Acoustic drums have been a staple in music for centuries, their rich, organic tones providing a foundation for countless genres. However, in recent decades, electric drums have emerged as a viable alternative, offering a range of benefits that have attracted musicians from all walks of life. Let’s delve into the key differences between these two instruments and explore which one might be the right choice for you.
Acoustic Drums: The Classic Choice
- Sound: Acoustic drums produce a deep, resonant sound that is often considered the gold standard for drumming. The interaction between the drumsticks, drumheads, and the drum’s shell creates a unique and dynamic tonal quality that one doesn’t just hear, but also feels. Speaking of…
- Feel: The physicality of playing acoustic drums is unparalleled. The weight of the drums, the resistance of the drumheads, and the tactile feedback provide a sense of connection to the instrument that many drummers find indispensable.
- Versatility: Acoustic drums can be used in a wide variety of musical genres, from jazz and rock to classical and world music. They are particularly well-suited for live performances, as their sound can fill a room without amplification.
- Maintenance: Acoustic drums require regular maintenance, including tuning, drumhead replacement, and general care. This can be time-consuming and can add to the overall cost of ownership.
Electric Drums: A Modern Alternative
- Sound: Electric drums use electronic triggers and sound modules to produce a variety of drum sounds. These sounds can be customized to emulate the sound of acoustic drums or to create entirely new and unique sounds.
- Feel: While the feel of electric drums can vary depending on the specific model, many modern electronic drum kits offer a realistic playing experience. The triggers are designed to mimic the feel of acoustic drumheads, and the response time is generally very fast.
- Features: Electric drums often come with a wide range of features, including built-in metronomes, sequencers, recording capabilities, and the ability to connect to other electronic instruments and to one’s DAW such as Logic Pro (Apple’s premier Digital Audio Workstation). These features can be particularly useful for drummers who are interested in practicing, composing, or producing music.
- Portability: Electric drums are generally more portable than acoustic drums, making them a popular choice for musicians who need to transport their equipment frequently. They can also be used in smaller spaces, such as apartments or studios.
Which is right for you?
The choice between acoustic and electric drums ultimately depends on your personal preferences, playing style, and musical goals. If you prioritize the traditional sound and feel of acoustic drums, and you have the space and budget to accommodate them, they may be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for a more portable and versatile instrument with a wider range of sound options, electric drums may be a better fit.
Environment Is Key
If you’re an apartment dweller, an electric kit may very well be the way you’ll want to go, due to close proximity to others. Roland offers a “virtually silent” kit at the time of this writing.
However if you’ve got a spare room in your house or a garage, an acoustic kit may very well fill the need; the only downsides will be A: Sound Retention (Soundproofing) and B: Wall Treatment (sound control). A room with a wood or tile floor and nothing on the walls will be very lively and loud for an acoustic drumset, so hanging up some nice carpets or packing blankets on the walls will certainly help control the room’s resonance.
As for soundproofing, that’s a whole other deep well of a subject that one article won’t entirely cover. Make sure all doors and windows are securely closed and sealed tight. A glass door won’t do much to stop the escape of sound so hopefully all your doors are solid. Putting blankets over these points of sound egress will also help.
Questions? Ask your instructor at the next lesson!