Reviews of the Best Drum Kits for Metal Music
When it comes to creating the powerful and fast-paced rhythms of metal music, your drum kit plays a vital role in achieving the right sound. Whether you're a seasoned drummer or just starting, choosing the best drum kit for metal music can be a game-changer. In this guide, I’ll review some of the best drum kits that are well-suited for metal music, highlighting their features, performance, and what makes them ideal for creating heavy, aggressive beats that are synonymous with the genre.
1. Pearl Export EXX Series Drum Kit
One of the most well-known names in drumming, Pearl has made a mark in the world of metal music with its Export EXX Series. This drum kit is known for its powerful sound and impressive durability, making it perfect for heavy-handed drummers who want to create sharp, cutting beats. The EXX Series has been designed with poplar shells, which contribute to a rich, full tone and excellent resonance, essential for metal music.
The snare and bass drum produce thunderous sounds, perfect for fast double bass drumming. For any drummer looking for a reliable, affordable kit that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Pearl Export EXX Series is a top contender.
2. Tama Imperialstar Drum Kit
Another drum kit that stands out in the metal community is the Tama Imperialstar. Known for its sturdy build and precision, this kit is often praised for its crisp toms and punchy bass drum. The Imperialstar kit comes with a 22” bass drum, which is essential for getting the low-end punch needed in metal music.
What makes the Tama Imperialstar especially useful for metal drummers is its ability to handle high volumes without distorting the sound. This is perfect for those who love to play aggressively or perform live shows where every beat must be clear and loud. The Tama Imperialstar is also a good option for beginner to intermediate drummers who want something versatile, durable, and able to withstand the rigors of heavy playing.
3. DW Collector’s Series Drum Kit
For drummers who are serious about their craft and are looking for a professional-grade drum kit, the DW Collector’s Series is a standout. This kit is built to provide maximum clarity and precision, making it a perfect choice for metal drummers who need to make every hit count.
Made with high-quality maple and exotic wood shells, this drum kit offers a sharp and loud sound. The deep tones from the bass drum and the crispness of the snare make it a great option for metal drummers who want a clean, precise sound with powerful attack and sustain. The DW Collector’s Series is an investment for professional drummers who want the very best in their performance.
4. Roland TD-27 V-Drums Electronic Kit
While traditional acoustic kits are the go-to for most metal drummers, electronic kits are becoming more popular in the genre, especially with the rise of progressive metal and death metal bands. The Roland TD-27 V-Drums electronic kit is one of the best in its class for metal music. This kit provides unparalleled customization options, allowing drummers to fine-tune the sound of each drum, making it ideal for the intricate and fast-paced drumming often found in metal music.
The TD-27 features a wide range of high-quality sounds and realistic triggers that make it feel like you’re playing an acoustic kit. Plus, the ability to adjust the pitch, sensitivity, and tone makes it a great choice for drummers who need more versatility for different styles of metal.
5. Mapex Armory Drum Kit
The Mapex Armory drum kit is an affordable yet high-quality option for metal drummers. With its warm and punchy sound, the Armory series offers incredible value for those looking for a kit that delivers powerful low-end tones while maintaining sharp attack for quick fills and rolls. Its 20-ply maple/birch hybrid shells ensure a balanced sound that can stand up to the aggression of metal music without losing clarity.
Whether you’re laying down thunderous blast beats or driving heavy rhythms, the Mapex Armory kit is an excellent choice for any metal drummer on a budget who doesn’t want to compromise on quality.
Key Features to Look For in a Metal Drum Kit
When choosing a drum kit for metal music, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind:
- Durability – Metal drumming requires aggressive hits, so you need a kit that can withstand high volumes and constant pounding. Look for drum kits made from quality materials like birch, maple, or hybrid woods.
- Bass Drum Power – A powerful bass drum is essential for metal drumming, especially for double bass techniques. The bass drum should have a deep, resonant sound that carries through the music.
- Crisp Snare – The snare drum should produce a sharp, precise sound that can cut through the mix, especially during fast blast beats or intricate snare work.
- Fast Action – For metal drummers, especially those who play fast tempos, the drum kit needs to respond quickly to fast fills, rolls, and blast beats.
Choosing the right drum kit is crucial to achieving the metal sound you desire. Whether you’re an experienced metal drummer or a newcomer to the genre, the above-reviewed drum kits offer excellent options that can handle the demanding nature of metal music while giving you the freedom to experiment and refine your drumming style.
If you’re looking for more information or the best deals on drum kits for metal music, be sure to check out Beat Trigger for expert advice and product recommendations. Happy drumming!
