Are High End Drums a Giant Waste of Money??!!

Saving up for that super expensive kit can take a while. Today we're asking if it's worth all that money. SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNEL for great free drum lessons, tips, advice and cool product reviews.
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[@RobBeatdownBrown]

*You can sound expensive on a cheap kit or you can sound cheap on an expensive kit. Either way, the gear gets ZERO credit* 💯😉

[@JS45678]

No truer words have ever been spoken or written since Moses came down from the mountain and wrote the Ten Amendments of the Bible.🤘😝🤘

[@vertigoat7596]

Nothing worse than hearing “that’s a beautiful kit, what are you doing with it?”

[@northernlighter]

Or, "mind if I check it out?"

[@vertigoat7596]

Tor B ouch, that one hurt

[@timmydouglas4968]

hey Rob what you think about Ford Custom Drums out of California

[@wafulton]

“You can make bad drums sound good, but bad cymbals are bad forever.”

[@markdemell3717]

YUP! Absolutely .

[@ryanwilson5936]

Meh, just stack two of them together and call it fusion. Problem solved!

[@jellyboy123]

depends on what style you going for .

[@DenOfTimbsllc]

Amen, I would say get a nice kit, and Great cymbals.

[@rogerweiland6384]

Nothing but Avedis for me. Still have the first and last one I ever bought.

[@brian96597]

I don't care what you play whether it's $800 or $8000. The information you share on this channel is invaluable! Thank you!

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Thanks, man

[@andreasbreitwieser1449]

agree !

[@samuelwreed6366]

Descent cymbals and heads make an immediate difference for a lot less. Still--I'll get that custom African Mahogany kit some day!

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Goals.

[@SpittinSquirell]

Your right, heads make all the difference. Plus getting some good b20 cymbals

[@manleybadger8311]

Peach. Good heads, good tuning, and good cymbals will add a couple grand to how a kit sounds. Most drummers will never need a DW collector's series maple 6 piece with a specialty satin oil cherry to black fade kit. I don't. But I have it and it's just like Rob - I didn't pay anywhere close to full price for it. Less than half in fact. The music store forgot they had it for 6 years so they slashed it way way down to get rid of it. I was in the right place at the right time.

[@michaeleagle2]

@Christian Herzog And they sound AWESOME!!!

[@friedpickles342]

Made from plywood

[@SCDrummer]

It starts with a good drummer knowing how to play. A crap drummer on a great kit will still sound like crap. A good drummer on a crap kit will make that kit sound decent enough to get by.

[@ajm.1138]

SCDrummer you couldn’t have said it any better. I’ve been playing for 13 years. All of my drumming career I’ve played on cheap poplar Ludwig kits. On Tuesday I am finally getting a Ludwig evolution maple kit which i got for 800. I am a firm believer in knowing what you are doing with the kit before dropping a couple bands on one. But if someone wants to start on an expensive kit then more power to them 👍🏿

[@benfrank8649]

Yep the craftsman makes the tools

[@camodrums]

Ie: Tommy Lee

[@Rydawg1388]

So true man!!🤘

[@MICKSHRED]

Wow, great observation, did yiu come up with that all on your own. Your einstein level.

[@ramonvarela2179]

This is probably the most honest, clear and all-around best answer I've heard to the whole "cheap vs. expensive drums" debate.

[@LarryNagel]

I think this is the perfect answer to this question. I owned the same Tama Swingstar five-piece for 25 years before I finally bought my second set. That was about 10 years ago. Then last January, I ordered my dream set, the one I've been daydreaming about and looking at pictures of online (pretty much exactly as you described). Do I need it? Nah. Do I deserve it? Hell yes. Thanks for another great video.

[@eliotness8276]

I bought a used Tama Rockstar kit for 300 bucks (90's kit), fixed it, tuned it, it sounded great. Sold the cymbals which were cr*p for 60 bucks and put my Zildians, circa 1975, with it. People told me I was great, course some were drunk, ha, ha, ha. But they sounded good.

[@cajunstump]

“North Nigerian Wakanda Wood.” I died, man. That’s the funniest thing I’ve heard in a long time. Where can I get some of that wood to build my own kits? LOL.

[@maprow]

Don't forget the Vibranium shell snare.

[@tmont007]

What? My North Nigerian Wakanda Wood kit is AWESOME! What's so funny about that? And I got it for 20K, and they threw in a pair of Botswanian Luan Alpha Omega sticks dipped in Napalese Pixie dust for FREE! Well. One of them was free. I paid 3k for the second one, but still...Hell of a deal!

[@markweisberg332]

Being opportunistic is what separates us from the animals. I would have never guessed that but I can't say that its wrong. Gold.

[@vaughanxaviermusic]

i am still laughing lmao

[@deadwarrior3655]

@@tmont007 bullshit no way u got one stick free! U lucky bastard

[@JS45678]

“I didn’t say CHEAP...I said CHEAPER!” 🌟🌟🌟 I believe any value kit is worth the investment if you USE it and it becomes part of your life. As far as sound, I always believe that is more about the cat sitting behind the kit than the kit sitting in front of the cat. In brief, a beginner like me can sit behind Rob’s kit and still have uneven subdivisions and speeding up coming out of fills (🤯) and Rob can sit behind my kit and sound amazing. Rock On Rob!🤘😝🤘

[@jeterpilled_memester]

Buy high end cymbals, they feel like flying on clouds, so much dynamic range on a single cymbal. A decent hihat crash and ride give you so much more options for your playing!

[@Duckless23]

especially when you consider we're more a cymbal player than a drum player with every 4 beats in a bar being on a cymbal compared to fewer notes on the drums

[@ramonkey2939]

Yep got pair it with great cymbals dont skimp in this department

[@jimfuller5309]

That's where I put my money. Into decent cymbals. So many really good drummers use crap cymbals!

[@gehrke111]

"Shave at least half of that off and put it in a good set of cymbals and a really nice snare" ... Allright Rob, that's when I knew you were for real, man. Great channel, I've been playing amateur / semi-pro for over 20 yrs, and appreciate your videos a lot because they're truly useful ; as well as obviously being a good musician you're a good teacher and pedagogue, which is not so easy to do. Keep it real !

[@geraldchristensen2826]

Compared to the early 1970's when I bought my first drums, a used Slingerland set from a Larimer Street pawnshop in Denver, to what is available today I am totally blown away by the VALUE in mid range kits. My kits are by no means expensive (Taye, Tama, Pearl, and ddrum) but they all would have been top shelf deluxe and considered professional back when I was starting out. I'm more or less retired now, but I love the glow I get from sitting behind a kit I truly appreciate. Now, if I were to win the lotto...

[@eliotness8276]

I dunno I like the older kits. I like the sound. Yes, some of these new kits sound pretty good too and I think he's right, hardware, finishes are kewl. But I think it is more about tuning, style, and playing ability than anything else. Some of the sound isolation stuff and dampening R definitely better there is no doubt. But hey, gaffers tape and cotton fixes a lot of that.

[@THESLOWDEATHHOOKS]

I think it's all novelty after a certain price-point. You can always make a cheap shell kit sound serviceable and decent enough - throw some good heads on there, tune it right, new hoops, etc. I think it comes down to how you play it, your creativity and skill level. A good drummer will always make a cheap kit sound awesome. I'd rather spend money on high end cymbals than drums actually lol.

[@eliotness8276]

Amen, I agree 100%.

[@darindavis6291]

Bingo!!!! ^^^^ High end cymbals are a way better investment.

[@musicalala]

Budget kits are so good now too. When I was a kid you'd get crappy tone woods and the worst hardware that would loosen from settings. Now you have things like Yamaha Birch Stage Customs etc...Beginner kit sound pro level these days.

[@ChipsNeeson]

I concur, Rob. Cheaper shells, good heads tuned properly, decent cymbals and an awesome snare is a good guide for where you could spend your money wisely.

[@digitalhillbilly8863]

I retired a year ago and slowly built. large mid line DW kit. Then it happened. A small but beautiful Doc Seweeney kit became available for half price. Still a lot of money. My thought, I want it, I deserve it, and I am willing to sacrifice to get it, so I did. It does not make me sound better or play better, but it does make me feel better. It never leaves my living room and it brings me joy every time I see it. So yet, it is worth it.

[@ynotw57]

I went through nearly 10 drum sets in 3 or so years to find "the one." i thought i found it in a DW collector's series, then i made a leap of faith to buy the one i have now, a Gretsch renown. i'm glad i did. spent a lot of money in the process, but i'm 100% satisfied with my drums. It's not the highest end, nor is it a lower end. It's right in the middle, and i couldn't be happier with it. having said that, i'll probably go for a USA custom eventually just because. a reward. more like a retirement gift. :)

[@PNW_Sportbike_Life]

Renown kits are fantastic

[@GH-oo6ii]

Same exact situation here ending up with my renown. Great drums

[@mrski4945]

I play a Catalina Club Jazz, I'm a Swing Jazz drummer. The renown is my dream kit, which I will get... eventually. Amazing drums! But that's as high as I'll go. I'd love to get a Broadcaster, but can't defend the cost vs. need argument. Speaking for sound only, the "difference" in sound the Broadcaster makes is not justified to me by double the Renown cost. And as far as hardware is concerned the Renown hardware is more than good enough. I'd be just like Rob... use the Renown in my studio, and gig with the Catalinas.

[@eliotness8276]

Gretch kits sound GOOD. Always have liked them but they ain't cheap here in the states. I have 1970's Ludwig Vistalites and they are amazing, with a little cotton here and there and several snares. Depends really - a miked kit, depending on style and soundman can be made to sound awful good with the right mikes. If it's acoustic, unmiked, though the kit itself and the PLAYER will determine the SOUND. Oh yes, heads, wood, and yada, yada, yada. I've heard guys that sounded great on a 300 dollar kit from the 60's.

[@leonardsmith2170]

I got a great deal on a 5-piece renown kit from zZounds. I've never regretted that purchase. These drums sound as good as the USA-made Brooklyns, IMHO.

[@derekfairley]

I've fielded this kind of question before. "How much should I spend?" My answer is usually "As much as you can afford...whilst taking into account a budget for good cymbals (if needed).". With that being said, a $1,500 four or five piece kit with some decent heads, is usually a good move. If new, decent cymbals are needed (ride, two crashes, hats, and an effect cymbal like a splash or china), then the budget will go up. People are often surprised to learn that even with my mid-high level, five-piece Tama kit (1 up/2 down)...if someone were to steal my cymbals...that would be the biggest loss in terms of dollars. But I digress...lol. Some solid choices for good shell pack are: - Gretsch Renown - Yamaha Tour & Stage Custom - Tama Starclassic Walnut - Sonor AQ2 - Pearl Session Studio / Masters

[@ThruAWiderLens]

Exactly! I play on a $500 Sonor Bop SE with Evans heads and Zildjian K customs that cost 3x what the drums cost. Playing that kit is absolutely heavenly!!

[@sherellmartin1778]

True

[@andymillerdrums]

Just what I needed to hear! Your video makes complete sense. Invest in heads, tuning, cymbals and snare drum . . . . . . . . and yourself! A good looking kit doesn't make you sound better! Thanks

[@quartterioamos730]

Correct I never bought a kit over a thousand dollars the main thing is invest in some good heads and some good snare drums and cymbals and play the crap out of them that's what gonna make you sound better if you play them like nobody's business

[@andybrown78]

Quartterio Amos Well said!! Thank you!

[@thunderfan77]

I found my dream kit (2010ish Mapex Saturn 6 piece) used at a GC two hours away. She was a little rough around the edges, not cleaned in a while, but I set them up to play in the store and they sounded amazing, even with the crappy worn out heads. I saw and heard the potential, and the price was a steal, so I pulled the trigger. I took her home, cleaned her up, new heads, new snare wires, and she sounds and looks even better than before. She's my main gigging kit with premium cases, and I've got a cheaper and smaller practice kit at home as well. I could use either set to gig with, but I like showing her off more.

[@tmaddrummer]

In all honesty, I play better when the Drums are sounding at their best, for my ears that is, and secondly for their feel, and this is accomplished by drum head selection and my Drum set up so that everything is easily within reach. I’ve played for years now with many physical problems from having 6 spinal surgeries, 3 cervical and 3 lumbar. One week ago I had a life threatening scare beyond belief with having had my life saved with a triple bypass open heart surgery. I love playing my Drums very, very much, but I will most likely not be playing them until around 10-12 weeks out. Thanks Rob for your accurately honest Drumology and always inspiring lessons. God is Great! Thanks and Blessings Brother!!!

[@emlix1]

Brother I hope you're feeling better now.

[@RA2Music]

I was in the market for a new kit last year. I knew what sizes I wanted to play, so I went to a really high end shop and had the guys pull every kit that had those specs. From cheaper Gretsch kits to expensive DW’s it didn’t matter I tried them all. In the end I found the balance between price and quality and went with a set of Canopus Yaiba’s and I could not be happier. At just under $2000.00, they are incredible. I fell in love with the bass and FT which is the reason why I bought them. There were several other honorable mentions (Tama Fat Spruce and Yamaha Live Customs) all sat around the same price. As you suggested, I took the extra money, went to the Sabian factory in NB and got a perfect cymbal set up. I am so excited to play on this kit every time I go out, and so many non drummers have commented on them that I know that I made the right decision. Sorry so lengthy but i am with you on gear choices and ROI for your purchase. Thanks for a great topic and vid.

[@thebouncinghearts]

Great video.... 30 years ago I picked up a vintage Ludwig super classic kit (Just three shell) for £500, It's the only kit that I kept hold of, and still sounds better than anything I have ever owned or played....BTW love your comment "It's what separates us from the animals" however the other day I spotted a Friesian cow driving an Aston Martin DB 11, with a brand new Ludwig classic maple black galaxy bass drum strapped to the roof, so......I was heavily sedated at the time of course.

[@BumpNrun69]

A lot of "vintage sets" out there blow the doors off newer sets in today's world. That's why they are worth $$$$$ today.

[@emlix1]

@@BumpNrun69 check out the video comparison of the modern Ludwig stainless steel with the JB era one. The vintage one sounds so much deeper, more complex and richer than the new one. I'm not tech savvy enuf to post the link but it's not hard to find. It illustrates your point beautifully.

[@ivankaspeadsforquincyjones9273]

Only thing I've noticed with high-end drums is tuning range. my entry-level drums sound great with good heads, but there is only one sweet spot when tuning them.

[@ramonkey2939]

Agreed if you pay high end prices you better get great tone at all tunable ranges

[@emlix1]

That's a good point- my Sonor force 505 has a very narrow range, but sounds great within it. My Pearl Masterworks sounds better accross a wide tuning range, but still lacks the punch of the $200 sonor (when it's correctly tuned). The Pearl also stays in tune l longer. I find myself reaching for a drum key after a couple of hours behind the Sonor, whereas the Pearl will go a few weeks without the tuning needing a tweak.

[@toddreiman1141]

Well said. I have sat behind some of the jankiest kits for gigs and they sound great. I recently picked up a Yamaha Recording Custom Aluminum to use on Sundays and instantly the entire kit came alive (an older Gretsch Maple). Especially with a little "maximum thumpification" tuning. My practice kit at home is a sub $500 job that I mic'd up and put on silent stroke heads. Its all I need and I stay plenty busy. Been playing 30 years and always focused on playing more than gear. Hardware and Cymbals aside, don't waste money on premium shells. Rob is exactly right, mid level is definitely where its at these days. I would like the new Yamaha Live Oak Hybrid with a "24 kick. I would gladly play a Stage Custom or a mid level Tama kit. My home Church is expanding and moving into a new building this summer. I'm trying to convince the pastor to look at mid level Yamaha when we get new gear. But I wouldn't recommend anything higher, maybe an Absolute Custom Hybrid if budget allowed. lol Thanks Rob.

[@artcorvolet]

Gretsch renown, best drums on the planet for price!

[@theroman1009]

The ability to make any kit sound great with only a few tweaks, separates the boys from maximun thumpification

[@jocquidixonmusicproduction988]

Invest in Good Snares & Cymbals for the long haul. You can definitely get away with a Stage Custom or Pdp kit for a long time.. but having a bad sounding snare & B8 cymbals is Detrimental on ANY gig lol

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Troof 💯

[@Vefanian]

What do you mean by B8?

[@Vefanian]

If you mean the amount of Bronze then you are wrong. Paistes legendary 2002 Cymbals are all B8 ....

[@jocquidixonmusicproduction988]

@@Vefanian The Paiste 2002 is literally the ONLY Exception, and even then those cost about $1,000+ for a box set. Those by any means, aren't cheap. Pretty much every other Brand of cymbal that offers a line made of B8, are all cheap bad sounding cymbals.

[@MichaelM2K23]

When I bought my Stage Custom kit last year, I splurged and bought a whole set of Zildjian K cymbals. Just bought a DW Collector's snare for my birthday this year.

[@mrtc29]

I’ve had high end drums & left them at home because I’m afraid to use them at venues.. my stage custom sounds fantastic, so that’s where I’m at now 👍

[@elijahfaith7480]

Thanks for the advice Rob..ive used my maple p.d.p platinum 7 piece set for 10 years..i paid 1500.00 and I've played so much in those years they have paid themselves off triple times off..i just recently bought me a stage custom Yamaha birch set ( the honey maple )and added all wood hoops for about 1600.00 and I'm In love with them ..they look beautiful and sound excellent. I have been playing country music for the last 6 years and the drum kit I really fell in love with was Mr. Mike Kennedy (may he rest in peace). When I first saw his kit..i told myself " i will work hard save money and strive to get a Yamaha kit like his( well a little similar not quite exactly).that was my goal..and I finally did the beginning of this year. You are very right in every aspect and in everything you said Mr. Rob . Thank you so much for teaching me and bieng another great role model in my life..i have you up there with all the greats!😁👍🥁🇨🇱

[@23ograin53]

Midrange kit and high end cymbals. I'm thrilled with my PDP maple, the toms and kick sound perfect to me. I spent the real money on various Zildjian Ks and Sabian O-zone crashes and splashes.

[@josiahlawton]

Great video, I’m 43 years old and just started playing ( newbie) for church. All of your videos have been solid. And thanks for the gospel videos.

[@danchavez8987]

I noticed that bigger kits like 7 piece kits...more than 5 piece, have a bad flaw unless you buy a custom order kit...the flaw is that first five are more likely to be of the same "batch" of wood...where after five pieces they make like 6 inch, 8 inch, 13 inch, 14 inch, or 18 inch separately out of different batches of wood and add them to your 5 piece...this makes it more difficult (more of a frustrated settlement) to tune them in notes in the same tone progression as the rest of the original kit...so ordering customs with the same "batch" does play a big part...One thing though...once any kit is mic'd it becomes a sample through hardware (types of mics) and software (daw, mixers, etc.) so even the cheapest kits can sound amazing...

[@keithpratt1849]

This is invaluable advice. I had money to buy a pro level kit and went with a mid priced kit and pro level heads. A Mapex Armory 6 piece. Very happy with this kit. I use an Alexis DM kit for home practice. Pro cymbals are expensive. I use Avedis Zildijian A's. Pro level cymbals and drumheads are important for gigging. Being a solid drummer and human are more important when it comes to success.

[@SONORSQ2guy]

I’ve been playing drums for a very long time. About 14 years ago I bought my dream drum kit a Sonor SQ2. Every time I sit down to play, I’m very grateful to own such a beautiful instrument. 👍

[@jazzpianoman01]

Great video man, mid range kits today were the top end kits of a few years ago eg Stage Custom Birch is one example of pro quality in an affordable set up and they sound top notch

[@hippydippy]

Very well said. To me, you have one of the most beautiful kit's I ever seen. I've been playing drums since 1964 & have played Yamaha Maple Custom's for over 20 years. Love them.

[@bokisoftrocker]

My story in short: after 10 years of playing my stage customs I went in a search for my new kit. Tried EVERYTHING I coud get my hands on. All awsome kits, from pearl masters to sonor designers, tama starclassic, etc. At the time I was a giant DW hater. Though of them as over priced, but just avarage quality drums, until a friend of mine convinced me to try one DW collectors. 12x9, 16x14 and 24x18" in broken glass finish. used but almost mint condition. When I tried that kit...oh my god...the sound that I had in my head as perfect was now a reality. Bought it for 2000$ and I still have it today. After 7 years of playing it, still puts a smile on my face every time I play it. So my advice if you really want it and have a chance to buy it...go get it man, you only live once :)

[@wunoteu]

For those professionals such as yourself, to have that luxury to own high end kits, it's cool. For a lot of us,specifically myself, I gotta be practical. I've been using a Pearl Vision Birch kit for the past 3 years,it does exactly what I need it to do,and since Pearl hardware is modular,I can go from 2 up,to 1 up,and mount my boom on the bass drum for the ride cymbal, very compact for the small places I play in. Ain't making a bunch on money, so what? I love playing and I'm free at 67 years old,living in a tropical island country,playing with locals and other expats, I'm busy,it's cool!

[@calidrummer2362]

I picked up a used Champagne sparkle Pearl Vision birch 4pc for $325. I played 3 of my biggest gigs in the summer with that kit. It looked and sounded amazing. It was just a stepping stone to what I really wanted, but it felt like a good luck kit. sometimes I miss it. For me there is always a comfort level with a good clean mid range kit.

[@markdemell3717]

Birch has a nice sound.

[@coajrmusic]

Drums became my 2nd instrument 6 yrs. ago with a $500. starter kit. Through hard work I became an intermediate drummer, and reached a point where I knew I needed to upgrade my kit to sound closer to what I was now hearing in my head. I didn't need bubinga, but I did need maple.. A 7-piece Tama Superstar Classic was my choice, and for me, a good fit. We will see what future holds. And thanks again Rob for all you do.

[@ajbeatz7406]

I have the same kit in blue

[@WxkR]

How are you doing with your superstar a year later? I’m also retaking drumming after a long pause and considering that kit. The toms sound like the best in every video I’ve seen but also have read that people have problems tuning the floor Tom.

[@coajrmusic]

@@WxkR Just fine, I'm using ebony Aquarian heads right now, comparing them the Remo pinstripes. The kit is fully mic'd (10), has Sabian symbols, and I've even played couple of gigs. For a snare I'm a using vintage Ludwig Supraphonic (tuned tight), and the 16" floor tom is a bit tough to tune...overall, the kit performs very well. Sax is my primary, but I 'get something' from the drums musically that is totally different...

[@richp4449]

Excellent commentary on the topic of ‘how much to spend on a kit.’ Totally agree, it’s up to the individual and what he or she wants and needs to feel good and confident behind the kit. My high end kit is a Yamaha Absolute Hybrid Maple - dark cherry lacquer finish - and I absolutely LOVE it. Like Rob said, I get goose bumps every time I sit down to play it - I have yet to gig with it. I can’t remember what I paid for it but bought through a dealer and it wasn’t cheap. But I don’t care. Once again, I agree with Rob’s comment - it’s my reward for all the time I’ve put into drumming and the passion I have for the instrument. Money be damned - spend what makes you feel good and that can be a very wide range, with the quality that’s available.

[@vihro]

The drumset is the "brush" I try to expres my thoughts and feelings trough on the white canvas. So yes, it's important to have what I need, in all aspects possible - soundwise, the way they look...no matter! If I do something better if I feel happier - it's worth investing in it!

[@DolkkarToyznstuff]

A decent drummer can make any drum set sound good. As far as beginners go, I wouldn't worry too much on how much your kit costs as I would about getting your technique, rudiments and timing down. However, an expensive drum set in the hands of an accomplished drummer (if it's a quality kit) can make a world of difference in terms of sound, durability and in my opinion can be a worthwhile investment. I started on a kit that I got from a trade job and I used it for nearly 10 years, and at that point, I felt like I was ready to get something a bit nicer. Your point about what's 2 grand and under now being so much nicer or as nice as what we got 10 years ago for 5 grand is right on the money. When I started playing double braced hardware was a relatively new thing and most hardware was pretty flimsy. Great video and I great thought to ponder for those both starting and those who have been at it a while.

[@golfandvinyl]

Another great vid Rob. You said it, spend your money on good cymbals and a good snare. If you can go for it, go for it. But don’t go financially hurting yourself because you think you have to have something crazy expensive. Heads and tuning can make a mid level kit sound like a million bucks. I say save up and get the dream kit. But in the meantime play whatever is financially within reach and have fun!

[@CarlosRodriguez-eo3vy]

Agree 100% with Rob. Good video btw. I have 5-piece Yamaha Oak Customs. Best bang for your buck!! All shells were under $2,000 about 18 years ago. The kit works like charm! I upgraded my snare, cymbals and pedals.

[@user-dj6mj5ck6s]

havent played drums in about 8 years but got recommended one of your videos and i'm hooked, might have to head to craigslist and buy a kit 👀

[@cj_m2477]

I have two sets of drums, my first “real” drum set. Ludwigs that I purchased in 1972 and a set of 68’ Ludwig’s in Mahogany that I bought about ten years ago. I’m nervous enough bringing those into clubs and bars now, never mind a $5 or $6k set. I do agree with you that the mid range sets today are wonderful and I would have no issues gigging with them.

[@Spankedchicken]

I LOVE my Tama Star Bubinga. Expensive? Yes. Overpriced? Maybe, but it is for me the culmination of 30 years of playing.

[@baax]

I would love one of those kits! Enjoy it!

[@larkstonguesinaspic4814]

That's what I'm going to be getting 30 years from now

[@MikeBerbano]

And 30 years of $aving$??

[@RVADrummer]

A year and half ago, I bought a Gretsch Catalina Club (Glossed Maple finish) kit and tricked it out with some black Evans Hydraulics, Sabian HHX Evolution cymbals and a 22' Sabian Omni ride and I couldn't be happier! I can shape my sound pretty much anyway I want to without overwhelming the band and the resonance is consistent throughout the kit. Thanks for the video, bruh!

[@jesuslebron9421]

Rob you cover all ground on this topic. Yeah i keep my expensive Kit at home and gig with cheaper Kits? But we also need to consider what type of gig and the size of the room we're playing in. There's been times that all i had to bring is a hand percussion like a Conga or Djembe! It's good to be ready for anything and have a arsenal of equipment on stand by if need it.

[@billorchard3263]

I use my Expensive kit for everything, if you spent a shitload on a DW kit but don't play it live, why have it ? my kit is indestructible, it is a Tempus Carbon Fiber kit and i will put it up against any kit made as far as tuning range and tone is concerned, and it only cost a little under $3,000 Canadian for a handmade 4 piece.

[@chadpolnick1382]

I had Yamaha Studio Customs and DW but went back to my $250 1962 Slingerland kit i got at s pawn shop and I’d put them up against any kit made..

[@JimmyOBurril]

thats my kit... different date. 1976 Sligerland

[@emlix1]

Slingerlands are cool. Rare over here in Australia though.

[@888riddim888]

"It's what seperates us...from the animals !" Hot damn do you speak the truth.

[@EricT43]

Great advice! I went through a long period where I had a severe case of GAS (gear acquisition syndrome). Having gone through several different kits and sets of cymbals, and realizing that when I play with my band all the subtle nuances are unnoticeable, I would do things very differently if I were to start over today. Like you said, a great snare, a great set of cymbals (hats, ride, 2 crashes), and any decent mid-range shell pack are all I need. Save the rest for drumheads, sticks, books, and lessons.

[@Anthonymcnamee1]

I bought a Premier Signia 7 piece in 1994 from the Long Island Drum Center when i lived in New York at the time it was Premier;s flagship kit. It cost 2000 dollars which was a lot of money to me then. I have played thousands of gigs and recorded loads of times with the kit. I own Tama and Pearl kits and have had DW and Mapex kits but i always get back to the Signia. This kit has payed me back in so many ways both financially and professionally it always sounds amazing. But i think Robs advice about Good cymbals and a good quality Snare is golden with most mid level kits today you can get a wonderful sound.

[@MatthiasKnorrMusic]

wow I paid more than double the price for my PHX (and I still had a discount on it, too) 😲 But nevertheless - I LOVE it! And next to my Hybrid Maple I also use a Stage Custom for gigs. And I think it is the greatest sounding kit you can get in that low-mid price range. 👍

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

FACTS 💯

[@allenmitchell09]

I’ve been playing drums since I was a toddler. My first real kit was a Ludwig mixed kit. Then I moved on to a pearl export kit and finally to a set of pearl masters. I had never played a kit that sounded as good as those masters. I had to buy it to experience it. They inspired me to play better. They were easier to tune. They were better in every way compared to what I was used to. I do agree with Mr. BeatDown though, you don’t need all that. But, for me, I’m glad I got them.

[@alexntemperley]

One area I feel it's a good idea to spend a bit more on, is studio. A drummer who is recording often could justify a more expensive kit than a gig focused drummer. That Phoenix kit is a work of art by the way.

[@zacdrake]

100% agree on every point!! That's why I love this channel so much! Back in the day, there weren't nearly so many options. I had a Rogers kit, which , IMO, was top of the line. There were no "entry" level Rogers kits. That kit travelled well over 100,000 miles, was set up and torn down thousands of times, crammed in bus cargo bins, stuffed in trailers, thrown in the back of vans and squeezed into the back seat of a Pinto hatchback! It was even stolen and recovered! I finally sold it to a friend in the late 80's. That being said, my current "good" kit is a Pearl Session Studio Classic and although it is a mid level price point, the craftsmanship, hardware, and quality are far superior to even that Rogers kit. I also have a Pearl Export kit that I prefer to take to most gigs. It sounds great (using the Rob Brown tuning method!) and I won't get butt-hurt if someone spills a drink or knocks over a mic stand on it. I kind of wish I had opted for the Yammie Stage custom because they have add ons available in all sizes(and at a VERY good price point!) but I got a killer deal on the Exports and I couldn't resist. If I ever need another kit, I'll definitely get the Yammies!! ( I had a Tour Custom kit back in the 80's with 13 & 14 rack, 18 Floor and 24 kick but my "house gig" ended and I couldn't get em in my car :( so I had to downsize). Great stuff Rob!!!

[@vertigoat7596]

I guess just find what you like, if it costs you 10K, and you didn’t neglect your family getting it, it’s cool. I have a high end kit and it collects dust. After I bought it I bought a Premier xpk ($200) just as something to clean up and re-sell. Turns out that’s the kit I play all the time, it sounds amazing, and if it gets damaged or stolen, I’m not financially ruined, it’s easily replaceable.

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Exactly

[@markomarkovic5729]

I don't know how good the new XPK series are, I didn't have the opportunity to play a new version, but the old XPK from the '80s was a fantastic drum set and it doesn't lag behind the most expensive drums of today when the sound is in question. Speaking of Premier drums, I don't know what the hell happened to them. They were one of the best drum companies, Signia and Resonator are one of the best sounding drums I ever heard.

[@vertigoat7596]

Marko Marković I own a few of the xpk’s all from the 90’s, inner and outer birch with eucalyptus plies in the middle. Probably not for a jazz guy I suppose, but for a rock guy, that are tasty. I also have a pretty new Genista, all birch, the bass drum is at 100% maximum thumpification. The toms are great too but I actually give the edge to the xpk.

[@vertigoat7596]

Marko Marković also, no idea what happened to Premier either, I sent them an email awhile back trying to get some information and never heard back. Out of business?

[@Jaasau]

“It’s what separates us from the animals.” Lol! “Wakanda Wood.” LOL!!!!!!!

[@DrumeRGray]

I have a 6 piece Tama Rockstar kit my dad bought me as a graduation present back in 2009 and I still love it to this day. I’ve recorded with it and gigged with it and everyone loves how it sounds for being a $600 low-mid tier kit. Pair it up with some good Evans drumheads and some A Customs and it sounds almost like a Star Classic.

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Funny how that works, eh? 🙂

[@kellypace1534]

I have vintage kits and a very nice Starclassic BB performer kit. First time I took the BB kit out, some nimrod bumped into them and damaged the floor Tom. Luckily minor cosmetic damage but that’s the last time those drums went out to a gig. Bought a new Stage Custom kit for about $550.00 and it is perfect. Good solid kit, well constructed birch shells w flawless bearing edges and with top notch hardware that stands up to gigging and most importantly, they sound amazing. No need for anything else. The good stuff now gets studio time, but the Stage Customs have been in the studio as well… no problem. Very good and important video here.

[@andrewbintang4591]

i used to think that an expensive kit would make me sound great and was the reason why all those top level drummers sounded so much better than me. then i saw billy cobham play on a basic entry level tama swingstar and the way that kit sounded was amazing. it was literally just the kit that was on display at the store. he just tuned it and went nuts on it! then afterwards i decided to play something on it. still in awe after what i'd just heard and saw i expected to sound just as good as billy cobham or at least somewhere near it, but of course i did not sound anything like him and actually still sounded the same. that was like a huge wake up call and also reminded me of what a great drummer once said to me about the sound of a drummer:"it's all in the hands and the heart plus learning how to tune your drums is mandatory!". then i started practicing my butt off till i was good enough to make cheap entry level tama swingstar + pearl export kits sound great and actually deserve a more expensive kit. i bought my custom made dream kit, but i still gigged with a gretsch catalina maple kit that both looked and sounded great according to drummers in the audience. trust me, you do not need an expensive kit. if you are a good enough drummer you can make a cheaper kit sound expensive by simply tuning them and do your thing..

[@Devon523]

Wouldn't a Wakanda kit be made of vibranium? 🤔 that'd be one hell of a kit! Lol

[@jc3drums916]

It would be terrible! Absorbing vibrations = no sound.

[@gwugluud]

I bought a Stagg kid's drumkit because it was very cheap used, and I put it out in the garage where I sometimes do studio stuff besides in my main "studio", where I have a mid level PDP kit. When I used the Stagg to lay a drum track on some basic idea I had, that toy drumkit recorded just fine, and buried along everything else on the track, I don't think anyone would even know. Then I switched out the batter heads for Remos and Evans, and ordered B-8 hats, ride, and crash cymbals, and now I like the sound of it, just on its own credit, not because of it's a "real" or "kid's" drumkit. Seeing that gave me a lesson on realizing that you don't have to buy expensive gear unless you just want to.

[@emilienfalcimaigne8065]

I have a Pearl Forum kit. It's poplar and I paid 400$ for it and it came with lots of other stuff. Let me say that once you put good heads on it, ANY kit will sound decent. And remember it's not the kit, it's the guy behind it

[@JMRSplatt]

Thank you... pretty sick of the ole.. "oh you can make a cheap kit sound pro with good heads and tuning brah!!' ... ok but please don't talk to me.

[@TKrakowski1]

When I first started playing I thought that if I only had an awesome kit I would sound better. Then I saw a street drummer killing it on buckets...

[@jaymaryniak9170]

I think that you are a great teacher, and you get right to the point.I have learned a lot from you and I'am going to keep on watching your videos

[@ddrums77]

You are absolutely spot on Rob! I have a Pearl Masters birch kit that I have had for a couple years and sounds incredible, but I wanted my personal dream kit, which I just bought a couple months ago. It's a Sonor SQ2 beech kit. Got it for a great price..still alot of dough. At the end of the day, the Pearl kit sounds near just as good, but the Sonor kit just makes me feel good and reminds me of all the work I have put in for the past 30 years. I agree with you 100 percent that the quality of a mid level kit is all you need to play out, but it's nice to be able to pull the trigger on your dream kit. You are awesome my drumming bro..keep it up! And thanks to you for your tuning technique..my drums have never sounded better and I mean that!! Keep telling the truth Rob! DD

[@davidperez5089]

My sonor designer kit is SOoo satisfying.

[@VeryLargeCat]

I ordered a Phoenix kit yesterday. Yes it was expensive, and the wait will be 8-12 months due to manufacturing backlog, but it's going to be worth it for me.

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Congrats. You won’t regret a cent of it 👌🏽

[@bobdadruma]

I currently own 6 kits. 1950 Gretsch, 65 Slingerland, 68 Ludwig, 2012 Ludwig Club Date, Sonor Player, and 2017 Ludwig Classic Maple. I love all of my kits and I play them all equally well. I own the drums that I own because I like those drums. All of my drums from the most humble to the most valuable sound good if I make them sound good.

[@bradnelson2637]

“Airplane hanger full of High End drumsets and I’d look at every one….”…..I’m right there with you!…😂

[@dalepenney44]

Thank you Rob. I've been playing Stage Custom since they came out in 96. On my third kit...Honey Amber finish. Gorgeous! I've gotten nothing but compliments on their sound all these years....from bandmates...sound techs...etc. Rock solid Yamaha hardware. ZERO issues with these drums since 96. I'm never moving to another brand.

[@richardparker3924]

I know what you mean about the giggle part. I have a 20 year old set of Pearl Masters Custom that I just love. I paid 2000 for just a kick, two rack toms and a floor tom back then, including all hardware.....just no snare. This was a high end kit back then and they look just as good today as the day I bought them. Keep the beat Rob!

[@huwmcpherson]

Totally agree - first upgrade I made to my first Pearl Export kit was a Ludwig Black Beauty and a pro set of cymbals… HUGE leap in overall effect - next stage a few years later was upgrading the shells for a second hand 90s Superclassic kit -- not as big a sonic leap.. and you could NOT tell live in a pub with a dodgy PA! third upgrade a decade later was to a Legacy Classic (into expensive territory) - a big difference and sweet up close …. but actually worse in a live / rough arsed gig -- you live and learn !

[@jonathanrichard6881]

Right on Man! I bought a Sakae Bop kit for $749 Cherry/ Mahogany added a Sakae 8 inch tom and 14 inch floor tom I already had rewrapped the kit with a Nebula theme. Its a One of a kind dream kit for me. Gretsch Bell Brass 6 1/2 x 14. Loving Life BABY!!!!

[@cartoune]

One of the benefits of pricier kits (not boutique but higher end) is that you can buy them used and get great results. Drums aren't like cars or electronics. A well built and well cared for kit won't degrade over time and won't go obsolete. And you can usually go hunting for a used one that's the same price as a brand new mid-level kit. But that said, if you don't know good tuning relationships, or the heads you like the sound of, and how to hit consistent rim shots and consistent hits in the center of the toms, then a kit with better wood and engineering isn't going to take you all that far.

[@johncollins5552]

Rob Brown speaks the truth, right on the money. Just to add another thing to bear in mind if you go to audition for a gig, session or new band, having a good looking, expensive kit can give you the advantage no doubt over the other players . But of course often in those situations its a rental kit in a rehearsal studio so your snare is gonna be your hero as usual! Just remember auditions are NOT about impressing other drummers but making the singer and the song/music sound good. Hiding behind a sea of toms and cymbals is not the way to go, you have a better visibility behind a minimal kit like a bass drum, snare and floortom setup to connect with other musicians and an audience if there is one!

[@davidsuprenant893]

Rob I've been wanting to do my own channel for some time now.The very first topic I was going to talk about was expensive gear vs. Affordable gear.Ive been very blessed in my life.I had the great honor of playing semi pro for 25 years.I started playing drums in 1964.Today I'm 64 years old.Been doing this for along time brother.Over the years I've owned 42 drum kits and can't tell you how many cymbals and snares I've owned.way to many.Today I own 2 kits and 4 snares,both high end kits and top shelf snares.When I look back at everything I've owned and played on To be perfectly honest I made more money on a $600.00 kit than I made on a $6000.00 kit.I new how to make them sound great,and look good as well.Didnt have to worry about scratching that beautiful finish,just played and enjoyed.With me it was more about the performance, not only sounding good but playing the best I could.I got more complements from that 600.00 kit because of the way they sounded.No one ever said when you going to buy a better kit.The kits I have now don't leave my home.I would never take something out that I paid that much for. If I had it all to do again I wouldn't change a thing.I love drums!!!. For today's player there is a lot of beautiful drums out there for $1500. The thing I would concentrate on is cymbals.Thats where the Dow is at these days.You can blow $2000.00 real easy on great sounding set of cymbals.You can make a $1500.00 set of drums sound great,cymbals that's another story. DONT waste your money on cheap cymbals.!!! IN closing I hope everyone gets there dream kit,just be careful what you wish for.Once you shell out the big dow,you will never get it back if you decide you made a bad move.On the other hand if you want a dream kit and your going to hang on to them,go for it.

[@PlayAcousticDrums]

Ya know Mr Brown, from what I got from your take and to paraphrase, " it really all depends" answer is spot on! I have 2 older 9 ply lacquer finish Birch kits (early "90's Sonor Force 3000) At that point in drum history to my ear I liked the birch Sonor kick sound the best but I couldn't afford them. At the time the Force 3000 kits, 12, 13, 16, 22 w/ snare no hardware was $2600 list in "90s dollars. Prior I had a decent big Pearl Fiberglass Concert tom kit, but life forced me to sell them. I had 2 or 3 what the hell is that kits before. They all served me well. After selling the big kit and people asking for my services I went to my local drum shop and the 5 piece was now being offered at $1,200. (the other I bought recently for $450 SCORE) Informed my now ex-wife that my inheritance from my Grandparents is going in a different direction. BUT...with proper heads and tuning the previous kits, with my playing, all sounded relatively the same, I am assuming, to the listener. I can tell the subtle differences but what the hell...If yer playing live its all good...in the studio however...Ill take the better Birch kit.

[@mudimba]

That right there is some good advice - not just for drums, but for many things in life.

[@csrboltfan2643]

Let me bore you with my story. It's a long one. Back in 1986 I bought a brand new set of black Ludwig Rocker II's (the BIG set in the brochure - Rocker II Power-Plus Series 10 Piece Outfit, consisted of (2) 16x22 bass drums, 16x16 floor tom, 14x15, 13x14, 12x13, 11x12, 9x10, 9x8 rack toms, 6 1/2x14 snare), and bought all top-of-the-line Zildjian A's and Z's (original Z-series!) cymbals. Some of the A-series were Platinums, but the finish chipped off and I traded them in for regular A-series (some of you know what I'm talking about). Soon after, I bought the matching Rocker II 16x18 floor tom and replaced the snare with an 8x14 Coliseum snare (non-slotted) in Natural maple finish. I added gold-mirrored Evans heads on the front of my bass drums. Yes, my drums LOOKED very impressive!! But that's about it. The fact that I sucked as a drummer is NOT the point of the story. Here's my point. Those drums were LOUSY!! There was NO quality control when they made them. The insides of the drums were sprayed with some sort of grayish coating (sort of like Line-X that's sprayed in pickup truck beds), half of the drum's bearing edges weren't even level so you couldn't seat a head properly. There were ALWAYS ripples in the heads because they never touched wood!! And last, but not least, either the 13x14 or the 14x15 wasn't even round!! It was warped, which made it IMPOSSIBLE to tune. The drums sounded like SHIT in my bedroom. A friend of mine bought two small, older Premier drum sets that he meshed together to form one bigger drum set. The only problem was one set was natural maple (I think) and the other was natural walnut (again, I think), so he had two different colored drum sets all mingled together and his cymbals were a hodgepodge of brands and sizes. Plus, since he had two sets he also had a couple drums of the same size, so he purposely put different heads on them and tuned them differently. I wasn't in a band, but he was and they had a pretty good gig coming up at the Ritz Theater in Tampa (Ybor City) and he wanted to "look" good on stage, so he asked to borrow my drums, and I happily obliged. Here's the REAL point of my story --- My Ludwig Rocker II drums were MUCH lower in quality to his Premiers, but looked a lot better. He said some real choice words when he tried tuning them, but there wasn't anything he could do. His drums were back in their practice shed 30 miles away! When the show started, all that frustration got forgotten about, because under the heavily amplified music, NO ONE could hear the drums out of tune. All they heard was the sound of drums playing to the music and they ALL cheered for the band. My friend sounded great! And the shiny black drums looked AMAZING under the lights. It was a great evening. Everyone left happy. The moral of the story is: Even though I paid for the shittiest drums on the planet!!, when it came time to perform, they sounded just as good as a higher-priced, good quality set, that probably cost 3X-4X what mine did. You make the choice.

[@sandyhandy7922]

As a former concert musician I would agree with your answer .I believe Your right. In fact your assessment would apply for most instruments actually. In my opinion . So ……we’ll done my friend. “My brother”. My “brother from another mother”. My “homie .” My buddy!

[@Agenda-zt6dj]

Rob I agree 100%!! The mid-level kits are way better than the best kits of the past!! I've tested snares that were well over $1000.00, but I just thought they sounded like a toy drum. I've tested snares that were in the $300.00 - $500.00 range & they sounded awesome. Like the new Yamaha aluminium recording custom snare. Yeah get a kit that you can afford & invest in your education in music. Take lessons, go to a good community collage & take some music courses that interest you. I can't tell you how glad I am that I took some great courses at SMC! Yep get great cymbals, good hardware, & some bags or cases for you stuff. Rob you have the best drum videos IMO!! Thanks!!

[@petemichalski487]

"that's what I need" is the correct answer. Great vid. I had a pearl export for over 15 years with an upgraded snare and good cymbals...sounded hot and never had to worry about smashing it around or people spilling drinks on it....didn't ever use cases either...just throw in the van

[@TheJokesterSCR]

I play on a 7 piece Tama Silverstar 100% Birch wood kit, and I bought it brand new for under $800. I sat down with a kit that was about $1600, and then my Tama, and messed around on both of them. The more expensive kit (don't remember what it was anymore), looked cooler overall, but I actually preferred the tone of the Silverstar. Recently, I replaced all of my drum heads with Hydraulic Evans heads (aside from the bass drum), and when I tuned everything up (following your tutorial), I swear I couldn't be happier with my sound. I've played on many high end kits and I just couldn't ever justify spending that kind of money. The ONLY thing that I may eventually replace is my snare drum, though I am rethinking that since switching to the Hydraulic heads because it now sounds great. To me, a high end kit is only really necessary if you want bragging rights. I spent way more money on cymbals, heads, pedals, and my rack than I did on the shells.

[@timothyquinn1274]

As always, you speak the truth about the drummer issues that we all face. When I was young, I always wanted the biggest and baddest kits that were out there. Now as a 64 year old gigging drummer, I understand that the drummer makes the high end sound, not the drums.

[@Customwinder1]

I buy really cheap 2nd hand Drum Kits and refurbish them. Sometimes the wrap comes off and a stain goes on or just a really good cleanup after disassembly and reassembly. Decent set of heads and good tuning and the old shells sound great. It's good selling the kits to beginners and intermediate drummers and knowing they're getting a good sounding kit.

[@jakarnowski]

Still have my 8 piece set of Tama Swingstars I bought in 1983. I went with Zildjian and Sabian cymbals and have no regrets. I giggled quite a bit early on with that set. It has held up well and sounds great!

[@siennathesane]

I’m about to make a studio EP with a Yamaha Stage Custom because it’s an amazing set with a strong sound. I had to find a new studio because the studio team thought my Stage Customs were “cheap” and “not as nice” as Recording Customs. It’s not about the drums, it’s about the sound, I love the bright sound of birch kits

[@MikeP2055]

20 years ago, give or take, I was a professional steering-wheel-drummer dreaming of an actual kit. My friend (an actual musician) and I were talking about that band The Presidents of the United States of America whose song "Peaches" was very popular at the time. I couldn't figure out why the guy limited himself to such a minimalist kit. My buddy said something that I'll never forget: "It's not how many drums you have, it's how well you play the drums you have." My drums don't sound nearly as majestic as I'd like, but sitting down on that throne and getting in the pocket is the best feeling in the world. When you finally - FINALLY! - work out a dope galloping groove that slaps a smile onto your face . . . That's wassup. One of these days I'll get a regal kit, but until then I'll have a blast with this acrylic turd and the sweet cymbals I could afford.

[@lonnienorton.]

Old kits can sound amazing with good heads and awesome tuning work. My uncle has a late 70's Yamaha 8000 kit and it's still in perfect condition. He plays in 2 bands and gigs 6 nights a week. 💯🤘

[@wuffb]

BEST Commentary I have heard on this subject EVER!!! I've been playing for over 40 years and I know how to make a drum kit sound great! There are so many kits out there in the price range you discussed . . . great options, great quality . . . etc. I bought a big Yamaha PHX kit in 2012 because I wanted another "legacy" kit after playing my Yamaha Maple Customs for 20+ years. I loved Tama's Birch Bubinga . . . I liked the Pearl Reference series, etc. Like you . . . I get "giddy" playing my PHX whether at home or out with the band . . . it's simply a joy, but I bought it as a reward for myself . . . it was not a purchase I needed . . . but one I wanted. I am thrilled that drum manufacturers now are giving drums the "Ferrari" treatment long reserved for guitar players and piano players.

[@timmitchell6272]

Great video, Rob. I did exactly this a year ago. I treated myself to a definite upgrade for my 50th birthday. I saved up for a year and a half to pay for it and don't regret it at all. Like you, I can't stop looking at it and it sounds awesome! I'm playing more and learning more as a bonus. Do it if you want.

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Congrats. That's how you treat yourself, right there 🙂🤘🏽

[@Paiste18]

I have been playing for 20 years but out of it for 10...I was going to buy a Pearl Roadshow. $475. It's really all I need for playing in the house, but I just bought a Ludwig Keystone X kit. It's a dream kit to me..but I'm sure that would be considered middle grade kit. I just fell in love with the look and I love the idea of the 3 ply maple sandwiched between two plies of American red Oak. So sexy...I bumped myself 1300. $1800 total for shell pack. To me it was worth for $1800 to get a dream kit i'll have forever. Paiste PS8s for cymbals...I can't stop grinning !

[@vistalite-ph4zw]

My friend was given a old PDP kit that was on its last leg. I put new heads, tuned it up, cleaned and polished it, and had 5 bands all share that kit that night. Just bring your snare and cymbals. All 4 drummers wanted that drum set, couldn't believe how good it sounded. The point is sometimes you have a diamond in the ruff and don't even know it. Spend a little money and take some time and maintenance. This was 2 years ago and I would gig with that kit in a heartbeat

[@drumwhacker]

Simon Phillips has been a favorite drummer for a long time and I love the Starclassics he plays. But I would never blow the dough, Just a month ago I lucked into one for pennies! ($200). They were a mess, been sitting in a basement for years and covered in dust, mixed up old heads, and chipped badly on the kick drum form the toms. The toms were in pretty good shape. Took me a day and and a half to detail them, new heads, tuneup, and OMG do they sing! Once in a lifetime deal, me a happy camper.

[@alfalso434]

Hey Rob, great video! In '99 I purchased my first (New) drum kit. I grabbed a Pearl Export Select.(maple shells) I think when all was said and done I paid 1100.00dollars. It is so smooth! Great tone lots of warmth. And its loud as hell.! The heads make all the difference!!(and good tuning skills lol) but I also have 2 other acoustic that are not quite as nice. A first act kit. 18" kik,which sounds pretty awsome ( Evans heads on the kick)and a Yamaha Rydeen. And with good heads they actually are comparable in the sound category.im not sure what kind of shells they are .... Good heads really do make a difference!!!!

[@jimwilcox7625]

I agree with Rob 100%. I have an old Yamaha Recording Custom Set (80's). It has the tom arms that insert the drums but it still sounds great. I switched to a Stage Custom 20" bass drum because I wanted to set my toms a bit lower and it sounds great too. The heads make a difference at times but they are also a reflection of each players ideas. I have a 70's vintage Rogers set that I spent big cash on. They've been relegated to the shed for many years because I quit playing to have steady work and raise a family. I pulled them out a couple of weeks ago and I found that they sound pretty good too after 41 years. So, as Rob said, it's up to you. Spend your cash on a great set of cymbals and get the drums you can afford to use when touring. Sound guys can make the difference too. Happy playing. jaw1

[@MrRoberacer]

Hey Rob. I think I understood that what you are saying is that mid priced kits sound good enough to get by. As an audio guy I will say I agree with that but as the guy standing there in the audience trying to capture the sound of your kit and make it sound like a record I will tell you that hands down a great drummer on a great kit makes it all just work. I don't need to play fancy tricks with a raft of psycho-acoustic infectors (aka processors) in order to try to make them sound good. Everything just works as if it was designed to work. Put the mics in the right positions and go.

[@art5]

very well said Rob...and thankyou for yet another thoughtful & meaningful video. The gears dont make the sound, its the player who makes the sound with the gears being a contributing factor to that. Me when i first started playing 12 yrs ago would probably make a $25,000 north nigerian wakanda exotic 22-8-10-12-14-16-18 set, with all high-end Artisan cymbals, with a Vinnie Colaiuta signature stick, sound ABSOLUTELY GOD FORSAKEN HORRIBLE. While you Rob, along with all the artists, Dave W, Vinnie, Gavin H, you name it.........can play on the cardboard boxes those exotic drums get shipped in, and sound AMAZING. If the high-end kit is something that you've been working hard for, something you covet, something that inspires you, and you can afford them, then man go for it, do not let anyone judge you, I am very happy for you! But i believe if you just started playing and you buy a high-end kit just for show-off, that would be unwise (imagine you just finished your 1st lesson in how to ride a scooter, and you go buy & ride a $30K harley, you would actually be a hazard not just for you but for other people too) but hey at the end of day you do you ok