If you are an experienced drummer or just a beginner, an electronic drum set should be something you should consider. There are many advantages to buying an electronic kit in favour of an acoustic kit depending on your own personal circumstances and budget. Electronic drum sets come in a range of makes, models and features and vary in price from a couple of hundred dollars for a budget kit through to the professional ranges which can cost many thousands of dollars.
One of the main advantages of having an electronic drum set is that you can simply throw on a pair of headphones and play as loudly as you like without upsetting your family or neighbours. The only sound anyone else will hear is the sound of your sticks hitting the pads while you thrash along to your favourite rock song. When you have finished practicing you also have the advantage that the drum kit can be stored away in a cupboard because electronic sets are much smaller than traditional acoustic kits. You can fit most electronic kits in the boot of a family car.
The latest advances in technology mean the manufacturers are able to include extremely realistic sounds, including tom toms, cymbals, a snare drum and even a hi-hat which all make it feel as if you are playing a traditional kit. Electronic drum sets are able to emulate real sounds depending on where you hit the drum pad and how hard you strike it. As you pay more for your kit, the quality and authenticity of the sound and feel improves.
Unlike an acoustic kit you don’t have to worry about tuning the drum kit as electronic sets are not affected by cold or humidity. You can even change the overall sound settings with the push of a couple of buttons to make it sound like you’re playing on stage in a large concert hall or a small jazz club. Most electronic drum sets allow you to connect up your iPod or MP3 player so you can play along with your favourite music, and some of them even allow you to remove the drum track completely.
Electronic drum sets can be great for playing live on stage, or just for practicing at home without bothering your neighbours or family. There is a huge range of electronic kits on the market from beginner level to professional studio kits, and your budget and ability will determine which one you decide to buy.
Is the longevity of these sets a pro or con compared to a traditional set.