Types of Drum Sets

The drum set is a percussion staple for musicians who want to create rich, dynamic music. Whether a drummer is laying down a gentle groove for a jazz concert or pounding out a relentless rhythm on the arena stage, the drum set is a key element of their musical expression. From acoustic drums to high-tech electronic kits, the latest innovations in percussion technology allow drummers to reach new musical horizons.

Designed with children in mind, these drum sets are ideal for teaching rhythm to young learners. They are often smaller and feature colorful, durable designs that can withstand enthusiastic play from kids. These affordable kits introduce kids to the world of rhythm and encourage a lifetime love of music.

While it may seem that there are endless variations on the drum set, a beginner kit typically focuses on simplified configurations with standard drum sizes and fewer pieces to make learning easy for novice drummers. These kits are also built with quality materials to withstand the rigorous use that professional musicians demand of their gear.

An expert acoustic drum set is prized for its natural resonance and versatile application across a wide variety of musical genres. From the subtle tap of a jazz ride to the thunderous attack of a rock drum, these percussion staples are the heart of many classic songs and modern hits.

The snare drum is a core component of the drum set, adding its signature crack to backbeats and inspiring iconic drum rolls. Its depth and resonant boom contrast with the crisp, sharp sound of the kick drum and adds to the overall impact of a song’s beat.

Snare drums are typically played with sticks, mallets, or brushes, and their versatile tones provide the rhythmic framework for many genres of music. They are also used to create the beat that a drummer lays down when they are soloing, offering a unique musical vocabulary that defines a drummer’s individual style.

Cymbals are circular brass or bronze plates that are struck with sticks, mallets, or brushes to produce a crisp, sharp ringing sound. The most common cymbals found on a drum set include ride, crash, and splash cymbals. Other types of cymbals can be found in orchestral instruments and military marching bands, including hand-held crash cymbals.

Hybrid drum kits bring the power of traditional acoustic drums together with the flexibility and precision of electronic drum machines. They can deliver a powerful sound for rock tracks, while introducing a synthesizer’s electronica flair to an R&B song or adding a psychedelic vibe to a metal tune. The latest hybrid drum kits are a game-changer in the drumming industry, amplifying a drummer’s prowess and enabling them to break through musical boundaries that once seemed impossible.

From the cinematic musicality of Jimmy Page to the lightning-fast footwork of a double bass drum player like Dave Weckl, these kits allow drummers to unleash their full potential, crafting music that captivates audiences around the globe. These innovative kits can transform into a silent mode that allows musicians to refine their technique without disturbing neighbors or family members. They can also be recorded to a computer, making it simple to capture and analyze the subtlety of their performance.