The Best Electric Drum Amp for Your Kit
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best electric drum amp for your budget and situation, along with our Top 3 recommendations!
Electric drum amps have revolutionized the way drummers play and perform. With advancements in technology, electric drum kits have become a popular choice for professional drummers, aspiring musicians, and hobbyists alike.
These advanced drum kits require exceptional amplification to deliver the desired sound quality. In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of electric drum amps and explore how they enhance the performance of drummers, as well as how to choose the best drum amp for yourself.
Electronic Drum Amplifier Overview
The history of electric drum amps begins with the rise of electronic drums as a popular alternative to acoustic drums in the late twentieth century. Drum kits were getting bigger and louder, and electronic drums were a way to reduce the size and volume of drum sets while still producing dynamic sound.
As electronic drums gained popularity, so did the need for electronic drum amplifiers. These amps were designed specifically to enhance the sound produced by electronic drum kits and were different from guitar amps or bass amps. Drum amps and monitors were created to provide a balanced sound and allow for playing electronic drums in a variety of settings.
The early electronic drum amplifiers were basic and had limited output power, but as technology evolved, so did the quality of electronic drum amps. The best electronic drum amps today can rival the sound quality of acoustic drums, thanks to advancements like high frequency compression drivers and dynamic sound technology.
Amp brands like Alesis and Roland have been at the forefront of electronic drum amps, offering models like the Alesis Strike Amp 12 and Strike Amp 8, built with high quality materials and fantastic sound quality. The Alesis Strike Amp even has independent volume controls for each input, as well as Bluetooth connectivity and peak power of up to 2000 watts.
Drum monitors are another essential component of electronic drum kits. They allow the drummer to hear their own drum sound and music playback with clarity and precision. Models like the Roland PM-200 offer line inputs and aux inputs, making it easy to connect and control other electronic instruments or devices.
In addition to electronic drums, electronic instruments like keyboards and digital drums can also benefit from the use of drum amplifiers. Guitar amps and bass amps may also be used for electronic drums in certain settings.
The versatility and compact size of electronic drum amps make them a popular choice for drummers who want high quality sound without the bulk of traditional drum amplifiers. Headphone output and line inputs make them an ideal option for practice amps or personal drum monitors.
Overall, the history of electronic drum amplifiers has been one of innovation and advancement, leading to top rated drum amps that provide a balanced and high quality sound for not only drums, but also a variety of other electronic instruments.
Electronic Drum Amplifier Buyer’s Guide
If you're in the market for an electronic drum amp, there are several features and benefits that you should consider before making your final choice.
Wattage Needed
Firstly, you'll want to consider the wattage of the amp. Most drum amps range between 20-200 watts of power, with practice amps being at the lower end of that range. The amount of power you need will depend on the size of the venue you plan to play in and how loud you need to be.
Inputs and Outputs
Another important factor is the number and type of inputs and outputs that the amp has. Look for an amp with line and aux inputs for connecting other instruments or devices. Dual XLR outputs allow you to connect to external sound systems or recording equipment.
Type of E-Drums
Also consider the type(s) of e-drums you have. Some electronic drum amps are specialized for certain drum kits, such as Roland V-Drums or Alesis Strike. You'll want to make sure that the amp you choose is compatible with your specific drum module and kick drum.
Additional Features
Some drum amps come with a built-in personal drum monitor, which can be a useful feature for monitoring your performance. Additionally, amps with Bluetooth connectivity make it easy to play along with your favorite songs or practice tracks.
For a high-quality drum amp, look for models with a two-band EQ and a high-frequency compression driver. These features help to enhance the sound quality and allow you to adjust the sound to your liking.
Overall, the best electronic drum amp for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. With the right features and benefits, however, you'll be able to find an amp that will enhance your electronic drumming experience.
Top 3 Amps for Your Electronic Drum Kit
KAT Percussion KA1
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the KAT Percussion KA1 is a popular choice. It offers 50 watts of power, an aux input, and a headphone jack for private practice. This amp offers independent volume control for each channel, letting drummers adjust their own levels without affecting the other players.
The KA1 also includes an aux input for connecting external audio devices, as well as headphone output for silent practice. Although less powerful than the KA2, its compact size and durable construction make it an ideal choice for touring musicians.
Roland PM-200
The Roland PM-200 is a 200W, 4-channel drum amplifier offering the same features as the PM-100 but with more power and inputs. The PM-200 includes an anti-feedback processor to eliminate unwanted hum and feedback, plus an integrated mixer with dedicated volume controls for each input.
It has a 12" woofer that provides clear sound even at high volumes, and a tweeter for high-frequency definition. It also has a headphone output for silent practice. Its advanced features make it suitable for larger venues and loud stages.
Alesis Strike Amp 12
The Alesis Strike Amp 12 is a high-performance drum amplifier that features a 12-inch speaker with 200 watts of power. It offers three channels, each with its own volume and EQ controls, allowing drummers to control their sound with precision.
The Strike Amp 12 also includes an AUX input for connecting audio devices, as well as a headphone jack for silent practice. And like its predecessor, the Alesis Strike Amp 8, its rugged design makes it suitable for touring and live performances.
FAQs About the Best Electronic Drum Amps
What is an electronic drum amp?
An electronic drum amp is a type of amplifier designed specifically for electronic drums. It is used to amplify the sound produced by electronic drum kits.
How is an electronic drum amp different from a guitar amp or keyboard amp?
Electronic drum amps are specifically designed to deliver the unique sound quality of electronic drums. Unlike guitar or keyboard amps, electronic drum amps have dedicated input channels for different parts of the drum kit, such as the bass drum and the snare.
What is the best electronic drum amp for practice?
The best electronic drum amp for practice will depend on your specific needs and budget. Generally, a compact drum amp with a two-band EQ and a line input for other instruments can be a good option.
What is the difference between peak power and output power in an electronic drum amp?
Peak power refers to the maximum amount of power that an electronic drum amp can deliver for short periods of time. Output power, on the other hand, is the amount of power that an electronic drum amp can deliver continuously.
What is the recommended power output for an electronic drum amp?
The recommended power output for an electronic drum amp will depend on the size of your electronic drum set and the venue where you will be playing. Generally, a power output between 50 and 100 watts can be a good option for most situations.
Can I use an electronic drum amp for other instruments, such as electric guitars or keyboards?
Yes, you can use an electronic drum amp for other instruments. Most models have a line input that allows you to connect other devices.
What is a personal drum monitor?
A personal drum monitor is a type of speaker designed to be placed near the drummer so they can hear themselves better without the need for a separate mixer or PA system.
What is the difference between an electronic drum amp and electronic drum monitors?
Electronic drum amps are designed to amplify the sound of the complete electronic drum kit, whereas electronic drum monitors are designed to deliver more precise and accurate sound for individual components of the kit.
What are some features to look for in an amp for electronic drums?
When looking for the best electronic drum amps, you may want to consider features such as Bluetooth connectivity, wattage output, sound quality, portability, and input channels for other instruments.
Can I use a practice amp for live performances?
While a practice amp can be useful for practicing at home, it may not be powerful enough for live performances in larger venues. You may need a more powerful electronic drum amp or PA system.
Summary of the Best Electronic Drum Amps
While a guitar amp might be a cost-effective solution, it does not compare to the specific features and sound quality offered by a dedicated e-drum amplifier, and keep in mind that different drum kits will sound better through different amps.
Here again are our favorites:
Best Budget Option: KAT Percussion KA1
Best for Using As a Monitor: Roland PM-200
Best Overall: Alesis Strike Amp 12
Thanks for checking us out, and keep rockin’!
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