Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit - Electric Drum vs ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit - 8" Double Layer

Overview of the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit

The Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit is a premium electronic drum set designed for beginners and intermediate players. Priced at $799.00, this kit features quiet dual-zone mesh pads that provide a responsive playing experience. The kit includes a 10” dual-zone mesh snare drum, three 8” dual-zone mesh toms, and various cymbals, making it a comprehensive setup for aspiring drummers.

The Command Mesh SE Kit is equipped with the Command Advanced Drum Module, which houses 74 kits and 671 sounds, including multi-velocity samples. This vast range of sounds contributes to a highly versatile drumming experience. Additionally, the kit comes with USB MIDI connectivity, allowing users to connect to a computer and access a library of add-on drum kits through BFD Player software, enhancing practice and recording possibilities.

Overview of the ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit

The ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit is a more budget-friendly option, priced at $199.99, making it about 75% cheaper than the Alesis kit. This kit features eight-inch double-layer mesh pads that aim to replicate the feel of acoustic drums while being compact and easy to store. It also includes three 8” mesh drum pads, a kick drum, and three 10” cymbals, offering a full-sized drumming experience suitable for both kids and adults.

The ALLSET kit boasts a drum module with 210 sounds and built-in features like play-along songs, a metronome, and the ability to connect to PC/Mac via USB. This connectivity allows users to unlock BFD Player for additional sound options, making it a practical choice for beginners looking to develop their drumming skills without breaking the bank.

Sound Quality Comparison

When it comes to sound quality, the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit offers a more extensive selection with 671 sounds compared to the 210 sounds provided by the ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit. The Alesis kit's Command Advanced Drum Module includes multi-velocity samples that closely mimic acoustic drum responses, enhancing realism and playability.

While the ALLSET kit's module also provides quality sounds, it simply doesn't match the breadth and sophistication of the Alesis offering. This difference is significant for players aiming for a more professional sound in their practice and performances, making the Alesis a strong contender for those focused on sound quality.

Playing Experience and Feel

The Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit is designed with larger, dual-zone mesh pads that replicate the feel of acoustic drums. The 10” dual-zone snare and three 8” toms provide a natural playing experience, which is crucial for developing proper drumming techniques. The durable design of the Alesis kit ensures that players can engage in rigorous practice without compromising the quality of their playing experience.

Conversely, the ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit, while providing a realistic drumming feel through its double-layer mesh heads, features smaller pads, which might not be as comfortable for more extensive playing sessions. Although it is a solid option for beginners, serious drummers might find the Alesis kit offers a more satisfying playing experience.

Features and Extras

In terms of features, the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit is loaded with extras. It includes a free 30-day trial of Melodics Premium, which offers engaging lessons to accelerate learning. Additionally, users can connect their drum kit to computers via USB/MIDI for recording and sample addition, allowing for a highly customizable experience.

The ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit also offers useful features, such as built-in play-along songs and a metronome, which are beneficial for practice. However, it lacks the extensive range of extras found in the Alesis kit, making it less versatile for those looking to expand their musical capabilities.

Storage and Portability

Storage and portability are essential factors for drummers with limited space. The ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit offers a compact, foldable design, making it easy to store when not in use. Its lightweight construction is ideal for those who may need to transport their kit frequently.

In contrast, while the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit includes a solid four-post adjustable rack, it may require more space both during setup and storage. For players who prioritize portability, the ALLSET kit’s design may be more appealing, especially for younger drummers or those with smaller practice areas.

Price Consideration

The price difference between the two kits is significant, with the Alesis kit retailing at $799.00 and the ALLSET kit at $199.99. This places the Alesis kit at approximately 75% more expensive than its competitor. For budget-conscious buyers or beginners just starting, the ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit presents a compelling option without compromising too much on quality.

However, for those who are serious about their drumming and willing to invest in a more advanced kit, the Alesis may justify its higher price tag with its superior features, sound quality, and overall playing experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit and the ALLSET Groove Electric Drum Kit ultimately depends on your skill level, budget, and specific needs as a drummer. If you are a beginner looking for a cost-effective, portable option for practice, the ALLSET kit is a great choice, offering decent features and playability at a significantly lower price. However, if you are more serious about drumming and can invest in a higher-quality kit, the Alesis Drums Command Mesh SE Kit delivers superior sound quality, a more realistic playing experience, and valuable learning resources, making it the better option for those ready to take their skills to the next level.