Getting started with electronic drums: the guide

The electronic drum kit has everything it takes to win over beginners: compact, quiet thanks to headphones, and far cheaper than an acoustic drum kit. But with tabletop pads, full kits and amplifiers to choose from, it is not always obvious where to start. We will guide you so you can get off to a good start without making mistakes.

Why choose an electronic drum kit as a beginner?

The main advantage of an electronic drum kit is silence. With headphones, you can play at any hour without disturbing the people around you or your neighbours, which is a decisive argument if you live in a flat. It also takes up much less space than an acoustic kit, is easy to transport, and often includes learning features (metronome, backing tracks, exercises).

Tabletop pad or full kit: where to start?

It all depends on your space, your budget and your ambitions.

The tabletop pad: compact and affordable

If you are short of space or would like to start by working on your rhythms and coordination, a tabletop pad is perfect. The MEDELI DD325 8-Pad Tabletop Drum Kit brings several playing zones together in a single unit: ideal for getting started with the rudiments without investing in a full kit. It is also an excellent companion for practising while travelling.

The drum machine for exploring production

For those who are as interested in composing as in playing, a drum machine such as the MEDELI MR101S 16-Pad Drum Machine lets you create patterns, program sequences and discover computer-assisted music making. A modern, creative approach to drumming.

Expanding your kit over time

Good news: you can start small and add to your setup later. A MEDELI TP110 Standalone Expansion Pad lets you add an extra playing zone to your configuration, so you can gradually enrich your playing without buying everything again.

Do not forget amplification

Headphones are perfect for practising in silence, but as soon as you want to play with other musicians or perform, you need an amplifier suited to the frequencies of the drums. A model such as the HAYMAN AP33 Drum Amplifier or the more powerful HAYMAN DDM-30 faithfully reproduces the lows and the hits, which a standard guitar amp cannot do properly.

Our tips for getting started

Begin by defining your priority: silence and saving space point towards a tabletop pad, while creativity will lead you to a drum machine. Think about a good pair of headphones from the start to get the most out of silent practice, and keep amplification in mind if you plan to play in a band. For a choice tailored to you, contact us: we will point you in the right direction according to your level and what you want to do. Also discover our whole range of electronic drum kits.