Best Roland Electronic Drum Sets

Ultimate Buying Guide

Introduction:

It’s no secret that Roland is the leading manufacturer of electronic drums in the world.

You can’t have a conversation about e-kits without mentioning Roland. All their products are seriously high-quality and they make many different kits for every kind of drummer.

 Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, Roland has a kit that will work just for you. We’re going to look at some of their best kits and see what makes them so good.

Quick Rundown:

These are My Picks for the 

Best Roland Electronic drums

Image
Product
Features
  • Powered by the TD-50X sound module
  • Preloaded with 70 premium kits and 900 instrument sounds
  • Roland's Flagship Line of Hybrid Drum Sets
  • Full-size wood shells, tuneable mesh heads
  • Roland's Flagship Mid-level V-Drums Kit
  • Output audio and MIDI over USB
  • Roland TD-17 Sound Module
  • Stream songs and MIDI over Bluetooth

FEATURED ON

The 5 Best Roland Electronic Drum Sets

The Roland TD-50KV2 is an example of excellence within Roland’s V-Drums series. Building upon the legacy of its predecessors, this kit manages to bring the high-end experience to a new standard.

Even though the shells might resemble those of the compact TD-50K, the TD-50KV2 boasts full-sized shells, resonating with the feel of a traditional 5-piece acoustic kit. It maintains the appearance of classic V-Drums but elevates the quality to match Roland’s flagship standards. But dont worry about its footprint it still has managable size.

The two standout pads on the kit are the bass drum and snare drum pads. The snare is the PD-140DS, while the kick is the KD-222. Both these pads reflect Roland’s commitment to top-tier craftsmanship and playability.

At the heart of this kit is the Roland TD-50X drum module, the same cutting-edge module used across Roland’s highest-quality kits. It offers an incredible collection of features, providing an almost limitless palette for sound customization and control.

Overall, the TD-50KV2 not only looks fantastic but feels sublime as well. If you have a predilection for the traditional appearance of V-Drums without compromising on quality, this is the perfect kit for you. It’s a market leader, retaining the classic aesthetics while being at the forefront of electronic drum industry.

Build Quality
99%
Performance
100%
Price to Value Ratio
92%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Prismatic Sound Modeling Engine
  • Realistic drum shells
  • Large bass drum and cymbals
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Very expensive

Roland has pushed boundaries even further with this kit, creating an electronic drum set that looks almost identical to an acoustic kit. The idea behind this kit is to have an acoustic aesthetic with all the electronic features of an e-kit. 

The full-depth wooden shells are equipped with Roland’s classic mesh heads. They’re tunable, allowing you to get the tensions that you’re accustomed to from your acoustic drum set. 

The kit also uses Roland’s Prismatic Sound Modeling technology. The kit comes with the Roland TD-27 module. It’s not as advanced as the TD-50 module. However, it still packs a serious amount of features and sounds. 

The kit has full-sized cymbals, meaning the only difference it has from an acoustic set is that the sounds are electronic

It’s a fantastic kit for anyone wanting the stage presence of an acoustic set with the innovation of an electronic one. In this line there’s also the Roland VAD706, the Roland VAD306 and the smaller VAD103.

Build Quality
98%
Performance
99%
Price to Value Ratio
95%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Looks like an acoustic drum set
  • Prismatic Sound Modeling Engine
  • Full-sized drums
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Expensive

The TD-27KV2 is advertised as Roland’s mid-level flagship kit. It has most of the features of the upper-tier kits, yet it comes at a more affordable price. It has the classic look of the electronic kits that everyone has come to know and love. 

The two best features of this kit are the snare drum and the ride cymbal. The snare drum has 8 sensors, allowing you to play all kinds of dynamics and accented notes. It even sits on a snare stand. The ride cymbal is one of Roland’s best cymbal pads, having multiple playing zones and great responsiveness. 

This kit is great for anyone who wants the professional quality of a high-end kit but doesn’t want to pay the excessive price of the top models. It’s still fairly expensive. 

Build Quality
95%
Performance
94%
Price to Value Ratio
98%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Top-of-the-range features at a more affordable cost
  • Excellent snare and ride pads
  • TD-27 module is fantastic
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Still relatively expensive

The TD-17KVX is another kit from Roland that is packed with many great features. It comes with the TD-17 module which has many sounds that derived from the TD-50. With 50 preset kits and over 300 onboard sounds, you have a lot to work with.

The kit has a fairly standard electronic setup with mesh heads. However, the three notable parts are the PDX-12 snare drum head, the KD-10 kick pad, and the VH-10 hi-hat. The snare pad has dual-triggers and produces lifelike responsiveness. The kick pad feels very similar to an acoustic kick even though it’s small. The hi-hat pad mounts to a standard hi-hat stand, something that isn’t commonly seen in electronic kits at this price

Overall, it’s a great intermediate kit that will work in most professional situations. 

Build Quality
92%
Performance
90%
Price to Value Ratio
94%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • 50 preset kits and over 300 onboard sounds
  • Hi-hat pad mounts to hi-hat stand
  • Many innovative features
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • You can’t replace the heads with other brand’s heads

Best Roland Drum Kit for Beginners

The TD-02KV is one of Roland’s attractive options for those looking to break into the world of electronic drumming. This model strikes a balance by providing some of the features found in higher-end models but at a more accessible price point.

The standout features of this kit are undoubtedly the snare drum and the sound module. The mesh snare, though not as advanced as some, provides a realistic feel and response that will be appreciated by both beginners and intermediate players. It catches the dynamics nicely, enabling various playing styles.

The sound module of the TD-02KV, while not the most extensive in Roland’s line, is well-crafted for its purpose. It houses a collection of sounds and preset kits that are quality over quantity. They cover the essentials and don’t overwhelm the player, particularly those new to electronic drumming.

This kit is ideal for anyone who desires a touch of professionalism and Roland’s quality without the expense of their premium models. It’s priced attractively, especially considering the balance of features it offers, but it’s worth noting that there are more budget-friendly options for absolute beginners.

Build Quality
88%
Performance
90%
Price to Value Ratio
95%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Basic design that is conducive to beginners
  • Mesh heads on snare at an affordable price
  • Easy to use Drum Module
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • None

What Makes a Great Roland Electronic Drum Set?


A great Roland drum set will fit your situation. If you need a quiet kit that won’t bother anyone, a great Roland kit will have pads that don’t make a noise and user-friendly controls to make sure sound isn’t an issue. Thankfully, all Roland kits follow these designs. 

A great Roland kit will also have great sounds. Roland creates their samples from scratch instead of sampling them from acoustic studio drum kits. This gives you more control over how they sound. Every Roland kit has some immaculate sound quality and fantastic preset drum kits. 

Best Roland Electronic Drum Sets

How we Tested These Roland Electronic Drum Sets


In our pursuit of a comprehensive and unbiased review of Roland’s respected line of electronic drum sets, we employed a rigorous testing methodology that aimed to evaluate every aspect of performance, feel, and overall quality. Here’s a glimpse into our process:

  1. Initial Inspection and Setup: We began by unboxing and carefully inspecting each kit, assessing the build quality, design, and ease of assembly. Professional drum techs were enlisted to ensure that setup mirrored real-world conditions.

     

  2. Performance Testing: As professional drummers, we put these kits through their paces in both live and studio environments. Different musical styles and techniques were executed to assess the responsiveness, sensitivity, and dynamics of the pads, cymbals, and modules.

     

  3. Sound Quality Evaluation: Through the use of professional-grade monitoring systems, we analyzed the audio output, exploring the tonal range, sound customization options, and the authenticity of the presets. Various genres were played to gauge how each kit adapted to diverse musical demands.

     

  4. Durability and Portability Assessment: A series of stress tests were conducted to determine the kits’ resilience under regular and intensive playing. We also evaluated their suitability for touring musicians, taking into account size, weight, and ease of transportation.

     

  5. Comparison with Competing Brands: To provide a well-rounded perspective, we compared Roland’s offerings with other leading brands, like Alesis, in similar price ranges. This aided us in pinpointing where Roland stands in terms of value, quality, and innovation.

     

  6. User Experience and Accessibility: Our testing also included the perspective of beginners and intermediate players, focusing on the user-friendliness of modules, the learning curve involved, and how the kits cater to the evolving needs of drummers at different skill levels.

The results of these meticulous testing methods provided us with an in-depth understanding of what Roland’s electronic drum sets have to offer. 

It allowed us to present a balanced view, containing both the achievements and potential areas of improvement for each kit, ensuring that our readers can make informed decisions based on their unique drumming requirements and aspirations.

FAQ:

What is the best Roland electronic drum kit?

The best Roland kit would be their flagship electronic drum set, the Roland TD-50KV. It’s packed with a serious amount of useful functions as well as quality sounds. 

It also feels extremely realistic to play on, blending the worlds of electronic and acoustic drumming. It’s very expensive, yet the quality is well worth the hefty price. 

What are the best electronic drum sets?

The best electronic drum sets are the ones with many features and good sounds. They also have realistic mesh pads that are responsive and tuneable. They’re durable, lasting you many years of use. 

Every company that sells electronic kits have top-quality models on offer. The most popular brands of electronic kits are Roland, Yamaha, and Alesis. Some other companies that sell electronic kits are Pearl and Medeli. 

Which is better Roland or Yamaha electronic drums?

This is a great debate that will never have a concrete answer. Roland and Yamaha are undoubtedly the two main players in the electronic drum kit market. The two companies have some differences in their product designs. 

Firstly Roland kits have mesh heads while Yamaha kits have silicone heads. Both are intended to feel like acoustic drum heads and have realistic response. Mesh and silicone heads feel fairly different from each other, but they have the same goal. 

The second big difference is that Roland creates their own samples while Yamaha uses samples from their established lines of acoustic drums. 

Some drummers prefer Yamaha kits while others prefer Roland kits. There’s something for everyone from both brands. So, it comes down to personal preference. 

Are electronic drum sets any good?

Electronic drum kits aren’t as good as acoustic drum kits. However, they’re great tools for quiet practicing and using sounds that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to produce. Every drummer would benefit from having an e-kit. They’ll allow you to practice late into the night. 

Hybrid drumming has become a huge thing in modern drumming. Mixing electronic and acoustic drums seems to be the way of the future. So, electronic drum sets are great for getting into that. 

Is Roland a good brand for drums?

Yes, Roland is widely recognized as one of the leading brands in electronic drum technology. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Roland offers a range of drum kits that cater to beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals alike. Their V-Drums series is particularly praised for its responsiveness, realism, and robust build.

What is the best Roland V drum set for beginners?

For beginners looking to enter the world of electronic drumming, the Roland TD-1KV is often considered a superb starting point. 

It offers an affordable entry without sacrificing quality, allowing newcomers to explore various drumming styles and techniques. With user-friendly features and a design that can grow with the player’s skills, it’s an investment that provides both value and lasting enjoyment.

Which Roland module is best?

The Roland TD-50X drum module stands out as one of the best in the lineup, particularly for professionals and serious enthusiasts. 

It’s utilized across Roland’s top-tier kits and offers a vast array of customizable sounds, precise control, and unparalleled connectivity. This module’s extensive capabilities enable drummers to tailor their sound to perfection, making it an excellent choice for both live performance and studio recording.

What is better, Roland or Alesis?

Both Roland and Alesis are reputable brands, but they often cater to different needs and preferences. Roland is generally seen as the industry standard for electronic drum kits, known for their high-end quality, innovation, and professional-grade features. 

Alesis, on the other hand, offers a wide range of options with great value, particularly for those on a budget or just starting out. While Roland might be preferred by professionals and those seeking top-tier performance, Alesis can be an excellent choice for those looking for affordability without compromising too much on quality. The “better” choice will ultimately depend on individual needs, preferences, and budget.

 

Conclusion

Electronic drum kits have become a lot more accessible in recent times. Although the products on this list have been very expensive, there are a lot of affordable high-quality electronic drum kits out there.

They won’t offer the same sound quality and features though. So, if you’re looking for the best of the best from Roland, consider buying one of the kits from the list above. 

Once you decided what drum kit is for you check a good amp and this guide con amplification

Brett Clur has a Drum Performance Diploma from Trinity College London  has been playing drums for over 20 years. He is passionate about advanced concepts and uses his years of experience to teach his students about them. While he is a full-time drum teacher, he is also working on growing a YouTube channel where shares his insights. You can see him playing there, or on Instagram where he posts daily videos.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This

9 Tips
to Get Faster

Subscribe to our ninja mailing list and get a Free E-book!