I am always interested in small kits. And I generally think almost all the manufacturers get it wrong. Here are the two things I think are wrong with the way manufacturers approach it:
- Allocating space for a drum diameter isn't a problem, and it is important to not skimp. In my book, for a small kit, 8 and 10 inch toms are essentially useless. Minimum tom diameter should be 12 and 14. It is the Depth that you want to cut for these kits. Same for snare.
- These kits are often shell kits, and if hardware is included, it is often incomplete and not designed for light weight. When coming up with a small, compact, portable kit, weight savings are just as important as space savings.
My ultimate compact kit would be:
- Nestable, shallow, light shells. [Need low profile lugs to nest.] Reasonable diameters.
- If there are two toms, ability to mount Both on the bass drum. No floor tom. [too much space for a tight "stage" area.
- Complete, ultra lightweight hardware solution.
- Some of the hardware mounted to the bass drum. [saves unnecessary stand legs]
- Two bags - one for the shells, one for the hardware
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