Drum Sets: Acoustic Versus Electronic

Leave it to technology to cause yet another controversy; this time among the world's drummers. It's not a major controversy per se, but some drummers prefer acoustic drum sets while others like electronic ones.  So, what are the pros and cons of each?

Acoustic drums sets are the standard, and have been since the day drums were first invented.  Most of today's acoustic drummers favour their sets because they prefer the pure, rich sound they produce.  No matter how good an electronic set is, a computer-produced sound can't match the natural tones of a genuine acoustic drum skin. And playing an electronic set just doesn't feel the same way either. 

On the downside, acoustic sets are clumsy and difficult to move. For major acts this is not such a problem, because band members rarely set up their own equipment.  But for the local nightclub band that carts its own equipment, acoustic sets can be a real pain. They also tend to be too loud in small environments, necessitating the use of a shield or forcing scaled-back playing by the drummer. 

As for electronic drum sets, their two biggest advantages are ease of portability and the ability to be connected directly to the sound system.  Electronic drum sets break down into very small packages that can be transported without taking up much space, they set up in just about the same time as acoustic sets, and they are more easily adjusted during the show.  Also, the ability to plug them into the sound system gives the sound engineer maximum control of volume and tone.  Finally, the ability to play hundreds of different sounds gives them an advantage that can't be matched by acoustic sets. 

The disadvantage of electronic drums is that unless you're willing to spend big money for the best control module, it's unlikely your set will produce a sound as pure and pleasing as an acoustic set.  Electronic drums often produce a buzzing noise in the background as well as a slight feedback each time the drumstick contacts the pad. If these noises aren't masked at the soundboard, it can be a detriment to the music.