When you're considering picking up drumming as a hobby or career, one of the first questions that may pop into your mind is, "How much does a drum set cost?" Whether you're a beginner just starting out, an intermediate player looking to upgrade, or a professional seeking the best kit available, understanding the financial investment is crucial. Drum sets are available in a wide range of prices, and various factors influence these costs. In this blog post, we'll explore the average prices for different types of drum sets and delve into the elements that affect these prices.
What is the Average Price for a Good Drum Set?
How much a drum set costs can vary significantly based on the quality, brand, and number of pieces included. Typically, a good beginner drum set can range from $300 to $700. Intermediate drum sets might range from $700 to $1500, while professional kits can start around $1500 and go far beyond $5000.
It's important to match your purchase with your skill level and needs. A beginner might not require the same quality and features as a professional drummer, so understanding these differences can save you money and ensure you get the right drum set for your situation.
Factors That Affect Drum Set Price
Several factors can influence how much does a drum set cost. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next kit.
Material and Build Quality
The materials used in the construction of drums play a significant role in how much does a drum set cost. High-quality woods like maple, birch, and mahogany are commonly used in professional drum sets and are more expensive. In contrast, beginner drum sets might use cheaper woods or synthetic materials, which can affect the sound quality and durability.
Brand and Reputation
Brand reputation can also significantly impact how much does a drum set cost. Well-known brands like Ludwig, Yamaha, and Pearl often have higher price tags due to their history of quality and reliability. Investing in a reputable brand can ensure better sound quality and longevity, but it may not be necessary for beginners.
Number of Pieces
The number of pieces in a drum set affects the cost as well. A standard 5-piece set typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, and three toms. Additional components like extra toms, cymbals, and specialty drums can increase the price.
Acoustic vs Electric Drum Sets
Acoustic drum sets are traditional and often preferred for their authentic sound. Electric drum sets, on the other hand, offer versatility with various sound options and are generally quieter, making them suitable for home practice. Electric drum sets can range from affordable to very pricey, depending on the technology and features.
New vs Used Drum Sets
Purchasing a used drum set can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're on a budget. However, it's important to inspect used sets for wear and damage. New drum sets come with a warranty and ensure you're getting unused quality, but they come at a higher price.
How Much Does a Beginner Drum Set Cost?
Price Range for Beginner Drum Sets
Beginner drum sets are designed to be affordable and accessible for newcomers. They typically range from $300 to $700, depending on the brand and additional components included.
What to Expect from a Beginner Drum Set
Beginner drum sets usually come with a basic 5-piece configuration, including a bass drum, snare drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom. They often include cymbals and hardware like stands and pedals. While they may not have the superior sound quality of higher-end models, they are sufficient for learning and practicing.
Drum Set Recommendations for Beginners
The Mapex Comet is the perfect entry-level drum set for beginners ready to dive into drumming with a complete, great-sounding kit. Finished in a bold Infra Red wrap, this 5-piece set not only looks sharp on stage or in the practice room, but delivers solid tone and durability you can count on.
This complete configuration includes:
- 22" Bass Drum – Deep, punchy low-end that holds the groove.
- 10" & 12" Rack Toms – Bright and responsive for fills and rhythms.
- 16" Floor Tom – Adds depth and power to your setup.
- 14" Snare Drum – Crisp attack and snappy response for all styles.
The Comet comes with all necessary hardware , including cymbal stands, hi-hat stand, snare stand, bass drum pedal, and drum throne, making it gig- and practice-ready right out of the box . Cymbals are also included, so there's no need for extra purchases to start playing.
Whether you're just starting out or need an affordable kit to hone your skills, the Mapex Comet Infra Red set delivers unbeatable value, stylish looks, and quality sound in one complete package.
Step into the world of drumming with style and legendary Gretsch quality. The Gretsch Renegade is a full-size, all-in-one 5-piece drum kit that's perfect for beginners and aspiring players looking for a great-sounding setup that’s ready to rock right out of the box.
Finished in an eye-catching Grey Sparkle , this set includes:
- 22" Bass Drum – Full-bodied, punchy tone to anchor your beats
- 10" & 12" Rack Toms – Perfect for quick fills and dynamic accents
- 16" Floor Tom – Adds warm, thunderous low end
- 14" Snare Drum – Sharp attack with great articulation
The Renegade comes complete with double-braced hardware , including cymbal and hi-hat stands, a bass drum pedal, snare stand, and a comfy drum throne. It also includes starter cymbals , so you’ve got everything you need to start playing the moment you set it up.
Whether you’re practicing at home, jamming with friends, or playing your first gig, the Gretsch Renegade in Grey Sparkle gives you classic looks, reliable performance, and a great foundation to grow your skills.
How Much Are Intermediate Drum Sets?
Price Range for Intermediate Drum Sets
Intermediate drum sets are designed for players who have moved beyond the basics and require better sound quality and features. These sets typically range from $700 to $1500.
What to Expect from an Intermediate Drum Set
Intermediate drum sets often feature better wood quality, hardware, and cymbals. They may include additional toms or specialty drums and offer improved tuning and customization options.
Intermediate Drum Set Recommendations
The Yamaha Stage Custom Birch is a longtime favorite among intermediate drummers for its professional-level tone, premium build quality , and unbeatable value. Crafted from 100% birch shells , this 5-piece kit delivers the bright, focused sound that birch is known for—perfect for live performance, studio sessions, and everything in between.
Finished in a rich and elegant Honey Amber , this configuration includes:
- 22" Bass Drum – Punchy and powerful, ideal for any style
- 10" & 12" Rack Toms – Clear, articulate tones with great projection
- 16" Floor Tom – Deep, warm low-end to round out your setup
- 14" Snare Drum – Crisp and sensitive with a solid backbeat
The Stage Custom features Yamaha’s renowned YESS tom mounting system for enhanced resonance and sustain, along with high-quality hardware and a sleek, pro-level finish that looks as good as it sounds.
Whether you're upgrading from a beginner kit or stepping into more serious playing, the Yamaha Stage Custom Birch in Honey Amber offers outstanding tone, durability, and style—ready to meet the demands of advancing drummers.
Designed for serious players ready to level up, the Mapex Armory Series combines professional features with bold aesthetics and powerful sound. This 6-piece Studioease configuration in a sleek Black Burst finish offers enhanced versatility for studio, stage, or rehearsal spaces—perfect for intermediate drummers who need tone and flexibility.
Built with Mapex’s hybrid shell design (Maple/Birch), the Armory Series delivers the resonance of maple with the cutting attack of birch , creating a punchy, dynamic tone that fits seamlessly into any musical style.
Configuration includes:
- 22" x 18" Bass Drum – Deep, driving low end with a modern thump
- 10" x 7" and 12" x 8" Rack Toms – Fast, focused attack for articulate fills
- 14" x 12" and 16" x 14" Floor Toms – Full, round tone for added depth
- 14" x 5.5" Tomahawk Steel Snare Drum – Bright, aggressive snap with powerful projection
Additional features:
- SONIClear™ bearing edges for easier tuning and better contact between drumhead and shell
- Suspension mounts for maximum resonance
- Stunning Black Burst lacquer finish that looks as sharp as it sounds
Hardware and cymbals sold separately , making this an ideal shell pack for drummers looking to upgrade or customize their setup.
Whether you're tracking in the studio or performing live, the Mapex Armory Studioease set brings pro-level sound and style within reach.
How Much Does a Professional Drum Set Cost?
Price Range for Professional Drum Sets
Professional drum sets are crafted for serious musicians and can start from $1500, with high-end models exceeding $5000. These sets are made with premium materials and offer superior sound quality and durability.
What to Expect from a Professional Drum Set
Professional drum sets are built with the finest woods and materials, providing exceptional sound and performance. They include advanced hardware, customizable options, and are often used in professional recordings and live performances.
Professional Drum Set Recommendations
A true tribute to the golden era of drumming, the Ludwig Classic Maple "Super 70s" delivers the unmistakable vintage vibe and thunderous tone that defined a generation. Handcrafted in Monroe, NC, this 4-piece shell pack features Ludwig’s legendary 7-ply North American maple shells , revered for their warmth, clarity, and full-bodied resonance.
Finished in a stunning, retro-inspired '70s White Marine Pearl , this kit blends timeless looks with modern craftsmanship for a truly professional-grade setup.
Configuration:
- 22" x 14" Bass Drum – Vintage depth with punchy, controlled low-end
- 10" x 8" and 12" x 9" Rack Toms – Classic sizes for rich, warm attack
- 16" x 16" Floor Tom – Deep, resonant tone with vintage presence
Key features:
- 7-ply maple shells with precision-cut bearing edges for enhanced tone and sustain
- Classic Keystone lugs and traditional mounts for vintage aesthetics
- Bold projection and dynamic sensitivity for both stage and studio performance
- Iconic Ludwig tone that’s shaped the sound of rock, pop, and funk for decades
This is not just a drum set—it's a piece of history reimagined for today’s professional drummer. Whether you're chasing that authentic '70s sound or just want a kit that turns heads and delivers night after night, the Ludwig Classic Maple "Super 70s" in White Marine Pearl is the real deal.
The Sonor SQ2 is the pinnacle of custom craftsmanship and sonic perfection. Built to order in Germany, the SQ2 series is fully customizable and handcrafted to exacting standards — and this 5-piece beech shell pack is a stunning example of Sonor’s commitment to excellence.
Finished in an exquisite Red Burst over African Marble Fade Gloss , this kit is not only visually striking, but delivers the unmistakably rich, articulate voice that only premium beech shells can provide: warm, punchy lows, focused mids, and smooth, clear highs.
Configuration:
- 22" x 17.5" Bass Drum – Deep and powerful with modern low-end control
- 10" x 8" and 12" x 9" Rack Toms – Crisp, articulate, and perfectly balanced
- 14" x 14" and 16" x 16" Floor Toms – Thunderous tone with exceptional warmth and depth
Key Features:
- Handcrafted 9-ply Beech shells – Balanced tone with fast response
- TuneSafe lugs and Optimum Shell Measurement (OSM) for unparalleled tuning stability and resonance
- German precision engineering and immaculate shell construction
- Jaw-dropping Red Burst over African Marble Fade Gloss high-gloss lacquer finish — uniquely elegant and bold
This SQ2 isn’t just a drum kit — it's a statement. Designed for discerning professionals who demand world-class tone, flawless craftsmanship, and an unmistakable presence both visually and sonically, the Sonor SQ2 Beech set is as inspiring to look at as it is to play.
Got something that captured your taste and style? Order your beginner drum set from DCP now!
In summary, the cost of a drum set varies widely depending on factors like material quality, brand reputation, and the number of pieces. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional drummer, there's a drum set that matches your needs and budget. As you consider your purchase, think about what features are most important to you and how much you are willing to invest in your drumming journey.
How much does a drum set cost is a question that leads to many considerations, but by assessing your needs and understanding the market, you can make a wise investment. What kind of drum set do you currently use, and how has it influenced your playing? If you're considering an upgrade, what features are you looking for in your next drum set? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Still thinking about which one to purchase? Don’t worry because here at DCP, we go to great lengths just to showcase the quality and performance of each and every instrument we offer. Oh, and nobody else makes amazing and comprehensive head-to-head comparisons of your favorite percussion instruments like us. So come on and check this video out!
Are you still looking for more remarkable drums and percussion instruments to add to your collection? Feel free to visit our website www.drumcenternh.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel Drum Center of Portsmouth for more amazing content. See ya around!
