MusicRadar

Traps E400 features big all-mesh pads: tempting

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The 'other' big brand in worldwide E-kits, Yamaha's entry-level DTX is comprehensively equipped with 214 sounds and 32 ready to-go kits. The rubber pads (which make up a five-piece kit as opposed to the TD-3K's four) play as well as can be expected, and while the Roland option has the edge on sound, the DTXplorer is very well priced.
Read a review of Yamaha's DTXpress 4, DTXtreme IIS and DTXtreme III

3. Roland HD-1
£529

Genius packaging of the V-Drum concept means the new HD-1 is a realistic option for the most petite of practice spaces. The price might seem steep for such a modest-looking set-up, but the sonic quality that Roland instils in all its electronic goodies is still much in evidence.
Read the full review

4. Traps E400
£450

A departure from all other offerings here by virtue of its large all-mesh 'drum' pads, the E400 isn't the last word in refinement but does feel good to play. Big pads lend a sense of realism to the playing experience and, while sounds aren't of the highest quality, that sub-£500 price tag is tempting.
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5. Alesis DM5 Pro
£399

Another pleasingly playable budget option, the DM5 Pro kit harnesses mesh pads to the venerable DM5 sound module. Not a rig you'd want to set up and tear down every night of the week, it's a fun practice proposition, even if the DM5 itself is near pension age.
Read the full review