Drummers do not have the same advantages guitarists, and other members in a band enjoy. They have to haul a lot of equipment, and they always sit in the back, where almost nobody can see them. On top of it all, they are expected to shell out more money on a drum kit than other musicians on their instruments. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can start your drum player career, even if you are on a budget.
How to check used equipment for signs of wear and tear
The logical alternative to buying a brand new drum kit that can be pretty expensive is to get a used one. But many beginners shy away from such an option for obvious reasons. They are afraid that they might get cheated out of their money and remain stuck with an instrument that doesn’t perform well at all.
Here is a checklist for used drum kits that will help you identify that offer that is really worth the money:
– No cracks should be present in your cymbals. If they are cracked or worse, they have holes in them, they are worthless. Do not invest money in a used kit that comes with broken cymbals.
– Drumheads should be in good working order, as well. Dints or splits are signs of severe damage, and you will not be able to play music with an instrument that is in such a deplorable state.
– Rusted hardware is another warning sign that you will most likely throw money off the window. The pegs, the rims, and all the rest of the equipment should not look like the drum kit has spent the last decade outside, in the rain.
– The spring in the hi-hat stand must be in perfect condition. If possible, try the spring to see if it has enough power to lift the cymbals. If it cannot perform such a simple task, you should just overlook the offer altogether, no matter how nice it sounds.
– The shells should not be peeling or look like there are bubbles everywhere. The wood parts should not be cracked, either.
Decide on a budget
Without a reliable price guide for the drum kit you intend to purchase, you should not take another step. For beginners, there are many exciting offers available, but, to eliminate the risk of overspending, decide first on the type of budget you are willing to work with.
As a general rule, a drum kit for beginners should not cost more than 500 dollars, but know that there are options that sell for 200-300 dollars.
Accessories
As a beginner, you might not need many accessories, but some may help you hone your skills and progress faster. For instance, affordable metronomes are readily available, and they can help you keep the rhythm. Also useful are stick holders and tuning keys.