Best Drum Kits for Symphonic Metal 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Best drum kits for symphonic metal drumming. What Daray (Tama Starclassic Performer B/B), Hellhammer (Sonor SQ2 Heavy Beech), Frost (Tama Starclassic Bubinga), and Jaska Raatikainen (Pearl Masters Premium Maple) actually use — from budget to pro, built for orchestral grandeur and blast-beat extremity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drum kit does Daray from Dimmu Borgir use?
Daray plays a Tama Starclassic Performer B/B kit in Piano Black with a Tama S.L.P. Black Brass (LBR1465) snare, Paiste RUDE & 2002 Series cymbals, and a Pearl Demon Drive double pedal — a switch to Tama confirmed by mid-2014 at the TAMA 40th Anniversary Drum Festival, after debuting on Dimmu Borgir's Abrahadabra era (2010) on Pearl.
What drum kit does Hellhammer use?
Hellhammer plays a Sonor SQ2 Heavy Beech kit — his setup since 1999, across both Mayhem's raw black metal and Dimmu Borgir's symphonic era — paired with Paiste RUDE cymbals and hi-hats, and an Axis Double Pedal.
What drum kit does Frost from Satyricon use?
Frost plays a Tama Starclassic Bubinga kit, his setup since 2013, paired with a Tama Starclassic Bubinga 14"x5.5" snare, Zildjian A Custom and K Custom Dark cymbals, and a Tama Iron Cobra Power Glide pedal.
Why do symphonic metal drummers need a different kit than pure black or death metal drummers?
Symphonic metal drumming must serve extreme metal's blast-beat aggression and full orchestral or choir arrangements simultaneously. That requires a kit with both the durability and projection for sustained extreme tempos and the dynamic sensitivity to pull back and support keyboard, string, and choir arrangements without overwhelming them.
Do I need an expensive custom kit to play symphonic metal?
No — a Pearl Export or Tama Imperialstar shell pack will teach real symphonic metal technique at a fraction of the price of Daray's Starclassic Performer B/B or Frost's Starclassic Bubinga. Upgrade once your technique and budget allow for a professional-tier kit.