Expert: James Moyer - 6/2/2008

Question
Can you please tell me GP percussion 300B vs Percussion Plus brand which is better?

Answer
Tam,

GP are Chinese, like about 80% of all cheap sets. Percussion Plus is based in England, however I suspect the drums are also Chinese. Both sets will be the same quality with the following features. PowerTom sizes, which are no longer in favor with drummers, basswood shells, basic hardware and cymbals that are virtually junk. The heads will all be lousy and eventually you'll want to replace.

If you need to stay under $300 - and that is certainly understandable, I suggest the following. I think the set is $220 plus shipping. It is every bit as good as any other starter set out there, the hardware is pretty decent for this price and comes in 5 colors. I have bought 2 of these for schools in the area and they hold up well. Sigler Music is a great place to deal with too. It is Chinese like the sets you mentioned and I have played them. The heads are crap and so are the cymbals, but that's what you get at this price.

http://cgi.ebay.com/OSP-5-PIECE-DRUM-SET-W-CYMBALS-AND-HARDWARE-BLUE_W0QQitemZ35...


If you can wait a bit longer and save some more $$, you'll do MUCH better for under $400 with one of the following - in order of preference. All major drum companies, much better quality. If price is the issue - stick with the OSP.

Pacific Drums and Percussion Z5 (same folks as DW)
ddrum d2 - great starter kit - nice heads
Tama Imperialstar

For cymbals, - go to link below. Wuhan cymbals are good quality - AMAZING price. You'll be very happy with these no matter which of these sets you buy.

http://www.vintagedrum.com/category/Cymbals-New-Cymbals-New-Cymbal-Packs/brand/W...