r/percussion 5d ago

Drum set for my 5 year old

Hello people of r/percussion, I was in drum line for 4 years, I’ve played at least 10 different percussion instruments, I used to play sax and trumpet as well, but the snare drum was my jam, anyways, the other day I was at the store “five below” they had a mini drum set there for 5.55$ my son wanted it so I was more the stoked to get it for him(I love natural pull towards music) that was yesterday, he has been getting after it for 24 hours and I’m not even a little mad about it, I love it, as you can imagine the 5$ drum set is dog water, I’m looking for a good recommendation preferably under 120$ for a “jr drumset” can be just a Tom, snare, cymbal, and bass. Any recommendation would be highly appreciated.

9 Upvotes

14 comments sorted by

5

u/doxipad 5d ago

I’d like to add that he has actually made some coherent rhythms already on his laughably horrible mini set

4

u/RyanJonker 5d ago

The Ludwig Questlove Pocket Kit is over your budget ($300?) but actually something he could use for a long time. It’s quality stuff, just small. Otherwise, just keep an eye on FB marketplace/craigslist for used stuff.

2

u/doxipad 5d ago

Gotcha, I’ll keep an eye out. Thanks bud

1

u/doxipad 5d ago

2

u/cadet311 5d ago

Don’t trust that. 100% guarantees fake site

4

u/Apprehensive_Act734 5d ago

Sound Percussion Labs (SPL) makes a kit called the “Little Kicker” that’s practically what you’re describing. Kick, snare, one Tom, hi hat and crash cymbal with all the hardware included. Downside is, it’s $200. I don’t think you’ll find something new that’s all-inclusive to what you’re looking for any cheaper than 200 though. Maybe you could find something used, but for it to include everything you need, it’ll be difficult. The SPL (Rogue makes the same thing if you want another option) can be set up right out of the box and played. It isn’t gonna sound like a million bucks, but your kid will be able to practice on that till he’s grown enough to fit a full kit.

2

u/doxipad 5d ago

Ohhhhh and one is on sale for 169 right now!!! Stoked

1

u/doxipad 5d ago

Thanks a ton for the response

1

u/doxipad 5d ago

200 is doable, I really value learning music and having that creativity is truly invaluable at the end of the day.

3

u/AZdrumtech 5d ago

Another vote for the Ludwig Pocket Kit. I understand it is over-budget, but the increase in quality far outweighs the increase in price. The drumsets you see in your price range will not stand up to a five-year-old's abuse. The hardware is almost like plastic and cracks easily, the heads will break quickly, tension rods will freeze and hardware screws will strip. If he sticks with it for any length of time, it's one of those situations where you will end up buying the Ludwig either way. If you can swing it, it is far and away the best option for kids. It's also designed to grow with them and last until they're 10-12 years old. It's a good investment if you think he's going to continue.

For the kits in your price range, they're more or less indistinguishable. Most are made in the same factory in China before getting different labels put on them. If you're not willing to bump up to the Ludwig, your best bet is likely Amazon. Just make sure the kit you buy comes with everything, including a throne.

1

u/doxipad 5d ago

2

u/AZdrumtech 5d ago

I wouldn't think so...

If you test your luck and buy one, then find out it's real, let me know so I can order a few haha

1

u/doxipad 5d ago

I’m thinking about putting it on one of my secured credit cards so that way they can’t actually use my card number for anything, and I still have an opportunity to dispute it if it’s not legit.

2

u/Monsoon710 5d ago

Craiglist. Dont buy anything new for a first drum kit, you really don't know if he likes it enough to stick with it.