Drumming and the Neighbors

The biggest reason not to drum acoustically at home is simple: noise. People standing next to a drum kit for the first time are often shocked by how loud it really is. Even skilled drummers can only play softly to a certain extent. Once you start laying into a solid rock groove, the volume becomes undeniable. Place that in a small bedroom in a terraced house, and the sound easily travels 3 to 4 houses in both directions. On day one of your drumming journey, you could already have issues with your neighbors.

Soundproofing a drum room is a serious challenge and often extremely expensive and labor-intensive. While there’s a lot of information online, the reality is: it’ll cost you a small fortune and a lot of work. For the same money, you could buy a professional-quality electronic drum kit instead.

Beginners: Should You Buy an Acoustic or Electronic Drum Kit?

Many new drummers today choose an electronic drum kit. Acoustic kits are still popular, but fewer beginners buy them nowadays. Those who start with acoustic drums often face the noise problem quickly. As a result, many end up selling their acoustic kits and switching to an electronic set.

Can You Use an Electronic Drum Kit on Stage?

More and more drummers own two drum kits: one electronic for home practice and one acoustic for gigs. However, some rely entirely on electronic drums for live performances. Why?

Easier transport – E-kits are lightweight and often collapsible
Simpler for sound engineers – Acoustic kits require multiple microphones, while an e-kit needs just a few cables
Custom sounds per song – Switch between acoustic, hip-hop, or EDM kits instantly
No mic bleed – Acoustic drums are loud and get picked up by other stage mics
Volume control – Play much quieter on stage if needed

That said, electronic drum kits still don’t sound or feel exactly like high-end acoustic kits. And many drummers feel e-kits simply don’t look right on stage. Fortunately, some companies, like Pearl, offer e-kits that mimic the appearance of acoustic drums, such as the Pearl ePro series.

Pearl ePro Electronic Drum Kit

These kits blend acoustic looks with electronic functionality, offering a great compromise for those wanting the best of both worlds on stage.

Hybrid Setups: Acoustic Meets Electronic

It’s also common to see acoustic kits with electronic add-ons, such as drum pads or sample pads. The benefit? You maintain the authentic feel and sound of acoustic drums, while adding extra layers—like claps, tambourines, or custom samples.

Can You Learn to Drum Properly on an Electronic Kit?

Yes, absolutely. You can learn to drum well on an electronic drum kit. Just like with acoustic drums, it takes practice and dedication. Having a good drum teacher—especially one experienced with e-kits—can help a lot. In the end, consistency and focus are key to mastering any instrument.

Do Electronic Drum Kits Feel Different?

Yes, electronic drum kits can feel different. The pad materials and shapes vary from acoustic drums, which can alter the rebound and playing sensation. Also, since e-kits produce electronic sounds, the audio feedback you receive differs from the natural resonance of acoustic drums.

Despite these differences, with enough practice, you can become just as skilled on an e-kit as on an acoustic one.

Conclusion: Acoustic vs Electronic Drum Kit

Advantages of Electronic Drum Kits

Much quieter (no complaints from neighbors)
Wide range of drum sounds
Easy to record
Portable and compact
Can connect an MP3 player for play-alongs
No mic bleed or unwanted stage noise

Disadvantages of Electronic Drum Kits

Only the more expensive models have truly realistic sound quality

Often don’t feel quite like real drums (especially rubber pads)

Require amplification for live gigs

For both electronic and acoustic drums, head to Thomann!

Buy an Acoustic or Electric Drum Kit?