If you have an electronic drum kit, you’re going to need some sticks to start playing. Grabbing any pair of sticks off the shelf may work, but there’s a high potential that they’ll feel to heavy or long, making drumming uncomfortable right from the start.
You’ll love drumming way more if you get the right sticks, so here’s a short guide to help anyone just starting off.
Acoustic vs Electronic Drumsticks
It’s important to understand that there is no difference between drumsticks for electronic and acoustic drums. You can get one pair and use them on both. There are a few pairs that will work slightly better for electronic kits, though.
The big difference is between drum kit and marching sticks. Marching sticks are far thicker, so they’re not usable on drum kits.
Types of Drumsticks
All wooden sticks are made from hickory, maple, or oak. Those different materials affect how the sticks feel and sound on acoustic drums, but they’re not as important with electronic drums.
The main thing to know for e-kits is that you get sticks with wooden and nylon tips. Nylon tips are a better option, as they’re less likely to damage the pads.
Wooden tips can splinter and cut holes through mesh heads. It’s really not that common, though, so you shouldn’t panic if you already have wooden tips.
Best Drumsticks to Get
Here’s what you need to know about different drumstick sizes and how they’ll affect your electronic drumming experience.
5A Drumsticks
5A sticks have a standard length, weight, and thickness. They tend to feel great for everyone, so they’re the best sticks to start with.
I’ve found that you can never go wrong with a pair of 5A nylon tips for electronic drums.
7A Drumsticks
These sticks are thinner and lighter compared to 5A drumsticks. They’re easier to use for most people, as the lighter weight allows you to play faster.
They’re just not as durable, and you could end up breaking them if you hit hard.
5B Drumsticks
These are thicker and heavier than 5As. They’re great for drummers who want something a bit meatier in their hands. They’ll help you play louder without moving your arms as much. They’re too heavy for some people, though.
Finding The Perfect Pair: Final Thoughts
Trying out those three stick sizes is the best thing you can do to find out which one you like the most. Most music stores will allow you to do this. You can just play around on an e-kit with all three to make your decision.
They all work well, so none of them is the wrong choice. You should also ideally get ones with nylon tips, but I wouldn’t say it’s the end of the world if you get wooden tips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size drumstick is best for electronic drums?
5A, 5B, and 7A are the best sizes. They’re good for beginners to start with and develop preferences from there.
Should I get 5A or 5B drumsticks for electronic drums?
5As are typically loved by more drummers, so they’re a safer option. You may prefer the heavier weight and thicker feel of 5Bs, though. They’re both good for electronic drums.
What kind of drumsticks are for electronic drums?
Any type of drumstick will work for electronic kits. It’s safer to use ones with nylon tips, but it’s rare that wooden tips will do any damage.
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