Top 5 Starter Kits

I'm going to do these lists of top fives budget this and that (drumwise). 

1. Tama Imperialstar. I haven't played this but I know people who have. They all say it's probably the best starter out there. I've heard it said that if you put a few nice heads on it and replace the factory cymbals,  it's much more than a starter.  You can buy this for around £450 ($720) probably cheaper if you shop about for it. 

2. Pearl Forum FZ.  I have played this kit and it sounds beautiful. Out of the box, it includes cymbals (not the best quality after a while you'll want to replace them), a drum throne, sticks (also might need replacing) and a start up video which shows you how to set it up. All of this might vary depending on where you buy.  The kits sounds great tuned up right and with nice heads. You can buy this kit for £470 (about $750) again probably cheaper if look in the right places.

3. Premier  Olympic drums. I own this kit, it's not the best sounding in the world but for value for money (credit crunch people) it cannot be beaten. You are going have to get rid of the cymbals and replace them. Also put new heads on. With a bit of tinkering it can sound great.  I got mine for £250, ($400) reduced by one hundred squids.

4. Mapex Tornado Kit.  Based on the best selling CB kit, this is another branded kit so brings the quality that professionals bring. Sounds pretty good, and comes free with Remo heads (an amazing feature). You can buy this for £300 ($480). Very good value for money. 

5. ION electric Kit.  I own this kit (due to neighbours complaining about the noise of the acoustic).  It is very good value and has over 200 drum sounds on a module made by Alesis (electric drum specialists.) It is also Piano-Forte sensitive so is closer to the real thing. Its not worse electric kit but is miles from the best. Iwould say it is more for praticing then for performing. I got mine for £175 ($280).