TIP: I’ve seen some people criticise this unit for unresponsive drum pads. They didn’t read the manual though! Because you CAN adjust the sensitivity. If you find the pads are not triggering sometimes, then increase the sensitivity setting, and be happy again :-). If space really is an issue, you might want to consider a compact desktop kit. First and foremost it is important to note that these don’t do the proper job of getting a child used to the way a drum kit is ergonomically laid out; since they are flat pads as opposed to a full kit. If this doesn’t bother you, or even if you are looking at introducing your child to percussion as opposed to full kit drumming, definitely keep this option open. What is a good age for kids to start learning the drums? The TD-02 module also has Bluetooth capability for jamming to your music collection, although you will need an adapter which comes at an additional cost. The unit itself weighs in at a sturdy 9 pounds, so it is a couple of pounds heavier than the Pyle. If you want portability it’s worth being aware of, but that’s still pretty lightweight for lugging. Ease of use/setup: How easy is the kit to construct out of the box? Once built, how easily can the kit be adjusted to fit the setup needs of the average drummer? Is the module user-friendly?

Alesis have made some great drum equipment over the years, and this a step-up from the entry-level Compact Kit 4. It's a great addition to their lineup, and is equally great ifyou're just starting to play, or simply need a portable setup with velocity sensitive pads and a pair of pedals. You'll no doubt find this auseful percussive tool. Play, learn, develop From here we would recommend utilising the basic training programs included on most modules to improve time-keeping and accuracy. The more of this they do, the more they will be able to jam with music (and other people!). Of course, all of this can be done even more effectively under the watchful eye of a qualified drum teacher. The main unit is really nicely portable as it only weighs in at 7.3 pounds, almost 2 pounds less than the Yamaha for example. The pads are good and responsive, you’ll probably find you get the odd missed hit once in a while with really fast drumming. But that’s to be expected with this type of gear.You may not have heard of Pyle Audio, but if not, don’t worry. Pyle are a serious audio and electronics company. They make everything from pro DJ gear to audio processing equipment, so they know about sound. Which does translate into the PTED01 – it sounds really good, whether through decent headphones or routed to a computer or through e.g. a keyboard amplifier.

When you don’t have a lot of space. Or want to get something for the kids to start with. Or you just want something you can easily take on the road with you. Electronic tabletop drum kits really are an awesome option. The kits give you everything you need in the box too, so they make a great gift for the kids, grandkids, significant other… or even yourself. 🙂 The MusicRadar electronic drum set review process is editorially independent and not influenced by any third parties. Our review samples are almost always sourced directly from the manufacturer or via a local distributor. Sometimes review samples are supplied by retailers.The drum heads are mesh instead of rubber, which is the far better and more realistic option. The module has 120 sounds on board, divided up into 10 kits, as well as 30 songs to play along to and smartphone compatibility; meaning you can play along to your favourite music on apps such as Spotify.