Donner or Ashthorpe? Electronic Drum Sets Compared in 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are comparing the donner vs ashthorpe electronic drum set to decide which kit fits your practice space and goals. Both brands provide complete packages for drummers starting their journey. The main difference lies in the technology and physical design. One option uses electronic mesh pads for quiet, portable practice, while the other offers a traditional acoustic shell setup. You need to weigh the benefits of silent electronic modules against the authentic feel of genuine drumheads and hardwood shells.
Key differences
| Aspect | Donner DED-80 Mesh Electronic Drum Set | Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Portable, foldable metal frame | Full size, fixed hardware |
| Target Audience | Beginner, youth | Beginner to advanced |
| Connectivity | USB MIDI | not listed |
| Number of Sounds | 180 | not listed |
| Pad Count | 4 | 5-piece |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Donner DED-80 Mesh Electronic Drum Set if
- You live in an apartment and need a quiet, foldable kit with USB MIDI connectivity for recording.
- You want a portable setup with 180 electronic sounds and mesh heads for realistic rebound.
- You are a beginner or youth player looking for included educational features and a compact footprint.
Choose Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set if
- You prefer the authentic sound and feel of genuine Remo batter heads and hardwood shells.
- You want a full-size acoustic kit with a traditional five-piece layout including a 22-inch bass drum.
- You are an adult player seeking a professional acoustic setup that scales from beginner to advanced levels.
Verdict: Choose the Donner DED-80 if you require a silent, space-saving electronic solution with digital features. Select the Ashthorpe set if you prioritize the natural resonance and traditional layout of a full acoustic drum kit.
Donner vs Ashthorpe Key Specs
Target Audience
The Donner DED-80 is explicitly designed for beginners and youth players. Its compact footprint and educational features, such as drum coaches and virtual lessons, cater to those new to the instrument. In contrast, the Ashthorpe set targets adult musicians ranging from beginner to advanced levels. It is a full-size acoustic kit built for serious practice and performance. The Ashthorpe kit includes professional-grade components like genuine Remo heads and brass cymbals, aiming at players seeking a traditional acoustic experience rather than an electronic learning tool.
Form Factor
Size and portability differ significantly between these two options. The Donner DED-80 features a portable, foldable metal frame with dimensions of 42.52 x 18.11 x 39.37 inches when expanded. It weighs 26.5 pounds, making it easy to move or store in small apartments. The Ashthorpe kit is a full-size acoustic set. It measures 29 x 29 x 20 inches and weighs 91 pounds. This substantial weight and fixed structure require a dedicated space. You must choose between the Donner's flexibility for limited spaces or the Ashthorpe's stable, stationary setup.
Pad Count
The number of play surfaces varies by design type. The Donner DED-80 includes four mesh drum pads and three cymbals, totaling seven play zones. This configuration is standard for entry-level electronic kits. The Ashthorpe set is a five-piece acoustic kit. It includes a snare, two mounted toms, a floor tom, and a bass drum, plus a hi-hat and crash/ride cymbal. While the Ashthorpe has five drum pads, it offers a traditional acoustic layout. The Donner provides more electronic trigger zones for varied electronic sounds.
Connectivity
Connectivity options define how you expand your drumming capabilities. The Donner DED-80 features a USB MIDI interface. This allows you to connect the kit directly to a computer or mobile device for use with DAW software or the Donner Play APP. It supports digital recording and learning exercises. The Ashthorpe set is a purely acoustic instrument. It does not list any electronic connectivity options like USB or MIDI. It relies on traditional acoustic sound projection. If you need digital integration, the Donner is the only viable choice here.
Number of Sounds
Sound generation methods are fundamentally different. The Donner DED-80 drum module offers 180 sound options across 15 drum kits. It uses intelligent dynamic clarity technology to produce realistic electronic sounds. You can switch between various genres and tones digitally. The Ashthorpe kit produces acoustic sounds through physical drumheads and shells. It does not list a specific number of electronic sounds because it has none. The sound quality depends on the Remo batter heads and brass cymbals. The Donner offers variety through software, while Ashthorpe offers consistency through hardware.
Included Accessories
Both kits come with essential accessories for immediate play. The Donner DED-80 includes sticks, headphones, a throne, pedals, and all necessary cables. It also provides 40 virtual lessons from Melodics. The Ashthorpe set includes sticks, a padded throne, hardware, chain-driven pedals, and a drum adjustment key. It also features genuine Remo heads and heavy-duty hoops. The Ashthorpe kit includes brass cymbals, which are often sold separately for electronic kits. The Donner includes headphones for silent practice, a key advantage for apartment living that the acoustic Ashthorpe lacks.
Cymbal Features
Cymbal design impacts playing feel and noise. The Donner DED-80 includes three 10-inch cymbals with a full strike zone. These are low-volume mesh or rubber pads designed for quiet practice. They respond to velocity but do not ring like metal. The Ashthorpe set includes a 14-inch hi-hat and a 16-inch crash/ride cymbal made of high-end brass. These provide authentic acoustic feedback and resonance. The Ashthorpe cymbals are louder and require ear protection or a quiet room. The Donner cymbals are quieter but lack the physical response of real metal.
Which drum kit suits your needs
Apartment dwellers and youth beginners
The Donner DED-80 features a compact, foldable metal frame measuring 42.52x18.11x39.37 inches when expanded, making it ideal for small spaces. It includes 4 quiet mesh pads and 3 cymbals with a full strike zone. The kit offers 180 sounds and connects via USB MIDI for silent practice with headphones. Its lightweight design reduces noise, while educational tools like a drum coach help new players improve skills effectively.
Adults seeking traditional acoustic sound
The Ashthorpe set provides a full-size acoustic experience with genuine Remo batter heads and poplar hardwood shells. It includes a 22x16 bass drum, mounted toms, and a 14x6 snare with wires. The hardware features heavy-duty triple flanged hoops and high-end brass cymbals for rich resonance. This complete 5-piece package targets adult musicians from beginner to advanced levels, offering a professional stage-worthy appearance and authentic drumming feel.
Portable setup enthusiasts
Donner DED-80 weighs only 26.5 pounds and folds for easy storage. Its portable form factor suits users who need to move the kit frequently. The set includes a throne, sticks, and all necessary cables. The double-layered mesh heads provide realistic feedback while keeping the overall weight low. This makes it a practical choice for drummers who prioritize convenience and space efficiency in their practice routine.
The products compared
Donner DED-80 Mesh Electronic Drum Set
Best for: beginners seeking a quiet, portable practice kit
- Pad Count
- 4
- Snare System
- Double-layered mesh drumheads
- Cymbal Count
- 3
- Cymbal Features
- 10" cymbals, full strike zone
- Number of Sounds
- 180
- Connectivity
- USB MIDI
View on Amazon: Donner DED-80 Mesh Electronic Drum Set Affiliate link
The Donner DED-80 is a portable, foldable electronic drum kit designed for beginners and youth. It features four 6.5-inch double-layered mesh pads and three 10-inch cymbals with a full strike zone. The module includes 180 sounds and 15 drum kits. You get a sturdy metal frame, throne, and pedals. This setup supports silent practice via headphones and connects to DAW software through USB MIDI.
Pros
- Four 6.5-inch double-layered mesh pads for realistic feel
- Three 10-inch cymbals with full strike zone
- 180 sounds and 15 drum kits included
- Portable foldable metal frame for easy storage
- USB MIDI connectivity for DAW integration
Cons
- Only four drum pads limit kit expansion
- Requires external power amplifier for sound output
- No built-in speakers for standalone audio
Good fit if
- You need a compact kit for apartment living
- You are a beginner looking for educational features
- You want silent practice with headphones
Skip if
- You require a full five-piece acoustic layout
- You need built-in speakers for immediate play
- You are an advanced player needing extensive expansion
Verdict: Donner DED-80 Electronic Drum Set is a solid entry-level choice for beginners who value portability and quiet practice. It fits well in small spaces and offers enough sounds for learning basics.
Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set
Best for: traditional acoustic drumming practice
- Pad Count
- 5-piece
- Snare Size
- 14" x 6"
- Target Audience
- Beginner to advanced
- Form Factor
- Full size
- Color
- Red
- Dimensions
- 29 × 29 × 20 inches
View on Amazon: Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set Affiliate link
This Ashthorpe set is a full-size acoustic kit with genuine Remo batter heads. It includes a 22-inch bass drum, mounted toms, a floor tom, a 14-inch snare, and two cymbals. The shells are made of poplar hardwood. It weighs 91 pounds. This kit suits adult beginners to advanced players seeking a traditional acoustic experience rather than electronic triggers.
Pros
- Genuine Remo UT-series batter heads on all drums
- Full-size 22-inch bass drum and 14-inch snare
- Poplar hardwood shells for resonance
- Includes full hardware, throne, and chain-driven pedals
Cons
- Heavy 91-pound build limits portability
- Full-size footprint requires significant floor space
- Acoustic sound requires external dampening for quiet practice
Good fit if
- You want a traditional acoustic drumming experience
- You have space for a full-size kit
- You prefer genuine Remo heads and hardwood shells
Skip if
- You need a quiet electronic drum set
- You require a compact or portable setup
- You want to connect to a computer for recording
Verdict: Ashthorpe 5-Piece Acoustic Drum Set is a solid choice for players who want a traditional, full-size acoustic kit with premium heads. It is not suitable for those needing electronic connectivity or quiet practice.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Donner DED-80 Mesh Electronic Drum Set | Ashthorpe 5-Piece Full Size Adult Drum Set |
|---|---|---|
| Pad Count | 4 | 5-piece |
| Snare Size | not stated | 14" x 6" |
| Snare System | Double-layered mesh drumheads | not stated |
| Cymbal Count | 3 | not stated |
| Cymbal Features | 10" cymbals, full strike zone | not stated |
| Number of Sounds | 180 | not stated |
| Connectivity | USB MIDI | not stated |
| Target Audience | Beginner, youth | Beginner to advanced |
| Form Factor | Portable, foldable metal frame | Full size |
| Included Accessories | Sticks | not stated |
| Color | Black | Red |
| Size | DED-80 | Full Size |
| Piece Count | not stated | 5-Piece |
| Cymbal Type | Low Volume | not stated |
| Dimensions | 28.1 × 17.7 × 10.8 inches | 29 × 29 × 20 inches |
| Weight | 26.5 pounds | 91 pounds |
| Model | EC3413 | S-AB-5533-RED |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Donner DED-80 a true electronic drum set?
Yes, the Donner DED-80 is an electronic drum set. It features four mesh pads and low-volume cymbals. The kit includes sticks for immediate use. Its compact design measures 17.7 inches wide and weighs 26.5 pounds. This makes it suitable for quiet practice in small spaces.
Does the Ashthorpe set have electronic modules?
No, the Ashthorpe 5-Piece set is an acoustic drum set. It is designed for traditional drumming practice rather than electronic connectivity. The kit is full-size and targets adult players. It does not include electronic pads or modules, so it is not suitable for quiet practice.
Which kit is better for small apartments?
The Donner DED-80 is better for small apartments. It is compact, lightweight, and designed for quiet practice. The Ashthorpe set is large, heavy, and acoustic. It weighs 91 pounds and is not suitable for noise-sensitive environments. The Donner kit fits well in limited spaces.
How many pads does the Donner kit have?
The Donner DED-80 has four mesh pads. It also includes low-volume cymbals. This configuration provides enough sounds for learning basics. The kit is a solid entry-level choice for beginners who need a simple setup for practice.
Is the Ashthorpe set suitable for beginners?
The Ashthorpe set targets adult players seeking traditional practice. It is a full-size acoustic kit. It is not suitable for beginners needing electronic connectivity or quiet practice. The Donner DED-80 is a better fit for those new to drumming who value portability.
What is the weight difference between the two kits?
The Donner DED-80 weighs 26.5 pounds. The Ashthorpe set weighs 91 pounds. This significant difference highlights the portability of the electronic kit. The Ashthorpe kit is much heavier due to its full-size acoustic construction. You should consider this if you need to move the kit often.
Does the Ashthorpe kit include cymbals?
The Ashthorpe 5-Piece set is an acoustic drum set. It includes traditional acoustic components rather than electronic cymbals. It is designed for players who want a standard acoustic experience. It is not suitable for those needing electronic connectivity or quiet practice features.
Can I use the Donner kit for quiet practice?
Yes, the Donner DED-80 is designed for quiet practice. It uses mesh pads and low-volume cymbals. This setup reduces noise significantly. It is a solid entry-level choice for beginners who value portability and need a kit that fits in small spaces.