Save Money With These Drum Kit Buying Tips!

It can be quite frustrating shopping around at different places and wondering whether the kit that you like is actually any good. With all the different name brands out there today - it is hard to blame anyone for being confused. There are numerous drum manufacturers, and each one seems to have five or six different product lines within their brand. I have bought and sold over 40 drum-kits in the last four years, and here are some of the things I've learned.

Important Things to Remember When Shopping For Drums

First thing, set your budget before you get started. Be careful not to set it too low as it may take you longer to find the right kit due to the limited selection. If you are a beginner drummer and just looking for an introductory set then I would recommend a budget of $250-$500. Beginner kits are generally similar in quality, but there are certain things to look for like cymbal quality, hardware quality, and the pedal response. If you are an intermediate drummer then I would recommend a budget of $600-$1200. With an intermediate kit you should not have to compromise in terms of your preferences. When buying used equipment, be sure that you are buying from someone that knows how to treat a kit well.

For a professional the sky is the limit on what you can spend. There are unlimited limited edition kits. I know that sounds funny but it seems these days that every company is trying to do something new to up the value on their kit.

Important "Used Kit" Tips

When deciding whether to buy new or used it always comes back to price for me. Beginner drum-kits never seem to depreciate. I will buy a kit for $250, take it home and sell it the following week for $500. Basically, you need to get a beginner kit for $500 or less. Then when you want to upgrade you will not loose any money. So it is not a question of new or used, it is a question of price. Here are some things to look for when buying a used kit. If the kit needs some work then you can use these to your bargaining advantage.

Cymbals - make sure that there are no cracks or ripples in the cymbals, if there are cracks then consider the cymbal worthless.
Drumheads - check that the heads do not have huge dints or splits in them. Always look at the bottom heads too. They are just as important for sound quality of your kit.
Hardware - I have seen some kits that look as if they were stored in the rain. The hardware was all rusted along with the rims and tuning pegs. If a kit is rusted I recommend that you stay away from it.
Hi-hat stand - try out the hi-hat stand before you buy the kit. Make sure that spring in the stand is not so worn out that is barely lifts the cymbals.
Shells - check the finish on the drums and make sure that it is not bubbling or peeling. Also, check that the wood is not cracked.

What matters most is that you love what you purchased and playing your kit makes you want to keep playing drums. I hope this helps you on your next purchase. Take your time; there is always another good deal. Happy shopping!

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