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July 20, 2023

Unleash the Thunder: The Best Drums for Metal Music

Whether you're a seasoned professional drummer or a newcomer to the metal scene, this guide will help you find the perfect drum kit to deliver that crushing sound.

Metal music, with its blistering intensity and thunderous sound, demands a drum kit that can match its ferocity and power. Metal drummers are the backbone of any heavy metal band, providing the driving force behind the relentless drum beats, blast beats, and intricate rhythms that define the genre. In this article, we will explore the best drums for metal music, examining different options for drum sets, snare drums, kick drums, and more. Whether you're a seasoned professional drummer or a newcomer to the metal scene, this guide will help you find the perfect drum kit to deliver that crushing sound.

The Best Drum Sets for Metal: When it comes to choosing the best drum set for metal music, there are several factors to consider, including the overall sound, construction, and durability.  

Here are some top picks:

  • Tama Starclassic Walnut: Known for its rich, deep tones and exceptional projection, the Tama Starclassic Walnut is a popular choice among metal drummers. Its walnut shell construction provides a warm and punchy sound, perfect for heavy music genres.
  • Pearl Export EXX: Offering great value for the price range, the Pearl Export EXX features a mixture of maple and mahogany shells, delivering a balanced sound with plenty of depth and resonance. This kit is a versatile option suitable for various metal genres.
  • Yamaha Stage Custom: Renowned for its high-quality construction and affordability, the Yamaha Stage Custom drum set is a go-to choice for many metal drummers. With its birch wood shells, it produces a focused sound with a higher pitch, ideal for cutting through heavy guitar riffs.
  • PDP Concept Maple: Designed by Drum Workshop (DW), the PDP Concept Maple is a professional-grade drum set that offers exceptional sound and performance at a more accessible price. With its all-maple shells, this kit delivers a versatile sound suitable for both studio recordings and live performances.


Snare Drums that Pack a Punch: The snare drum is the centerpiece of any drum set, and in metal music, it plays a crucial role in creating that aggressive and cutting sound. Here are some of the best snare drums for metal drummers:

  • Pork Pie: With its thick shells and robust construction, Pork Pie snare drums excel at delivering a deep, fat sound that can cut through the heaviest guitar riffs. These snares are highly customizable, allowing drummers to dial in their desired tone.
  • Mapex Black Panther: Known for their versatility and excellent build quality, Mapex Black Panther snare drums offer a wide range of tones suitable for different genres. They provide a perfect balance of sensitivity, power, and projection.
  • Tama SLP G-Bubinga: Crafted from African Bubinga wood, Tama SLP G-Bubinga snare drums provide a dark and aggressive tone with excellent projection. These snares are favored by many metal drummers for their depth and versatility.


Kick Drums for Thunderous Impact: In metal music, the kick drum serves as the heartbeat, driving the rhythm and delivering the bone-crushing power that defines the genre. Here are some top options for kick drums:

  • DW Collector's Series: Renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, DW kick drums are a popular choice among professional metal drummers. With their maple or birch shells, these drums offer a punchy and focused sound that cuts through the mix.
  • Pearl Masters Maple Reserve: Crafted from premium North American maple, Pearl Masters Maple Reserve kick drums deliver a warm and resonant sound with plenty of low-end thump. These drums provide excellent clarity and definition


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