as an experienced drummer, i dived into the edrum world for studio work.. all your advice is exactly what i learned from experience. great stuff man. there is a disorder known as "GAS" Gear Acquisition Syndrome
I retired 2 years ago at age 57 and decided to take drum lessons. I got an acoustic kit, put some new Evans heads on it and eventually replaced the cheap cymbals with some Sabians. I am now switching to electronic drums. I was looking at several Alesis kits and Yamaha, and Roland...I eventually settled on a Yamaha DTX450K, which was $699, but the price dropped to $449. so I bought it. Have not unboxed it yet. Just got new headphones and an adapter cable for a small amp and some speakers I can use at least temporarily. I have viewed TH-cam videos on here and elsewhere about the one I bought.
I currently feel like an intermediate drummer and I own a used Roland td-11k. This video is great for finding an electronic drum set for you in your price range and skill level. Thanks again Justin!
journeyseb - I agree! I'm a guitarist that is looking to get into drumming. I've been guilty, as most guitarists have, of being gear junkies. That new pedal, amp, processor, etc. will make me sound so much better!!! LOL There's no substitute for putting your time in behind the instrument.
I've been playing a Millenium mps 500 for 4 years now (during that time, no Mesh at all), and considering that I became a lot better (from zero) and that the rubber on my single-zone ride cymbal is starting to come off, I think it's justified that I got myself a Roland td17 kvx
I've been watching your vids for a while and this is my first comment but, you are so right on with this commentary all the way through. Thanks. Great job.
Totally agree. I have owned a HD-1, TD-3, 4, 9, 12, 20 , 30 and almost all V-drum pads and cymbal types that exist. Never bought anything new. This way I have a high-end kit that is still affordable.
Some great advice thanks, I bought a second hand td4kp as my first set in large part due to your advice. I upgraded with a second hand dual zone mesh snare because I didn't want to get used to drumming without considering striking the rim. I love it now I feel so addicted! Thanks again.
My hat's off to you Justin ! You hit the nail on the head when you said it is important to read and watch reviews before you buy your kit . I was an acoustic drummer and never played an electronic kit but was in a situation where I had to get one to practice at home . I watched and read tons of reviews and bought a Roland TD-17KVX without ever playing it and it is perfect for me ! I knew it would be just from doing all the " homework " . Would I like a better kit ? Of course . But this kit is all I hoped it would be and then some. The sounds , with a little editing are killer. I love the hi hat on a real stand and the 12in snare is really sweet too. I could have $aved $ome $$ and bought something cheaper but like you , I am all about the sound and quality of equipment . Great vid and great advice !
Agree 100% on the second statement. Most people buy expensive gear, just to later realize that they don't like this hobby. Your kit should grow together with your skillset.
Hey Justin, I'd like to add a couple points to your 'buy used' advice. First: be patient. If you take your time and maybe even pass on so-so deals, eventually that great deal will come along on CraigsList or eBay. To that end, it's good to set up some good search criteria and subscribe for notifications. Another good money-saving strategy for me has been to buy 2nd-generation gear. This can let you enjoy a more-professional instrument for the same amount of money. And especially as you get to the higher-end, that gear still sounds great. I bought my TD9 when the 11 and 15 were already out, and it still sounds awesome. I could've just kept going happily with that for long time, but alas one day I spied an expanded TD20 on Craigslist -- effectively a TD20x. That was once the flagship and a big jump up from the 9. So once I subtract out what I'll get for my TD9, I'll have access to a whole new level of sounds and functionality for only a few hundred dollars more. I guess the last point there is that -- when buying used -- it pays to buy Roland as it will retain its value surprisingly well. Thanks for your videos and keep 'em coming!
Thanks man! Getting stuff thats one generation behind is a good way to save money. Just in my case the module is the most important thing to me. So I'd rather get a smaller drumset thats current gen with a better module. Buts thats just me.
Hej from Belgium, I really like to watch the video's you make. They really helping me choose my gear and for what I want to use it. and what you say is so true its not the gear that makes the drummer/musician its the time of practice.
You are really good. Your independent and honest reviews helps me saving time and money. I also think you are serious about your cast but still it is somehow entertaining!
On the button with this information, that's what I did. Started with an Alesis dm5 got Roland mesh pads all secondhand, have now a Alesis dm8 but I want a Roland brain TD 9 or TD11. I am now way a drummer, guitars are my thing but it is great to just jam songs and yes I can play a bit !!!!
I feel this video works for pretty much every instrument and I have definitely been in those same situations myself, since I considered taking up e-drums I've been hooked on this channel so well done, the contents great :)
Again thanks again and just another thought for beginners , Technology changes really fast so by the time you get to a higher level there may be much better and cooler E-drums out there for your money. Thanks again for the research.
Practice is the way to go! When I started, I was on the kit every second that I could hit the heads. Within 2 years I was playing out, for money....at 13yo. Owned my dream set, 4 piece Ludwig Classics with hard shell cases in 2 more years, paid cash, and used that set for the next 4 decades. Putting the time in will give you the best value for your dollar for sure!
I've noticed that on eBay/free ads too it's possible to quite often find low-end or mid-price kits that have been user upgraded (ie. to all higher-end mesh heads) or come with useful extras like stool, decent pedal, etc. I want edrums for midi recording (where I use a drum plugin so on-boards sounds don't matter) and for my daughter to practice on. Therefore I wasn't bothered about the brain too much as long as it worked and wasn't too ancient as the Roland stuff is pretty modular and mix and match so you can always upgrade later. Reckon I saved more than 60% over equivalent new gear and even though I'm a guitarist feel happier to have nice drums than cheap rubber slabs.
Sometimes getting an "intermediate/pro" drumkit when you are a beginner motivates you to practice more. Those kits are gorgeous and the better they are the more realistic they feel. I bought a 25KV as a beginner (still am) and I wanna practice everyday XD
Thats a good point. But some people (especially teens) will get a 2000 kit, and lose interest within a year. So that tip was just a general safeguard for people still finding out if they actually love drumming, or if its a passing hobby.
Thanks for the advice. I'm a late starter and I just bought a new Roland TD-1K. Was thinking of getting a used one, but could find a reputable person to buy it from here and didn't want to take any chances, so I decided to get a new one...
Definitely feel you on practicing. That's why I'm looking for an ekit. When I first got my acoustic kit, I spent 3 hours every day practicing. Not from a family of musicians, unfortunately, and the only way I can return to that old pace is to pick up an ekit and retire my acoustic one.
Late to the party but you were speaking to me when you said to "get your behind on a drum stool and start practicing for an hour a day." I keep pretending more/different hardware will fix me but what needs fixing is my lazy *ss. Great point, thanks.
Your last point is always worth making. Their is no substitute for technique and good taste and both come at the price of many thousands of hours practicing and creating. Thanks for the video series - I'm patiently waiting for the Alesis Strike and considering the Forge in the meantime. Would that seem logical to you on the basis of saving money?
The drum module is definitely where it's at. Upgraded from a TD-9 and bought a TD-25 module off ebay for $650 to hold me over till I can get my filthy hands on the TD-50 or Mimic Pro module. $650 bucks for a $1000 module is why people have GOT to buy used. Triggering via laptop is always terrifying live. I used my laptop and SD2.0 via the TD-9 at one point, but in spite of a Core i5 6200U and 8GB of RAM, occasionally the audio would drop out/hiccup for a few milliseconds mid performance and give me a heart attack :(
That's something I've always worried about. I've never tried to use EZdrummer live, but I can see that happening. Or even worse, windows deciding suddenly to update in the middle of a set. :((((
Yeah, I haven't had it try to reboot, but occasionally I'd get some random process start up and spike the CPU to 100%. The processes I traced back to some Windows 10 background processes that manage swap files and perform on the fly compression to save disk space. Superior Drummer doesn't go over 5% CPU utilization while playing my drums, but if one of those processes shows up, say hello to audio stuttering.
Hey Justin, great topics, I keep watching all of them and still wanting more! Question: Have you posted any video about complete setup required for edrum + ezdrummer2? I mean, edrum + midi cable + audio interface + PC + headphones + ezdrummer2 or whatever configuration is best for intermediate drummer with an old DTX550K?
Hey dude love your videos. Ive been playing music for 8 years, mainly guitar. I wanna get into drums and dont mind spending money. Im gonna be running my kit into EzDrummer and maybe superior one day. My question is, do I need a high end kit? I want a kit that can sense my hits/velocity well. I was thinking Roland TD11KV or Alesis Strike Pro.
nice video, so useful and informative. I've never played drums in my life, i write music in a small home studio using external VSTs (Studio Drummer, Steven Slate Drums). Using external libraries clearly makes the quality of the edrum sound itself irrelevant to me. But it would be much easier and inspiring to have an e-drum to play percussive parts instead of playing it on the keyboard. So which edrum would you recommend me to buy? It could also be my first step to drumming, which is something i have always wanted to do!
I would like your take on home built drum sets using arduio and pezio sensors. I'm not familiar with drums or music for that matter, and I haven't built any electronics either. But, I am an engineer, and I have all the tools required for some of the instructables I've researched. That being said, my girlfriend's kid (a 13 yr old girl) wants a set of drums to learn on. She plays the trumpet well, and the piano a little, so she is familiar with music; she just isn't familar with drums yet, but she's definately enthusiastic to learn. I'm pretty busy with my career and it would be easier to just spend $400 on a Roland TD-1K, and she would love it. But at the same time, I imagine she would get more out of building one herself, and I'd have fun with the project too. But in the end she just wants a drum set, and this really isn't something for me; and chances are that I would probably spend about $400 on all the stuff to do the project anyways. What do you think I should do?
Liked and subbed, great info here. I'm an old school drummer looking to get back into the joy of playing, so my interest in "modern sounds" is limited (I honestly couldn't care less) but I still know how the action of a normal drum head works so I'm just looking for brands that can distinguish between drum head tension variance, stick action, and the sound of the monitor. I live in a place where a full drum set wouldn't ever work (apartment) so I am going to be purchasing a digital set soon, because I have to; I can't keep my sanity otherwise. I am respectfully asking all y'alls advice.
Roland has the best sounds. But you'll have to put out serious cash to get really good sounding stuff. Or just get a crappy drumset and plug it into your laptop and run it on EZdrummer or some other VST for a really good sound
I recently took your advice about buying used. I found a Roland 11KV for $1000 that came with a nice throne and an iron cobra pedal. Was that a good deal?
Thanks for the video. Currently waiting for the end of auction on eBay to get my first Roland TD 11K, hope it will work out, as in this case I'd save a half price for almost a new thing.)
I've been wanting to play drums since I tried band in middle school, but they ran out of kits so band just became lame cause I had to use my mom's old clarinet. I was playing guitar around that time, and have been still for about 9 years. Guitar was always more enjoyable, I hated practicing clarinet. Getting a drum set has always seemed unobtainable to me since my family are living paycheck to paycheck, and we're never able to save money. I didn't realize how obtainable it actually is now with my job, all I gotta do is be very stingy with my money, and I should be able to save up for one. Now getting tax money back, and getting reimbursed for a used bass for Guitar Center store credit I'm really close to my goal. I got to keep the bass too, and let one of their guitar techs fix it. It was a sweet deal I didn't know was possible with my pro-coverage I didn't know I had. I thought I just had a normal warranty on it. Anyways, guitar center is where I'll probably buy it, and I'm definitely buying used with a warranty again now that I know how sweet of a deal that actually is. I hope that's a good plan, but regardless your tips have been really helpful.
Thanks for this video Justin! Quick question: I am considering buying e-drums, in order to upload videos on my channel. I think this solution is not only cheaper, but I can mix my drums better and have better sound quality (I use addictive drums and superior drummer). What's your opinion about drum-tec and Jobeky? Drum-tec seems to have very good drums, regarding quality and looks, but jobeky is way cheaper. :/ Thanks in advance!
Hey man! Great videos!!! I know this is an older video, but I am in the market for a electronic Drumset now. I am a Acoustic Drummer by heart, and have a few sets. I have always taught drum lessons from an acoustic set or pads. I am starting a teaching job and I HAVE TO PURCHASE a electric set for my lesson plans. I teach (4 piece setup) and would like to stick with something that is gonna take a little abuse from beginners and at the same time gonna be VERY reliable for myself to teach on. I would love to stay below the 2G range and I do favor stand alone snare/hi-hats. I already have tons of equipment from my acoustic sets so that won’t need to be added in to the 2G figures. Any recommendations would be awesome and appreciated?!??
Hi Justin I'm a big fan of your content. Been playing since I was I was 5, having owned a Td9 (non-k) since I was 12. I'm now 22 and feel like I deserve a bit of an upgrade! I have practiced almost everyday spending thousands of hours and got my £1100 worth-that's for sure! I want the most acoustic feeling edrum combination possible with great dynamic feel, my budget is £3-4k including new hardware, laptop, and everything. My stool is 17 years old and is a crappy chinese unit lol. I'm looking at buying a Exs-5 + agean R cymbal set, i'll be looking at triggering SD3 for the snare, toms, and kick. Is this a good setup?
If you want the best dynamic feel AND durability I suggest the expensive Yamaha Silicone Pads. Excellent for touring and gig use. These are lifetime pads and an investment...so spend at least a few hours plus auditioning them. No hotspoting, tearing, replacing heads and they can take a bunch of physical abuse due to their body design. If you do not mind changing fiddly head pads to find the perfect one then the mesh is a second choice. Not for touring or regular heavy gig use though.
I have played on acoustic drums for 6 years and used to be in a rock band and am totaly new to e drums. Due to living in the city and having bitchy neighbors im really wanting to get the TD 17 kvx thanks to watching your videos on them. My question is what is the biggest difference between playing on electronic over acoustic?
i just start playing drum .... since july doing daddy/mommy on a pillow. Bought this weekend a used TD 6kx for 740€, i really wanted those pads even i'm a noob . Old TD 6 module is not a problem 'cause i'm planning to get the TD 11 module which TD 11kv set doesn't even have those pads for 1100€ (used one) .
Just subscribed to the channel - great friendly vids. The last point is about not buying gear. What if you're like me and just started on the pad, working hard on rudiments and have no kit at all? I assume you're assuming we already have a kit? I've been having a look at the TD11 - looks like it would last me through?
I've had the same $300 acoustic Groove Percussion set since I was 8. I'm 21 now and I I'm ready to upgrade to the TD11K. I plan on getting a Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 Single Pedal and then upgrading to the VH11 when I get can. I've played on the Rolands many times before and I'm sold. What do you think Justin?
Clint Eastwood I know you asked Justin but I just wanted to chime in lol, the td11 is the best investment I've ever made in my drumming. I really have no complaints, only wish I would of bought it earlier. When my skill set improves eventually I will get the td25 but couldn't be happier now.
65 Drums Hey man, not sure if you got my other reply for you in regards to the minimum volume setting on the td11, it doesn't have one. Another great vid btw \m/
i just bought the td 25kv from guitar center it was on special for memorial day i got the Roland td 25 kv plus a simons DA 200 drum monitor for 2,400 it was new it wasn't used
Great tips and as someone looking to get my first kit it definitely comes in handy. I'm torn right now between getting a Yamaha DTX450k that comes with an extra cymbal for free or getting a warehouse resealed DTX532k for $1000. I know as you said I could always upgrade the 450k and it coming with an extra cymbal is a head start on that but the 532k has upgrades to it over the 450k that would cost more by adding the separately to the 450k and it has a better module. Wish I was one of those guys you mentioned that could just walk into the store with a wishlist and get it all lol.
How long do you think a Roland td25 would last? Just fro home. Not rlly for gigs. Also if I was to buy this would it last for at least a good 10 years. Like I’m going to college for so,etching different but would love to keep drumming as a hobby I excelle at
Justin I tell my students the same thing, Like forins tince I had a student how bought a $2700 drum set' he was doing good for the first three month and then he lost interest took a lost on the kit and gave it up. You're ether into it or not? A lot of drummer i know makes that mistake. Great insight
That's painful to hear. I mean, you'll save money buying a great drumset upfront, but you don't know how long you'll even play. So for most beginners I say save the cash.
I'm a beginner. Should I buy a used Yamaha dtxplorer? It looks good and has gotten good reviews but I'm still unsure. Should I instead buy a new turbo mesh?
After extensive research I just ordered a TD1DMK from Roland, best sounds, low latency and playability all around. Alexis look nice but quality is questionable and even the more expensive modules sound... off.. almost like they are using quantisation to tighten your playing but makes you sound like a drum machine
I could really need something New Since i am using the old millenium mps 400 from 2008 i Got for free from the Churchill and even tho it is actually okay i Would definitly buy something especially with everything being rubber!
I found a td-25 kv and a td-25k at a local store both 400,- off for 2300 and 1600 respectively. I really liked the kv version in the store, the pads where a bit larger than the k version. Is this a good deal for a intermediate drummer (5years exp)? I havent played drums in like 3 years because i had sold my acoustic kit because of space and now i want to go edrum style.
+Aramis Netties that's a decent price for those drumsets in new condition. But if you look around eBay enough you can get the td25kv for a little bit less. I really do like the td25kv
65 Drums I just found out that if I buy the K version I can by selling some pads and buying the Kv versions I can "buy" the Kv version new for 2000/2100 with an 3 zone cymbal instead of a crash
I am thinking of going the vst route. With that in mind, what is the oldest Roland/yamaha module (which has lots of expansion options for pads and cymbals); can handle VST libraries? I saw used Roland TD6V kits with modules , but wasn't sure about vst storage or power. I am just starting so I am going "the biggest bang for the buck" route. Any suggestions are appreciated.
Damn right about used gear! For over 20 years I've bought almost all of my equipment preowned, spent a fortune but also saved a fortune! Why contribute more money to businesses who already have a lot, and not to another humble guy like me who carries life expenses? In music, what matters to me is the sound, not the shiny look or smell of fresh plastic unboxed straight from the factory And yet I haven't had a single failure which required the warranty of new equipment
Thank you. I planning to buy my first drum set (electronic). What i read so far is i can't upgrade a single zone pad to 3 zones pad as the drum module do not support. So if i find 3 zone pad is must, I must fork up the extra and get what available now thats meets my requirements. Or am i wrong?
Hey Justin, I have a question, i currently own a recording studio and need some type of V drums that has multiple direct outputs so I can track all of the drum sound separately, but at the same time it has to have great sounds for a drummer to come in to play on it. Can you give me some tips on what would be a good V drum set that's affordable?
I think I've done a cover or 2 of them. Great band. Drumset sounds sweet. And he does alot of dance type drumsounds. I'm pretty sure he uses drum triggers.
Excellent video. I really like this presentation. Roland offers too much detail differences between its many sets. Too many trade offs. Sounds like the [17] is a reasonable middle price and investment. Some of the Legacy Roland and Yamaha e-sets have everything a musician needs, Too much eye candy around to sell newer Sets at foolish prices. That is where Alesis had found an entry point price wise.
I just got TD30 last Monday I bought it New I had The KT3 I liked it but it wasn't sync up to my Computer right it was a lot of lantacy with it at first it wasn't I use BFD3 now with the TD30 it's not there and I can record 8 outs but I was thinking about getting the TD50 Module
I'm thinking of buying a TD25 or TD30 with some Gen 16. but I really liked the TD50's new snare tech. Is the snare and ride of the TD50 compatible with those two other modules? Or no?
Hello 65drums, I recently bought a used alesis dm 10 with the pro x hi-hat and a speaker. This all was for €550. Is that a good deal? Ps: Its working awesome. The drumset i had before was the yamaha dtx500k
Hi after some advice Ive just bought a Alesis DM Lite for son for Christmas one of main reasons went for a Edrum kit was fact he can practice through headphones. However would be nice to hear him now and then either if playing guitar along side him or just to see how progressing. Advice from music shops has been I would need a specific drum amp which would be more than half price of the actual kit. Told cant use guitar or bass guitar amps as dont have the frequency range. Wouldnt be cranking it up just loud enough to hear, would I get away with plugging some kind of speaker into the headphone jack for those occasional times?? and if so what would you recommend. Maybe specs required ie what frequency range needs to have, does it need built in amp etc or would something like a portable ipod speaker work if volume right down?? Im in UK so might not be able to source same equipment as in US. Thanks.
You can use a amp guitar amp if you want, or even that ipod speaker. Its just that Drum amps will sound better (I recommend the Simmons DA50). But you can use almost any speaker if you want to.
I've learned that sometimes you need to buy a really nice piece of gear. I have been playing drums for 4 years now, all on some low end Simons set. I like to have a drum set. I am so thankful to have one, but damn, is it ugly. The pads are falling apart and the sounds are so obviously sampled that I can't record a decent drum track. I've been looking to make the switch to a TD-25KV because after that, there is no need to upgrade to a better kit. The 25 should last me for years (I hoping it lasts my lifetime with minor repairs). The sounds would also be good enough so that I could lay it down on a track without thinking that everyone will think it sounds like crap. And it would look great in a practice space. Having a good looking piece of gear (at least for me) makes me want to practice more. And like I said, there would be no reason to upgrade because it would be the best non-stage ready kit. And I don't really plan on playing on stage anyway. I just want to record myself for songs I write. The only major chance I could see would be an upgraded module if the current sounds become obsolete. And even then, after that many years I could easily justify purchasing a top notch drum program that could serve as my sound bank.
I'm not against good drumsets at all. This video was just about saving money. Yeah simmons used to be a great company, but now I don't even recommend them. You'll be happy with the TD25, its a great drumset.
65 Drums I know you're not against good drum sets - as evident by the beast td-30 behind you. I do get where you're coming from. I actually have the same approach with other hobbies: go inexpensive when you start, then once you have a good reason to upgrade (broken gear, you're gigging and need something better, etc.) upgrade within reason
I bought a new Roland Td11kv about two years ago and i want to buy an TD25kv used but not sure how, i live in Sweden and most sellers on eBay won't ship that big products overseas
Just because you own a Steinway concert grand piano doesn't make you a concert pianist. On that note, I started with a Casio keyboard from, get this, Kmart, and ended up with a custom built Baldwin grand.... I was the only 14-year-old in the music store messing around on all the Baldwins, picking and choosing which parts I wanted to Frankenstein together. Why did my parents have one made for me? Well, they loved the idea of having it in the house (which is being moved to mine this week), but I proved that I was dedicated to my craft, and still am.
I've seen rich kids with equipment that would put rock stars' stuff to shame cry because they didn't win a trophy at AGM regionals and/or nationals. I've also seen 'some kids' (cough, cough... Not speaking from experience, or anything) win first place international titles (wink wink, nudge nudge... At ten years old, no less ;) ) playing on an old mahogany upright player piano with all the guts taken out (sigh, bummer). My first year at AGM, during the award ceremony, I saw some presidential snare drum lineup who all played in unison (blew my mind then and now, thinking back), and a girl (teenger) who played drums, surrounded by a cage of every type of cymbal, tom, and snare you can imagine. Sure, I was ten, but to this day (a 'few' moons later, LMAO), I'm still in awe. I want to be her, LOL. BTW, I'm really impressed you take the time to answer comments. Sorry for blowin' up your ish ;) I've been binge-watching, LOL. I'll try to lay off ;)
My tips for saving money: get free shipping, buy mail order out-of-state for no sales tax, wait for a good deal/promotion, use interest-free financing if you have a decent job+credit. I wouldn't go used, due to no factory warranty, unless the savings are sufficient to cover the risk. Get something that is good enough to inspire you to play/practice, otherwise you wasted your money. Also look into bundles if the kit normally doesn't come with everything you need.
Ok so I just bought a td25, it came with a kd120 bass drum. I noticed that some of the hits are spot on, real pronounced but others a light and almost not even there really....hitting with the same force by the way..... is this a problem with the trigger inside the pad? I've tried tightening the head just in case it was just hot spotting. Any suggestions on how to fix this would be greatly appreciated
you know my problem was that i bought a cheap drum set cause i was a begginer but when i became better and i didnt like the quality of my sound any more i stop playing and i didnt have any more many for a better one since i gave my many to a cheap one
I've been procrastinating getting an e-kit for almost 3 years since it's gotten so much more difficult to rehearse on my acoustic kit. The problem is that I dont know if I want to bite the bullet on the td-25kv. It seems like it will be the best bang for the buck while providing the best platform for transition from acoustic kit to e-kit but man is it pricey.
+Manuel Orozco It really is expensive. I actually just played a td25kv the other day, they are incredibly solid drum sets with great sound. You could save money by purchasing a cheap acoustic drum set, and throwing mesh heads,drum triggers, with some cymbals and a drum module on them. Just another way to get a similar result.
I have ezdrummer, and intend to use that with an electronic kit to get good sound. My question is which set for the money gives you the best playable kit for the money? would you get the tdkv11 or the new Alesis DM10 mkII? any other suggestions if I don't intend on using the module for it's sounds?
The alesis kits will give you the largest pads. Roland And Yamaha will give you durability. So it's really up to you and what's in your budget. I'd go TD11 if you want to use this set for 5+ years. Alesis if you want something for a couple of years.
I'm just looking for a kit for a home studio... I just want something that has really good dynamic range for midi recording. Does any one have any suggestions?
What i can do if one of my snares, tom, etc doesnt function and need to get one.... i dont see many ppl selling it at least used. Btw im getting a look on a alesis nitro for a start.
the Nitro is the best option at $300. you can replace the pads if you want. There's a possibility that third party pads might work with the Nitro module
+Light&Shadow digital drummer is a edrums magazine that you can look at. Other than that, I'd look at Amazon reviews for Drumsets, the number of reviews on there is insane
I haven't done the math, but I think, at the end of the day, you'd spend more money if you buy to upgrade, then if you'd just get the one you'll end up with. It is however riskier as you say what if you end up not liking it.. But if they have a 30 day return policy, it's all good.
I get what you're saying, but I still think buying a expensive kit is risky (in the very beginning of your drumming). 30 days isn't enough of a safety net. I've had hobbies for 6 months that I abandoned.
Unfortunately, I'm living in Hong Kong and most of the 2nd hand seller are in USA, Europe, Canada, etc. So the item cost + shipping is nearly or sometimes even higher than the brand new price .
I got a Yamaha DTXplorer from my uncle for free and it hate it (its sounds are trash never get this set.). I am not intermediate level and am looking to upgrade, I'm only 13 and my parents arent really rich so they cant just buy me a drum set whenever. Any tips? (i've been looking into saving money to buy the Alesis Dm10x but its like 1100 bucks)
Hey. I've been using dtxplorer for 6yrs now and you can get a lot out of it by tweaking the sounds yourself - you can get around the small pads by placing them further away from ea so you get a more natural feeling setup + it's as durable as a brick wall. Try setting the trigger profile as "dynamic" - the set feels a lot better after that
as an experienced drummer,
i dived into the edrum world for studio work.. all your advice is exactly what i learned from experience.
great stuff man.
there is a disorder known as "GAS" Gear Acquisition Syndrome
I retired 2 years ago at age 57 and decided to take drum lessons. I got an acoustic kit, put some new Evans heads on it and eventually replaced the cheap cymbals with some Sabians. I am now switching to electronic drums. I was looking at several Alesis kits and Yamaha, and Roland...I eventually settled on a Yamaha DTX450K, which was $699, but the price dropped to $449. so I bought it. Have not unboxed it yet. Just got new headphones and an adapter cable for a small amp and some speakers I can use at least temporarily. I have viewed TH-cam videos on here and elsewhere about the one I bought.
You've saved me from spending thousands of dollars. Thank you for all the videos you make!
I currently feel like an intermediate drummer and I own a used Roland td-11k. This video is great for finding an electronic drum set for you in your price range and skill level. Thanks again Justin!
Thanks man! The TD11k is a great set :)
You are so right about the last point!
Thanks man! It's what every drum teacher has said to every student since the beginning of time.
journeyseb - I agree! I'm a guitarist that is looking to get into drumming. I've been guilty, as most guitarists have, of being gear junkies. That new pedal, amp, processor, etc. will make me sound so much better!!! LOL There's no substitute for putting your time in behind the instrument.
I've been playing a Millenium mps 500 for 4 years now (during that time, no Mesh at all), and considering that I became a lot better (from zero) and that the rubber on my single-zone ride cymbal is starting to come off, I think it's justified that I got myself a Roland td17 kvx
I've been watching your vids for a while and this is my first comment but, you are so right on with this commentary all the way through. Thanks. Great job.
Thanks man!
This is why i watch all of your videos.... Ive decided to save up on the roland TD 17KVX. IM SOLD TO IT. Just have to wait.
Totally agree. I have owned a HD-1, TD-3, 4, 9, 12, 20 , 30 and almost all V-drum pads and cymbal types that exist. Never bought anything new. This way I have a high-end kit that is still affordable.
I always say to buy used. But not many people listen to us though.
Your much more motivated when your kit sounds and feels good. And you practice better on good equipment.
Some great advice thanks, I bought a second hand td4kp as my first set in large part due to your advice. I upgraded with a second hand dual zone mesh snare because I didn't want to get used to drumming without considering striking the rim. I love it now I feel so addicted! Thanks again.
Thanks man :)
My hat's off to you Justin ! You hit the nail on the head when you said it is important to read and watch reviews before you buy your kit . I was an acoustic drummer and never played an electronic kit but was in a situation where I had to get one to practice at home . I watched and read tons of reviews and bought a Roland TD-17KVX without ever playing it and it is perfect for me ! I knew it would be just from doing all the " homework " . Would I like a better kit ? Of course . But this kit is all I hoped it would be and then some. The sounds , with a little editing are killer. I love the hi hat on a real stand and the 12in snare is really sweet too. I could have $aved $ome $$ and bought something cheaper but like you , I am all about the sound and quality of equipment . Great vid and great advice !
Agree 100% on the second statement. Most people buy expensive gear, just to later realize that they don't like this hobby. Your kit should grow together with your skillset.
I know that I've started, and abandoned alot of different hobbies. Wasting alot of money in the process. So that's why I recomend going slow.
Same with me, you never know beforehand if your new hobby becomes a real passion.
Hey Justin, I'd like to add a couple points to your 'buy used' advice. First: be patient. If you take your time and maybe even pass on so-so deals, eventually that great deal will come along on CraigsList or eBay. To that end, it's good to set up some good search criteria and subscribe for notifications.
Another good money-saving strategy for me has been to buy 2nd-generation gear. This can let you enjoy a more-professional instrument for the same amount of money. And especially as you get to the higher-end, that gear still sounds great. I bought my TD9 when the 11 and 15 were already out, and it still sounds awesome. I could've just kept going happily with that for long time, but alas one day I spied an expanded TD20 on Craigslist -- effectively a TD20x. That was once the flagship and a big jump up from the 9. So once I subtract out what I'll get for my TD9, I'll have access to a whole new level of sounds and functionality for only a few hundred dollars more. I guess the last point there is that -- when buying used -- it pays to buy Roland as it will retain its value surprisingly well.
Thanks for your videos and keep 'em coming!
Thanks man! Getting stuff thats one generation behind is a good way to save money. Just in my case the module is the most important thing to me. So I'd rather get a smaller drumset thats current gen with a better module. Buts thats just me.
Hej from Belgium, I really like to watch the video's you make.
They really helping me choose my gear and for what I want to use it.
and what you say is so true its not the gear that makes the drummer/musician its the time of practice.
Thanks Kristof! greetings from ohio
I bought a Yamaha DTX 452k as a beginner. I’ve still play everyday and love it.
Another fantastic video! I am guilty of a lot of these points!! Definitely going to take a lot of these on board!! Thanks man.
Thanks man!
You are really good. Your independent and honest reviews helps me saving time and money. I also think you are serious about your cast but still it is somehow entertaining!
+Johan Belfrage Thanks dude! :) that's what I'm trying to do with the channel
On the button with this information, that's what I did. Started with an Alesis dm5 got Roland mesh pads all secondhand, have now a Alesis dm8 but I want a Roland brain TD 9 or TD11. I am now way a drummer, guitars are my thing but it is great to just jam songs and yes I can play a bit !!!!
I see alot of guitarists that love to play drums. The great thing is you can be your own band.
I feel this video works for pretty much every instrument and I have definitely been in those same situations myself, since I considered taking up e-drums I've been hooked on this channel so well done, the contents great :)
Thanks man!
You're welcome :) gonna pick up a Roland TD-1k to get myself started.
Again thanks again and just another thought for beginners , Technology changes really fast so by the time you get to a higher level there may be much better and cooler E-drums out there for your money. Thanks again for the research.
Practice is the way to go!
When I started, I was on the kit every second that I could hit the heads. Within 2 years I was playing out, for money....at 13yo. Owned my dream set, 4 piece Ludwig Classics with hard shell cases in 2 more years, paid cash, and used that set for the next 4 decades.
Putting the time in will give you the best value for your dollar for sure!
I really agree
Good advice...can I add that a buttkicker or throne thumper is must have piece of gear for an e-drummer. Buy one used of course.
I still haven't used one yet, But I hear they are awesome.
Your channel is a veritable goldmine. Thank you very much for all the videos, it helps a lot!
+Jeroen Pelkman Thanks man!
Really instructive videos and actually useful tips and tricks. Keep up the good work man!
I've noticed that on eBay/free ads too it's possible to quite often find low-end or mid-price kits that have been user upgraded (ie. to all higher-end mesh heads) or come with useful extras like stool, decent pedal, etc. I want edrums for midi recording (where I use a drum plugin so on-boards sounds don't matter) and for my daughter to practice on. Therefore I wasn't bothered about the brain too much as long as it worked and wasn't too ancient as the Roland stuff is pretty modular and mix and match so you can always upgrade later. Reckon I saved more than 60% over equivalent new gear and even though I'm a guitarist feel happier to have nice drums than cheap rubber slabs.
Very true. Love it when another drummer upgrades a kit for me before I buy it :D
Sometimes getting an "intermediate/pro" drumkit when you are a beginner motivates you to practice more. Those kits are gorgeous and the better they are the more realistic they feel. I bought a 25KV as a beginner (still am) and I wanna practice everyday XD
Thats a good point. But some people (especially teens) will get a 2000 kit, and lose interest within a year. So that tip was just a general safeguard for people still finding out if they actually love drumming, or if its a passing hobby.
Thanks for the advice. I'm a late starter and I just bought a new Roland TD-1K. Was thinking of getting a used one, but could find a reputable person to buy it from here and didn't want to take any chances, so I decided to get a new one...
Hey whatever works :)
Definitely feel you on practicing. That's why I'm looking for an ekit. When I first got my acoustic kit, I spent 3 hours every day practicing. Not from a family of musicians, unfortunately, and the only way I can return to that old pace is to pick up an ekit and retire my acoustic one.
Late to the party but you were speaking to me when you said to "get your behind on a drum stool and start practicing for an hour a day." I keep pretending more/different hardware will fix me but what needs fixing is my lazy *ss. Great point, thanks.
I'm talking to myself more than anyone. gotta kick my butt into gear to keep practicing too hahah :)
Your last point is always worth making. Their is no substitute for technique and good taste and both come at the price of many thousands of hours practicing and creating. Thanks for the video series - I'm patiently waiting for the Alesis Strike and considering the Forge in the meantime. Would that seem logical to you on the basis of saving money?
If you want to get a temporary set until the Strike comes out, the Forge will be good for that
The drum module is definitely where it's at. Upgraded from a TD-9 and bought a TD-25 module off ebay for $650 to hold me over till I can get my filthy hands on the TD-50 or Mimic Pro module. $650 bucks for a $1000 module is why people have GOT to buy used.
Triggering via laptop is always terrifying live. I used my laptop and SD2.0 via the TD-9 at one point, but in spite of a Core i5 6200U and 8GB of RAM, occasionally the audio would drop out/hiccup for a few milliseconds mid performance and give me a heart attack :(
That's something I've always worried about. I've never tried to use EZdrummer live, but I can see that happening. Or even worse, windows deciding suddenly to update in the middle of a set. :((((
Yeah, I haven't had it try to reboot, but occasionally I'd get some random process start up and spike the CPU to 100%. The processes I traced back to some Windows 10 background processes that manage swap files and perform on the fly compression to save disk space. Superior Drummer doesn't go over 5% CPU utilization while playing my drums, but if one of those processes shows up, say hello to audio stuttering.
Hey Justin, great topics, I keep watching all of them and still wanting more! Question: Have you posted any video about complete setup required for edrum + ezdrummer2? I mean, edrum + midi cable + audio interface + PC + headphones + ezdrummer2 or whatever configuration is best for intermediate drummer with an old DTX550K?
Hey dude love your videos. Ive been playing music for 8 years, mainly guitar. I wanna get into drums and dont mind spending money. Im gonna be running my kit into EzDrummer and maybe superior one day. My question is, do I need a high end kit? I want a kit that can sense my hits/velocity well. I was thinking Roland TD11KV or Alesis Strike Pro.
The Strike kit hasn't been released yet. If you just want to run your drumset through ezdrummer, the TD11 kit would work great for you
Thanks for getting back to me dude! Do the black pads sense velocity the same as the mesh heads on the td11kv?
pretty much
Great insight. Just what I needed to hear.
Thanks man!
nice video, so useful and informative. I've never played drums in my life, i write music in a small home studio using external VSTs (Studio Drummer, Steven Slate Drums). Using external libraries clearly makes the quality of the edrum sound itself irrelevant to me. But it would be much easier and inspiring to have an e-drum to play percussive parts instead of playing it on the keyboard. So which edrum would you recommend me to buy? It could also be my first step to drumming, which is something i have always wanted to do!
I would like your take on home built drum sets using arduio and pezio sensors. I'm not familiar with drums or music for that matter, and I haven't built any electronics either. But,
I am an engineer, and I have all the tools required for some of the instructables I've researched.
That being said, my girlfriend's kid (a 13 yr old girl) wants a set of drums to learn on. She plays the trumpet well, and the piano a little, so she is familiar with music; she just isn't familar with drums yet, but she's definately enthusiastic to learn.
I'm pretty busy with my career and it would be easier to just spend $400 on a Roland TD-1K, and she would love it. But at the same time, I imagine she would get more out of building one herself, and I'd have fun with the project too. But in the end she just wants a drum set, and this really isn't something for me; and chances are that I would probably spend about $400 on all the stuff to do the project anyways. What do you think I should do?
Liked and subbed, great info here. I'm an old school drummer looking to get back into the joy of playing, so my interest in "modern sounds" is limited (I honestly couldn't care less) but I still know how the action of a normal drum head works so I'm just looking for brands that can distinguish between drum head tension variance, stick action, and the sound of the monitor. I live in a place where a full drum set wouldn't ever work (apartment) so I am going to be purchasing a digital set soon, because I have to; I can't keep my sanity otherwise. I am respectfully asking all y'alls advice.
Roland has the best sounds. But you'll have to put out serious cash to get really good sounding stuff. Or just get a crappy drumset and plug it into your laptop and run it on EZdrummer or some other VST for a really good sound
I recently took your advice about buying used. I found a Roland 11KV for $1000 that came with a nice throne and an iron cobra pedal. Was that a good deal?
Good deal. I'd say you have around $1800 worth of gear there.
Wow, that's a great deal! Any tips about that? :)
Thanks for the video. Currently waiting for the end of auction on eBay to get my first Roland TD 11K, hope it will work out, as in this case I'd save a half price for almost a new thing.)
I've been wanting to play drums since I tried band in middle school, but they ran out of kits so band just became lame cause I had to use my mom's old clarinet. I was playing guitar around that time, and have been still for about 9 years. Guitar was always more enjoyable, I hated practicing clarinet. Getting a drum set has always seemed unobtainable to me since my family are living paycheck to paycheck, and we're never able to save money. I didn't realize how obtainable it actually is now with my job, all I gotta do is be very stingy with my money, and I should be able to save up for one. Now getting tax money back, and getting reimbursed for a used bass for Guitar Center store credit I'm really close to my goal. I got to keep the bass too, and let one of their guitar techs fix it. It was a sweet deal I didn't know was possible with my pro-coverage I didn't know I had. I thought I just had a normal warranty on it. Anyways, guitar center is where I'll probably buy it, and I'm definitely buying used with a warranty again now that I know how sweet of a deal that actually is. I hope that's a good plan, but regardless your tips have been really helpful.
I just bought the Alesis dm10 X! I think it's perfect for my skill level! :)
I'll just get an Alesis Nitro Mesh kit with EZDrummer2, and that will be it. :)
Thanks for this video Justin!
Quick question: I am considering buying e-drums, in order to upload videos on my channel. I think this solution is not only cheaper, but I can mix my drums better and have better sound quality (I use addictive drums and superior drummer).
What's your opinion about drum-tec and Jobeky?
Drum-tec seems to have very good drums, regarding quality and looks, but jobeky is way cheaper. :/
Thanks in advance!
I'm using a jobeky trigger right now, and its working well. I'm going to be doing a review on it later
Cool!
Hey man! Great videos!!! I know this is an older video, but I am in the market for a electronic Drumset now. I am a Acoustic Drummer by heart, and have a few sets. I have always taught drum lessons from an acoustic set or pads. I am starting a teaching job and I HAVE TO PURCHASE a electric set for my lesson plans. I teach (4 piece setup) and would like to stick with something that is gonna take a little abuse from beginners and at the same time gonna be VERY reliable for myself to teach on. I would love to stay below the 2G range and I do favor stand alone snare/hi-hats. I already have tons of equipment from my acoustic sets so that won’t need to be added in to the 2G figures. Any recommendations would be awesome and appreciated?!??
Hi Justin I'm a big fan of your content. Been playing since I was I was 5, having owned a Td9 (non-k) since I was 12. I'm now 22 and feel like I deserve a bit of an upgrade! I have practiced almost everyday spending thousands of hours and got my £1100 worth-that's for sure!
I want the most acoustic feeling edrum combination possible with great dynamic feel, my budget is £3-4k including new hardware, laptop, and everything. My stool is 17 years old and is a crappy chinese unit lol. I'm looking at buying a Exs-5 + agean R cymbal set, i'll be looking at triggering SD3 for the snare, toms, and kick. Is this a good setup?
That's a killer setup :) I really like the EXS5!
If you want the best dynamic feel AND durability I suggest the expensive Yamaha Silicone Pads. Excellent for touring and gig use. These are lifetime pads and an investment...so spend at least a few hours plus auditioning them. No hotspoting, tearing, replacing heads and they can take a bunch of physical abuse due to their body design. If you do not mind changing fiddly head pads to find the perfect one then the mesh is a second choice. Not for touring or regular heavy gig use though.
I have played on acoustic drums for 6 years and used to be in a rock band and am totaly new to e drums. Due to living in the city and having bitchy neighbors im really wanting to get the TD 17 kvx thanks to watching your videos on them. My question is what is the biggest difference between playing on electronic over acoustic?
i just start playing drum .... since july doing daddy/mommy on a pillow. Bought this weekend a used TD 6kx for 740€, i really wanted those pads even i'm a noob . Old TD 6 module is not a problem 'cause i'm planning to get the TD 11 module which TD 11kv set doesn't even have those pads for 1100€ (used one) .
Hey Justin love you're vids but do you think you can post a vid about 2Box pls
I'd love to make that video! But I'd have find a 2Box to play first.
Just subscribed to the channel - great friendly vids. The last point is about not buying gear. What if you're like me and just started on the pad, working hard on rudiments and have no kit at all? I assume you're assuming we already have a kit? I've been having a look at the TD11 - looks like it would last me through?
The TD11 is great, I've played them many times. Its a good fit for you I think.
I've had the same $300 acoustic Groove Percussion set since I was 8. I'm 21 now and I I'm ready to upgrade to the TD11K. I plan on getting a Tama HP200P Iron Cobra 200 Single Pedal and then upgrading to the VH11 when I get can. I've played on the Rolands many times before and I'm sold. What do you think Justin?
Clint Eastwood I know you asked Justin but I just wanted to chime in lol, the td11 is the best investment I've ever made in my drumming. I really have no complaints, only wish I would of bought it earlier. When my skill set improves eventually I will get the td25 but couldn't be happier now.
Thanks for the input. I've researched everything a lot and I have friend that owns one. I guess I was asking more about the pedal and upgrade plan.
I agree with what Tim said, the TD11 is the best set in that price point for durability and sound quality.
65 Drums Hey man, not sure if you got my other reply for you in regards to the minimum volume setting on the td11, it doesn't have one. Another great vid btw \m/
Thanks man! good to know about the TD11. Sad It doesn't have the feature though.
You are so right .... I fell in the gun ho category for a while. And bought expensive gear. Then I realized, oh yeah ... I need to practice lol
hahahaha I think we've all done that to some degree. But hey, you've got a nice piece of gear.
I love your videos, but could you link the videos you reference? It would make it easier to find them, thanks.
I try my best, but sometimes I forget. Let me know which one and I'll give you the link.
65 Drums No problem, lol I'll have to watch it again to find out.
Should I buy the Roland TD-17KVX?? I’m intermediate. Been playing for over 2 years
nice video, can you do a review about the alesis nitro kit, thanks in advance.
I will when I get a chance to play one. Merry Christmas!
i just bought the td 25kv from guitar center it was on special for memorial day i got the Roland td 25 kv plus a simons DA 200 drum monitor for 2,400 it was new it wasn't used
+Alejandro Saldana nice :) ✅
Great tips and as someone looking to get my first kit it definitely comes in handy. I'm torn right now between getting a Yamaha DTX450k that comes with an extra cymbal for free or getting a warehouse resealed DTX532k for $1000.
I know as you said I could always upgrade the 450k and it coming with an extra cymbal is a head start on that but the 532k has upgrades to it over the 450k that would cost more by adding the separately to the 450k and it has a better module.
Wish I was one of those guys you mentioned that could just walk into the store with a wishlist and get it all lol.
I'd go for the DTX532k, it's a much much better drumset
How long do you think a Roland td25 would last? Just fro home. Not rlly for gigs. Also if I was to buy this would it last for at least a good 10 years. Like I’m going to college for so,etching different but would love to keep drumming as a hobby I excelle at
Justin I tell my students the same thing, Like forins tince I had a student how bought a $2700 drum set' he was doing good for the first three month and then he lost interest took a lost on the kit and gave it up. You're ether into it or not? A lot of drummer i know makes that mistake. Great insight
That's painful to hear. I mean, you'll save money buying a great drumset upfront, but you don't know how long you'll even play. So for most beginners I say save the cash.
I'm a beginner. Should I buy a used Yamaha dtxplorer? It looks good and has gotten good reviews but I'm still unsure. Should I instead buy a new turbo mesh?
After extensive research I just ordered a TD1DMK from Roland, best sounds, low latency and playability all around.
Alexis look nice but quality is questionable and even the more expensive modules sound... off.. almost like they are using quantisation to tighten your playing but makes you sound like a drum machine
I could really need something New Since i am using the old millenium mps 400 from 2008 i Got for free from the Churchill and even tho it is actually okay i Would definitly buy something especially with everything being rubber!
I found a td-25 kv and a td-25k at a local store both 400,- off for 2300 and 1600 respectively. I really liked the kv version in the store, the pads where a bit larger than the k version. Is this a good deal for a intermediate drummer (5years exp)? I havent played drums in like 3 years because i had sold my acoustic kit because of space and now i want to go edrum style.
+Aramis Netties that's a decent price for those drumsets in new condition. But if you look around eBay enough you can get the td25kv for a little bit less. I really do like the td25kv
65 Drums I just found out that if I buy the K version I can by selling some pads and buying the Kv versions I can "buy" the Kv version new for 2000/2100 with an 3 zone cymbal instead of a crash
I am thinking of going the vst route. With that in mind, what is the oldest Roland/yamaha module (which has lots of expansion options for pads and cymbals); can handle VST libraries? I saw used Roland TD6V kits with modules , but wasn't sure about vst storage or power. I am just starting so I am going "the biggest bang for the buck" route. Any suggestions are appreciated.
Damn right about used gear!
For over 20 years I've bought almost all of my equipment preowned, spent a fortune but also saved a fortune!
Why contribute more money to businesses who already have a lot, and not to another humble guy like me who carries life expenses?
In music, what matters to me is the sound, not the shiny look or smell of fresh plastic unboxed straight from the factory
And yet I haven't had a single failure which required the warranty of new equipment
I am 12 and just started playing a year ago and I just got the Roland td25k set
Great drumset
Thank you. I planning to buy my first drum set (electronic). What i read so far is i can't upgrade a single zone pad to 3 zones pad as the drum module do not support. So if i find 3 zone pad is must, I must fork up the extra and get what available now thats meets my requirements. Or am i wrong?
Hey Justin, I have a question, i currently own a recording studio and need some type of V drums that has multiple direct outputs so I can track all of the drum sound separately, but at the same time it has to have great sounds for a drummer to come in to play on it. Can you give me some tips on what would be a good V drum set that's affordable?
sounds like this video applies to motorcycles too.. actually a lot of new purchases.. skills matter...
what do you think of a brand new td-27kv for $2900 (Inc taxes and shipping) for an intermediate drummer?
have you heard of the band Twenty One Pilots? and if you have what do you think of Josh Dun and his drum set?
I think I've done a cover or 2 of them. Great band. Drumset sounds sweet. And he does alot of dance type drumsounds. I'm pretty sure he uses drum triggers.
i don't think he uses drum triggers, but he has a sample pad and some electric pads.
Excellent video. I really like this presentation. Roland offers too much detail differences between its many sets. Too many trade offs. Sounds like the [17] is a reasonable middle price and investment. Some of the Legacy Roland and Yamaha e-sets have everything a musician needs, Too much eye candy around to sell newer Sets at foolish prices. That is where Alesis had found an entry point price wise.
I just got TD30 last Monday I bought it New I had The KT3 I liked it but it wasn't sync up to my Computer right it was a lot of lantacy with it at first it wasn't I use BFD3 now with the TD30 it's not there and I can record 8 outs but I was thinking about getting the TD50 Module
It's a really good module. you may not even need BFD3 if you have a TD50
I'm thinking of buying a TD25 or TD30 with some Gen 16. but I really liked the TD50's new snare tech. Is the snare and ride of the TD50 compatible with those two other modules? Or no?
+luis Martinez nope. The the new Roland digital snare and ride use USB connections. Only compatible with the td50
Hello 65drums,
I recently bought a used alesis dm 10 with the pro x hi-hat and a speaker. This all was for €550. Is that a good deal? Ps: Its working awesome. The drumset i had before was the yamaha dtx500k
Thats a great deal!
Hi after some advice Ive just bought a Alesis DM Lite for son for Christmas one of main reasons went for a Edrum kit was fact he can practice through headphones. However would be nice to hear him now and then either if playing guitar along side him or just to see how progressing. Advice from music shops has been I would need a specific drum amp which would be more than half price of the actual kit. Told cant use guitar or bass guitar amps as dont have the frequency range. Wouldnt be cranking it up just loud enough to hear, would I get away with plugging some kind of speaker into the headphone jack for those occasional times?? and if so what would you recommend. Maybe specs required ie what frequency range needs to have, does it need built in amp etc or would something like a portable ipod speaker work if volume right down?? Im in UK so might not be able to source same equipment as in US. Thanks.
You can use a amp guitar amp if you want, or even that ipod speaker. Its just that Drum amps will sound better (I recommend the Simmons DA50). But you can use almost any speaker if you want to.
I've learned that sometimes you need to buy a really nice piece of gear. I have been playing drums for 4 years now, all on some low end Simons set. I like to have a drum set. I am so thankful to have one, but damn, is it ugly. The pads are falling apart and the sounds are so obviously sampled that I can't record a decent drum track. I've been looking to make the switch to a TD-25KV because after that, there is no need to upgrade to a better kit. The 25 should last me for years (I hoping it lasts my lifetime with minor repairs). The sounds would also be good enough so that I could lay it down on a track without thinking that everyone will think it sounds like crap. And it would look great in a practice space. Having a good looking piece of gear (at least for me) makes me want to practice more. And like I said, there would be no reason to upgrade because it would be the best non-stage ready kit. And I don't really plan on playing on stage anyway. I just want to record myself for songs I write. The only major chance I could see would be an upgraded module if the current sounds become obsolete. And even then, after that many years I could easily justify purchasing a top notch drum program that could serve as my sound bank.
I'm not against good drumsets at all. This video was just about saving money. Yeah simmons used to be a great company, but now I don't even recommend them. You'll be happy with the TD25, its a great drumset.
65 Drums I know you're not against good drum sets - as evident by the beast td-30 behind you. I do get where you're coming from. I actually have the same approach with other hobbies: go inexpensive when you start, then once you have a good reason to upgrade (broken gear, you're gigging and need something better, etc.) upgrade within reason
Thats a good way to sum it up. Go cheap in the beginning as a test, then go all in.
65 Drums pretty much
Question for you. I bought an Alesis dm10 Mesh but don't like the module can I buy a used Roland module and use the Alesis pads?
it depends on the individual pads. You;ll have to research the compatibility of each pad.
I bought a new Roland Td11kv about two years ago and i want to buy an TD25kv used but not sure how, i live in Sweden and most sellers on eBay won't ship that big products overseas
Sorry to hear that :(
Could you review a Medeli DD403 as I'm considering buying?
I'd love to but it's not sold in my country
what about Fame DD -one professional E-drum set?
Hi I’m a jazz bebop drummer and want to convert my kit to electric, anyone know which drum module has the best jazz sound? And user friendly?
My first kit was Roland td11 kv
Just because you own a Steinway concert grand piano doesn't make you a concert pianist.
On that note, I started with a Casio keyboard from, get this, Kmart, and ended up with a custom built Baldwin grand.... I was the only 14-year-old in the music store messing around on all the Baldwins, picking and choosing which parts I wanted to Frankenstein together. Why did my parents have one made for me? Well, they loved the idea of having it in the house (which is being moved to mine this week), but I proved that I was dedicated to my craft, and still am.
I agree, the musicianship is more important than anything bought
I've seen rich kids with equipment that would put rock stars' stuff to shame cry because they didn't win a trophy at AGM regionals and/or nationals. I've also seen 'some kids' (cough, cough... Not speaking from experience, or anything) win first place international titles (wink wink, nudge nudge... At ten years old, no less ;) ) playing on an old mahogany upright player piano with all the guts taken out (sigh, bummer).
My first year at AGM, during the award ceremony, I saw some presidential snare drum lineup who all played in unison (blew my mind then and now, thinking back), and a girl (teenger) who played drums, surrounded by a cage of every type of cymbal, tom, and snare you can imagine. Sure, I was ten, but to this day (a 'few' moons later, LMAO), I'm still in awe. I want to be her, LOL.
BTW, I'm really impressed you take the time to answer comments. Sorry for blowin' up your ish ;) I've been binge-watching, LOL. I'll try to lay off ;)
My tips for saving money: get free shipping, buy mail order out-of-state for no sales tax, wait for a good deal/promotion, use interest-free financing if you have a decent job+credit. I wouldn't go used, due to no factory warranty, unless the savings are sufficient to cover the risk. Get something that is good enough to inspire you to play/practice, otherwise you wasted your money. Also look into bundles if the kit normally doesn't come with everything you need.
Those tips will save you money. But for me, If I can't pay cash for the drumset, Its a sign that I can't afford it.
Ok so I just bought a td25, it came with a kd120 bass drum. I noticed that some of the hits are spot on, real pronounced but others a light and almost not even there really....hitting with the same force by the way..... is this a problem with the trigger inside the pad? I've tried tightening the head just in case it was just hot spotting. Any suggestions on how to fix this would be greatly appreciated
you know my problem was that i bought a cheap drum set cause i was a begginer but when i became better and i didnt like the quality of my sound any more i stop playing and i didnt have any more many for a better one since i gave my many to a cheap one
Is upgrading a DTX400K worth?
I've been procrastinating getting an e-kit for almost 3 years since it's gotten so much more difficult to rehearse on my acoustic kit. The problem is that I dont know if I want to bite the bullet on the td-25kv. It seems like it will be the best bang for the buck while providing the best platform for transition from acoustic kit to e-kit but man is it pricey.
+Manuel Orozco It really is expensive. I actually just played a td25kv the other day, they are incredibly solid drum sets with great sound. You could save money by purchasing a cheap acoustic drum set, and throwing mesh heads,drum triggers, with some cymbals and a drum module on them. Just another way to get a similar result.
really helpful ! thanks man
Glad you liked it :)
I have ezdrummer, and intend to use that with an electronic kit to get good sound. My question is which set for the money gives you the best playable kit for the money? would you get the tdkv11 or the new Alesis DM10 mkII? any other suggestions if I don't intend on using the module for it's sounds?
The alesis kits will give you the largest pads. Roland And Yamaha will give you durability. So it's really up to you and what's in your budget. I'd go TD11 if you want to use this set for 5+ years. Alesis if you want something for a couple of years.
Im going to buy a used alesis dm6 am I doing good?
I'm just looking for a kit for a home studio... I just want something that has really good dynamic range for midi recording. Does any one have any suggestions?
What i can do if one of my snares, tom, etc doesnt function and need to get one.... i dont see many ppl selling it at least used. Btw im getting a look on a alesis nitro for a start.
the Nitro is the best option at $300. you can replace the pads if you want. There's a possibility that third party pads might work with the Nitro module
Oh k then:)
So for example, one set I looked at was a simmons sd1500. Is it possible to switch out the module or pads?
Yes, but I don't really recomend simmons. They don't make the greatest drums in the world. Go look at a Roland or a Yamaha.
Excellent advise
Thanks Gary :)
Hi Justin - Can you recommend a good drum written reviews website ??
+Light&Shadow digital drummer is a edrums magazine that you can look at. Other than that, I'd look at Amazon reviews for Drumsets, the number of reviews on there is insane
Thanks !
I haven't done the math, but I think, at the end of the day, you'd spend more money if you buy to upgrade, then if you'd just get the one you'll end up with. It is however riskier as you say what if you end up not liking it.. But if they have a 30 day return policy, it's all good.
I get what you're saying, but I still think buying a expensive kit is risky (in the very beginning of your drumming). 30 days isn't enough of a safety net. I've had hobbies for 6 months that I abandoned.
65 Drums yea, 30 days might not be enough
Unfortunately, I'm living in Hong Kong and most of the 2nd hand seller are in USA, Europe, Canada, etc. So the item cost + shipping is nearly or sometimes even higher than the brand new price .
ouch that sucks
I got a Yamaha DTXplorer from my uncle for free and it hate it (its sounds are trash never get this set.). I am not intermediate level and am looking to upgrade, I'm only 13 and my parents arent really rich so they cant just buy me a drum set whenever. Any tips? (i've been looking into saving money to buy the Alesis Dm10x but its like 1100 bucks)
Look at getting a used TD11k. They are going for $800 on ebay right now. Its smaller than the DM10x, but Its more durable, and will sound much better.
Hey. I've been using dtxplorer for 6yrs now and you can get a lot out of it by tweaking the sounds yourself - you can get around the small pads by placing them further away from ea so you get a more natural feeling setup + it's as durable as a brick wall. Try setting the trigger profile as "dynamic" - the set feels a lot better after that
65 Drums k thanks
Juzifer I've tried for hours tweaking the sounds and can't make it sound like I like
65 Drums the only problem is I want 2 crashes and a ride
mat i use that second 14' tom from the alesis strike pro as a snare or a third tom tom? thay got way to setup?
+Paulo Moraes Yes! You can assign any sound to any drum pad :)
thanks!