How to Set Up a Drum Kit for Beginners

Set the throne first, then build the kit around it. Every kit is a little different, so treat this as a starting point and move things until you can play without stretching.

A kit set up well makes a big difference to comfort. If you're reaching, stretching, or hunching, your shoulders and back will tell you soon enough. Set the throne first, then build around it.

1. Set the throne

Sit on the throne with your feet on the pedals and your hands where the snare will go. Adjust the height so your thighs slope slightly down from hip to knee, and your knees sit a little below your hips. Your feet should reach the pedals without stretching. You should be able to stand and sit back down without the throne shifting.

2. Place the snare

Put the snare between your knees, with the top of the drum roughly at waist height. Angle it slightly toward you. Your hands should drop onto the head without lifting your elbows or bending your wrists.

3. Position the hi-hat

Place the hi-hat to your left, within easy reach of your left hand, at a height that lets your stick come down without lifting your shoulder. Many players set it level with or just above the snare.

4. Place the ride and crash

Put the ride cymbal on your right side, within reach of your right hand, and the crash on your left, angled so you can hit it without crossing your arms. Keep them close enough that you don't have to stretch for a common fill.

5. Set the toms

Mount the rack toms so the top of each sits near your arm's natural reach, angled toward you. Floor toms go on your right, at a height where you don't have to lift your arm. You should be able to play a roll without shifting your body.

6. Line up the bass drum pedal

Place the bass drum pedal under your right foot, with the beater striking near the centre of the head. Play from the ankle, not by swinging your whole leg. If you have to stretch to reach the pedal, move the bass drum closer or adjust the pedal.

7. Check and tighten

Sit down, play a few strokes on every drum and cymbal, and notice any reach you don't like. Move things rather than stretching. Once you're happy, tighten the stands and clamps. Check them again after your first session, because hardware loosens as you play.