For practice kits, look for four basic essentials:

• Yamaha DTX562K.
• Yamaha DTX6K3-X.
• Roland TD-17KVX.
• Alesis Strike Pro.
• Roland TD-27KV.
• ATV aDrums Artist Standard.
• Yamaha DTX920K. The best electronic drum kit from one of the best acoustic builders.
• Roland TD-50KVX. Simply put, the best electronic drum set you can buy today.

In terms of sound and feel, both brands are very comparable. Many musicians prefer the sound quality of the Yamaha v-drums, which use real samples as opposed to the synthesized sounds often utilized in Roland models.

Good-quality budget electronic drum sets typically start at around $400, with beginner electronic drums costing around $600. You may also need accessories, which usually cost $100-200. Electronic drums for intermediate and pro players can be a lot more expensive, from $1000 up to $8000.

• Training features. Most e-kits will have a built-in metronome.
• Play-along capability. Drums just aren’t the same without the rest of the band.
• Quiet pads. Mesh heads are generally quieter, but they have other practice benefits as well.
• Configuration.

Plus, you’d have a real set of drums available. I tend to practice with just my electric kit these days, but that’s mostly because of space concerns. There’s definitely nothing wrong with learning on an electric kit, just make sure to practice on some lower rebound surfaces periodically (like a pillow or something).

So are electronic drum sets worth it? I’d say yes, especially if you can’t play on an acoustic set for whatever reason. The recording capabilities, ability to play through headphones, and sound expansions make drumming a pure joy and having fun is what drumming’s all about.

Electronic drums are a fantastic option for beginners so long as you maintain good drumming habits. In the long term, acoustic drums are better in terms of feel, nuance, and being able to customize the drum experience to your liking.

Pads made from rubber, plastic or mesh, do not feel the same as hitting a real drum head. They are closer than they ever have been before, but the pads that come with electronic sets can let you get away with certain things that acoustic drums will not.

If you’re looking for a beginner’s practice kit, electric is a great way to go. However, if you can play already, but you’re looking for a kit to do everything (gigging, recording and practice), you’ll have to think hard about the genres and venues you play before you make your decision. Shop Acoustic Drums!

Drumming does not build muscle. Drumming is considered a form of aerobic exercise rather than a resistance exercise that builds muscles. Drumming will, however, improve muscle strength and endurance.

According to BBC news, an hour of drumming burns more calories than running, aerobics or weight lifting. But wait, there’s more — according to studies at Harvard and Oxford, drumming can lower blood pressure and improve cognitive brain development. So if you’re not a sporty spice, try the rock star road to fitness!

Suggested Practice Times for Drummers: