Having a diverse palette of drum samples is crucial for the modern music producer.Unfortunately, finding high quality free drum kits can sometimes be quite complicated and extremely time consuming.For this reason, we put together this list of incredible resources, most of which are completely FREE to download to make your quest slightly easier. Whether you’re looking for hip hop drum kits. It contains 54 instruments found in the factory sound library: 13 kick drums 12 snare drums 29 toms (8 full sets).
Factory Sound Library
Perfect Drums comes with the extensive sound library, consisting of 131 meticulously sampled drum instruments from some of the best drum manufacturers currently out there. Those include: 13 kick drums, 12 snare drums, 29 toms (8 full sets), 9 hi-hats, 11 rides, 31 crash cymbals sampled on different position, 13 china cymbals (5 on the left side and 8 on the right), 8 splash cymbals, 2 custom stack cymbals, 2 bells and 1 jamblock instrument, all forming the 12 Perfect Kit presets. The full instrument list can be found in the MEDIA section.
While working on the Perfect Drums factory sound library, we were trying to make it sit perfectly in a busy mix, whilst still retaining the natural and organic feeling. That is why Perfect Drums sounds great just right out of the box, with absolutely no additional post processing needed. In order to achieve that, we have created the FX Sample Group, which can be considered as a parallel processing bus, you usually have when mixing drums. What we did there is we took all the Direct (close microphone) samples of all the instruments and processed them, using a variety of high end hardware and software tone shaping tools. We have even blended some “one shot” samples into some of the snare and kick instruments’ FX groups to make them cut through the mix of any complexity! So, adjusting the single FX knob, you are able to get a desired amount of processing on any instrument. Keeping it lower will result in an almost unprocessed natural drum sound, while cranking it up will bring you a more compressed and processed tone, suitable for a heavier musical material. Play with it to find your sweet spot!
When talking about Drums, we are also talking about the Ambience, which plays a very important role in any drum sound. That’s why we have created the REVERB sample group. And what we actually did there is we, again, took the instruments’ close microphone samples and processed them with a top notch hardware reverb unit. So do not hesitate to use it and you will see how quickly it is about to become a good friend of you!
Narrowing Down Your Drum Kit Buying Decision
Learning how to play the drums offers so many benefits that go beyond it being enjoyable. It’s not just for professionals on the road. Research has shown that drumming reduces stress, anxiety, and even boosts the immune system. Studies have also shown that playing the drums is a great workout for the brain. It releases tension and even helps control chronic pain.
Choosing the perfect drum set for you can be a difficult process because there are so many different factors to consider. If you invest in the first set that comes your way, you’re risking getting a product that lacks quality.
If you’re on the market for a drum set, you have come to the right place. We are here to help you narrow down this process. By the end of this guide, you’ll be matched with the set that’s best for you. Here are the top 10 drum kits currently trending the market that we love, and we’re sure you will, too:
1 Ludwig Classic Maple 3pc Drum Set
Pros- Beautiful golden chrome color
- RFST molding offers amazing sound
Cons
- RFST molding offers amazing sound
The sound this drum set offers is timeless. Ludwig has always been extremely advanced when it comes to making straight maple shells. This Classic Ludwig set is a perfect choice for professionals looking for tonal versatility. It offers a wide tuning range with a sharp attack for live performances.
This set includes a 7-ply shell, bearing edge, and RFST molding. All mounting hardware will be included with this set, giving the user an easy way to start playing!
The bearing edge was designed carefully to achieve that unique Ludwig Sound. It is hand-sanded. The smooth, flat surface makes the head seating easy. Another great feature of Ludwig USA shells is that they are all made using Radio Frequency Shell Technology (RFST). This increases stability throughout the entire drum.
Does the Classic Maple series have any disadvantages? Not really – besides the fact that it requires cymbals to be purchased separately. This is expected. However, some drummers like purchasing a complete drum set. Other than this, the Ludwig Classic Maple is a great set to have and one that will allow drummers to rock out to amazing tunes.
You can make the Ludwig Maple 3pc drum set yours today by purchasing directly from our website. Still not sure if it’s the right option for you? Get in touch with us to learn more about this set. We’re here to answer any questions you may have about this remarkable item.
2 Sonor SQ2 Heavy Maple 5pc Drum Set
Pros- Offers an almost unlimited variety of shell, size, and finish combinations
- Gives drummers the ability to create their own signature sound
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals are sold separately
The Sonor SQ2 is often arguably the best of the best (and for good reason)! All the way from its stunning design to playing capabilities, Sonor really went the extra mile on this set.
This brand has over 137 years of manufacturing experience, so drummers can be confident they are investing in a quality product. SQ2 has a wide variety of shell, finish, and size combinations, allowing every drummer to play it in accordance to their personal liking. You get a signature sound that’s special with this unique set.
Buyers will receive a shell pack that includes a 22x16 bass drum, 10x9 tom, 12x10 tom, 14x14 floor tom, and 16x16 floor tom. The shells are all designed with a Black Sparkle Lacquer finish and matte black interiors. It does not include the hardware or cymbals as these are sold separately.
We really love the uniqueness of this set all the way from its design to playing capabilities. If interested, you can purchase this set directly online. Need some more information? Get in touch with one of our drum experts today!
3 Tama Star Walnut 4pc Drum Set - Best for Top Notch Quality
Pros- Includes a super resonant mounting system
- Unique blend of modern and vintage tones
- Has the look of a collector’s showpiece item
Cons
- The snare drum, cymbals, and hardware are sold separately
This set may just be as good as it gets – let us tell you why!
With this set, you will receive a 22x18 bass drum, 10x8 tom, 12x9 tom, and 16x14 floor tom. There is something to love about each one of these. For instance, with the 22” bass drum, you’ll get the amazing low-end frequency. The toms project thick tones with a nice impact when struck.
This set also includes 12 hand-applied finishes that give it the look and feel of an actual collector’s showpiece. It really doesn’t get better than this! The hardware and cymbals are not included but can be purchased separately.
STAR Walnut has been at the top of the drumming industry for a while now, so when this new set came out, you can believe it was at the top of many drum players wish lists. Luckily, you can make this set yours today directly from our website while supplies last!
4 DW Collectors Cherry/Mahogany 4pc Drum Set - Best Organic Drum Sound
Pros- Offers a unique, “woodsy” sound
- Exceptional craftsmanship & professional quality
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals aren’t included
- Some viewers aren’t too crazy about the look
The DW Collectors 4-piece set is a unique beauty that is made from more than one type of wood. We really enjoy the wide range of sonic possibilities that this set offers. It’s perfect for drummers who like that organic drum sound.
This top-of-the-line set offers a full range of sounds that you need while playing. It’s an outstanding selection with a high-end finish and unique design. Tom sizes come in 10x7, 12x8, and 16x14 with a bass drum size of 22x16. Only the drums are included in this set – hardware and cymbals are sold separately.
Get the DW Collectors Cherry/Mahogany 4pc Drum Set Here
If this sounds like the right set for you, you may purchase directly from our site. If not, keep browsing through this top 10 list until you reach the perfect option for you. Like always, DCP is here for any questions, comments, and concerns. Get in touch with one of our drum experts for more information.
5 Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 5pc Drum Set - Best for Those on a Budget
Pros- Stunning, shiny pure white color
- Affordable pricing
- Versatile drum set
Cons
- Some customers aren’t too fond of the cymbals
You cannot go wrong with Yamaha, and the Stage Custom Birch set is no exception! This drum set will give any drummer the value, quality, and look that they need to continue to improve their skills.
You’ll love the versatility of this set. It’s amazing for beginners as well as professional drummers.
It comes with 5 integral pieces which include a bass drum (22x17), snare drum (14x5.5), and tom’s in the following sizes: 10x7, 12x8, 16x15. The set produces a range of warm tones. Setting up is made easy with the included stoppers, and the claw hooks that come included work nicely to reduce noises. It really is an amazing value, especially for its low price.
Make this Yamaha 5pc Drum Set yours today! If you need additional information, get in touch with one of our specialists. We look forward to working with you and getting you one step closer to your dream drum kit.
6 British Drum Company Legend Fusion 4pc Drum Set - Favorite Palladium Look
Pros- Offers crisp attacks and low pronounced tones
- Great for any level of playing
- Beautiful Palladium look
Cons
- Not an ideal option for punk or rock bands
- Hardware and cymbals are not included
Looking for a drum kit with sharp, pronounced lows? Look no further! The Legend series from the British Drum Company has so much to offer all the way from its stunning Whitechapel finish to its amazing quality. You’ll receive hand cut 45-degree round overbearing edges, sophisticated palladium fittings, and a proprietary cold-pressed molding of the drum shell.
The drum kit itself includes a bass drum, snare drum, mounting hardware, and 3 toms. Previous buyers have enjoyed playing this set on their own or with their band. It delivers an unbeatable sound quality for both loud or soft volumes. It seems to stick more with players who enjoy pop, indie, or contemporary rock.
Perfect Drums Free Kit
For more information on this set, get in touch with one of our experts. We’re confident you’ll enjoy its versatility, low fundamental tones with sharp attacks, and controlled sustains. If you’re ready to purchase, you can do so right here from our site.
7 Canopus RFM 5pc Drum Set Navel Oil - Great For Any Level
Pros- Nice navel oil satin finish
- Improved R.F.M series design
- Great option for all levels
Cons
- Snare drum, hardware, and cymbals sold separately
- Some drummers still think the shell doesn’t resonate enough
This shell pack includes 3 tom’s sizes 22x15, 10x7, 12x8 with 2-floor tom’s sizes 14x13 and 16x15. We really like the satin finish of this set and the careful planning that was taken to develop the maple shell drums.
Perfect Drums Free Kit Music
As Canopus developed their R.F.M series, they noticed some things that were going very well like the solid sound it offered. It is also an amazing option for all genres of music, which is hard to achieve in most sets. The versatility it brings is amazing.
The makers of this drum set also took into consideration some of the negatives of maple shell sets. It was concluded that maple did not resonate enough. There were unwanted overtones from time to time, and the mid-range didn’t sustain enough. With these in mind, they designed the RFM series to overcome all these issues for a clear, bright sound.
Only the drums and mounting hardware are included – the hardware, snare drum, and cymbals are sold separately for this set. If you’re interested in purchasing this drum set, you can do so directly from our site. For additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our experts at DCP.
8 Noble and Cooley CD Maple 4pc Drum Set - Best Option For Professional Drummers
Pros- Unique, customized drum set
- Amazing design features
- Allows customers to specify their drum sizes
Cons
- Cymbals and hardware are sold separately
This brings us to this pro-level option great for those serious about their playing. Noble & Cooley customizes drums for clients using nothing less than quality workmanship and materials. They engineer every piece of their set to offer the best sound possible.
This set has Noble and Cooley’s patented suspension system, ply configuration, symmetrical venting, and lug locking. All of these contribute to the amazing tonality and versatility of this kit. Noble and Cooley are not afraid to step outside the norm. Through extensive research and trial and error, they have engineered a drum set that offers exceptional quality and more.
Going back to ply configuration, their 8 – 13” toms are 5 mm thick while their 14 – 18” toms are 6 mm thick. All their bass drums are 7 mm thick. They have found these combinations allow drummers to create the best sounds possible.
We love the sleek, elegant look of this drum set. Noble & Cooley really paid attention to detail when designing this kit. It’s one that we highly recommend for aspiring drummers and seasoned players. Experience these drums for yourself and buy today!
9 Gretsch Brooklyn 3pc Jazz Drum Set Gray Oyster - Best Vintage Option
Pros- Warm vintage sounds full of punch
- Amazing tuning range
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals are not included
The Gretsch Brooklyn Series is hard to beat. With this set, you’ll receive vintage tones full of punch and warmth. Drums are designed with 6-ply North American maple shells, toms are .220” thick, and the snare and bass drums are .310” thick. This is just a bit thicker than the standard USA Custom shells.
The Gretsch Brooklyn looks as good as it sounds! Drummers love the gray, subtle color of this kit. The sound, the shell, the hardware – it’s a tough deal to turn down! It’s also important to know that only the drums are included within this kit – hardware and cymbals are sold separately.
You can make this set yours today by purchasing directly online. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We are here to answer any concerns you may have, getting you one step closer to the ideal drum kit for you!
10 Tama Imperialstar 5pc Complete Drum Set - Best For Beginners
Pros- All-inclusive drum set
- Great option for beginners
- Low price
Cons
- Not an ideal option for professional drummers
This is the best-selling drum set in its class and for a good reason! TAMA has over 40 years of experience manufacturing drums. That is why we’re confident in their ability to give drummers what they want. The Imperialstar is an award-winning line and continues to deliver remarkable sounding shells, consistency, and hardware that is ergonomic and durable.
The Imperialstar 5pc is an all-inclusive set, giving beginners the ultimate playing experience. It comes with all the hardware and cymbals, a bass drum, 3 toms, and snare drum. Sitting at an amazing price, you can’t turn down this quality 5pc drum set.
For more information about the best drum sets, get in touch with one of our DCP drum experts. We’ll get you one step closer to the best option for you.
Read more: The best drum kits under 800$