Shell set consisting of:
Accessories included:
Pearl's updated Roadshow series offers high-quality, comprehensive beginners' drumkits for a fair price. There are a total of three different shell configurations, defined by the size of their bass drum: 18", 20", or 22". And since 2021 the Roadshow sets also come with either two or three Sabian Solar cymbals; the sets with three cymbals are denoted by a Plus in the product name. In any case, the 7mm shells are all made of nine-ply Asian white poplar wood and have a modern 45° bearing edge. An extensive hardware package from Pearl's 50 Series, consisting of double-braced hardware, a foot pedal with double chain drive, and a drum stool, is included as standard with each drumkit. A stick bag and drumsticks are also included – so the sets come with everything drummers need to just get drumming.
A 18"x12" bass drum and a 13"x5.5" snare drum combine with 10"x7", 12"x8", and 14"x10" toms, making this the smallest shell configuration in the Roadshow series. A cymbal set from Sabian, consisting of a 14" hi-hat, a 16" crash, and a 20" ride – as well as all the necessary hardware – rounds off the package. This compact drumkit offers a wide variety of sounds; what the compact shells rather lack in presence and projection is more than compensated for by the accessibility and playability of this excellent beginner's drumkit. The white poplar wood used here is also a popular material in starter sets, with acoustic properties comparable to those characteristic of birch wood; poplar sounds a little darker.
The Roadshow 18" is the ideal choice for younger drummers, especially considering the smaller sizes of its bass drum and floor tom. The 20" and 22" Roadshow sets do offer a little more volume, but perhaps a slightly less penetrating sound isn't the worst thing in the world for inexperienced drummers... Certainly, the versatile sound and the excellent hardware offer all sorts of opportunities to try out different styles and techniques – ideal for all beginners who know what they want right from the start. The Roadshow series also has a drumkit that's specifically tailored for even smaller children – Roadshow Jr., with shells designed so that even youngest drummers can play comfortably.
The Pearl company was founded in Japan in 1946 and has been making drums since 1950. After initially manufacturing exclusively for other brands, it began to produce drums under its own name in the 1960s. Initially, the company was strongly oriented towards American models, but over the course of time, more and more of its own designs were developed, and ultimately established themselves on the market. Today, Pearl is one of the world's leading manufacturers of drums, percussion instruments, and accessories. A milestone in Pearl's history is the Export Drumkit, introduced in 1982, which is believed to be the best-selling drum kit of all time.
The Roadshow 18" can be used for a variety of styles and, despite its junior shell sizes, is already capable of professional-sounding fills, grooves, and rolls, thanks also to the high-quality Sabian cymbals. The reduction in volume that comes with smaller sized drums can quickly become an advantage when playing at home, for parents, siblings, and neighbours alike! As a drummer's career progresses, however, this beginner's drumkit can be upgraded as needed. Additional effect cymbals such as a splash or china, or additional toms or percussion instruments, can be added to complement and challenge the growing skills of the beginner. One final useful addition for practising at home could also be a set of mute pads.