There are many electronic drum sets that are created to meet the needs of all people who are interested in them from beginners to professionals. This also means that there is a wide range of quality, sound, weight, and portability among different sets. In order to find one that meets the needs of the buyer it may be possible to find a set for as little as $200 or it may be necessary to spend $2,000 with a few being even more.
Starter Sets
For a beginner a starter set will provide all they need and fit within a smaller budget, creating a lower investment. These may begin around $200 and can be easily located at all purpose stores, music store, and online retailers such as Amazon. There are a wide range available at this price point, however they will not be as durable or long lasting as professional sets, and they may be outgrown in time.
Starter or beginner sets should be easy to use and very responsive, as those who are less responsive will affect timing and the strength with which they are hit. Often a less expensive set will be built for ease of use, without complicated functions or extras, and will work well for basic use and learning timing, getting comfortable with the set up, and building confidence.
Mid-Range
For a mid-range set expect to spend around $500 to $1,000. These will provide a quality experience and a suitable true sound without splurging and will last longer than a beginner set. These are created to offer those who are learning or growing an opportunity to have a good set as they begin practicing more seriously or performing at live events. They are suitable for live performances, recording, and practicing at home or with friends. With more features and added capabilities they will also last longer and perform better with less effort than less expensive models.
With such a large price range it is to be expected that there is also a huge gap in quality and durability for the mid-range sets.
When looking for a quality electronic drum set in a mid-range price, begin with looking for the things that you enjoyed in your beginner set, or things that others have said are key to their experience. Consider the size of the set and what pieces are included, as well as if it is possible to replace each piece individually if it becomes damaged or worn. Look for one that will fir your space as well, so that it can be left ready to play at any time and will not hinder the movement around the space otherwise. This will ensure that it is used often and will be worth the investment made.
Other considerations are if you will need to move it, and how much it weighs. When being used for performances or playing with others in other locations, being able to move it will be key to it’s useful ness. Many brands, such as Yamaha, have a wide range of drum set kits at this price level and will have something for almost everyone. Roland is also a brand who is known for having drum sets that are good for beginners up to those for professional use with a wide range of prices and functions.
High-End Electronic Drum Sets
Some will prefer a set that is one step above the mid-range but are not yet prepared or needing to get a professional set. This is an area where larger players in the market are present, and these may range in the $1000-$2000 range, with some on either side. They are created to make a quality sound but will still be noticeable different than the acoustic sets and traditional drums. These are great for those who are beginning to record with bands or who are doing live gigs and being paid for them, but that are not yet playing consistently and booking as headliners.
Professional Electronic Drum Sets
When moving to a professional set, they are going to cost more than the others, but they are built to last longer and to withstand heavy use. These will be the most expensive, with many ranging from $4,000 to $8,000. These are high quality and provide a sound that is closest to an acoustic kit, making them ideal for any use. For those who are performing live these will have true sounds, will carry through the space in the way that a drum is expected too, and create the feel that only a best drum set can produce. These are ideal for well-known bands, for people who are making their living from playing, someone who is earning income from records or who are playing daily.
Conclusion
When choosing what amount to spend on an electronic drum set there are several different ranges that they can cost. For beginners a less expensive set will be fine, they can be as little as $200-$500 and are suitable for learning the basics and how to care for the set as well as how to play them. Beyond that there are mid-range, high-end, and then professional sets with the cost increasing at each level as the quality, sound quality, and functionality also increase. There are sets available at almost any price point and they are widely available to order online or to purchase in store.