Perfect for the Budget Drummer

By Ian G from Frederick, MD on 2/15/2011 5:15:39 PM

When I purchased this kit, I was in the middle of a move from a suburban home to a condo in a quiet neighborhood. Obviously my acoustic kit was going to be a huge problem in such an environment, and at first I was planning to grin and bear it as I chopped out on a pad to keep my hands up to speed. This would have been fine for me, but one of the most important factors which kept me motivated to play was missing: the sound of my instrument. Now my intent in purchasing this kit was not to perform, but to simulate how certain new licks and beats I had been learning would possibly sound to me. Since I wasn't exactly trying to "wow" anyone with a fancy new electronic kit that would be suitable for a stage show, a high price tag for one would have been excessive. This kit is the ideal choice for someone seeking to experiment with different sounds and ideas without having to worry about disturbing others or spending too much on a more expensive brand. That being said; this is a low-end model. Some of the peripherals are obviously of a lower quality than one might desire. For example, this kit doesn't handle taking a beating as well as other models do. Adjustment of the triggers between uses will be frequently necessary as the clamps holding each trigger to the frame tend to slip a bit as you play. The frame itself is fairly light as well (which makes transportation less of a pain, but doesn't feel too sturdy.) Arrangement of the peripherals is a bit awkward as well until you find the right setup. The cymbal triggers don't support bell effects, and the drum triggers don't support rim shots or clicks. In spite of some of those faults, the kit has many of the basic essentials for someone planning to use this kit for practice. It has a good variety of patches and effects coupled with very simplified controls that aren't too clunky or confusing. It also detects your articulation/volume of play, which is a must for any electronic kit. I've been using this kit in my new home for several months now and I am quite satisfied. I would definitely recommend this kit to anyone on a budget or seeking a quick, easy alternative to acoustic play at home. However, if you are looking for a kit for live performances or recording, a high-end model would be a much more suitable choice.

Perfect for dorm room

By Joann Emerson from ct on 2/15/2011 6:00:14 PM

I purchased this drum set for my son. He is a music major and the drums were all the way across campus. This set was easy to break down yet good enough so he can practice and compose via garageband. He is extremely happy with it.

Good Value

By Bob Coppoth from Warrenville illinois on 2/16/2011 11:07:24 PM

This Simmons SD5K set has decent sound and has a comfortable set up, not too cramped like some others I've tried. Drum voice changes are quite easy to make with a quick read of the instructions. Overall a great choice for the money. I like it!

a great buy with only one drawback

By christy from parker co on 2/17/2011 1:26:13 PM

We live in a condo and my son was dying for a drum set. We bought it for xmas and his practice has increased 10 times over. He loves to play it and to him it sounds like a real drum set....to him it is perfect. For me the mom- I love I do not hear the drum sounds of a normal drum set however the drums sit on a second floor and being a new home it sounds like the floor is hollow. When he hits the foot pedal or the drum set it does sound like he is pounding on the floor. Unsure if it is our new home with hollow floors or if it is just a side effect. He does love them and without the head phones he would never be able to own one---so we are thrilled