Getting started: the gear you need as a new drummer.

Starting your drumming journey is exciting, but it can also feel like stepping into a music shop and being hit with a wall of gear you’ve never seen before. Relax — you don’t need to remortgage the house or build a soundproof bunker to get going.

With a bit of smart planning, you can start learning comfortably, affordably, and without giving your neighbours a reason to dislike you.

You don’t need a massive kit or a massive budget to start drumming.

Whatever you start with, the most important piece of gear is your enthusiasm. The rest will grow with you!

1. The simple stuff: practice pads & sticks

If you’re just dipping your toes in, a practice pad is your best mate.

It’s basically a quiet, rubber surface that feels a lot like a drum, and it lets you work on technique without rattling the windows.

• Cost: Usually £15–£40

• Noise levels: Practically nothing — your neighbours won’t hear a thing

• Perfect for: Total beginners, flats, late-night practice

Pair the pad with a couple of pairs of sticks (yes, they will fly across the room at some point), and you’re off to a solid start.

2. Entry-level kits: acoustic on a budget

If you’re ready to take the plunge and play on a real kit, the budget acoustic sets these days are much better than they used to be. Brands like Pearl, Ludwig, and Mapex offer beginner kits that look and sound the part without costing silly money.

• Cost: £250–£500

• What you get: Kick drum, snare, toms, basic cymbals

• Noise levels: Loud enough that your neighbour will know you’ve started a new hobby

Noise control tips:

• Replace standard drum heads with mesh heads — they dramatically reduce volume while keeping the feel.

• Add rubber cymbal mutes.

• Place the kit on a thick rug to reduce vibrations through the floor.

• Use low-volume cymbals (brands like Zildjian L80s are brilliant for this).

• Set up in a corner with soft furnishings — curtains, cushions and carpets are surprising acoustic heroes.

With a few tweaks, your acoustic kit becomes much more home-friendly.

3. Electronic drum kits: quiet, compact, brilliant for practise

If noise is a deal-breaker, an electronic kit might be the best place to start. These are ideal for bedrooms, shared houses and anywhere you’d like to stay on speaking terms with your neighbours.

• Cost: £250–£900 for beginner to mid-range kits

• Noise levels: You mostly hear the tapping of rubber or mesh pads

• Extras: Plug in headphones, jam along to songs, and track your progress

Mesh-head electronic kits feel surprisingly natural nowadays, and you get the added bonus of built-in coaching features.

4. The fancy route: if you’re lucky enough to go big

Every drummer dreams of The Big Kit — maple shells, sparkling finishes, pro-level cymbals that shimmer when you touch them. If you’re fortunate enough to jump in at the deep end, go for a solid mid-range or professional acoustic kit.

• Cost: £1,000–£3,500+

• Noise levels: Loud — and gorgeous

• When it makes sense: You’re committed, you’ve got the space, or you’re building a proper studio room

Even with high-end gear, noise control still matters. Good soundproofing and thoughtful placement can make a massive difference.

5. A few extras that make life easier

• A metronome or app: Helps you develop timing

• Drum stool (throne): Don’t skimp on this — comfort = better playing

• Headphones: For electronic kits or muted practice

• Rug: Stops your kit from sliding and keeps sound down

• Stick bag: Because your sticks will hide from you

Wrapping up.

You don’t need a massive kit or a massive budget to start drumming. Whether it’s a simple practice pad, a starter kit, or a full electronic setup, the key is choosing something you’ll actually enjoy using. Add a bit of noise management, some regular practice, and a sense of adventure, and you’re well on your way.