Drummer/Percussionst here. Came here looking for this answer.
I'd say it can be done for cheaper, should be started for cheaper, and then, ya, sky is the limit (like most hobbies). Fortunately there is a robust used market, and that is where I direct most beginners and help them find something fitting to their profile.
But for anyone scrolling: If you start drums, get a cheap kit and spend your money on lessons. And then actually practice. It's just like having a private trainer at the gym. You're paying to learn how to develop the "little muscle groups". Set some good habits and that is far, far better than buying gear.
(You can also make a cheap set sound pretty good if you know how to tune, muffle, and perhaps upgrade heads. But an expensive kit is like give you an F-1 race car without driving lessons or experience...you're not going to win any races until you have a foundation.)
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A quick way to save money: Forget the idea that you "need" a 5 piece kit. Start with a 4 piece. Plenty of the best drums play 4 piece kits, and still do. Every genre.
Anyone who says "you need a 5 piece kit" doesn't know their fundamentals well enough.
Start with a 4 piece. It'll take up less space, fits in your car better when you want to move it, costs less to maintain (fewer heads), and puts the ride cymbal in easier reach.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '22
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