by Steve Smithion

Created on: August 14, 2008

Electronic drum kits.

If you're a keen drummer then you can't have failed to notice the ever increasing popularity of electronic drum kits. So should we jump on the bandwagon?

Many would be horrified at the prospect of ever replacing their beloved acoustic kit for something that could also be considered a toy in many respects, although, that is not to be said that for some an electronic kit would be a worthwhile investment. So let's look at the pros and cons.

It's more than just a drum kit...

Anyone who thinks an electronic kit is solely used to replicate the sound of an acoustic kit is sorely mistaken. Depending on the make and model, these ingenious machines can create about any sound you can think of, so you can produce your own individualistic sound. Awesome! When I bought mine I spent a good couple of hours just messing around with all the crazy sounds you get with it - seriously it's an endless amount of fun.

You won't wake the neighbours...

Now this is possibly one of the best features of an electronic drum kit. How many times have you wanted to practice but can't because your neighbours will complain about all that racket' you're making? Yes, you're certainly not alone, and this is why having an electronic kit is so advantageous for practice; you can play til your heart's content through headphones or at a low volume.

Take it round a mate's house...

Any gigging veteran knows how much of a pain lugging your kit around everywhere is - down the stairs, in the car, out of the car, set up for the gig, take back down, into the car and so on. Consequently, an electronic it is great as they are light and compact for maximum portability - it'll fit in your boot with no trouble.

I'm sorry; it's just not the same...

No matter how much you spend on an electronic kit, you'll never get that same satisfaction and sheer joy of playing the drums that you experience on an acoustic kit. Sure it's good fun an' all but believe me when I say it's not the same'.

The price...

Considering what you get, electronic kits are a hell of a lot of money. Is it really worth it?

To buy or not to buy; that is the question...

I'm neither going to recommend nor condemn buying an electronic kit and leave it up to you to decide. Generally speaking they are great for practice and for the casual player, although an acoustic kit's enjoyment to play and live performance is at an entirely different level.

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