New drum gear of the month: review round-up (December 2011)

Drum gear of the month: December 2011

Every month MusicRadar's industry-leading sister magazines - Guitarist, Computer Music, Total Guitar, Rhythm, Future Music and Guitar Techniques - publish the best independent and in-depth music-making gear reviews.

This is a collection of kits, percussion, accessories and more from Rhythm Magazine's gruelling testing process. First reviewed in Rhythm issue 197 and published on MusicRadar throughout November.

Scroll on for this month’s top picks and click through to read each product’s full review. First up: an Iron Maiden branded kit from Premier.

Premier Spirit Of Maiden kit

MusicRadar’s verdict:

Whether you're a Maiden fan or not the Eddie graphics give this kit the sort of unique look that you'd expect to ﬁnd on a much more expensive kit.

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Premier Spirit Of Maiden kit

(Reviewed in Rhythm Magazine issue 197)

Blue Microphones Drum Kit Kit

MusicRadar’s verdict:

Less of an accessory than a serious tool for the drummer who records regularly (or even the studio owner who requires their capability), the mics are expensive but their exceptional performance justifies the outlay.

FULL REVIEW: Blue Microphones Drum Kit Kit

(Reviewed in Rhythm Magazine issue 197)

Impression Rock & Jazz Series Cymbals

MusicRadar’s verdict:

If this small selection from the large array of available models is representative then this is a brand to watch. All of these cymbals are good; some of them are seriously good.

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Impression Rock & Jazz Series Cymbals

(Reviewed in Rhythm Magazine issue 197)

Porter And Davies BC Gigster

MusicRadar’s verdict:

The BC Gigster is a welcome addition from Porter and Davies. It's built to the same standard as the BC2, is identical in performance terms while carrying a smaller price tag.

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Porter And Davies BC Gigster

(Reviewed in Rhythm Magazine issue 197)

Traps Drums A400

MusicRadar’s verdict:

Throughout the review we had to keep reminding ourselves that we had a complete kit here for under £300 - five drums and a rack (which could also be used for an add-on to a standard acoustic set-up too). It's excellent value for money.

3 out of 5

Traps Drums A400 currently available from Thomann

FULL REVIEW: Traps Drums A400

(Reviewed in Rhythm Magazine issue 197)

BUY: Traps Drums A400 currently available from:
UK: Thomann | DV247

De Gregorio Maestral Cajon

MusicRadar’s verdict:

De Gregorio has carved out a formidable reputation over the last few years, and their creations are beautifully made and sound incredible, as well as possessing real character. The Maestral is a stunning addition to DG's catalogue.