Buy drums cheaply: Consumer tips
A drum kit shows signs of wear and tear more than other instruments. To ensure the instrument's operation, it should be noted that, for example, the drumheads are regularly replaced to guarantee a certain sound level.
What additional costs may arise?
If one does not have their own soundproof room, is not interested in electronic drums, and wants to avoid rubber pads, then a particularly soundproof room is required, which naturally incurs rental costs. Even when purchasing a complete set, it may still be the case that essential parts are missing. In addition to the basic equipment, which usually consists of a bass drum, a snare, two toms, and a floor tom, various additional features need to be acquired to get started. These usually include a complete set of cymbals along with the corresponding stands, a stool, and sticks. If performances are even planned, cases for the individual drums would be important. Advanced drummers will also invest in higher-quality drumheads and a better foot pedal. Depending on the genre of music, it is also advisable to acquire a different snare, as the included example in the basic set usually only meets fundamental basic requirements. Overall, it can happen that the additional costs exceed the actual purchase price of the drum kit.
What should be considered when assembling the drum kit, before the first use, and during transport?
When assembling, it should be noted that the components harmonise with each other. Cymbals, for example, have different sounds and should therefore be matched accordingly. The same applies to the tensioning of the drumheads. Incorrect tension can lead not only to dissonance in tuning but also to the drumheads tearing. A drum kit is not easy to transport compared to many other instruments. Therefore, it is generally advisable to acquire cases for transport purposes.
What should be considered during use and cleaning?
The spatial environment of drum kits is usually not very pleasant - unless one has a clean and air-conditioned studio. Rehearsal rooms are often damp and cold before rehearsals and humid and hot after rehearsals. The material can work so much in extreme conditions that drumheads tear. The high humidity causes rust on all metal parts. In dusty or smoky rooms, residues accumulate. Therefore, the drum kit should be covered after use, for example, with a cloth. To ensure easy assembly and disassembly as well as a smooth foot pedal, the corresponding joints, chains, and screws should be lubricated from time to time.
