Sometimes when looking for a set of drums one question may come up, should I get an acoustic drum kit or an electronic one? It really all depends on a couple of things. Mainly, how much are you looking to spend? Do you wish to record your drum sessions? Where will you be playing and how much space do you have? And finally, which do you like more?
So how much do you want to spend?
Both electronic and acoustic sets have low end and high end equipment. Of course you can get some good deals, but for the most part, the more you spend the better quality and functions you receive.
Cymbals are one of the most expensive parts of the drum set. You can get away with a decently priced set of drums, but the cymbals can't be that cheap. A good set of cymbals can easily cost more than the kit itself.
Do you wish to record your drum sessions?
In order to record yourself playing on acoustic drums you will need a microphone setup. Most studios will mic each area of the kit and adjust levels as necessary. So one cheap mic probably isn't going to sound good.
On the other hand. Pretty much all drum modules have some sort of output port, so that you can connect it either to a computer or to a mixing station. Some modules even have midi out.
Where will you be playing and how much space do u have?
Acoustic sets can easily grow to take up a lot of space. Adding toms and cymbal stands can easily take up a larger part of a room. Electronic sets come in different sizes. The more elaborate ones can take up almost as much space as an acoustic set, but most won't.
And there are also some compact sets available like the Roland HD1. Will you use this at gigs. Most people prefer acoustic over electronic for live performances. Its a personal choice, so take it into consideration as well.
Do you live in an apartment? Or have close neighbors? If so then an acoustic set may not be a good idea. Drums are very loud and will disturb neighbors. While there are silencers that you can use, it defeats the purpose and practicing will be less enjoyable. Electronic sets can lower the volume if its plugged in to a personal monitor or speakers or even headphones.
Which do u like more?
No matter what type you choose you will always prefer one. I have an electronic kit due to space limitations and noise considerations, but in my opinion there is nothing like the sweet feel and sound of an actual set of acoustic drums.
