Drum kits are the single best value on the used market. A kit that costs $800-$1,200 new can be found for $300-$500 used, and drums improve with age — the shells dry out and become more resonant over time.
The Pearl Export series has been the world's best-selling drum kit for decades. A used Pearl Export with hardware for $300-$400 is an incredible deal. Tama Imperialstar and PDP Concept Maple are also excellent in this range.
When buying used drums, you are buying the shells — heads and cymbals are consumables. Budget $50-$100 for new drum heads (Remo Ambassador or Evans G2) and your used kit will sound professional.
Electronic drum kits from Roland, Alesis, and Yamaha also appear in this range. A used Roland TD-1DMK or Alesis Nitro Mesh is perfect for apartment practice — play with headphones at any hour.
