The Gretsch Energy is a solid entry to mid-level kit coming from one of the oldest and most prestigious drum manufacturers around, which offers great overall value for this price range. The drums are made in the US (Ridgeland, South Carolina to be exact) and are known (as most Gretsch sets are) for their high quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a sharp, precise tone. There are definitely cheaper all-in-one kits out there (like the pearl roadshow, for example), however you definitely get a bump in quality with the premium you pay for the Gretsch name. Let’s dive into the look and sound of the kit!
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What’s Included – Shell Pack Description, Cymbals & More
The reason the Gretsch energy is a good entry-level kit is because it comes ready to play right out of the box. Everything, with the exception of a drum throne, is included. The set comes with:
Drums
- Bass drum: 22×18″
- Rack toms: 10×7″, 12×8″
- Floor tom: 16×14″
- Snare: 14×5-1/2″
- Zildjan Planet Z Hi-Hat Cymbals 13″
- Zildjan Planet Z Ride Cymbal 20″
- Zildjan Planet Z Crash Cymbal 16″
Hardware
- Bass drum pedal
- Tom mount
- Hi-hat stand
- Snare stand
- Boom cymbal stand
- Straight cymbal stand
- Remo drum heads
The drum shells are 7-ply poplar with 30 degree bearing edges, and come in a variety of different colored finishes. The drums also feature triple-flanged hoops. Overall the manufacturing quality is great and the shells offer high durability and quality sound.
Drum Sound
Overall, the drum set sounds boxy and energetic, I got a real class rock feel from them. The bass drum produces a deep and full tone. The toms have a lot of depth, and sound very short and punchy but not dead (again, great for most rock styles). The snare is loose and warm, with a decent amount of crack to it. As stated before, the drums come with Remo drum heads. They sound great right out of the box and have a lot of versatility in terms of tuning. The Zildjian planet z cymbals are one of the most popular lower end cymbal packs, and for good reason. They offer more than adequate sound given their price, and should fit the needs of anyone looking to buy a kit in this price range. I would say that as you graduate to a more intermediate/advanced level, upgrading these cymbals (and maybe the snare drum) would be the first changes I personally would make. Overall the cymbals sound bright and have good sustain.
What We Liked
The drum set has a very open and punchy yet even sound. While it gives me strong classic rock vibes, I think the sound is quite versatile and could be applied to a number of different genres. The value of this kit is also quite good, you’re getting an all-in-one drum kit with signature Gretsch features and the Gretsch sound, perfect for any aspiring drummer.
What We Didn’t Like
I prefer shallow snare drums with a lot of crack and a high pitch. This is more of a preference thing, but the snare on this kit wasn’t my favorite as it had a warmer, boxy feel.
Note that if you are looking to buy certain pieces separately, we have guides for snare drums and cymbals alike! Be sure to check these out if you are having trouble finding a good deal on either.
Gretsch Company Background
Gretsch Drums is a pioneer in many industry innovations including multi-layer laminated drum shells, die-cast metal parts, retractable spurs, 18 “and 20” bass drums, and dual bass drum kits. Gretsch’s current drum lineup ranges from highly affordable drum kits designed for aspiring drummers to the finest American custom-made kits used by Grammy-winning artists. If the Grestch energy wasn’t for you, check out this list of the best drum sets for intermediate players!
