Drumming News
digitalDrummer is often asked for advice on the ‘best module’. However, as Allan Leibowitz notes, it’s more appropriate to consider the most suitable module for your needs.
The drum module is the cornerstone of any electronic drum kit and choosing the right one is crucial for crafting your ideal sound and performance experience. With so many options out there, there’s a lot to consider when making your choice:
1. Sound quality and variety
The first consideration should be the module’s sound library. Modules like the Pearl mimicPRO, Roland V71 or TD-50X, or Yamaha DTX ProX deliver high-quality, dynamic sounds, suitable for a wide range of genres. Look for a module that offers a diverse selection of preloaded kits and the ability to customize or upload your own samples. Superior sound engines and multi-layered samples ensure a more realistic drumming experience.
2. Connectivity and integration
A good drum module should offer robust connectivity. It’s important to consider both inputs and outputs. Look for sufficient dual-zone trigger inputs to support the number of drums and cymbals you want to include in your kit. MIDI and USB outputs are essential for integrating with DAWs, triggering virtual instruments, or expanding your kit with additional pads. Most modules today include a Bluetooth audio-in option to allow you to practice with backing tracks seamlessly. This is far more convenient than adding another cable, especially since few phones and tablets have dedicated audio out jacks.
3. User-friendly interface
Navigating a drum module shouldn’t feel like cracking a code. An intuitive interface with clearly labelled controls, a bright display, and accessible menus make creating, tweaking, and navigating kits faster and less frustrating. Thankfully, displays are getting bigger and easier to read, while we are also seeing the adoption of touch screens. However, some experts warn that these screens are liable to damage, especially for energetic gigging drummers. Besides the screen, many drummers also look for easy control features like individual physical volume sliders for the drums and cymbals.
4. Trigger response
Triggering accuracy and responsiveness are vital to any enjoyable drumming experience. One of the fundamental requirements is low latency – and digitalDrummer reviews always include an indication of module latency. In addition, drummers should look for features like support for multiple trigger zones, positional sensing and dynamic layering. Of course, it is also essential to ensure that your module is compatible with your triggers – and, importantly, that the module has sufficient tweaking options to maximize trigger compatibility.
5. Budget and expandability
While flagship modules include premium features, mid-range modules like the Roland TD-27, Yamaha DTX Pro or GEWA G5 can still deliver excellent value for money. Consider your budget and whether the module allows for future expansion, such as adding cymbals, auxiliary pads or upgraded sounds.
6. Open vs closed systems
While almost all modules are optimized for specific kit configurations, some have open systems while others are ‘closed’. The now-defunct NFUZD kit used proprietary cables, as did the also-extinct Mark Drum system, while early Yamaha modules were not compatible with ‘standard’ drum pads. Most modules today can be connected with any third-party trigger, but a number still have proprietary hi-hat control systems. These include Efnote and ATV, as well as the new Zildjian Alchem-E kits. Meanwhile, the new high-end Roland digital snare, ride and hi-hats are only supported by Roland’s advanced modules. It is, therefore, important to consider your full kit architecture when choosing a module. Make sure the brain you select can support the pads and cymbals you plan to add.
7. Practice features
For practice, features like built-in metronomes, coaching functions and play-along tracks are invaluable. Of course, these features may not be necessary for some drummers, but if you are using your kit as a learning tool and want to maximize the impact of your practice regime, look for a module with suitable onboard training tools.
8. Build quality and reliability
Modules range in price from a few hundred to thousands of dollars – and while price and quality are not always directly proportional, the more costly brains often have better warranty support. It is worth scrutinizing social media and e-drum forums to get a sense of which models are prone to ‘issues’ and which brands stand by their products. While drum brains are not pounded like drum pads and cymbals, they do get heavy use with multiple on-off cycles and intense CPU activity. Nonetheless, we still see 20-year-old modules working flawlessly – even if they don’t have all the bells and whistles of their newer rivals.
9. Updates
Today’s modules are effectively computers, which benefit from ongoing R&D. Many manufacturers roll out software updates – either firmware updates or content enhancements (sound library expansions). Whatever module you choose, make sure it is running the latest software, firmware and sample library before you start dialing in your pads and customizing the triggering and sounds.
10. New vs used
Buyers can save some money by sourcing pre-owned gear, and this is equally true for modules. As mentioned, a well cared-for brain can last for decades. It is often possible to buy a higher-spec used module for less than the cost of a brand-new inferior brain. However, buying second-hand is not without its risks, and you need to carefully examine any potential purchase before handing over the cash. You can reduce the risk by buying used gear from mainstream retailers. Many of the big names in e-drums, including drum-tec, edrumcenter and Guitar Center, often turn over their trade-ins – and offer limited warranties on used gear. Other options include floor stock or B stock (scratch and dent models) which usually have minimal wear and tear and generally come with a full warranty. But, of course, few of these options include the pleasure of opening a box for the first time, unwrapping the contents and registering the warranty – all part of the “buying new” experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right drum module is a crucial part of building your electronic drumming set-up. By considering your budget, playing style, sound quality and connectivity needs, you can find a module that meets your needs and helps you take your drumming to the next level.
All too often, we hear from readers who quickly “outgrow” their module, so it’s wise to consider your future needs rather than just your immediate circumstances. In the long run, it is cheaper to buy your last module first and not have to go through endless searching, buying and selling.
Experts say you should buy the best you can – and this will ensure you get the most out of your kit for the longest time.
So, consider your needs, research the options, see how far you can stretch your budget and choose wisely as the module is the heart of your kit and the most important part of the e-drum experience.
Allan Leibowitz discovered electronic drums when returning to drumming later in life, seeking a solution for noise control. Unable to find reliable reviews, he launched digitalDrummer in 2010. As an award-winning journalist, Allan has reviewed most e-drum gear, advised manufacturers, and beta-tested key products.
He continues to use e-drums for practice, rehearsals, collaborations, and live performances, drawing from his diverse instrument collection. Alongside his drumming passion, Allan has had a successful career in business journalism, earning awards in motoring, travel writing, and event organization. He recently hosted the E-drum Labs at the UK Drum Show in Liverpool.