The journey of a drummer is a winding path with many decisions. Drummers have to decide everything from what kind of kit they want to which brand of moon gel is the best. One question that will cross a drummer’s mind revolves around deciding between an acoustic or electronic drum set.
Acoustic drums are what come to mind when most people think of drums. They are more “traditional” with metal or wood shells and cymbals. On the other hand, the newer developments of electronic drums have rubber, mesh, or plastic drumheads and pads with sound emitting from a sound module.
You might be a professional debating the transition between the two types or a novice debating where to start. Regardless, we built this guide for you. We break down what you need to know about the two kinds of kits so that you can pick out what works for you.
Electronic Drums
Quiet
There is no other way to say it: electronic drum kits have superior sound control compared to their acoustic counterparts.
Acoustic kits easily penetrate walls with their bass frequencies, making them a nuisance to any neighbor in close quarters.
Electronic sets use drumheads of rubber or mesh that reduce the ambient noise level, perfect for making music at home. It also translates well to quieter music settings, like intimate venues or worship platforms.
You would need to use headphones for practice and employ an amplifier when it is time to crank the volume.
Easy Recording
It can be difficult to record with an acoustic drum kit and takes some skill to master. Electronic kits use MIDI/USB performance and direct audio output for recording. These connection options make it simple to merge music across the equipment and the computer.
You can easily mix and export multitrack audio through an electronic kit and software. USB/MIDI connections allow you to record your performance and transmit it to a laptop for mixing with ease.
Sound Possibilities
Electronic kits come with a stock sound library that allows you to create sound in many genres. You can switch between rock, swing, or metal all from one kit. It has an easy versatility that is difficult to replicate on an acoustic kit.
You might need different drum sounds if you are playing for a cover band or freelance for various types of music. Electronic drums allow you to produce them without the need for a drum machine.
Acoustic Drums
No Amplification
Electronic kits allow for simple recording and sound control, but acoustic kits are great learning tools for a drummer building their foundation. Acoustic kits can hold their own on the full stage without the need for amplification.
There are no additional cables or sound dials, but there is a raw power that comes with acoustic performances. You will have to adapt the set to muffle to the desired levels and keep heads fresh.
Easier to Jam and Move
An acoustic kit is a trademark piece in the music scene, just like the electric guitar. A well-tuned set of drums and a talented drummer can help facilitate the creative music process. An acoustic kit can find a home everywhere, from churches to schools to sold-out concert venues.
If you frequently relocate with your kit between gigs, you will need equipment that can move with you. While acoustic drums might be heavy or bulky and take time to set up, you can transport them more easily than electronic kits. Electronic kits require cables, power outlets, and stage level dials, so acoustic kits are easier to move.
Foundational Learning
It might be worth building your foundation on an acoustic kit if you are a novice to drumming. You learn more about dynamic control through sticks and hands. Over time, this foundation will help you create music across a wide range of applications and styles. Acoustic kits will help you learn this control in a way that electronic kits cannot.
The Takeaway
You can embark on your drumming journey with some knowledge and understanding of the differences between acoustic and electronic drum sets. Deciding between the two kits is one every drummer will contemplate, so do it with the knowledge in hand.
