Turn Up the Beat: the Best Amp for Electronic Drums
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best amp for electronic drums for your budget and situation, along with our Top 3 recommendations!
When it comes to playing electronic drums, finding the right amp can make a world of difference.
Your electronic drum kit is only as good as its sound system. To fully enjoy the benefits of an electronic drum set, you need an amp that delivers fantastic sound quality, sufficient power, and versatility. A great amp will help you achieve the dynamic sound you desire, whether you're practicing at home or performing live on stage.
With so many options available, choosing the best electronic drum amp can be a daunting task. This article will guide you through the factors to consider and provide helpful suggestions on the top amps for electronic drums.
Overview of Electronic Drum Amps
The use of an amp for electronic drums has been around since the rise of digital drums in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As electronic drums gained more popularity, musicians began searching for options to get the best sound out of their equipment. This led to the development of drum amplifiers that are specifically designed to enhance and amplify electronic drum sets.
Over the years, drum amps have evolved and become more sophisticated, providing drummers with the most high-quality sound possible. There are many different types of electronic drum amps on the market, but some stand out as the best electronic drum amps available.
One such amp is the Alesis Strike Amp 12, which delivers 2000 watts of power and provides a full-range sound that can handle the most demanding music styles. It is designed to be used with an electronic drum set and is equipped with both a drum monitor and a drum amplifier, making it perfect for use in a variety of settings.
Another popular option is the Roland PM 200, which is a powerful keyboard amp that can also be used as a drum monitor. It delivers clear and powerful sound, making it an ideal choice for electronic drummers who want to get the best sound possible.
In addition to these top options, there are many other drum monitors and amps available on the market that can provide high-quality sound for electronic drum sets. Most electronic drum amps come with a built-in drum module and band EQ, allowing users to fine-tune their sound to their liking.
Electronic drum sets have become increasingly popular over the years, and the use of a drum amplifier is essential for musicians who want to get the most out of their equipment. Whether playing live or practicing at home, a purpose-designed amp for electric drums can make all the difference in producing the best possible sound for the kick drum or bass drum, as well as the rest of the kit. With the right drum amp, electronic drummers can be assured of optimal sound output and clarity.
Buyers Guide for Electronic Drum Amps
Some factors to consider when choosing the best electronic drum amp include:
Sound Quality
High-quality sound is crucial when selecting an amp for your electronic drum kit. The amp should accurately reproduce the nuances of your drumming, from the lowest bass drum to the highest snare drums, without distortion or loss of clarity.
Wattage and Power
Choose an amp with enough wattage to accommodate your needs. For practice sessions, a lower-powered amp will suffice, but for live performances or playing with a band, you'll need a higher-powered amp that can produce loud volumes without distortion.
Size and Portability
The size of the amp should be appropriate for your space and transportation needs. If you plan on frequently moving your drum kit, opt for a compact and portable amp.
Versatility
A versatile amp can handle not only drums but also other electronic instruments like keyboards and guitars. Look for amps with multiple line inputs and independent volume controls for added flexibility.
Independent Volume Controls
Amps with independent volume controls allow you to adjust the levels of individual instruments, giving you greater control over your sound.
EQ Knobs
EQ knobs help you shape your drum sound by adjusting the bass, mid, and treble frequencies.
Aux Input
An aux input allows you to connect external devices like smartphones or MP3 players, enabling you to play along with your favorite tracks.
Dual XLR Outputs
These outputs let you connect the amp to a PA system or recording equipment for live performances or studio sessions.
High-Frequency Compression Driver
A high-frequency compression driver ensures clear and accurate reproduction of cymbal and snare drum sounds.
Price
Consider your budget when selecting an amp. While premium amps offer superior sound quality and features, there are also more affordable options that provide excellent performance.
Using a Guitar Amp
While not specifically designed for drums, guitar amps can be a viable option for electronic drummers on a budget. Look for a guitar amp with enough power and an EQ section to shape your drum sound.
Using a Keyboard Amp
Keyboard amps are another alternative for electronic drummers. These versatile amps often come with multiple line inputs and high-quality speakers, making them suitable for electronic drums.
Using a Bass Amp
Bass amps can produce low pitch sounds, making them compatible with electronic drums. However, they may not offer the same level of clarity and responsiveness as dedicated drum amps.
The Top 3 Best Electronic Drum Amps
Alesis Strike Amp 12
The Alesis Strike Amp 12 is designed specifically for electronic drums and delivers 2000 watts of power. With its 12-inch high-frequency driver and band EQ, this amp offers exceptional sound quality, making it one of the best electronic drum amps on the market.
Roland PM-200
The Roland PM-200 is another top choice for electronic drummers. This amp is tailored for Roland's V-Drums but works well with other electronic drum kits too. It features 180 watts of output power and a custom full-range speaker system for clear, dynamic sound.
Roland PM-100
Rounding out the top three is the Roland PM-100, a compact and portable keyboard amp that can also be used as a drum monitor. This amp offers 80 watts of output power, two XLR outputs for PA use, and an aux input so you can jam along with your favorite tracks.
Selecting the right electronic drum amp for your needs will depend on several factors, such as sound quality, wattage, portability, features, and price. With the options listed here, you're sure to find an amp that meets your requirements and budget.
Maximize Your Electronic Drumming Experience
- Update your drum module's firmware
- Experiment with different drum kits and sound settings
- Use headphones or in-ear monitors for more accurate monitoring
- Practice sound mixing and mastering techniques
FAQs About the Best Electronic Drum Amps
Can I use a guitar amp for electronic drums?
Yes, but the sound quality of most amps may not be as good as a dedicated drum amp.
Is wattage important when choosing an electronic drum amp?
Yes, the wattage determines the amp's power and volume capabilities.
Can I connect my electronic drum sets to a PA system?
Yes, use the appropriate cables and outputs to connect your drum kit to a PA system.
Do I need a separate amp for each electronic instrument?
No, versatile amps with multiple line inputs can handle multiple instruments.
What size amp should I choose for my electronic drum kit?
Consider the space available, your transportation needs, and the required power for your intended use.
Can I use a bass amp for electronic drums?
Yes, but the sound quality may not be as good as a dedicated drum amp.
Do I need a high-frequency compression driver in my electronic drum amp?
While not essential, a high-frequency compression driver can improve the clarity and accuracy of cymbal and snare drum sounds.
Can I use an electronic drum amp for acoustic drums?
No, electronic drum amps are designed specifically for electronic drums and won't work well with acoustic drums.
How can I improve the sound quality of my electronic drum set?
Update your drum module's firmware, experiment with different drum kits and sound settings, and practice sound mixing and mastering techniques.
Is there a significant difference between the sound produced by other amps and a dedicated drum amp?
A dedicated drum amp is designed specifically for electronic drums and will generally provide better sound quality and responsiveness than a non-dedicated electronic amp.
Summary of the Best Electronic Drum Amps
In conclusion, finding the best electronic drum amp for you and your situation requires considering factors like sound quality, wattage, size, versatility, and price.
- The Alesis Strike Amp 12 and Roland PM-200 are top choices, but guitar, keyboard, and bass amps can also be viable options.
- Look for features like independent volume controls, EQ knobs, aux input, dual XLR outputs, and a high-frequency compression driver to get the most out of your electronic drum kit.
Just to recap, here again are our favorites:
Best Overall: Alesis Strike Amp 12
Best for Roland V-Drums: Roland PM-200
Best Budget Option: Roland PM-100
Thanks for checking us out, and keep rockin’!
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