Different Types Hardware

For Hobby or Beginner Drummers

• Stands offer more flexibility and are ideal if you like to experiment with your setup

Studio/Session Drummers

• Stands provide the adaptability needed for changing musical tasks and setups

Permanent Show Drummers

• Racks are often more practical for consistent setups and quick changes—especially if you have a drum tech.
• Visual and technical show requirements may also influence your choice

Large Drum Sets

• Racks shine with complex, component-heavy kits—worth the initial setup time

Electronic Drums

• Compact e-kits require specialized lightweight racks.
• Full-size e-kits follow the same rack vs. stand considerations as acoustic kits

Stationary Drum Sets

• Choose based on personal preference—mobility isn’t a factor.

Transport Considerations

• Small Vehicles: Go with stands—racks lose their advantage when they must be disassembled.
• Sprinter Vans: Racks can stay assembled, saving time. Secure and protect them properly during transport.
• Touring: Racks in flight cases are ideal if space and loading capabilities (e.g., ramps, trucks) are available.

Straight Stand

• What it is: A basic stand that goes straight up and down.
• Best for: Simple setups and small spaces.
• Good to know: Lightweight and easy to move.

Boom Stand

• What it is: Like a straight stand, but with an adjustable arm (“boom”) that lets you place the cymbal exactly where you want it.
• Best for: More flexible setups or when space is tight.
• Good to know: Very popular for crash and ride cymbals.

Convertible Boom Stand

• What it is: Can switch between straight and boom modes.
• Best for: Versatile setups.
• Good to know: Great if you’re still figuring out what you like

Hi-Hat Stand

• Designed specifically for hi-hats, with a foot pedal to control opening/closing.
• Available in 2-leg or 3-leg designs (2-leg works better with double pedals).

Stacker Stands & Accessories

• Allow mounting multiple cymbals on one stand.
• Ideal for compact setups or effects cymbals (splashes, bells, etc.).

When to Use a Rack Instead

• If you use many cymbals or want to reduce floor clutter, consider using a drum rack with cymbal arms instead of multiple stands

Tips for Beginners:

• Don’t overbuy — start with a hi-hat, crash, and ride.
• Try in person if you can — cymbals vary a lot in sound.
• Used B8/B20 cymbals > New cheap brass.
• Avoid stacking too many cymbals — learn control first.

Snare Drum

What It Is:

• The snare drum is the most important and recognizable drum in your kit. It has a sharp, crisp sound and is used in almost every beat you’ll play.
• What Makes It Special:
• It has metal wires (called snares) stretched across the bottom head.
• These wires create that “snap” or “crack” sound when you hit it.

Used For:

• Backbeats (like hitting on 2 and 4 in a rock groove)
• Fills, accents, and even solo work
• Almost every style of music

Beginner Tips:

• Make sure it’s centered between your legs when sitting.
• Keep it tuned so it sounds crisp but not too “ringy.”
• Use proper hand technique to avoid injury and get a consistent sound.

Tom Drums (Toms)

What They Are:

• Tom drums (or just toms) are the round, open drums that add depth and color to your playing. Most beginner kits include 2 or 3 toms.

Types of Toms:

• Rack Toms
  • Smaller toms mounted above the bass drum
  • Higher-pitched tones
  • Usually 10″, 12″, or 13″ in diameter
• Floor Tom
  • Larger tom that stands on legs or mounts to a stand
  • Deeper, boomier sound
  • Typically 14″ to 16″

Used For:

• Drum fills and transitions
• Adding movement and variety to your grooves
• Big, expressive hits in all kinds of music

Beginner Tips:

• Arrange toms in a comfortable arc around you.
• Practice moving between snare and toms smoothly.
• Experiment with tuning to get warm, punchy tones.

Coated vs. Clear

• Coated: Has a white, textured surface. Warmer tone. Great for jazz, rock, and brush work.
• Clear: Transparent and smooth. Brighter, punchier sound. Popular for pop, rock, and metal.

Single-Ply vs. Double-Ply

• Single-Ply: One layer of film (usually 10 mil). More resonance and sensitivity. Good for light playing and articulation.
• Double-Ply: Two layers (usually 2×7 mil or 2×10 mil). More durability, less sustain, and a deeper tone. Better for heavier hitters.

Start With:

• 5A size – Perfect balance for beginners
• Material: Hickory (durable, common)
• Tip: Wood (warmer sound) or nylon (brighter cymbals)

Popular Models:

• Vic Firth 5A
• ProMark 5A
• Zildjian 5A Nylon Tip

Nylon tips = brighter cymbal sound, more durable
Wood tips = warmer sound, more natural feel

Brushes
Used for jazz, blues, and quiet playing.
Wire brushes = Traditional swish sound
Nylon brushes = Softer, more durable
Beginner Picks:
Vic Firth Jazz Brush
ProMark B600

Rods (Hot Rods)
For low-volume, acoustic sets.
Made from bundled wood dowels
Louder than brushes, softer than sticks
Popular:
ProMark Hot Rods
Vic Firth Rute 505