In the world of metal drumming, the right drum set can make all the difference. As you gear up to unleash powerful beats and thunderous rhythms, having the best equipment at your disposal is crucial.
In this article, we’ll explore the best drum sets for metal, offering insights into top-quality options that can elevate your metal drumming experience.
In a hurry?
Here are our top three drum sets for metal and why we like them:
| Mapex Saturn Evolution LTD Edition 5pc Shell Pack | Hybrid maple and walnut shells for a warm, punchy sound, Sustain Adjustment Knob for finetuning, and the Halo Mounting System for unrestricted resonance. | Check the current price |
| BDK-1plus Full Size Starter Drum Kit by Gear4music | Complete setup is ideal for beginners getting into metal drumming. | Check the current price |
| Tama Starclassic Walnut Birch 5pc Shell Pack | Phantasm Oyster lacquer finish stands out in any setting. | Check the current price |
The best drum sets for metal
1. Mapex Saturn Evolution LTD Edition 5pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Sustain Adjustment Knob
- Sonic Pedestal Feet
- Halo Mounting System
- Maple/walnut hybrid shell
Pros
- Adjustable resonance for studio flexibility
- Isolated floor tom feet for a richer tone
- Custom shell design delivers balanced sound
Cons
- Advanced features may require setup time
The Mapex Saturn Evolution LTD Edition shell pack is built for drummers who want tonal control, resonance, and plenty of power. With a hybrid maple and walnut shell construction, this kit delivers a warm tone with attack – perfect for metal drumming.
The Sustain Adjustment Knob lets you fine-tune tom resonance by adjusting the rubber gasket inside the mount. This means you can shape your sound straight from the kit, reducing the need for post-processing in a studio setting. Sustain and depth are then enhanced thanks to the floor toms’ Sonic Pedestal Feet, which isolate them from direct ground contact.
The Halo Mounting System ensures tom shells vibrate freely by suspending them laterally under the lug line. This unrestricted resonance results in a natural, open tone that captures the full character of each drum. Additionally, Mapex’s Chamber Specific Design tailors shell construction to each drum size, ensuring consistent tonal balance across the kit.
With a striking Maple Burl Blaze veneer, this kit doesn’t just sound powerful – it looks the part, too. Whether on stage or in the studio, the Saturn Evolution LTD is designed to meet the demands of modern metal drummers.
2. BDK-1plus Full Size Starter Drum Kit by Gear4music
Key features
- Shell Material: Poplar
- Shell Ply: 6-ply
- Hardware: Steel, double-braced
- Included: Drum key, drumheads, drumsticks, drum throne, full hardware
Pros
- Full-size kit for comprehensive play
- Includes cymbals and hardware
- Suitable for beginners and intermediate players
Cons
- May not suit advanced drummers
Crafted from six layers of poplar wood, the BDK-1plus Full Size Starter Drum Kit by Gear4music is an ideal choice for beginner metal drummers who want a comprehensive, high-quality kit.
With its sturdy build and reliable hardware, the BDK-1plus ensures both robustness to suit aggressive metal drumming and a consistent, powerful tone. Cymbals are included with the kit, allowing you to explore a wide range of tones and textures to craft your signature metal sound.
Designed to accommodate both beginner and intermediate players, the kit offers an accessible entry point for aspiring metal drummers while providing the features and durability necessary for more experienced musicians.
3. Ludwig Evolution 22” 6pc Drum Kit w/Cymbals
Key features
- Poplar shells
- Six-piece configuration
- Remo Pinstripe drum heads
- Includes Paiste 101 brass cymbal pack
Pros
- Suitable for multiple genres, including metal
- Sturdy hardware for reliable performance
- Complete kit with cymbals included
Cons
- Brass cymbals may lack tonal depth for advanced players
If you want a complete setup, and the bold sound to go with it, the Ludwig Evolution 22” 6pc Drum Kit is perfect. Featuring poplar shells, this kit offers a warm, balanced tone with a controlled attack, making it adaptable to various genres, including metal. The six-piece configuration, complete with two rack toms, two floor toms, and a 22” bass drum, provides the power and versatility needed for heavier playing styles.
As well as sturdy, durable hardware, the kit comes with the Paiste 101 Universal Brass Cymbal Pack. These medium-heavy cymbals provide a bright, cutting sound that works well in both live and studio environments.
For intermediate drummers looking for a reliable and versatile kit, the Ludwig Evolution delivers quality tones and a solid playing experience.
4. Tama Starclassic Walnut Birch 5pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Shell Material: Walnut/Birch
- Shell Ply: 6-ply
- Finish: Lacquer Phantasm Oyster
- Hoops: Die-cast
Pros
- Unique tone from Hybrid shell construction
- Versatile tuning options from die-cast hoops
- Eye-catching finish really stands out
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals not included
The Tama Starclassic Walnut Birch 5pc Shell Pack features a blend of walnut and birch shells for a powerful, focused sound with enhanced projection, making it ideal for the intense and aggressive nature of metal music.
Sound quality and tone are characterised by deep, low-end frequencies and bright, cutting highs, whilst the build quality ensures durability and reliability during heavy-hitting performances. There are also quick-lock tom brackets with a rubber lining for an easy setup and enhanced resonance.
For an even more crisp, focused attack, the die-cast hoops are denser than triple-flanged hoops – ideal for powerful rimshots! They’re also more consistent in size, manufactured through a process of injecting molten zinc into moulds. Plus, because of the contact between the tension rods and hoop, the kit has reliable tuning stability.
With precise engineering, the kit is designed to enhance volume projection and captivate any audience.
5. Tama Starclassic Classic Exotix 22″ 7pc
Key features
- 100% maple shells
- Star-Mount system
- PowerCraft II drum heads
- Low-mass lugs
Pros
- Rich, projecting maple shell tones
- Flexible tom positioning with Omnisphere system
- Low-mass lugs for minimal shell interference
Cons
- Large setup requires more space
The Tama Superstar Classic Exotix is built for drummers who need a powerful, resonant kit with a striking aesthetic. Featuring 100% maple shells, the kit balances warmth and clarity with excellent projection. The rack toms, floor tom, and snare are crafted with six-ply, 5mm shells for a responsive tone, while the bass drum has a thicker eight-ply, 7mm shell for a deeper, punchier low end – ideal for metal drumming.
To maximise resonance, Tama’s Star-Mount system supports the toms at four points on the batter side hoop, allowing the shells to vibrate freely. This, combined with the Omnisphere tom holder, ensures easy positioning without sacrificing tonal integrity. Low-mass lugs further reduce shell contact, preserving the natural sound of the maple construction.
Fitted with PowerCraft II drum heads, the kit delivers a balanced, full-bodied tone straight out of the box. The Gloss Java Lacebark Pine finish adds a bold visual statement, matching the kit’s commanding sound. Whether in a studio or on stage, the Superstar Classic Exotix provides the tonal depth and flexibility needed for aggressive, high-energy playing.
6. Mapex Mars Maple 22” 6pc Studioease Shell Pack
Key features
- Shell Material: European maple
- Shell Ply: 7-ply
- Tom Suspension: SONIclear™ system
- Finish: Matte Black
Pros
- Seven-ply shells for impacting volume
- Insulated bass drum claws for protection
- SONIClear™ technology for extra reliability
Cons
- Bulky design may hinder portability
Mapex have a huge range of kits that are ideal for metal drumming, one of those being the Mapex Mars Maple 22” 6pc Studioease Shell Pack. With shells formed from rich maple wood, this shell pack delivers a balanced, punchy sound with enhanced resonance and projection, perfectly suited to aggressive and brash metal music.
The Matte Black shell finish screams metal, and with chrome hardware surrounding them, there’s no doubt this kit will stomp its presence on stage. The kit is also equipped with SONIClear™ technology – found on the bearing edge to maximise shell-to-head contact and the tom suspension to relieve stress from the tension rods and increase resonance.
7. Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22” 4pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Shell Material: Acrylic
- Shell Thickness: 6mm toms/7mm bass drum
- Hardware: Chrome
- Finish: Transparent
Pros
- Stunning clear acrylic shell design
- Triple-flanged chrome hoops for tuning stability
- Great value for money for an acrylic kit
Cons
- Limited configuration options
Natal’s Arcadia series kits are huge contenders for the best drum sets for metal drumming. The Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22” 4pc Shell Pack features seamless acrylic shells that offer exceptional strength and resonance, providing a solid foundation for delivering a loud and punchy sound.
The improved lugs and triple-flanged chrome hoops contribute to the overall build quality, ensuring the durability and reliability that heavy-hitting drummers need.
Naturally, the transparent acrylic shell design pops out on any stage, especially under the lights, giving your performance extra edge and captivation. The kit comes as a shell pack, which is perfect if you want to customise your cymbal setup for your own metal sound.
8. Pearl Decade Maple 22” 6pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Shell Material: Maple
- Shell Ply: 6-ply (5.4mm)
- Hardware: Chrome
- Finish: Satin Black Burst
Pros
- Pre-muffled bass drum
- Optiloc tom mounts for easy customising
- Stunning black burst finish
Cons
- Relatively higher price point
Of course, we had to include the Pearl Decade Maple 22” 6pc Shell Pack wrapped up in the eye-grabbing Satin Black Burst finish. The maple shell construction as well as the thick six-ply layering contributes to its excellent sound projection and volume, perfectly suited to metal drumming.
One of the main features of the Decade Maple is the pre-muffled bass drum that instantly gives you the perfect sound right out of the box. The right tuning makes the bass drum produce those clicky, tight tones that metal drummers need.
All in all, with a stunning shell finish and durable components to last a lifetime, the Pearl Decade Maple 22” 6pc Shell Pack packs a punch for your metal drumming career.
9. BDK-22 Expanded Rock Drum Kit by Gear4music
Key features
- Shell Material: Poplar
- Accessories: Drum sticks, drumheads, drum key, drum throne
- Hardware: Black
- Finish: Gloss White
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Includes hardware, cymbals and accessories
- Stylish design ideal for metal drumming
Cons
- Poplar material may lack warmth and vibrancy
Don’t let the name fool you. The BDK-22 Expanded Rock Drum Kit by Gear4music might be designed for rock, but it also packs a punch for all your metal drumming.
This comprehensive kit comes complete with hardware, cymbals, and all the necessary extras such as a drum stool and drumsticks to have you thrashing during rehearsal and on stage immediately. The drum kit’s poplar shells offer exceptional durability, allowing you to unleash powerful performances without causing any wear and tear.
Constructed with quality materials and designed to deliver impact, the BDK-22 Expanded Rock Drum Kit is an ideal option for metal drummers. Its basic acoustic kit design with all the necessary accessories suits beginner metal drummers perfectly as well as those getting into live shows and gigs.
10. PDP Concept Maple 22″ CM5 5pc Shell Pack
Key Features
- 100% maple shells
- Graduated counter hoops
- 7-ply toms and 10-ply snare
- True-pitch tuning rods
Pros
- Expandable setup with add-on drums available
- Versatile maple shells suit multiple styles
- Sturdy snare lugs for tuning stability
Cons
- Shell pack requires separate hardware and cymbals
The PDP Concept Maple CM5 has shells made entirely from maple, offering a well-rounded tone with deep lows, smooth mids, and clear highs. This makes them versatile enough for multiple genres but with the attack and projection needed for heavier playing styles.
The toms feature graduated counter hoops, meaning smaller drums have thinner hoops for freer resonance and richer tones. This enhances the overall depth and sustain of the kit. And for an exceptionally punchy tone, the snare drum boasts a 10-ply construction – thicker than the traditional seven-ply build. There are also 10 double-ended lugs for reliable tuning stability, even under heavy hitting.
With the ability to expand the setup using add-on drums and hardware, the CM5 offers flexibility for drummers looking to refine their setup over time. Pair it with quality cymbals and hardware, and this kit delivers the responsiveness and tonal depth expected from a professional-grade maple shell pack.
11. Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 22” 6pc Shell Pack
Key features
- Shell Material: Birch
- Series: Stage Custom
- Shell Material: Birch
- Finish: Deep Blue Sunburst
Pros
- Ideal for beginners and intermediate drummers
- Rich, powerful sound projection
- Includes finish-matched snare drum
Cons
- Hardware and cymbals not included
Last on our list is the Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 22” 6pc Shell Pack. With high-quality six-ply birch shells, this kit delivers rich, powerful sound projection, whilst the six-piece configuration gives you all the scope for complex, intricate fills and heavy-hitting rhythms.
Backed up by Yamaha’s renowned reputation in the industry, the kit’s sturdy build guarantees exceptional durability and reliability. The ball mount and clamp also promise a stable playing experience, locking your toms into place.
Things to consider when buying a drum set for metal
Wood type
One of the most important things to be aware of when buying a drum set for metal is the type of wood the shells are made of. Birch and maple are popular choices due to their balanced tonal characteristics.
Birch offers focused, punchy tones, while maple provides warmth and projection, both suitable for the intensity of metal music. These woods are also very durable and offer plenty of resonance, meaning they can stand up to the powerful, aggressive drumming techniques of metal.
Drumheads
Metal drumming demands sturdy, clear-sounding drum heads. Coated heads, such as those with a layer of Mylar, offer controlled resonance and durability while producing defined and impactful tones. Additionally, double-ply heads enhance sound consistency and endurance, crucial for withstanding the heavy-hitting and rapid playing styles commonly found in metal genres.
It’s worth noting that the drumhead tuning makes a huge difference for metal drumming. Give the heads a slight bit of slack for those snappy, attacking tones.
Double bass drum pedal
A double bass drum pedal is essential for metal drumming as you need that rapid and precise footwork to execute intense and intricate bass drum patterns. Look for pedals with smooth action (often found in chain and direct drive pedals), adjustable features, and sturdy construction.
Thick, heavy cymbals
Metal drummers tend to opt for heavy cymbals due to their pronounced and cutting tones. These kinds of cymbals allow for powerful crashes and defined ride patterns, whilst their robust build and extended sustain complement the forceful and dynamic nature of metal drumming.
FAQs
Which drums are used for metal?
The most common drum kit configuration for metal is one or two bass drums, two or three rack toms, one or two floor toms, and a snare. The specific setup for you will depend on how powerful and aggressive your sound needs to be. Mapex’s Saturn Evolution LTD Edition 5pc Shell Pack in particular is great for metal.
What drum set does Metallica use?
Metallica primarily uses Tama drum kits. Lars Ulrich, the band’s drummer, has been associated with Tama drums throughout much of his career. The brand’s high-quality and versatile drum sets have played a significant role in shaping Metallica’s iconic sound and stage performances.
What is the best wood for metal drums?
For metal, drums with birch or maple wood shells are ideal. These woods offer a balance of punchy and warm tones, suitable for the aggressive and dynamic nature of metal music. If you want focused, crisp sounds, opt for birch; if you want more richness and projection, go for maple.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re a Mapex, Natal, DW, or Pearl fan, there are plenty of kits out there that are suitable for the passionate, zealous style of metal drumming.
From the resonant properties of birch and maple to the durability of various drum heads and cymbals, it’s important to choose the setup that’s right for you. Ultimately, the best drum sets for metal are ones that can withstand heavy-hitting drummers, have the resiliency to cope with warm gigs and the demands of life on the road, and give you the right configuration to perform powerful, intricate drum fills and rhythms.
With all of the above in mind, why not check out our full range of acoustic drum kits that are metal-ready?
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