the Roland KC-150, are popular among e-drummers for their affordability and suitability for the application.
In conclusion, both headphones and amps have their advantages. Headphones offer privacy, noise isolation, and affordability, while amps provide higher volume capabilities and the ability to play with others. The choice between the two depends on the drummer's specific needs and preferences.
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Drum amp options
Drum amps are excellent tools that allow you and those around you to hear what you're playing. Amps designed specifically for electronic drums do a great job of highlighting all the frequencies that a drum kit makes. When you buy an electronic drum kit, it usually doesn't come with anything to hear the drums with. You can either plug headphones into the module or run a cable from the module to an amplifier.
If you're looking for an affordable way to listen to yourself playing, headphones are usually the correct choice over amplifiers. Most drummers use headphones. You can often get headphones included as part of a bundle when you buy your electronic drum set. However, if you want to amplify your drums through speakers, a drum amp is a great option.
It's important to note that not all amps are made the same. Cheaper amps tend to have inferior sound quality compared to the amplifiers made by more expensive and established brands. If you're looking to perform live to an audience, you'll need a bigger drum amp for your electronic drums. The same applies if you're practising with an amplified band, as your drums will have to compete with other instrument amps. In some small venues, there will be a PA system that you can plug your drum set directly into, but most of the time, you'll have to bring your own drum amp.
- Roland PM-100: This is the first purpose-built e-drum amp. It's lighter and more compact than the box MA120. It features a separate line input with separate level control, which is great for playing along to backing tracks or for combined practice with a friend.
- Alesis Strike Amp 12: This is a compact powerhouse offering big power in a versatile package. It provides 1000W RMS bi-amplified power, coupled with a 12" woofer and tweeter. It has the most fully-featured inputs, with a pair of combo jack inputs that accept unbalanced jacks or balanced XLR inputs.
- Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor: This is a very affordable and compact option, adequate for bedroom or living room practice. It has an aux input that allows you to practice with an external audio player.
- Box MA120 MKII: This is a good quality, powered monitor speaker that can be used as an e-drum amp. It offers high power output, a large 12" woofer, and multiple inputs. The 120 Watts of power will ensure loud and distortion-free reproduction at practice volumes.
- Bose S1: This amp delivers similar levels of power to most drum amps, with a maximum volume of 103 decibels, which is more than sufficient for electronic drums and band rehearsals. It has amazing sound quality, with a full-bodied, loud, and clean sound that brilliantly reproduces the wide range of sounds of a drum set. It can also be used as a stage amp or a music system for your home. It features in-built ToneMatch technology, which instantly optimizes the sound of the drums, and you can further tailor the sound using the built-in EQ functions.
- PM-200 Roland drum amp: This is a premium-grade amplifier made specifically for electronic drums, with fantastic sound quality and a robust design.
- KAT Percussion Electronic Drum Amplifier: This amp is specifically tuned for electronic drums and features a 3-band EQ to fine-tune your sounds within a mix. It has a surprisingly high output volume and clear sound quality, making it suitable for rehearsals and intimate venues.
- Roland KC-150: This is a popular choice among e-drummers and is pretty affordable. You can find a used one for less than $200. There's also a bigger version called the KC-550.
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Drum amp features
When it comes to drum amp features, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to distinguish between electronic drums and acoustic drums, as the amplification requirements differ significantly. Electronic drums offer the ability to control the volume of the kit, while acoustic drums rely on the amp to adjust the volume.
Drum amps are specifically designed to highlight all the frequencies produced by a drum kit, ensuring that you can feel the kick drum and hear crisp, clear cymbals. A good drum amp will reproduce a wide bandwidth, from the lowest to the highest frequencies, with minimal distortion. Drum amps with built-in ToneMatch technology, EQ functions, and separate line inputs with level controls can further enhance your sound and allow for customisation.
Some popular options for drum amps include the Roland PM-100, which is lightweight and compact, and the Alesis Strike Amp 12, which offers 1000W RMS power in a compact package. The Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor is an affordable and compact option for beginners, suitable for bedroom or living room practice. The Bose S1 is another versatile choice that can be used as a drum amp, stage amp, or music system, offering excellent sound quality and portability.
It is worth noting that while some drummers prefer using amps, others opt for regular speakers, studio monitors, or headphones, especially for home practice. Guitar amps or amps designed for other instruments are generally not recommended for electronic drums as they can produce low-quality drum sounds and wear out quickly.
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Drum amp alternatives
When it comes to playing electric drums, there are various alternatives to a dedicated drum amplifier.
One option is to use a set of headphones, which is a common choice for many drummers, especially when practising at home. Headphones often come included with electronic drum sets, and they allow you to hear the drums without disturbing others.
If you want to make some noise and have others listen to your playing, there are alternatives to a dedicated drum amp. You could use a small powered speaker, also known as a PA speaker, which can be a more affordable option. Some drummers have reported using regular PC speakers or studio monitors, connected to their PC via an audio interface, which offers a wide range of sounds.
For a more portable option, a small keyboard amp can work surprisingly well with electronic drums. Roland offers a 40-watt 1x10" combo and a 60-watt 1x12" combo that are well-suited for this purpose.
If you're looking for a powerful and versatile drum monitor, the Alesis Strike series offers a range of wattages, from 80 to 2000, with a compact and versatile design, delivering a wide range of sounds.
Finally, if you're seeking a premium-grade amplifier, the Roland PM-200 is a purpose-built electronic drum amplifier that delivers rich and dynamic sound, making it ideal for home practice, rehearsals, studios, and even small venues.
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Drum amp considerations
When it comes to electronic drums, there are a few options for amplification. You can use headphones, which are often included with your kit, or you can amplify your drums through speakers. If you're playing live, the house PA and monitors may be adequate, and for home practice, headphones might be sufficient. However, if you want to feel your kick drum and enjoy crisp, clear cymbals, an amp can enhance your playing experience.
Purpose-built Drum Amps
There are amplifiers specifically designed for electronic drums, such as the Roland PM-100, which is compact and delivers clean and accurate sound reproduction. The Alesis Strike Amp 12 is another option, offering 1000W RMS bi-amplified power and a 12" woofer. These drum amps provide features tailored to drums, like the tactile generator in the Porter & Davies BC2 amplifier, which vibrates your seat to produce a deep and punchy tone.
Powered Monitor Speakers
Powered monitor speakers can also serve as a great alternative to traditional drum amps. The box MA120 MKII offers high power output, a large woofer, and multiple inputs. The Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor is a more affordable and compact option, suitable for bedroom or living room practice.
Budget Constraints
If you're on a tight budget, it's important to manage your expectations. While some affordable amps are available, such as the Roland KC-150 or the Behringer, cheaper amps tend to have inferior sound quality. For example, the Peavey KB 300, a popular choice in the 1980s, has been described as ""terrible" for its poor sound reproduction. Saving up for a higher-quality amp may be a better long-term strategy.
Alternative Options
While not the best option, some drummers have used guitar amps or regular speakers with their electronic drums. However, this can wear out the amp quickly, and the sound quality may not be ideal. If you're looking for a more versatile solution, the Headrush FRFR has been suggested as a potential option for consolidating multiple amps into one.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you will need either an amp or a pair of headphones to hear your electric drums.
Some good amps for electric drums include the Millenium DM-30 Drum Monitor, the Roland PM-100, the KAT Percussion KA2, the Porter & Davies BC2, the Peavey KB 300, and the Yamaha MS45DR.
Regular speakers or studio monitors can also be used with electric drums.
No, guitar amps or amps designed for other instruments are not good for electric drums as they will produce a very low-quality drum sound and wear out quickly.
When choosing an amp for electric drums, consider the volume you want to play at, your budget, and whether you need an amp for personal use or for performing live.
