The Best Drum Set Brands: A Journey Through Time and Quality

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Hey groovers! The drum set, an integral part of the music scene, has seen a dynamic evolution over the past century, adapting and transforming to meet the diverse needs of musicians across genres. Originating from the vaudeville era, where disparate percussion instruments were played by multiple percussionists, the drum kit as we know it began to take shape in the early 20th century. This consolidation into a “trap set” that one person could play was revolutionary, marking the beginning of a percussive renaissance that would echo through the ages.

During the 1920s and ’30s, as jazz burgeoned into the musical mainstream, the drum set became more sophisticated. Kick pedals improved, and cymbals became a staple, enhancing the drummer’s ability to create a more diverse range of sounds. The advent of rock ‘n’ roll in the mid-20th century, followed by hard rock and heavy metal, pushed drum manufacturers to develop even more durable and versatile kits, capable of producing the loud, driving beats required by these new styles. These innovations led to the modern drum kit, a set-up that could be as simple or as complex as the music it was used to play.

As the drum set evolved, so did its manufacturers. The history of drum making features a host of legendary names—some of which have vanished into obscurity like Slingerland, while others, like Sonor, have withstood the test of time and still resonate with quality and heritage today. There are also relatively new players in the market, such as DW (Drum Workshop), which have risen to prominence and now lead the pack with innovative designs and high-profile endorsements.

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Top Drum Set Brands Today

When discussing the elite of drum set manufacturers, several names stand out for their quality, history, and the trust they have earned from drummers around the world. Here are some of the top drum set brands that you might consider:

DW (Drum Workshop)

Founded in 1972 as a small teaching studio, Drum Workshop (DW) has grown into one of the most innovative drum manufacturers in the world. Known for their high-quality craftsmanship and technological innovations like the DW pedal and the True-Pitch tuning system, DW is included in our list for the best drum set brands, as their sets are a top choice among professional drummers. Their Collector’s Series is especially renowned for its customization options and exceptional sound. Famous drummers like Neil Peart of Rush and Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters have showcased the capabilities of DW kits, making them highly sought after in genres ranging from rock to jazz.

Key Highlights of DW Drum Workshop:

• Innovative beginnings: DW began in 1972, evolving from a local studio to a top drum maker globally.
• Technological Innovations: Notable for the DW pedal and True-Pitch tuning for enhanced control and sound precision.
• Collector’s Series: Offers extensive customization for drummers to personalize their kits.
• Celebrity Endorsements: Favored by icons like Neil Peart and Dave Grohl, demonstrating versatility across genres.
• Industry Influence: DW sets high standards in drum craftsmanship

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Yamaha

A powerhouse in musical instruments, Yamaha drums have been around since 1967. Their Recording Custom kit, refined in collaboration with the legendary studio drummer Steve Gadd, is widely regarded as one of the most recorded drum kits in history due to its precise, clear sound that suits studio work perfectly. Yamaha is celebrated for its versatile range of kits, which cater to beginners with the Stage Custom Birch series and to professionals with the PHX series. Artists like Tommy Aldridge and Dave Weckl have relied on Yamaha kits for their durability and the crisp sound profile that works across various musical genres.

Key Highlights of Yamaha Drums:

• Established Excellence: Known for quality since 1967, Yamaha leads in drum innovation.
• Recording Custom Kit: Famed for its clarity, developed with Steve Gadd, and preferred in studios globally.
• Versatile Product Range:
  • Stage Custom Birch Series: Great for beginners, offers quality at a good price.
  • PHX Series: Targets professionals with superior materials and craftsmanship.
• Diverse Artist Endorsements: Drummers like Tommy Aldridge and Dave Weckl choose Yamaha for its robustness and versatile sound.

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Tama

Tama drums, part of the Hoshino Gakki company, became prominent in the 1970s. They are praised for their innovative hardware designs and durable drum kits. Tama’s STAR series drums are among their most luxurious, offering both classic and modern sounds with impeccable build quality. The brand is a favorite among heavy metal and rock drummers, with icons like Lars Ulrich of Metallica and Mike Portnoy formerly of Dream Theater endorsing Tama for its powerful performance capabilities.

Key Highlights of Tama Drums:

• Established Excellence: Tama, prominent since the 1970s, is known for its consistent quality and innovation.
• Innovative Hardware Design: Tama leads in hardware solutions that boost kit durability and performance.
• STAR Series: A premium line that offers luxury and versatility for high-quality, style-spanning sounds.
• Iconic Endorsements: Preferred by legends like Lars Ulrich and Mike Portnoy for its powerful, reliable sound.
• Rock and Metal Favorite: Chosen for its robust build and powerful acoustics, Tama is a favorite in rock and metal music.

Pearl

Since its founding in 1946, Pearl has been synonymous with innovation and quality. The Pearl Masters and Reference series are particularly popular for their sonic versatility and robust construction. Pearl’s innovative free-floating snare and OptiMount suspension system are just two examples of their commitment to drummer-focused enhancements. Notable drummers like Dennis Chambers and Joey Jordison have showcased Pearl’s ability to adapt across various playing styles, from jazz to heavy metal.

Key Highlights of Pearl:

• Longstanding Excellence: Since 1946, Pearl is celebrated for its focus on quality and innovation.
• Masters and Reference Series: Known for sonic versatility, these series deliver a range of sounds from deep tones to sharp accents.
• Innovative Features:
  • Free-Floating Snare: Allows unimpeded resonance for clearer sound.
  • OptiMount Suspension System: Enhances resonance with minimal shell contact.
• Endorsements by Renowned Drummers: Used by artists like Dennis Chambers and Joey Jordison, suitable for styles from jazz to metal.
• Drummer-Focused Innovations: Pearl emphasizes features that enhance the drummer’s experience.

Ludwig

Ludwig Drums made a historical mark when Ringo Starr played a Ludwig kit during The Beatles’ rise to fame. Founded in 1909, Ludwig’s classic kits, such as the Ludwig Super Classic and Vistalite, have been integral to the development of rock and roll drumming. Their snares, particularly the Ludwig Supraphonic, are legendary in the drumming community for their distinctive, rich sound and have been played by the likes of John Bonham of Led Zeppelin and Alex Van Halen of Van Halen.

Key Highlights of Ludwig Drums:

• Historic Fame: Gained prominence with Ringo Starr during The Beatles’ era.
• Established Legacy: Founded in 1909, renowned for over a century in quality drum making.
• Notable Kits: Famous models include the Ludwig Super Classic and Vistalite.
• Legendary Snares: The Ludwig Supraphonic snare is celebrated for its distinctive sound.
• Celebrity Endorsement: Preferred by icons like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin and Alex Van Halen.

Mapex

Mooving on with our list for the best drum set brands, we have Mapex. Relatively young compared to its peers, Mapex has quickly made a name for itself since it was established in the late 1980s. Mapex drums are known for their innovative design, excellent value, and professional performance. Their Saturn series for instance, uses a hybrid maple and walnut shell, offering a warm tone that many drummers prefer for both live performance and recording. Artists like Gregg Bissonette and Chris Adler have used Mapex drums to great effect across a range of musical styles.

Key Highlights of Mapex Drums:

• Recent Innovator: Established in the late 1980s, Mapex is known for rapid growth in the drum industry.
• Unique Designs: Features innovative designs like the hybrid maple and walnut shells in the Saturn series, which are preferred for their warm tone.
• Professional Endorsements: Favored by drummers like Gregg Bissonette and Chris Adler, showcasing versatility across musical styles.
• Excellent Value: Provides high performance at competitive prices, appealing to a wide range of drummers.

Gretsch

Founded in 1883, Gretsch drums have a distinctive “That Great Gretsch Sound” which is revered in jazz and rockabilly genres. Their kits, such as the renowned Gretsch Renown and USA Custom, are famous for their rich, full tones coming from their unique die-cast hoops and “Silver Sealer” interior finish. Legendary drummers like Phil Collins and Charlie Watts have favored Gretsch for their unmistakable sound quality that impeccably suits studio recordings and live performances alike.

Key Highlights of Gretsch Drums:

• Historic Roots: Established in 1883, renowned for “That Great Gretsch Sound” in jazz and rockabilly.
• Signature Kits: Includes the Gretsch Renown and USA Custom, known for rich tones from unique die-cast hoops and “Silver Sealer” interior finish.
• Legendary Following: Favored by drummers such as Phil Collins and Charlie Watts for their superior sound quality in both studio and live settings.

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Sonor

With its origins tracing back to 1875 in Germany, Sonor has been crafting drums that are synonymous with precision and high-quality engineering. Sonor drums have a thick, warm sound that many drummers prefer. Their SQ2 series is highly customizable, offering countless hardware and finish combinations. Sonor’s reputation for quality is upheld by drumming legends like Danny Carey of Tool and Benny Greb, who rely on the brand’s impeccable engineering for their complex rhythms and performances.

Each of these brands brings its own unique flavor to the drumming world, catering to different styles and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for reliability and ease of use or a professional seeking the nuanced sound of high-end custom kits, these brands offer options that resonate with every drummer’s needs.

Key Highlights of Sonor Drums:

• Established Heritage: Founded in 1875 in Germany, known for precision and high-quality engineering.
• Signature Sound: Produces a thick, warm sound preferred by many professional drummers.
• Customizable SQ2 Series: Offers extensive customization with numerous hardware and finish options.
• Professional Endorsements: Used by drumming icons like Danny Carey and Benny Greb for complex rhythms and reliable performance.

How to choose the best drum set brand

In the high-end and upper-mid-range markets, it’s challenging to declare a definitive “best” among drum set brands, as much depends on personal taste, the specific style you play, and your particular affinity for a brand. Each of the aforementioned brands brings something unique to the table, from Sonor’s meticulous German engineering to DW’s modern craftsmanship and innovative features. Ultimately, choosing a drum set is a personal journey—one that should be guided by hands-on experience, sound quality, and how the drums feel under your sticks. Whether you’re gigging regularly or just jamming at home, the right drum set will resonate with your musical soul, making every beat you play a testament to your individual style and preferences. Happy drumming, and remember to always “keep the beat” with the drums kit that best suits you!

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Get ready to take your drumming to the next level. Get expert tips on coordination, drumming techniques, improvisation and more in the post titled “Charting Your Drumming Journey”. / Written by: Raul Rodrigues: CEO of Drumap, Drummer, Music School Director and Mariano Steimberg: Drum Professor at Berklee College of Music, Valencia Campus.