How to Make a Cheap Drum Kit Sound Good

Do you own a cheap drum kit and wonder if it can sound good? Improving the sound of your drum set is possible with the right combination of drum parts, proper setup, and skillful playing. This article will explore the key elements to achieve a great sound from your budget kit.

1. Choosing the Right Drum Heads

The first step in making a cheap drum kit sound good is selecting quality heads. High-quality heads, whether they are made for wood or metal shells, can significantly enhance the sound. Woods shells are generally born from better quality and therefore benefit from proper cutting of the bearing edges to ensure proper resonance. On the other hand, metal shells, while durable, still require significant care for optimal performance.

Wood Shells

For wood shells, getting the bearing edges cut properly is crucial. This process involves trimming the edges of the drum to create a smoother surface, which helps in achieving a cleaner and more resonant sound. This task is best performed by someone experienced with such work. Proper cutting ensures that the heads make perfect contact with the drum, contributing to a better overall sound.

Metal Shells

Metal drums, particularly those made by cheaper manufacturers, often suffer from inferior sound due to the type of metal used and the lack of proper surface preparation. While it is possible to achieve a decent sound with metal drums by tuning and playing skillfully, the results might not be as satisfying as with wood drums. If you are working with a metal kit, it is still necessary to ensure that the heads are cut properly and that the drums are well-tuned.

2. Proper Drum Tuning

Once you have the right drum heads, the next step is to achieve a good tuning. Tuning your drums properly is critical to achieving the best sound. A properly tuned drum kit will have consistent tension across all the drums, allowing each piece to resonate clearly and blend harmoniously with the others. Proper tuning is not just about making the drums tight but also about achieving the right pitch and tone for each individual piece.

Tuning can be a complex process that involves understanding the nuances of drum sound. Factors such as humidity and temperature can affect the sound, so it is important to tune your drums regularly and adjust them as needed. Additionally, using a pitch tuner can be a great tool to help you achieve the desired sound.

3. Drum Playing Style

While good drum heads and tuning are essential, the playing style also plays a significant role in the sound of your kit. However, it is important to note that the playing technique does not come into play as much with high-quality drums. With cheap heads, beating them too hard can cause them to wear out quickly, resulting in a poor sound. A good drummer can make a cheap drum kit sound good by using a subtle and refined touch, allowing the drums to produce the best possible sound without damaging the heads.

4. Importance of Good Cymbals and Hardware

Better cymbals and quality hardware can significantly enhance the overall sound and performance of your drum kit. The cymbals provide a crucial element to the sound and can make a noticeable difference in the texture and balance of your music. Investing in good cymbals can lead to a more dynamic and exciting sound. Additionally, ensuring that your hardware is in good condition and does not rattle or move during the performance is essential. Hardware that moves can be quite distracting and unprofessional.

5. Alternative Solutions

If you are unwilling or unable to invest in new drum heads and tuning, consider other alternatives. The surest way to improve the sound is to hire an excellent drummer who will bring their skill to the set. A skilled drummer can make even the cheapest drum kit sound good by their mastery. This approach is often less expensive than upgrading the drum set itself.

In some cases, you may be handed a used drum kit. In these situations, it is worth maintaining the kit to ensure it performs well. This can involve regular maintenance to keep the hardware in good condition and making sure the drums remain in tune. If you are looking to buy a used drum kit, consider reputable stores like Guitar Center, which often offer used kits that are in good condition. Be cautious when buying from Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, as these platforms may come with hidden issues.

Conclusion

Improving the sound of a cheap drum kit is not impossible. By focusing on the right drum heads, proper tuning, and a skilled playing style, you can significantly enhance the performance of your drum set. Additionally, investing in good cymbals and quality hardware can further elevate the sound. If all else fails, hiring a skilled drummer can make a substantial difference, proving that the musician's skill is the most critical factor in delivering a great sound.