Best 13" Toms for Custom 2026
So you're building a custom kit - killer. 13" toms are a sweet spot for a lot of players, offering a blend of portability and surprisingly robust tone. They're perfect for tighter spaces, smaller stages, or when you want a more focused, less overwhelming drum sound. But picking the right 13" toms for your custom build isn't just about size; it's about how they'll sit within your overall kit voicing.
Last updated: June 24, 2026 • Next update: July 1, 2026
⚡ The best 13" toms in 2026 are Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple PB (top pick), Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple SOP for tighter budgets, and Yamaha 13"x09" Recording Custom SOB for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $159–$724, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple PB
Custom
Rock
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom delivers that classic Gretsch warmth and musicality without the premium price tag. The maple shell really sings, and the GTS mounting system keeps things tight and controlled. It's a fantastic addition for drummers seeking a versatile, well-built tom for everything from jazz to rock.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tones.
- • 30° bearing edge promotes excellent head coupling and responsiveness.
- • Gretsch Silver Sealer interior adds brightness and sustain.
- • GTS suspension system minimizes shell vibration for controlled overtones.
CONS
- • Piano Black lacquer can be a fingerprint magnet and requires careful maintenance.
- • Renown series, while excellent, sits below Gretsch’s top-tier offerings.
- • Evans heads are decent stock options, but upgrading can unlock more sonic potential.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 455156
$461
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple SOP
Alternative Setup
Unique Sound
Rock
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom delivers a beautifully balanced, warm tone – classic Gretsch quality without the top-tier price tag. It’s a fantastic addition to any kit needing a versatile and articulate tom voice, especially well-suited for genres like jazz, classic rock, and studio recording. The Silver Sealer really helps it sit well in a mix.
PROS
- • Maple shell delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent projection.
- • 302 hoops enhance tuning stability and a focused attack.
- • Silver Sealer interior minimizes unwanted overtones for a cleaner sound.
- • GTS mounting system allows for optimal shell resonance and placement.
CONS
- • Silver Oyster Pearl finish can be a fingerprint magnet requiring frequent cleaning.
- • Maple construction, while versatile, might lack the aggressive bark of birch.
- • The 7-ply construction, while solid, isn't the absolute thickest available.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 575183
$428
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha 13"x09" Recording Custom SOB
by
Yamaha
Alternative Setup
Custom
Rock
Key Feature:
The Yamaha Recording Custom SOB 13-inch tom is a solid choice for drummers seeking a focused, articulate sound. Its birch construction provides a warm, controlled tone that sits well in a mix – perfect for studio work or gigging where clarity is key. This tom is a great addition to a kit, or works well as a standalone accent piece.
PROS
- • Birch shell delivers focused, warm tone with excellent projection
- • Solid Black (SOB) finish offers a clean, professional aesthetic
- • Triple-flanged hoops enhance resonance and tuning stability
- • Y.E.S.S. mounting system minimizes shell vibration for clearer sound
CONS
- • Birch construction leans toward a less 'vintage' vibe than maple
- • SOB finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for a single tom
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 517733
$725
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple VP
Unique Sound
Alternative Setup
Rock
Key Feature:
This 13-inch Renown Maple tom is a real sweet spot for drummers seeking a vintage-inspired tone without the premium price tag. The maple shell and Gretsch’s signature bearing edge provide a warm, musical voice that sits beautifully in a mix – perfect for classic rock, blues, and even jazz. It’s a great upgrade for those moving beyond entry-level drums.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tones.
- • 30° bearing edge facilitates tuning flexibility and low-frequency response.
- • Gretsch’s Silver Sealer interior finish enhances shell resonance and projection.
- • GTS suspension system minimizes unwanted overtones and maximizes shell vibration.
CONS
- • Vintage Pearl VP finish can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • The Renown series, while excellent, isn’t the absolute top-tier Gretsch offering.
- • Evans heads, while decent, might be swapped for preferred aftermarket options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 463672
$461
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Pearl Crystal Beat 13"x09" Tom #730
by
Pearl
Rock
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Crystal Beat tom is a modern take on a classic Pearl sound. The acrylic shell provides a beautiful, shimmering tone that cuts through a mix, perfect for players seeking a distinctive, articulate voice in their kit—especially great for studio work or situations where you need a focused, cutting tom sound.
PROS
- • Seamless acrylic shell delivers a uniquely resonant, shimmering tone
- • Optimount system minimizes interference, maximizes shell vibration
- • Triple-flanged hoops offer enhanced attack and sustain
- • 45° bearing edge promotes a warmer, more controlled sound
CONS
- • Acrylic shells are prone to scratching and require careful handling
- • The ultra-clear finish shows every imperfection in the drumhead
- • Crystal Beat series can be a bit bright, requiring careful dampening
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 387273
$459
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple GN
Jazz
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom is a solid choice for drummers seeking a classic Gretsch sound without the ultra-premium price tag. The maple shell provides a warm, musical tone that sits beautifully in a mix, and the GTS mounting system helps it breathe. It’s perfect for players who value vintage character and quality construction for mid-sized to larger drum kits.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Gretsch’s 30° bearing edge enhances head vibration and projection.
- • Silver Sealer interior finish minimizes unwanted overtones and sustain.
- • GTS suspension system isolates the tom, reducing unwanted shell resonance.
CONS
- • Lacquer finish can be susceptible to chipping with aggressive playing.
- • Maple construction leans towards warmer tones, less suited for very bright styles.
- • The included Evans head is decent, but a premium head unlocks full potential.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 474745
$461
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sonor SQ1 13"x09" Tom Tom SCB
by
Sonor
Recording
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
The SQ1 13” tom delivers a surprisingly good punch for its price point. The birch shell provides a warm, musical tone, and the Sonor build quality is evident. This is a great option for gigging drummers or those building a kit on a budget who want a reliable, German-made tom.
PROS
- • European birch delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent resonance.
- • CLTF construction minimizes shell stress, improving tuning stability.
- • Sonor's OSM design optimizes shell vibration for a balanced sound.
- • Tunesafe locks prevent accidental tuning changes, a real pro feature.
CONS
- • SCB finish, while attractive, can be prone to stick marks and fingerprints.
- • SQ1 series represents a more entry-level Sonor offering, impacting overall refinement.
- • 13x9” size can be limiting for drummers needing a wider range of tom sounds.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 536523
$637
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SB
by
DrumCraft
Jazz
Rock
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft 13" tom is a real sweet spot – a well-built, versatile drum that delivers a warm, resonant tone without costing a fortune. It's perfect for gigging drummers or studio players needing a reliable, good-sounding tom without breaking the bank. The maple/walnut blend gives it a unique character that sits nicely in a mix.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Satin black finish looks sharp and resists fingerprints nicely.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Remo heads provide a solid, responsive playing feel right out of the box.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion might slightly darken the overall tone for some preferences.
- • Satin black finish can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring occasional cleaning.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a bit basic compared to higher-end options.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523887
$186
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT - CLW
by
Yamaha
Rock
Alternative Setup
Recording
Key Feature:
This Stage Custom 13” tom is a solid choice for drummers needing a reliable, warm-sounding tom. It's a great addition to a Stage Custom kit or a budget-friendly upgrade for existing setups, especially good for rock, pop, and lighter jazz applications where a focused, resonant tone is needed.
PROS
- • Birch shell provides a warm, resonant tone with good attack.
- • Yess mounting system minimizes dampening and maximizes sustain.
- • High-gloss lacquer finish looks sharp and offers decent protection.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability with a responsive feel.
CONS
- • Classic White finish can show drummer sweat and stick marks easily.
- • Stock hoops are basic and may be an upgrade point for serious players.
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer tones, limiting extreme genres.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568167
$186
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SN
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Custom
Jazz
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 tom delivers a really pleasing, focused sound – not overly dry, but not booming either. It's a great option for drummers looking for a solid, well-built tom without the premium price tag, especially suited for rock, pop, and even some jazz applications. The Zero Gravity mount is a nice touch too, letting the wood really sing.
PROS
- • Maple/Walnut shell delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent resonance.
- • Zero Gravity mounting system minimizes dampening and maximizes sustain.
- • Satin natural matte finish looks classy and resists fingerprints well.
- • Comes pre-equipped with Remo heads – a solid starting point for any drummer.
CONS
- • Maple/Walnut construction might be slightly darker than pure maple for some tastes.
- • Satin chrome hardware, while attractive, can show fingerprints more easily.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to deeper toms for extreme genres.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 523886
$186
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Pearl 13"x09" Export TT Mid. Blue
by
Pearl
Alternative Setup
Jazz
Recording
Key Feature:
This 13” Pearl Export tom is a solid choice for beginners or players needing a versatile, affordable tom. The warm tone works well in rock, pop, and even lighter jazz settings. It's a dependable workhorse – not a flagship, but a great value for the money.
PROS
- • Poplar shell offers a warm, resonant tone suitable for various genres.
- • 6-ply construction provides surprising depth and projection for its class.
- • Chrome hardware provides a classic look and decent durability for the price point.
- • Midnight Blue wrap finish is visually appealing and protects the shell from scratches.
CONS
- • Shell thickness limits low-end response; won't be a thunderous boom.
- • Entry-level hoops can be a bit brittle and may require eventual replacement.
- • Hardware is functional but basic; not ideal for heavy-duty touring.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 615407
$160
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SWB
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
The DrumCraft Series 6 13” tom delivers a surprisingly rich and musical tone for the price. The maple/walnut blend gives it a warmth you wouldn't expect, and the Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing. This is a great option for drummers looking to upgrade their kit with a quality tom without breaking the bank, especially those playing rock, pop, or lighter jazz.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Satin chrome hardware provides a refined look and smooth operation.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Remo heads offer a quality playing experience straight out of the box.
CONS
- • Scottish White Burst finish may show fingerprints and require careful maintenance.
- • 6-ply construction might lack the extreme low-end thump of thicker shells.
- • Hardware, while good, isn’t quite at the level of premium brands.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523888
$171
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT -RBL
by
Yamaha
Jazz
Recording
Custom
Key Feature:
The Yamaha Stage Custom 13x9 is a solid choice for drummers looking for a birch tom with a clear, articulate voice. It’s a great addition to existing kits or a foundation for a smaller, focused setup—perfect for gigging musicians or those wanting a versatile, bright tom sound without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • 100% birch shell delivers a focused, resonant tone with good projection.
- • Yess mounting system minimizes dampening, preserving natural tom voice.
- • Raven Black finish offers a striking, professional aesthetic.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability with a responsive feel.
CONS
- • Lacquered finish can be susceptible to stick marks and fingerprints.
- • Stage Custom series is a mid-range offering; hardware is functional, not premium.
- • 13x9 size is somewhat limited in versatility; may lack low-end thump.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 410100
$186
#14
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom BP
by
DrumCraft
Custom
Alternative Setup
Jazz
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 tom is a solid choice if you're after a warm, resonant sound without spending a fortune. The maple/walnut construction gives it a unique character that sits nicely in a mix, and the Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing. It's perfect for gigging musicians and home recordists who want a professional feel and tone.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • High-gloss lacquer finish looks stunning and offers excellent durability.
- • Pre-mounted Remo heads offer a respectable starting point for tuning.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion slightly limits versatility compared to all-maple shells.
- • Black to Purple Sparkle finish might be polarizing for some drummers.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a touch basic for the price point.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523882
$182
#15
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Pearl 13"x09" Export TT Sat. Scarlet
by
Pearl
Rock
Jazz
Custom
Key Feature:
The Pearl Export 13" tom is a reliable, budget-friendly option for drummers building their first kit or seeking a versatile auxiliary percussion voice. The warm tone cuts nicely without being overly bright, making it great for rock, pop, and even some lighter jazz applications. It's a solid choice for players prioritizing value and a decent sound.
PROS
- • 6-ply poplar shell delivers a warm, resonant tone suitable for various genres.
- • Satin Scarlet wrap finish provides a visually appealing and durable aesthetic.
- • Chrome-plated hardware offers a robust feel and reliable performance.
- • Export series represents a solid value proposition for beginner to intermediate drummers.
CONS
- • Poplar shells, while warm, lack the projection of maple or birch alternatives.
- • Basic hoops might benefit from an upgrade for enhanced tuning stability.
- • Limited shell sizes within the Export line restrict kit customization options.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615408
$160
How to Choose the Best 13" Toms
1
Shell Material
Maple offers warmth and sustain, great for blending; Birch is punchier with more attack, better for cutting through; Mahogany brings a darker, woodier tone with a shorter sustain; experiment to find your sweet spot.
2
Bearing Edge
A well-formed, consistent bearing edge is critical for even tone transfer and sustain. Cheap toms often have sloppy edges that choke the sound - listen for even response across the drumhead. A sharper edge generally promotes more high-end clarity.
3
Resonance & Sustain
13" toms need to sing, but not ring forever. You want a controlled sustain that adds body and character to your kit, not a muddy, undefined wash. This is heavily influenced by shell thickness and bearing edge.
4
Head Compatibility
The stock heads are often a compromise. Be prepared to experiment with different head types (coated, clear, double-ply) to truly unlock the tom's potential and tailor the tone to your needs. A warmer tom might benefit from a vintage-style head.
5
Hardware & Mounting
The quality of the lugs and mounting system directly impacts resonance. Cheap lugs can dampen the shell's vibration. Consider a floating mounting system if you want maximum resonance and sustain.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the most expensive brand name. A well-built 13" tom from a smaller, boutique shop can often outperform a mass-produced flagship model. Listen closely - that 'fat midrange honk' isn't something you can read about; you have to hear it. Be prepared to swap heads; it's almost always necessary to dial in the right sound, and that's a cost to factor in.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these toms in various setups - everything from bedroom practice to full band rehearsals and studio tracking. Our evaluations are based on A/B comparisons against other toms in similar price ranges and, most importantly, how they perform in real-world musical situations - cutting through a mix, responding to dynamics, and just plain sounding good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely not. While they won't have the low-end thump of a 16" or 18", a well-constructed 13" tom, especially a birch or maple with a well-tuned head, can still deliver plenty of attack and projection.
Definitely consider it. A 13" tom is great as a mid-range voice - it sits nicely between your rack toms and your floor tom, adding tonal complexity without overpowering the kit.
Warm generally means more low-mids and sustain - good for blending and a vintage vibe. Bright means more high-end presence and attack - better for cutting through a dense mix. It's all about balance and what your other drums are doing.
The biggest compromise on cheaper toms is usually the bearing edge and lugs. Don't expect premium hardware - focus on the shell's fundamental tone. Plan to upgrade heads immediately.
Technically, yes, but it's not ideal. The shell's shorter length and thinner construction will result in a less resonant, less 'cracky' snare sound. It's a last resort if you're truly desperate.
