One common question we get here at TakeLessons is which type of drumset – electronic or acoustic – is best for beginner drummers to use for practice at home. If you’ve been wondering that as well, read on for some great advice from Adam C., one of our newest drum teachers in Riverview, FL…
Since drums are loud, some people may want to purchase electronic drums instead of acoustic drums. Electronic drums are only worth getting if you get quality—and quality is usually priced around $3,000.
Here is something to consider: electronic drums (advanced as they may be) do not replace the authentic feel of acoustic drums. Electronic drums will give you a good sound regardless of how you hit them.
Acoustic drums only sound good when they are played with good technique. So, if a student learns on electronic drums and then tries to play acoustic drums, he/she will sound terrible. But if a student learns on acoustic drums and then plays on electronic drums, he/she will still sound good.
It would be a bold assumption to assume that a drummer, even owning an electronic kit, would never want to venture out to play an acoustic kit. So, I think it is best to learn on an acoustic kit. If afterwards a person wants to own an electronic kit as well, that’s fine. My objection is from the standpoint of learning and what’s best in the long run.
Here are some other options for handling the noise:
-Only practice during the day.
-Purchase a set of drum mutes (rubber pads that greatly reduce volume). (~$70)
-If you don’t have drum mutes, use hand towels.
This is an excerpt from Adam’s book, “Crash Course: Drumming Manual”
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Adam C. teaches drums, guitar, music recording, music theory, percussion and songwriting in Riverview, FL. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of South Florida, and is active in the music scene around the Tampa Bay area. Sign up for lessons with Adam, or visit TakeLessons to search for teachers near you!
Suzy S.