An electronic drum kit is a great choice for drummers looking to practise in silence with headphones, whilst maintaining the option of rocking out at full volume. To do this though, you’ll need a drum amp/monitor.
The main benefit of having a drum monitor is that they allow you to perform out loud. This means you can practise with a band or just show off your skills to your friends and family – without needing numerous headphones and a splitter.
In this article, we’ll look through the best electronic drum amps and monitors that we have available. We’ll discuss who they’re suited to and even suggest a drum kit that goes well with the monitor.
In a hurry?
Here are our top three drum amplifiers:
| Amp/Monitor | USP | Target Audience | Kit Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| VISIONAMP Drum/Keyboard Amplifier | Incredibly compact. | Beginner - intermediate. | VISIONDRUM Electronic Drum Kit with Stool and Headphones |
| Roland PM-03 Personal Drum Monitor | High-quality stereo sound. | Intermediate. | Roland TD-02KV V-Drums Electronic Drum Kit |
| Yamaha MS45DR Electronic Drum Kit Monitoring System | Accurate monitoring of the entire drum kit from three speakers. | Intermediate - professional. | Yamaha DTX6K3-X Electronic Drum Kit |
Best electronic drum amps and monitors
1. VISIONAMP Drum/Keyboard Amplifier
Specifications
- Power Output: 50W
- Subwoofer Size: 8”
- Tweeter Size: 2”
- Power Input: 110-240VAC/ 220-240VAC 50/60Hz
- E.Drum Input: 6.35mm Jack (Mono)
- Line Inputs: 6.35mm Jack (Mono), 3.5mm Jack (Stereo)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 346mm x 352mm x 323mm
- Weight: 7.12kg
Pros
- Detailed frequency response perfectly reproduces any electronic drum kit
- Compact and easy to store
- Bluetooth and auxiliary connectivity
- Finetune the sound of the amplifier with the two-band EQ
- Great for home practice
Cons
- Small speaker size wouldn’t be ideal for larger venues
If you’re looking for a compact drum amp for home practice, look no further than the VISIONAMP Drum/Keyboard Amplifier.
With a 50W power output, an 8’’ subwoofer, and a 2’’ tweeter, the VSIONAMP’s wide frequency range accurately conveys the sound of your electronic drum kit. This compact sizing is what makes the VISIONAMP one of the lightest drum amps ever made!
The VISIONAMP is a great choice for beginner drummers due to its simplicity. Its streamlined interface allows you to plug in and play as quickly as possible, whilst its Bluetooth connectivity enables you to drum along to your favourite tracks.
Why stop there? The VISIONAMP features a two-band EQ, allowing you to finetune the sound to your own specifications.
2. SubZero DR-30 Drum/Keyboard Amp
Specifications
- Power Output: 30W RMS 1.0 THD into 8 Ohms
- Speaker: 10″ Woofer 3″ Tweeter
- Inputs: E-Drums, Line
- Controls: 2 x Volume (one for each input), LOW, HIGH, Return level, Send Level, On/Off
- Input Sensitivity: Normal 80mV, F = 1Khz.
- Noise: -50dB (Gain Max)
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 390mm x 360mm x 400mm (15.3″ x 14.1″ x 15.7″)
- Weight: 15kg
Pros
- Larger speaker size provides excellent projection
- Separate volume controls for each input allow for the perfect mix
- Durable construction is perfect for gigging drummers
- Two-band EQ gives you total control of your sound
Cons
- Heavier than the VISIONAMP
- Not very easy to take with you to gigs
Electronic drum kits give beginners the opportunity to learn the basics through headphones, allowing them to build confidence and nail the essential techniques. The SubZero DR-30 Drum/Keyboard Amp is the perfect amp for those beginners looking to upgrade from their headphones.
The SubZero DR-30 features an angled cabinet with a 10’’ woofer and a 3’’ tweeter. This makes it great for both practice and live applications, providing a warm and balanced sound.
This sound can be further tailored to suit your preferences, using the two-band EQ. By adjusting the treble and bass, you can finely tune the tone of your drum performance. In addition to this, the DR-30 also features a send and return, allowing you to add external effects to further customise your sound.
3. sideKIK Personal Musician’s Amp with Bluetooth by Gear4music
Specifications
- Low-Frequency Speaker Size: 6.5” driver, 1.4” voice coil, 20oz magnet
- High-Frequency Speaker Size: 2x 3” drivers, 0.5” voice coil, 2oz magnet
- Max SPL: 95dB
- Frequency Response: 65Hz – 20KHz
- Cabinet Material: Polypropylene plastic
- Grill Material: 1.0mm steel mesh
- Weight: 8.05kg
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 270mm x 447mm x 250mm
Pros
- Intuitive mixer allows you to connect instruments and devices easily
- Intelligent speaker design makes it suitable for various applications
- Stream music wirelessly with Bluetooth connectivity
- The perfect blend of power and compact practicality
- Guarantees optimised sound dispertion
Cons
- Heavier than other amps on this list
- Large size could make it harder to add to a compact kit
The sideKIK Personal Musician’s Amp with Bluetooth by Gear4music features an innovative, compact design with clever speaker positioning for optimised sound dispersion. This positioning makes it a great monitor for home practice and performances alike.
The positioning of the speakers is what makes this monitor truly unique. Two 3.5’’ high-frequency tweeters are carefully angled, directing the sound straight towards your upper body. This makes it perfect as a floor monitor for any drummer.
The innovation doesn’t end there, though. The tweeters are offset away from each other to ensure maximum dispersion of the mid and high-frequency spectrum. This guarantees perfect sound quality, whether you’re right in front of the speaker or on the other side of the room.
Furthermore, by adding a 6’’ woofer to the mix and you won’t just hear the bass, you’ll feel it! This is excellent for providing you with an extended bass response to accurately reproduce low-frequency sounds, such as the bass drum.
4. Roland PM-03 Personal Drum Monitor
Specifications
- Speakers: 7.5cm (3”) x 2
- Woofer: 12cm (5”)
- Enclosure: Bass-reflex type
- Controls: ON switch, VOLUME knob, WOOFER knob
- Indicator: ON/STANDBY
- Connectors: INPUT jacks – Stereo miniature phone type – 1/4″ phone type (L/MONO, R)
- Power Consumption: 25 W
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 243mm x 452mm x 236mm
Pros
- Easy setup, small footprint
- Has a power-saving auto standby mode
- Provides a clear stereo sound
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
The Roland PM-03 is a compact drum monitor with an easy setup and a clear stereo sound. A great feature of this drum monitor is the power-saving auto standby mode, which sees the amp automatically switch itself off after a certain amount of inactivity.
From thunderous lows to sparkling highs, the PM-03 enhances your drumming sessions with full-frequency impact – perfect for home practice and live performances alike.
The PM-03 is compatible with all electronic drum kits and is the perfect choice for Roland V-Drums.
5. Yamaha MS45DR Electronic Drum Kit Monitoring System
Specifications
- Power Consumption: 24 W
- Power Supply: 100 V-240 V~, 50/60 Hz
- Satellite speakers size: 110 × 183 × 138 mm (4 5/16″ × 7 3/16″ × 5 7/16″ ) not including holder
- Subwoofer size: 221 × 351 × 343 mm (8 11/16″ × 13 13/16″ × 13 1/2″)
- Satellite speakers weight: 1.0 kg (2 lb, 3 oz) × 2
- Subwoofer weight: 6.5 kg (14 lb, 5 oz)
Pros
- Provides accurate monitoring for your e-drums
- 2.1 channel system offers a realistic sound
- 20w subwoofer allows you to hear the power of your kick drum
- Incredibly easy to set up
Cons
- Takes up more room than most drum monitors
When it comes to drum amps, you don’t get much better than the Yamaha MS45DR. This monitor features a 2.1 channel system for a more realistic sound with clear mids and highs. In addition to this, you can hear and feel the power of your kick drum via the 20w subwoofer.
Ideal for gigs, practice, and studio recordings – the Yamaha MS45DR Electronic Drum Kit Monitoring System makes sure you hear every nuance of your performance.
If you want to experience excellent audio quality from your electronic kit, the MS45DR is ideal. Helping you to be heard above your band.
6. Alesis Strike Amp 12 Drum Amplifier Floor Monitor
Specifications
- Output Power: 2000W Peak, 1000W RMS (640 LF, 350 HF)
- Crossover Frequency: 2.0KHz
- Connectors: 2x XLR/TRS 1/4” (6.35mm) combo inputs, 1x XLR link output, 1x IEC power cable input
- Indicators: 2x power LED (1 front panel, 1 rear panel), clip limiter LED
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 23.8” x 13.9” x 13.8”
- Weight: 16.3kg
Pros
- Thunderous low end for your kick drum
- Contour EQ switch for sculpting your sound
- Lightweight and versatile tilt-back cabinet design
Cons
- Great for small gigs but might struggle in larger venues
The Alesis Strike Amp 12 Floor Monitor is one of the best amps for electronic drums, courtesy of its impressive 2000 watts of peak power, allowing you to force your way through the wall of guitars during any performance.
Ideal for expanding your setup, the monitor features an XLR output for linking to another Strike unit or another device. You could send the audio to an audio interface or a mixing console to fine-tune, however, the contour EQ controls are there for making any quick adjustments on the fly.
Expect thick, forceful bass drums and punchy, well-rounded toms right out of the box thanks to the 12-inch low-frequency driver. The computer-optimised waveguide is then there to enhance the clarity and brilliance of your snare, toms, and cymbals.
The sturdy, tilt-back casing provides perfect floor placement or use the pole mount for an extra-long throw.
7. Roland PM-100 Personal Drum Monitor Amplifier
Specifications
- Power Output: 80W
- Low-Frequency Driver: 10” Woofer
- High-Frequency Driver: 2” Tweeter
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 388mm x 407mm x 354mm
- Weight: 13.5kg
- Power Consumption: 36W
Pros
- Angled design provides ideal sound delivery to seated players
- Perfect for high-end V-Drum kits
- Provides an extremely clear drum sound
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
There’s a reason the Roland PM-100 Personal Drum Monitor is paired with some of the best Roland V-Drum kits. It’s specially designed and optimised to accurately reproduce Roland’s famously expressive V-Drum sound.
This amp features a rugged cabinet and a custom full-range speaker system, made up of a 10’’ speaker and a powerful 80w amplifier. It’s a combination that offers accurate reproduction with great projection and clarity.
The angled design provides an ideal sound delivery to seated players – perfect for drummers. There’s also a designated V-Drums input with a volume control knob, along with a 1/4” line input for other audio sources and for playing along to your favourite songs.
8. SubZero Praxis12 DSP Musicians Monitor
Specifications
- Power Output: 400W RMS/570W Peak/1600W Max
- Frequency Response: 50Hz – 19KHz
- LF Transducer: 12” Woofer, 2.36” Voice Coil
- HF Transducer: 3 x 2.75” Wideband Speakers
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 360mm x 340mm x 600mm
- Weight: 14.9kg
- Power Consumption: 400W
Pros
- Wide dispersion for nuanced sound
- Multiple positioning options
- Silent operation with Class D amplification
Cons
- Might be complex for beginners
The Praxis12 DSP Musicians Monitor, last but not least on our list of the best electronic drum amps, is designed with a tweeter array that ensures every high-frequency detail of your instrument is heard with exceptional clarity. This, combined with a powerful low-frequency driver, delivers a full and accurate sound across the spectrum.
Its DSP preset selection ensures that there’s always a preset for you, whether you’re playing the guitar, keyboard, or drums, or just need a natural sound. Each setting is fine-tuned to enhance your instrument’s sound, and particularly for drums, the monitor projects the sound with fantastic clarity and bite.
If you’re a working musician, the robust build quality of the monitor will be able to keep up with your lifestyle. It can handle the rigours of the road whilst still being lightweight enough to carry from gig to gig. Two combi XLR/Jack inputs add to its versatility, allowing for simultaneous connection of two instruments or a direct feed from a mixing desk.
The Class D amplification not only ensures high-quality sound and reliable performance but also silent operation. This means you can use the Praxis12 for extended periods without worrying about overheating. Plus, with its multiple positioning options, you can set it up in any space, ensuring optimal sound delivery wherever you are.
9. Laney DH80 DrumHUB 1×10 Drum Monitor
Specifications
- Power Rating: 80W
- Inputs: 2x Drum/Line Channels, both with 6.3mm & 3.5mm Stereo Inputs & Level Control; Stereo Aux; Bluetooth Streaming
- Outputs: 3.5mm Stereo Phones Out (Headphones); Balanced XLR D.I. Out
- EQ: Bass & Treble
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 360mm x 388mm x 318mm
- Weight: 9.5kg
Pros
- High-quality sound with clarity
- Versatile connectivity options
- Handy headphone out for silent play
Cons
- Limited EQ controls
If you want a small, portable monitor that can still pack a punch, the Laney DH80 DrumHUB is perfect. With 80 watts of power, its sound can fill a room, stage, or studio. The sound quality remains pristine, even at high volumes, ensuring your drums cut through the mix with absolute clarity.
The DH80 is not just about power. It’s designed with your connectivity needs in mind, offering Bluetooth, an AUX input, a headphone output, and an XLR Direct Out. This means you can go from practising silently with headphones to connecting to a PA system for an all-encompassing sound in a large venue.
Despite being compact, the DH80 has an array of useful features. There are bass and treble controls for shaping your sound, and with two channels, you can even plug in two kits simultaneously.
Things to consider when buying a drum amp
When looking to buy an amp for electronic drums, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using the amp for. This will help you look for several features that may differ from amp to amp such as the number and type of inputs and outputs, output power, weight, size, and driver and speaker size.
Inputs and outputs
Drum amps have various numbers and types of inputs and outputs. XLR or balanced inputs are usually best for electronic drums and keyboards, allowing you to easily plug straight in and play.
Some drum amps will have a range of different inputs and outputs, allowing you to plug in different instruments, such as an electronic drum kit and a keyboard.
Having the correct inputs is also important if you want to play along to your favourite tracks. While most are fitted with an AUX input, some drum amps also have Bluetooth compatibility. This enables you to jam along to songs without the need for any cables.
Many electronic drum kits have separate Left and Right outputs, allowing you to send the drum signal to two amps whilst controlling the stereo panning via the drum module. This stereo setup is great for a more immersive drumming experience.
Output power (watts)
Output power is always measured in watts, and this indicates the amount of electricity required for the product to work.
Low-watt amps are great for home use, whereas higher-watt amps are ideal for live performances as they pack more power and volume.
A smaller amp is more likely to distort than a higher-watt amp. This means, when turned above a certain level of volume, the volume will become crackled and unclear. This makes larger watt amps more suited to louder applications.
Another thing you may need to be aware of is the difference between peak power and continuous power. Peak power is the amount of power that a battery can push out over a very short period of time to support the surge energy required to start a device. Continuous power is the amount of power that a battery can supply to a device after it has started. The best amp for electronic drums depends on your needs and how small or large your venue is.
Weight and size
When it comes to the weight and size of your drum monitor, it’s important to consider where you’ll be using it. If it’s purely for home practice, a smaller drum amp would be ideal due to its smaller footprint and how easy it is to store away. A performing drummer, however, may look for a larger drum amp for a bigger sound.
Usually, when it comes to amplifiers in general, the larger the amp, the more powerful the sound. It’s unlikely you’ll ever see a small 20w amp being pushed to its limit in a large venue!
If you’re a travelling/touring drummer, you’ll likely want something in the middle. An amp that is compact enough for ease of travel but powerful enough to command the stage.
Driver and speaker size
Similar to the above, the driver and speaker size also has a direct impact on the power and volume of the speaker. Bass amps, for example, feature a large subwoofer in order to achieve an extended bass response.
Finding a drum amp with a good-sized tweeter and woofer will provide a much more consistent and accurate drum sound.
FAQs
Do electronic drums need a special amp?
It’s best to always use an amp that’s designed for electronic drums. These can handle the loud volumes of an E-kit and give the clarity and bass needed. Some amps, such as the VISIONAMP, are also made for keyboards, offering a versatile amp that can suit different setups.
What is the best way to amplify electronic drums?
The best way to amplify your electronic drums is with a dedicated drum amp/monitor and a mixer. The mixer allows you to fine-tune your sound and ensure your drums are projected clearly, even at loud volumes.
Is a bass amp OK for electronic drums?
In theory, a bass amp should be able to handle the output of an electronic drum kit as it does with a bass guitar. However, it is designed to amplify lower frequencies, so you may have to do more adjustment on your amp or mixer to ensure any crisp high frequencies are also heard.
Final thoughts
These are just seven of the best electronic drum amps and monitors on the market, and they’re a great starting place for your own research. But there are so many more available! Check them out below and see for yourself!
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