dubstep

When it comes to buying a drum set, you can spend as little as $200 and as much as $600 on just the basics. Adding accessories and name brands can add hundreds (even thousands) to the price, but no worries: kits are always a great investment. Whether you're playing with your buddies in the garage, getting started with lessons or playing regularly, a great drum kit never collects dust. A basic set will include a snare and bass drum as well as tom (or tom-tom) drums and cymbals. Tom drums usually consist of three drums: a high, mid, and floor drum. Ride, crash and hi-hat cymbals are all common, but an individual can learn on just a ride cymbal along with a snare and bass drum.

• Ayotte
  
• CB700
  
• DW
  
• Gretsch
  
• Ludwig
  
• Mapex
  
• Pearl
  
• Premier
  
• Remo
  
• Slingerland
  
• Sonor
  
• Tama
  
• Yamaha
  

When buying a drum set, keep in mind the cheaper kits will not be as sturdy or have the same sound quality as more expensive sets. The price of the set can often suggest the longevity of it as well. Ultimately, your price range and needs can be met through discounted kits and online shopping. Keep in mind all sets can be upgraded. Accessorizing your set can include any and all of the following:

• Cymbal Stand
  
• Snare Stand
  
• Hi Hat Stand
  
• Hi Hat Clutch
  
• Foot Pedals (for the bass)
  
• Seats (also called thrones)
  
• Legs (for the floor tom)
  
• Tom Mounts
  
• Rack Systems
  
• Drum Key
  

One problem beginners might have with their new drum set is knowing where to start. One of the first things you might want to do is get comfortable with your new set. Set some time aside to be surrounded by the set and to get comfortable with gripping your new drumsticks. On television and movies, you might see characters carrying their drumsticks around. Although a stereotype, this practice allows a beginner to become familiar with their new equipment in order to get the best out of one's drumming experience.

While listening to your favorite music and playing along might be a great way to learn for the trained ear and those with inborn rhythmic abilities, don't be afraid to reach out for lessons and experience. Private lessons can be a great way to learn the basics and beyond on your new drum set. The best approach to private lessons is to select material that you enjoy and by providing it for your instructor. Let them know what you are interested in and what you expect. Because it is easy to pick up bad habits from private lessons, consider trying out several teachers and be willing to change up your style while incorporating different techniques.

Instructional videos and DVDs can be great tools as well. You can replay footage and go at your own pace with media sources. They also aren't as expensive as private lessons and you can trade up different video lessons as you please. Online drum lessons afford the same freedom. These lessons provide the basics to proper drumming techniques and give great tips on how to practice effectively.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on percussion, please visit Drum Sets, supplier of a wide range of drum sets, drum kits, drum heads, stands, and more.