Introduction
When choosing the right electronic drum can affect the success of the activity. From training and practicing at home to a live performance, having the right set for the job will improve the outcome, with a live performance needing better sound and the ability to carry further, while other sets for training at home may be quieter and keep sounds from travelling too far. There are six main factors to consider when choosing a set for performing including budget, size, materials, cymbals, and the quality of the sound it produces as well as durability.
Budget Friendly
What is friendly for a budget will vary depending upon the financial situation of the person who is spending the money. A larger budget will result in more money spent still remaining within the budget, while a smaller budget may require a smaller investment on a set. It is key to look into your own budget to determine how much that you will be comfortable spending on your electronic drum set. Recent improvements and increased technology have created a situation where there are better sets with more features available for lower costs.
As technology advances there are many new versions that are available, and more that will come available, and the technology is becoming more affordable. Look for an et that is going to provide the sound that you need, that interacts with the equipment that you already have to reduce the amount of equipment that you need to purchase, which is key to keeping costs within budget. Prices range from $150 to thousands of dollars, and they will provide a range of choices and options at each price range. By focusing only on those that are within your budget you will be better equipped to find the one that fits your needs best. Some of the best to consider are the Roland TD-02KV and the Roland TD-07KV, both coming in under $1,000 and the first being one of the very best for budget as determined by several review sites. The Yamaha DTX8K-M is also noted as a quality set with great sound at a price that is affordable to many. It is one of their lines, and with 40 pre-sets there are many options to fit any budget.
Space Compatibility
Space is a concern for both storing and transporting the kit, and this will be an important consideration that is best addressed when you can see the kits in person. Dimensions are often listed online at manufacturers or store websites, both for when it is broken down and in boxes or totes as well as when it is set up, making it easy to determine if you have the space for it in both situations. First measure your practice space, then your performance spaces, and your transportation. If the kit that you prefer fits in each of these spaces then it will be a great choice for you.
When considering size also ensure that you are able to lift and move the components to get them to the location for your performance. For it to be truly portable it must be easy enough for you to move, to take it both to your life performances as well as to bring it back after. This means that not only must it be compatible with your space but also to meet your needs with its weight.
Materials
There are two main types of electronic drum sets, and you can use either for a live performance. One type is a rubber that allows for a solid sound and feel when contact is made, while the other is a mesh. For the best of these consider a combination. Several sets are available where some, such as the snare drum, will be mesh and the toms will be rubber. Rubber pads are a more affordable option and are both consistent and compact, making them easy to use, transport, store, and will provide a reliable sound. Mesh offers a responsive surface that is both realistic in feel and sound and is adjustable for your needs. Each of these offers their own benefits, and when selecting you should try each to determine which fits your needs best, including a combination of the two.
Thickness of Cymbals
Cymbals are available in various thickness, which can affect sound, durability, and comfort for the user. A thicker cymbal will be harder to activate and may be better suited to someone who has been playing for a while and will be able to maintain the effort needed throughout the entire performance. They will provide a better sound, and will not wear out as fast as thinner ones. A thinner cymbal is ideal for someone who is learning and does not have their endurance built up. When possible, visit a local store or practice space and try a few different sets, or individual cymbals, and determine which are the best fit for you and your needs.
Quality of Sound
With a wide range of costs, materials, and quality, there are going to be large differences in the sound and the quality that is provided. While a more expensive set is likely to produce a better sound than a lower priced drum kit, there are often many in the middle price range that produce a good quality sound for the cost.
When considering the sound look for those that have good reviews, that offer a material that provides the sound that you prefer, whether that is rubber or mesh, and when possible, test them before purchase. If you find a brand and a style that you like, others from that brand should be similar and you will be able to narrow the decision without testing each set individually.
Durability
The best judge of the durability of a set of electronic drums for a live performance will be reviews on reliable sites, and word of mouth from other musicians and artists. Those which are made of more sturdy materials, such as rubber pads, will last longer than those with thinner materials or alternatives, creating a balance between sound preferences and durability, while all remaining within the budget that you have set. More expensive sets should be a higher durability and last longer, while the least expensive are likely to be the least durable, but there are several in the middle that will meet your needs for both.
Conclusion
When selecting a set of electronic drums for a live performance there are many options and factors that need consideration. They must be within your budget, fit your space and your transportation options, produce quality sound, and last. Online reviews, word of mouth, and trying them in person are the best ways to find the right fit for you.