When it comes to creating beats and setting the rhythm for your band, you need a high-quality kit! In this article, we’ll assist drummers of all levels in their quest for the perfect set.
We’ll provide a comprehensive list of the best drum kits, ensuring you can choose the one that best suits your abilities and budget. Let’s dive in!
In a hurry?
Here are our top three acoustic drum kits and why we love them:
| Yamaha PHX 22'' 5pc Shell Pack, Cherry Sunburst | Powerful projection, rich low-mids, and excellent sensitivity across a wide dynamic range. | Check the current price |
| Sonor Momentum 22" 4pc Beech Shell Pack, Red Pearl | Balanced beech shells and T.A.R. mounting with an extra 10" tom included. | Check the current price |
| Premier Artist Heritage 18" 4pc Shell Pack, Phantom Ash | Compact bebop configuration at an affordable price. | Check the current price |
The best drum kits
1.Yamaha PHX 22” 5pc Shell Pack
Key features
- 11-ply maple, kapur, and jatoba hybrid shells
- Y.E.S.S.II tom mounting system
- 3mm aluminium die-cast hoops
Pros
- Wide dynamic range with strong projection
- Hardware designed to preserve resonance and maintain tuning stability
- Five-piece configuration
Cons
- Premium price makes it a significant investment
Kicking off our list is the Yamaha PHX, a premium shell pack designed for experienced drummers who want plenty of control over their sound. One of its biggest strengths is how responsive it is. It gives you the sensitivity needed for quieter, more detailed playing without running out of power when you dig in.
That versatility makes the PHX particularly appealing if you regularly move between different playing situations or simply like experimenting with your tuning. The five-piece configuration also gives you a broad range to work with without making the setup unnecessarily complicated.
At its price, it’s a serious investment that might not suit everyone’s budget — but you are getting some of Yamaha’s most advanced drum-building work here. For professional players who prioritise dynamics, tuning flexibility, and a refined playing experience, the PHX is a strong way to start our list.
2. DW Drums Performance 22″ 3pc Shell Pack
Key features
- North American maple HVX shell construction
- STM suspension tom mounting system
- True-Pitch tuning rods
Pros
- Suited to live performance and recording
- Excellent tuning stability
- High-quality construction built for years of regular use
Cons
- Three-piece configuration offers fewer tonal options
The DW Performance Shell Pack uses maple for a warm, punchy sound. The real appeal, though, lies in its versatility – namely how much you can change the character of the drums through tuning. Go lower for a deeper sound suited to rock and pop or increase the tension when you need something brighter and more articulate.
That flexibility is perfect if you’re a drummer who plays across several genres or you need a kit to cover both gigs and recording sessions. DW’s True-Pitch tuning rods also give you plenty of control when making smaller adjustments, helping you dial in the sound you’re after with greater precision.
Build quality is another big plus. DW are known for their professional drums, and the Performance Series brings plenty of that attention to detail to a kit designed to withstand regular playing. It’s a dependable all-rounder with plenty of room to explore your own sound.
3. Gretsch Catalina Maple 22″ USA Fusion Shell Pack
Key features
- 7-ply maple shell construction
- Matching 14″ snare drum included
- Double tom holder included for quick setup
Pros
- Delivers warm, full-bodied tones at an accessible price
- Eye-catching finishes available
- Suits rehearsals, recording, and live performance
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals are not included
The Gretsch Catalina Maple is a great option if you want a more serious acoustic kit without jumping straight into the premium price bracket. Its warm, full-bodied sound works across plenty of styles, giving you room to experiment as your playing develops.
The five-piece configuration gives you a good amount to work with, including 10″ and 12″ rack toms, a 16″ floor tom, a 22″ bass drum, and a matching 14″ snare. That makes it great if you’re building a kit from scratch or moving up from a more basic setup.
Gretsch have a long history in acoustic drums, and the Catalina brings some of that classic character into a more accessible package. The Seafoam Green finish adds a distinctive final touch to an already versatile kit.
4. Sonor Momentum 22″ 4pc Beech Shell Pack
Key features
- 9-ply beech shells with a 6mm shell layup
- T.A.R. (Total Acoustic Resonance) mounting system
- Includes an additional 10″ rack tom
Pros
- T.A.R. mounting system allows for excellent resonance and sustain
- Professional sound with balanced attack and controlled lows
- Includes an extra 10″ rack tom
Cons
- Unusual tom depths may not suit every drummer’s preferred feel or setup
The Sonor Momentum is a versatile all-rounder, giving you a balanced mix of warmth, punch, and definition that translates well across plenty of playing styles. The beech shells respond clearly when your playing gets busier, but there’s still enough depth to give grooves plenty of weight.
It’s also a kit that has plenty to explore. The additional 10″ rack tom expands your options for fills, and Sonor’s T.A.R. mounting system lets the drums ring out naturally with plenty of sustain. TuneSafe hardware is another useful touch, particularly when you’re playing longer rehearsals or gigs and want your tuning to stay consistent.
The Momentum suits drummers who want a flexible setup that can adapt to different situations.
5. Premier Little Criminal Shell Pack
Key features
- Artist-inspired configuration developed with Frank Benbini
- 7.5mm 6-ply birch shells
- Compact 20″ undrilled bass drum with a 1-up, 2-down setup
Pros
- Affordable way to achieve a professional-style setup
- Matching snare adds excellent value
- Compact configuration
Cons
- May not suit drummers who prefer larger kits
Fun Lovin’ Criminals drummer Frank Benbini helped create the Premier Little Criminal Shell Pack — so you know it’s good! The one-up, two-down configuration is designed to replicate Benbini’s own touring kit, with a 20″ bass and a smaller 12″ floor tom being the standout features. The shallow floor toms keep the setup compact and comfortable without losing the range you’d expect from a two-floor-tom configuration.
There’s a crisp, focused quality to the birch shells that should help your playing stay defined, particularly when you’re competing with guitars and other instruments in a busy mix. The included piccolo snare adds a sharper voice to the setup and makes the overall package feel particularly generous for the price.
But this isn’t just a kit for Frank Benbini fans. It’s a versatile option if you want something compact, distinctive, and a little different from a conventional five-piece setup.
6. SJC Drums Colour Rush 3pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Exclusive Gear4music and SJC collaboration
- Handcrafted in the USA with M5 and M7 maple shells
- Limited-edition Thunder Punch custom satin finish
Pros
- Delivers a professional sound across multiple genres
- Premium handcrafted construction
- Comes fitted with Evans heads
Cons
- Satin finish may require more care to keep it looking its best
Exclusive to Gear4music, the Colour Rush Thunder Punch is easily one of the boldest kits on our list. It’s a great option if you like collecting limited-edition gear or simply want a kit with plenty of personality on stage.
But these Colour Rush shells are more than just a pretty finish. The maple shells give you a balanced mix of warmth, punch, and clarity, making this a kit you can comfortably use across different genres. It’s also handcrafted in the USA and comes fitted with Evans heads, which adds to the premium feel.
The finish is ultimately what makes the Thunder Punch memorable, but the sound and build quality mean you’re not choosing style at the expense of substance.
7. Mapex Saturn VI 22″ 5pc Studioease Shell Pack
Key features
- Maple and walnut hybrid shell construction
- SONIClear bearing edges and tom suspension system
- Air Flow venting and isolation-enhancing hardware
Pros
- Warm, balanced sound that’s versatile across a wide range of genres
- Shallow tom depths create a comfortable, ergonomic setup
- Easy to tune with excellent sustain and resonance
Cons
- Thicker maple/walnut bass drum is heavier and bulkier to transport
The Mapex Saturn VI Studioease Shell Pack gives you plenty of room to shape your sound — which is great if you regularly move between different styles. Its maple and walnut shells have a warm, full-bodied character, with enough punch and definition to cover everything from rock and pop to jazz and funk.
The Studioease configuration is particularly useful if you enjoy having a larger setup. You get two rack toms and two floor toms alongside the 22″ bass drum for bigger fills and more expansive playing. The shallower rack toms also make positioning easier, helping you keep everything comfortably within reach.
8. Tama Starclassic Bubinga 22″ 5pc Shell Pack
Key features
- 9-ply Bubinga and African Cherry shell construction
- Star-Cast mounting system with Quick-Lock tom brackets
- Deeper tom sizes for enhanced sustain and projection
Pros
- Powerful low-end with exceptional warmth and projection
- Premium hardware keeps tuning stable
- Striking limited-edition finish
Cons
- May be too powerful for smaller venues or quieter playing styles
Big, warm, and full of low-end weight, the Tama Starclassic Bubinga Shell Pack has plenty of presence, making it ideal for rock and heavier styles where a more powerful acoustic sound can come into its own.
The deeper toms add to that character, giving notes plenty of room to open up and sustain. With five drums to work with, you also have enough range for bigger fills and more expressive playing without the setup becoming excessive.
9. Ludwig Continental 24” 3pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Large 24″ x 14″ bass drum
- Classic 1-up, 1-down shell configuration
- 7-ply hybrid maple shells
Pros
- Powerful bass drum delivers a commanding live sound
- Warm maple tone suits a wide range of musical styles
- Excellent value from one of the industry’s most respected drum brands
Cons
- 24″ bass drum may be too large for drummers who prefer a more compact setup
Ludwig are one of the most respected names in the drum world, with their kits played by some of the biggest names in the industry over the years. That heritage is part of the appeal of the Continental, especially if you want a kit with a more traditional feel.
Depth and presence are provided by the 24″ bass drum. Pair that with the one-up, one-down layout, and you’ve got a classic combination that should feel right at home playing rock, blues, indie and plenty more besides.
There’s a warm, rounded character to the maple shells, so you’re not limited to styles that call for lots of power. The Continental keeps things understated and timeless, a fitting look for a kit that draws so much from Ludwig’s drumming heritage.
10. Pearl Crystal Beat 22” 4pc Limited Edition Shell Pack
Key features
- Seamless 7mm acrylic shells
- 1-up, 2-down shell configuration
- Optimount suspension mounting system
Pros
- Acrylic shells deliver powerful projection with clear, focused tones
- 1-up, 2-down configuration
- Optimount system enhances resonance and sustain
Cons
- Acrylic shells have a distinct sound that won’t suit every drummer
If you’re considering trying out an acrylic kit, the Pearl Crystal Beat Shell Pack is a great introduction. Compared with traditional wooden shells, acrylic shells have a brighter, more immediate sound with plenty of projection, which can be particularly useful when you’re playing live.
The one-up, two-down configuration is also a little different from some of the larger setups on our list. Having two floor toms gives you a broad, thunderous pitch range that suits rock and metal, with plenty of scope for bigger fills. Using a single rack tom also leaves more space above the bass drum, so you can bring your ride cymbal closer for a more comfortable playing position.
11. SJC Drums Josh Dun The Ned 4pc Shell Pack, Inferno
Key features
- Josh Dun signature shell pack with Inferno custom wrap
- Compact 18″ bass drum with a 1 up, 1 down configuration
- Poplar shell construction
Pros
- Compact setup is ideal for gigs, rehearsals, and smaller stages
- Poplar shells deliver a warm, balanced tone
- Great value for an artist-inspired shell pack
Cons
- 18″ bass drum won’t deliver the same low-end power as larger kick drums
If you’re a fan of Twenty-One Pilots, you’ll probably recognise the inspiration behind SJC’s The Ned Shell Pack, but there’s more to this kit than the Josh Dun name. The poplar shells give you a warm, balanced sound with enough clarity for pop, indie, and rock, so it works well as a versatile kit in its own right.
Its smaller dimensions also make for a comfortable playing experience. Everything can sit within easy reach, and the 18″ bass drum keeps the overall footprint manageable, which is useful for rehearsals, smaller stages or regular gigging.
Of course, the Josh Dun influence still gives The Ned plenty of character. The Inferno wrap and signature details make it instantly recognisable, but you don’t need to be a Twenty-One Pilots fan to appreciate it.
12. Premier Artist Heritage 18″ 4pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Traditional 18″ bebop configuration with a 1-up, 1-down setup
- Matching 14″ snare drum included
- 7.5mm 6-ply birch shells
Pros
- Matching snare offers excellent value for money
- Compact setup is ideal for smaller venues and easy transport
- Classic Premier styling celebrates the brand’s long-standing heritage
Cons
- Players wanting a larger setup may prefer a traditional 22″ configuration
Smaller acoustic kits can be surprisingly versatile, and the Premier Artist Heritage Shell Pack is a great example. Its four-piece bebop configuration centres around an 18″ bass drum, giving you a compact playing setup that’s easy to position and transport.
Despite it being smaller, you still get a full, professional acoustic sound. The birch shells have a crisp, focused character with plenty of projection, and the matching 14″ snare gives you everything you need for a versatile setup.
Plus, the vintage-inspired details bring some of Premier’s long-standing drum-making heritage into the design. If you want the convenience of a smaller kit without your sound feeling scaled down, and you want a brand with history, the Premier Artist Heritage is ideal.
13. Tama Starclassic Performer LTD Edition 22″ 5pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Hyper-Drive toms
- Black nickel shell hardware
- Includes two single tom attachments
Pros
- Versatile professional sound
- Hyper-Drive toms provide a comfortable, ergonomic setup
- Excellent build quality from one of drumming’s most respected brands
Cons
- Limited-edition finish may not suit drummers looking for a more traditional appearance
Rounding off our list, the Tama Starclassic Performer LTD Edition gives you the versatility you’d expect from a professional kit, with a few details that help this particular model stand out. There’s plenty of punch and definition to the sound, so you can comfortably take it from rehearsals and recording sessions through to regular gigs.
The Hyper-Drive toms are shallower than traditional sizes, making them easier to position exactly where you want them. That can make a real difference to how comfortable the kit feels, particularly during longer playing sessions. You also have five drums to work with, giving you plenty of scope across different styles.
Things to consider when buying your first kit
When it comes to buying your first drum kit, there are a few important factors to consider. As a beginner, starting with a five-piece kit is commonplace, typicalling comprising a bass drum, snare drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom. This configuration provides a solid foundation for learning and practising various drumming techniques.
One decision you’ll need to make is whether to go for an all-in-one setup or a shell pack. An all-in-one setup usually includes cymbals, hardware, and sometimes even a throne, giving you everything you need to get started right away. On the other hand, a shell pack only includes the drums themselves, but this does allow you to choose and customise your cymbals and hardware separately.
Both options have their advantages, so consider your budget and personal preferences when making this choice.
Setting up your drum kit properly is crucial for comfort and playability. Make sure to adjust the drum throne to a height where your knees are at a 90-degree angle and your feet comfortably reach the pedals. Position the drums at a comfortable distance and angle, ensuring that you can easily reach all the drums and cymbals without straining.
For more detailed information on finding the best beginner drum sets, we recommend checking out our picks of the best beginner drum sets, which cover various price ranges, features, and brands.
Remember, as a beginner drummer, it’s important to choose a kit that suits your needs and budget. Focus on finding a kit that offers good quality components, durability, and ease of setup. With the right drum kit, you’ll be well on your way to developing your skills and enjoying the world of drumming.
Best drum set brands
Through years of craftsmanship, quality, and innovation, several brands have become renowned in the drumming world: Gretsch, Tama, Pearl, and Mapex.
Gretsch drums are known for their vintage appeal and exceptional sound quality. With a history dating back to the early 1900s, Gretsch have become synonymous with classic rock and rockabilly drumming styles. Their drums are loved for their warm tones, beautiful finishes and, of course, “that great Gretsch sound”.
Tama have gained recognition over the decades for their high-quality drum sets. Known for their durability and versatility, Tama drums are favoured by drummers across various genres. From entry-level kits to their professional series, Tama offers a wide range of options to suit different playing styles and budgets.
Another well-established brand in the industry is Pearl. Their commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has made them a favourite among drummers of all levels. Pearl drums are known for their reliability and excellent build quality.
Mapex have been growing in popularity over recent decades, offering both affordability and quality. With multiple lines of drums, including Horizon, Voyager, and Black Panther Series, Mapex provides options for beginners and professionals alike. Their drums are known for their versatile sound and reliable performance.
For a closer look at some of the best drum set brands, check out our dedicated article.
What does an acoustic drum kit typically have?
More often than not, acoustic drum kit setups tend to look more complicated than they really are. Once you get down to the key components, a typical acoustic drum kit setup is very straightforward. They typically have:
A bass drum: The largest drum in the kit which is played with a foot pedal.
A snare drum: This is the drum that produces that sharp and distinctive “crack” sound.
Tom drums: Cylindrical drums of different sizes and pitches. They’re positioned above the bass drum and often mounted to it via a mount. Tom drums add depth and variety to the drum sound.
Hi-hat: The hi-hat consists of two cymbals placed on top of each other and mounted on a stand. A foot pedal operates it and can be played either open or closed to frequently maintain a steady beat.
Crash cymbal: This is used to add accents and dramatic crashes to the music. It’s typically struck with a drumstick, creating a loud and explosive sound.
Ride cymbal: The ride is a larger cymbal and provides a more sustained sound compared to the crash. It’s typically used to keep time and maintain a steady rhythm in music.
Hardware: The kit requires hardware to piece it all together. This typically consists of cymbal stands, tom drum mounts, pedals, and other various metal components to allow you to set the kit up to your exact preference.
FAQs
What is the most popular drum setup?
The most popular drum setup includes a kick drum, snare drum, hi-hat, two rack toms, and a floor tom. This configuration provides a versatile range of sounds and is commonly used in various music genres. Drummers often customise their setups by adding additional cymbals or percussion instruments to suit their style.
What does a professional drum kit cost?
Professional drum kits can range from around £1,000 to several thousand pounds. The price depends on factors such as the brand, quality, materials, and any included hardware. Higher-end kits often offer superior sound, durability, and customisation options, making them a preferred choice for seasoned drummers.
What is the best-selling drum set of all time?
The best-selling drum set of all time is the Yamaha Recording Custom. Renowned for its exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility, it has been a go-to choice for professional drummers for decades. Its timeless design and consistent performance have made it a staple in recording studios and live performances worldwide.
Final thoughts
We hope we’ve given you some valuable insights into the best drum kits; we’ve focused on acoustic kits here but we have another list dedicated to electronic drum sets if that takes your fancy.
If you want to learn more about drum set prices, check out our article on how much you should expect to spend on a kit. For a deeper understanding how what exactly makes up a kit, head over to our guide to the parts of a drum set.
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