It is often possible to write notes in music notation a number of ways. As you said, quarter notes at fast tempo can sound like eighth notes at slow tempo.
If you play rock music then you might like the 16 inch ZBT crash and 22 inch ride cymbals. They are loud, bright sounding (maybe a little harsh sounding) and will cut through if you jam with other musicians. I have the 16 inch ZBT crash and 22 inch ZBT ride cymbals, I like them. They are...
Cowbell mounts that don't cost more than a cowbell.
A backdrop light effects thing that can make the liquid overhead projector effect that I see on old Jefferson Airplane videos.
Here is my guess. There is what I call an "auditory illusion" that happens in a band. It's like an optical illusion. A single instrument might not sound that good on it's own. But when the sound is combined with sounds of other instruments the imperfections disappear. Our brains seek harmony and...
I know lots of drummers that sold their kits only to replace them later. Sometimes the house, spouse, job and kids distract people from what they are. Then life changes and they play drums again.
USA $ 250 is a good price for drums, hardware and cymbals. If the kit is in good condition then buy it. You can likely sell it later if you lose interest and get most of your money back, maybe even sell at a profit.
Pearl Exports and Tama Rockstars are also good drums.