Top 8 Acoustic Drum Sets That Are Perfect For Beginners 2024

Acoustic drum sets can really be the foundation of a drummer’s journey, especially for beginners. 

However, deciding which ones are worth your investment and which ones might let you down can be super frustrating. 

Luckily for you, we’ve done the hard work and are breaking down the 8 best acoustic drum sets (by popular brands) that come with all the bells and whistles, such as:

• Durable shell construction ✓
• High-quality cymbals ✓
• Versatile configurations/flexible pieces ✓
• Reliable hardware ✓
• Beginner-friendly tuning ✓
• Stylish finishes/ensemble ✓
• Perfect for any playing style ✓
• Professional-grade features/epic products ✓
• Portable design options ✓
• Epic drum kits with everything included ✓
• Great for home to stage use ✓
• Much more ✓

After reading this article, you’ll know all about the best acoustic drum sets so you can choose the right drum kit that fits your playing style and needs. 

Plus, you’ll know that the product you’re buying is reliable and high-quality, not something that will leave you disappointed after a few months. 

This way, you can get back to focusing on your playing, improving your skills, and not have to worry about constantly upgrading or fixing your gear. 

So let’s dive in…

#1. Pearl Export Series EXX ($999)

The Pearl Export Series EXX has long been an OG when it comes to acoustic drum sets designed for beginners for as long as I can remember.

This drum set combines durability with quality sound, featuring a blend of poplar and mahogany shells that deliver warm, rich tones perfect for various playing styles. 

The EXX comes with 830 Series hardware by Pearl, which includes a reliable bass drum pedal and other super sturdy components like double-braced stands.

As well as the P=930 Demonator bass drum pedal, which is sick.

So, for beginner drummers who need something that can handle heavy use and want to play around with different drumming techniques, this drum kit is a great option.

It also includes Sabian SBR cymbals, which are known for their bright sound and durability. 

Pearl’s attention to detail extends to the wrapped finishes, which are available in several eye-catching colors like: 

• Smoky Chrome
• High Voltage Blue
• Burgundy

It makes this acoustic drum set both visually appealing and functional when played. 

Whether you’re learning the basics or experimenting with more complex fills, the Pearl Export Series EXX gives you everything you need to get started and grow as a drummer.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Durable poplar/mahogany shells 
• Pearl 830 Series hardware
• Includes Sabian SBR cymbals
• Amazing product
• Multiple attractive finishes to match the vibe of one drummer to the next
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners
• Currently number 1 in all categories

#2. Yamaha Rydeen ($700)

The Yamaha Rydeen is a solid choice for beginner drummers who are looking for a dependable, high-quality drum set that offers great value for the money. 

Which, in all honesty, isn’t that bad for a drum set.

Yamaha, a brand trusted by musicians worldwide for decades like as sure you know, designed the Rydeen with poplar shells, which are known for their full, warm sound.

They really adapt well to various playing styles as well, which is great.

This acoustic drum set is available in configurations that include a 20″ bass drum and 16″ floor tom 一 versatile enough for different genres.

While the Rydeen typically comes as a shell pack, most retailers bundle it with hardware and cymbals, making it an all-inclusive option for those who want to start playing ASAP.

The finishes (such as Mellow Yellow and Silver Glitter) add a touch of personality to this kit, so it’s really not just a drum set, but also a statement piece in your studio.

Yamaha’s commitment to quality means this set will provide you with a reliable and enjoyable drumming experience all day.

Bottom line, it’s an ideal set for beginners who want a long-lasting product. 

With its versatility and build quality, the Yamaha Rydeen is an excellent choice for any beginner drummer looking to make a strong start and have a reliable set for years.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Full, warm poplar shells
• Versatile 20″ bass drum
• Available in vibrant finishes
• Amazing product
• Great for beginners and really any skill level
• Often bundled with hardware and cymbals
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#3. Ludwig Accent Drive ($599)

The Ludwig Accent Drive is a solid entry-level acoustic drum set that is perfect for beginners who are serious about beginning their drumming journey. 

Ludwig, a brand with a long history in drum manufacturing, offers this drum set as a complete package that includes a: 

• 22” bass drum
• 16” floor tom
• 14” snare drum
• 10” and 12” rack toms

If you’re just starting out, this configuration is ideal 一 providing a full range of sounds.

This drum kit also includes hardware and Zildjian I cymbals, which, if you’re unsure, is a huge upgrade from the typical starter cymbals (much brighter).

It’s seriously great value for those just starting out, not to mention you really can’t beat the price, that’s for sure.

One of the standout features of the Ludwig Accent Drive is its ability to deliver a powerful and consistent sound (and its double-braced hardware doesn’t hurt either).

Thi is key for beginner drummers looking to develop their skills and start out strong.

With its classic design and reliable build quality, the Ludwig Accent Drive stands as a solid choice for anyone looking to invest in a beginner-friendly acoustic drum set.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Complete set with 22” bass drum
• Includes hardware and cymbals
• Powerful, consistent sound
• Amazing product
• Definitely worth keeping after purchase
• Reliable Ludwig build quality
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#4. Tama Imperialstar

The Tama Imperialstar is another fantastic option for beginners looking for a solid, versatile drum set that can grow with them as their skills improve. 

Tama is known for producing high-quality drum sets, and the Imperialstar is no exception… Plus it’s a true value-for-money option.

This set comes with 100% poplar shells, which produce a punchy and resonant sound,  making it ideal for rock and pop playing styles. 

The 22” bass drum provides a killer low-end thump, which is complemented by the included Meinl HCS cymbals (shown above), known for their bright and cutting tones. 

The Imperialstar also includes double-braced hardware 一 ensuring stability and durability even during intense practice sessions. 

Tama’s attention to detail is evident in the wrapped finishes, available in a vary of colors to fit different tastes/vibes. 

They’re not only cool to look at, but also resistant to warping and chipping, which I personally appreciate, because sometimes we go overly hard as drummers and some acoustic drum sets go south quick.

Whether you’re practicing at home or playing your first gig, the Tama Imperialstar provides a perfect balance of quality and affordability.

It’s really a go-to choice for beginner drummers.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• 100% poplar shells
• 22” bass drum for solid low-end
• Includes Meinl HCS cymbals
• Durable double-braced hardware
• Amazing product
• Perfect drum set for any skill level
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#5. Mapex Rebel 5-Piece Drum Set ($399-$429)

The Mapex Rebel 5-Piece Drum Set is designed with, you guessed it, the beginner drummer in mind, giving you a perfect blend of quality and affordability over other acoustic drum sets.

This unique drum set includes a: 

• 22” bass drum
• 16” floor tom
• 14” snare drum
• 10” and 12” rack toms

You’ll have a full sound that is ideal for exploring different musical genres. 

Plus its poplar shells are 9-ply, which adds to the drum kits strong resonance and build, so you won’t have to worry about long practicing sessions.

One of the standout features of this set is the inclusion of genuine Remo drum heads (above) 一 a truly rare find in beginner drum kits.

They enhance the overall sound quality and response when played. 

The Mapex Rebel is an excellent choice for beginners who want an affordable drum set that won’t break the bank, yet still delivers impressive sound and performance.

Pro Tip

The Rebel set also comes equipped with double-braced hardware and cymbals, making it a complete package that’s ready to play right out the box, unlike some other acoustic drum sets.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• 9-ply poplar shells for strong resonance
• Includes double-braced hardware
• Amazing product
• Genuine Remo drum heads
• Complete set with cymbals included
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#6 Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove ($499)

The Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove is a standout option for beginner drummers who are looking for a compact, portable drum set that doesn’t slack on sound quality. 

Designed in collaboration with Questlove (the drummer for The Roots, if you didn’t know), this drum set is perfect for: 

• Smaller spaces
• Urban drummers
• Those who need a drum kit that’s easy to transport 

The Breakbeats set includes a 14” bass drum, a 10” rack tom, a 13” floor tom, and a matching 14” snare, all of which are crafted from 7-ply hardwood shells, like some of the other best acoustic drum sets around.

These shells deliver a punchy, focused sound that’s perfect for hip-hop, funk, and even jazz, while the compact size makes it ideal for long practice sessions or small gigs.

It literally breaks apart for easy transport 一 allowing you to pack up and move between venues or practice spaces without any hassle. 

Pretty legendary if you ask me (and super innovative), which is probably why it’s renowned by some of the top drummers in the game.

Plus, it also comes with travel-friendly bags, which add to its portability, and the satin finish gives it a sleek, professional look.

Whether you’re practicing at home, jamming with friends, or performing on stage, the Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove offers a unique combination of portability, style, and sound quality that’s pretty hard to beat.

“I wanted to design gritty, raw, ‘break-able’ acoustic drum sets for gigging in clubs that you can fit in a cab.” 一 Questlove.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Compact and portable design
• 7-ply hardwood shells for punchy sound
• Includes travel bags for easy transport
• Designed by Questlove for urban drummers
• Amazing product
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#7. PDP by DW Encore ($499.99)

The PDP by DW Encore is an excellent choice for beginner drummers who want to experience the quality of DW (Drum Workshop) without breaking the bank. 

This drum set features poplar shells and includes a 22” bass drum, 16” floor tom, 14” snare drum, and 10” and 12” rack toms.

So you know you’re getting a full-bodied sound with plenty of punch, unlike some other acoustic drum sets.

One of the features which I find pretty awesome is of the PDP Encore is the inclusion of DW’s F.A.S.T. tom sizes (Fundamentally Accurate Sized Toms)…

Its designed to produce better tonal resonance and sustain 一 making your fills sound more dynamic and impactful. 

This drum set also comes with chrome hardware and a complete set of cymbals, so it is all-inclusive as well.

The PDP Encore’s sleek, durable design, mixed with its professional-grade features, makes it a standout option for beginners if you want my expert advice. 

Especially for those who want a high-quality drum set that they can grow with over time.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Poplar shells for warm, resonant sound
• Includes DW’s F.A.S.T. tom sizes for better tonal resonance
• Chrome hardware for a sleek look
• Perfect drum set for any playing style and skill level
• Complete set with cymbals included
• Amazing product
• You won’t be disappointed after you purchase it
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

#8. Ashthorpe 5-Piece Beginner Drum Set ($199)

The Ashthorpe 5-Piece Beginner Drum Set is a pretty cool package that was especially made for younger/smaller drummers who are just getting into it.

However, it does offer everything needed to start playing immediately. 

This set includes a 22” bass drum, 14” snare drum, 16” floor tom, and 12” and 13” rack toms 一 making it a versatile setup for different playing styles. 

One of the unique features of this drum set is the inclusion of genuine brass cymbals, which provide a more authentic sound compared to the cheaper alloys.

The Ashthorpe set also features triple-flanged hoops that enhance the drum’s resonance and sustain, which gives it a surprisingly professional sound when compared to some other top acoustic drum sets.

The shells are made from poplar wood, which offers a good balance of warmth and projection, which makes this drum kit ideal for a variety of vibes.

This drum set also comes with:

• An adjustable throne
• Drumsticks
• An assembly manual

So even if you’re a complete beginner who has never even seen acoustic drum sets before, you can dive right in. 

For those looking for an all-in-one beginner drum set that offers both quality and convenience, the Ashthorpe 5-Piece Drum Set is a solid choice.

But again, this one is one of those acoustic drum sets that are super basic and much better fit for younger drummers.

Standout Features of this Acoustic Drum Set:

• Genuine brass cymbals included
• Triple-flanged hoops for better resonance
• Adjustable drum throne and drumsticks included
• Poplar wood shells for warmth and projection
• Perfect drum set for any skill level/playing style
• Amazing product
• One of the best acoustic drum sets for beginners

Acoustic Drum Sets: Final Thoughts

The right acoustic drum sets can elevate your playing experience and completely transform the way you approach your music altogether.

They can help you develop your skills and provide the essential tools needed to express yourself, especially if you’re just starting out. 

All of the acoustic drum sets we covered today not only offer killer sound quality, but they also deliver durability and versatility.

As well as all the professional features you need to grow as a drummer, so it really boils down to your unique style and vibe (and price range, of course).

Switching gears for a second, if you’re an all-digital producer, you’ve got to check out this Free Acoustic Drum Samples to take your drum tracks to the next level.

This insanely popular pack gives you instant access to 30 free acoustic drum samples to make your tracks sound more lively and punchier than ever before.

They’re the best way for you to add new organic layers to your drums that sound clean and professional. 

Plus, they’ll add a new dimension of groove and energy to your drum tracks; regardless of genre, you’ll be getting the top-of-the-top acoustic drum samples in the game.

Whether you’re laying down your first beats on a new kit or polishing your tracks with high-quality samples, you’re now set to make the best decisions for your music. 

Bottom line, keep drumming on these epic acoustic drum sets, stay inspired, and remember 一 your sound is your signature, so make it count!

Until next time…