Advice on buying pearl drums (link inside)

[lorum]

Hello

I'm a complete newb when it comes to drums. I've played it occasionally growing up but never paid any attention to the drums.

Im interested in buying a drum kit for casual use and my budget is low.

I am thinking of buying the PEARL EXPORT as seen in the link below.

http://www.gumtree.com/p/for-sale/pe...ry-item-full-1

Before going ahead though, I wanted to know if anyone had some info/advice on these (and the condition of them) and if this was a good buy or I should be looking elsewhere?

[HMNY]

Welcome to DW.

I see you're looking to buy used, which is a good way to go, often not first choice for a newbie.

It's not a bad kit, Pearl make a lot of nice kits, this is at the cheaper end, the cymbals are not up to much (not the brand, this particular model line). If you can spend the time, I'd keep looking around the used market, and use ebay, and craigslist (I know you're in the UK, but bear with me) as a guide to see what kits/brands are bargain basement, and what are better quality kits, This research will help you get a better feel for what you can get within your budget.

Good luck

[opentune]

Good choice to buy used.
That package is 200 pounds? Where I live thats a pretty decent deal, as it comes with basic starter cymbals to get you going. A Pearl Export is a good solid kit, good value. You can maybe do a little better, but thats a fair price.

[lorum]

ok thanks for your advice!

[AJ3000]

That's one for the tom angles thread!!!

The kit is a fair price, but it'll need a full set of heads, which ain't cheap. It's on factory heads, and the kit is a good few years old, so I'd replace all of them - which on the Uk will run you like £150........ Just be aware of the additional costs....

[Netz Ausg]

£200 isn't bad for that. You can sell the shoddy cymbals on ebay and recoup some of that. I sold some old Paiste 101s for a good bit of cash - hats for £25, ride for £30. That'll be the heads you need paid for!

Then you can pick up a used set of Sabian XS20 or other reasonably priced decent cymbals and you're laughing!

[lorum]

ok I think I might keep looking for something else in the meantime, i dont really want to spend anymore or swap any parts atm.

maybe i'll look into the newer pearl forum line, does anyone recommend any other brands similar level/price ratio available in the uk?

[HMNY]

keep looking in the used market, take a little extra time, and you'll find something that will work for you.

Here's an example of what is around (granted this in not exactly what you're looking for, but an example)

http://loot.com/leisure-and-lifestyl...black-469211ad

once you get 'bitten' by the drumming bug, you'll be forever adding upgrading etc, so don't worry if can't immediately get new heads etc, that will come in time, first and foremost, find a kit and get started, then as you progress you'll know more about the changes you'll want to make in the future.

[Swexx]

Not sure what you guys think of the "22,5"" bass drum - if the seller is right, and the drum is actually 22,5", that's gonna be a big problem when changing heads, buying hardcases etc.
But maybe the seller just got the number wrong?

[Soupy]

22.5" is almost certainly a measurement of the hoops.

[lorum]

hi all, thanks for your replies... i had further look on ebay and im really interested in these:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1508360142...84.m1426.l2649


how good are they? how much should i be paying for them?

please let me know, i might just buy them tomorow.

[HMNY]

I think this would be a much better option, and I think in your area?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/drum-kit-p...item3cc75a17b6

or this one, plenty more on ebay as well:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MAPEX-M-BI...item4d01e587cd

[lorum]

Originally Posted by HMNY

I think this would be a much better option, and I think in your area?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/drum-kit-p...item3cc75a17b6

or this one, plenty more on ebay as well:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MAPEX-M-BI...item4d01e587cd

thanks those look good, unfortunately they're way over my budget.

im looking for somethin under £200, i can probably get these rythm travellers for £150. what do you think? (for example compared to the pearl export)

[Winston_Wolf]

If $200 is your budget, I'd choose the old Export over the newer Rhythm Traveler.

I owned a mid-90s Export kit very similar to that one, and they're good, well built drums. Not as flashy or fancy as the latest entry-level kits, but at that price they're a bargain since they appear to be well cared for.

Just plan on replacing those heads; I doubt they have any life left in them.

[lorum]

ok thanks, great replies and forum btw...

in the end, i think i'll take the traveller ones though. need something practical for casual use that doesnt take too much space. they look in good condition too.

[JesusMySavior]

A sleeper set for the intermediate level is the Yamaha YD.

They go for $150 or so and they sound pretty good. My first drum set. I still have it and gig with it!