How to Buy a Used Drum Set
Buying a used drum set allows the purchaser the opportunity to get a very complete set of stylish brand-name percussion equipment that, in some cases, may still have a warranty. In most cases, a knowledgeable buyer can maximize the equipment and minimize the expense.
We always feel the 5-piece drum set is the way to go. We also strongly recommend a 4-piece cymbal package. Not all sellers of used drum sets include the cymbals.
Evaluating the used drum sets begins by recognizing the name brands. Drums from Ludwig, Slingerlands, Gretcsh, Premier, Sonsor and Rogers are all highly regarded for their re-sale potential. Some of these manufacturer’s unique sets tend to be expensive because of their history and reputation. However, the success of your used acquisition is directly related to your ability to know what you are looking at.
The 5-set drum set should have these basics included:
• 22” bass drum
• 12” rack tom
• 16” floor tom
• 14” snare drum
• 13” rack drum
Again, we recommend an accompanying 4-cymbal package, including hi-hats, one crash cymbal and one ride cymbal.
When inspecting the used drum and cymbal package use the three-step inspection formula.
• Inspect drums including shells, lugs, bolts, rims, hoops and heads.
• Cymbals
• Hardware including all stands, mounts, braces, bass pedal and hi-hat assembly.
The shells should be perfectly rounded. Check for indentations and cracks, which would render the shell useless. Make sure the gap between the rim and the shell is consistent. If possible or if the drumhead is transparent, try to inspect the shell’s interior.
Rims and hoops must also be round. These parts can be replaced but you are adding to your sets’ expense. A damaged hoop or rim is a good indication of the care the set received.
Worn out drumheads are a sign of use. These heads are basically disposable and can easily be replaced. Be sure to check the strings that stretch across the bottom of the snare drum. Check the usability of the knob and wires that tighten the strings
When checking the cymbals, look for dents and cracks. Listen to the sound and if the cymbals sound dull they were most likely part of an inexpensive starter set. It is very possible that you may elect to purchase separate cymbals.
When looking over the hardware, look for dents to the braces and verify that movable parts and retractable parts still work. The moving parts need to be checked. Best of all, complete your tire-kicking inspection by a few minutes of play. There is nothing quite so re-assuring as some hands-on play.
