Beginner and Cheap Drum Sets Guide

So you decided to take up the drums, graduated from using a practice pad, and are now ready to start browsing through some cheap drum sets to find a real kit. A complete professional drum set can cost several thousands of dollars, but is not really necessary for a beginner. Brand-name starter drum sets can be found for under $500, and some non-brand drum sets for half that.

If you're looking for rock bottom prices, use the links below and take a look at this great bargains I scouted out. These cheap drum sets come highly rated for the money. Also, watch out for the kits that include everything you need in one package, 5 piece drums, cymbals, sticks, all needed hardware, and two even with a throne:

Pulse Pro Drums

When considering cheap drum sets, remember that you get what you pay for. Expensive sets will come with more options, sound better, be sturdier, and last longer than cheap drum sets. But, all the extra quality will not necessarily make a difference to a beginner, and cheap starter sets may be particularly suitable for beginners who are not even sure if they'll stick with it.

Cheap drum sets can also be upgraded. You can replace the drum-heads with better ones, get new cymbals, and replace the bass drum pedal if necessary. You can do these upgrades bit by bit, and they will go a long way toward making your initially cheap drums better and longer lasting.

If you have more in your budget, a brand name beginner drum set, from a well trusted and established company, may be the way to go. A brand name beginner drum set will come with a better warranty, and will be easier to sell or trade if you decide to replace one with to a professional kit. Major brand name manufacturers who make entry level drum sets include, Ludwig, DW (Drum Workshop), Tama, Premier, and Mapex.

Take a look at this bargain brand name Ludwig drum kit:

Ludwig Accent Combo

Some drum sets do not include cymbals. So you'll often have to buy cymbals separately. You can buy cheap 3 or 4 cymbal packages, which go for less than buying cymbals individually, and are suitable for beginners. The 3 packs, which include a hi-hat pair, and a crash-ride combination cymbal, will naturally be cheaper. But I do not recommend getting just three cymbals for your drum set, even if you are just starting out, as it will limit your playing.

Check out these highly rated 4 cymbal packages:

• Zildjian ZBT Pro Cymbal Pack
• Sabian B8 Performance Cymbal Pack

And this 3 cymbal package (if you insist):

• Zildjian ZBT Starter Setup Cymbal Pack