Best 22" Bass Drums Under $800 2026
Alright, so you need a 22" kick drum but you're not looking to drop a grand on it. Been there. Getting a decent, gig-worthy 22" bass drum under $800 is totally doable, but you gotta know what you're looking for. We're not chasing boutique, heirloom-quality drums here; we're hunting for bang-for-your-buck that'll lay down a solid foundation for your band's sound.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best 22" bass drums in 2026 are Sonor 22"x17,5" AQ2 Bass Drum TQZ (top pick), DW PDP 22"x18" Concept Maple for tighter budgets, and DW PDP 22"x18" Concept Maple for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $462–$777, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Sonor 22"x17,5" AQ2 Bass Drum TQZ
by
Sonor
Size
22"
Live Performance
Rock
Standard
Key Feature:
This drum has a thick maple shell that sounds full and strong. The shiny finish and chrome parts make it look professional right away. It is a good choice for players who want a big, reliable kick drum without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Strong 7-ply maple shell provides solid resonance
- • High gloss lacquer finish looks sharp on stage
- • Chrome hardware ensures a clean, polished look
- • Titanium Quartz color stands out visually
CONS
- • No internal hardware like pickups listed
- • No specific shell depth or head model given
- • No weight or mounting type information provided
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533069
$778
DW PDP 22"x18" Concept Maple
by
DW
Size
22"
Large Venues
Pop
Metal
Key Feature:
This PDP Concept Maple bass drum delivers a really solid DW sound at a more accessible price point. The maple provides a warm, focused tone with a good amount of punch—it's versatile enough for everything from rock to funk. Great option for gigging drummers or those building a kit on a budget who want that DW pedigree.
PROS
- • Maple warmth with DW's signature attack and projection.
- • Foiled shells enhance visual appeal and protect the maple.
- • Chrome shell hardware provides reliable, sturdy performance.
- • Well-balanced, resonant low-end ideal for various musical styles.
CONS
- • Concept series hardware isn't DW's top-tier, but still functional.
- • Pearlescent White finish can be a fingerprint magnet.
- • 18” depth might limit extreme sub-bass applications.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 569436
$754
DW PDP 22"x18" Concept Maple
by
DW
Size
22"
Standard
Large Venues
Metal
Key Feature:
This is a nice 22-inch bass drum with a painted maple shell that sounds bright because of the drilled holes. The chromed hardware looks sharp on stage, but you won't find the ply count or hoop specs in the text. It fits well in a kit that needs a solid, mid-range drum without extra bells and whistles.
PROS
- • Solid maple shell for a reliable, consistent tone.
- • Drilled design offers a brighter, more open sound.
- • Chromed hardware ensures a professional look.
- • Satin finish adds visual depth without glare.
CONS
- • Ply count is missing from the description.
- • No internal dampening or tuning details provided.
- • Lack of hardware mounting options listed.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
4/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 493600
$754
Sonor 22"x17,5" AQ2 Bass Drum WHP
by
Sonor
Size
22"
Pop
Live Performance
Rock
Key Feature:
This AQ2 bass drum is a solid choice for gigging musicians and home recordists. The maple shell provides a nicely balanced, warm tone that sits well in a mix – it's versatile enough for rock, pop, and even some funk. If you're looking for a dependable, good-sounding kick without the premium price tag, this is a strong contender.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple delivers a warm, resonant low-end tone
- • Chrome hardware provides a solid, professional feel and look
- • Sonor’s bass drum rosette ensures easy and secure drumhead changes
- • WHP White Pearl finish offers a striking, classic aesthetic
CONS
- • AQ2 series represents an entry-level Sonor, lacking higher-end refinements
- • Maple shell might be too warm for players seeking a very tight, modern sound
- • Legs are functional, but not as robust as those found on premium Sonor drums
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 508574
$754
DW PDP 22"x18" Concept Maple
by
DW
Size
22"
Standard
Metal
Live Performance
Key Feature:
This is a solid choice if you want a light, punchy 22-inch bass drum without the bulk. The drilled maple shell and glossy finish give it a tight, modern feel that cuts through a mix. It's a great value for players who need a reliable ride partner that looks as good as it sounds.
PROS
- • Lightweight maple shell for easy handling
- • Drilled for enhanced low-end punch
- • High gloss lacquer for a tight sound
- • Chrome hardware adds durable shine
CONS
- • No ply count listed for build depth
- • Silver to black fade may hide flaws
- • Missing specific hoop diameter info
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
4/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 382302
$743
Pearl EXX 22"/08"/14" Add-On #704
by
Pearl
Size
22"
Rock
Metal
Live Performance
Key Feature:
This Pearl EXX Add-On is a solid choice for drummers wanting a warm, full sound without breaking the bank. It's especially well-suited for rock, pop, and even some blues, providing a good foundation for a beginner or a versatile addition to an existing kit. The construction feels surprisingly sturdy for its price point.
PROS
- • Poplar/mahogany shell blend offers a warm, resonant low-end tone.
- • 6-ply construction provides surprising depth and controlled sustain.
- • Chrome hardware is robust and offers a classic, professional aesthetic.
- • Single tom holder simplifies setup and provides secure mounting.
CONS
- • Foil finish can be susceptible to stick marks and wear.
- • Poplar/mahogany isn't the most responsive for complex, fast playing.
- • Lacks the premium hardware found on higher-end Pearl kits.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 416115
$696
DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SB-WM
by
DrumCraft
Size
22"
Rock
Metal
Large Venues
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft kick drum is a serious contender for players wanting a warm, articulate low-end. The maple/walnut combination gives it a really pleasing, vintage-inspired tone that sits well in a mix – great for rock, blues, and even some jazz. It’s a fantastic value for the quality you’re getting.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell delivers warm, resonant low-end response.
- • Wooden hoops enhance vibration and sustain, adding complexity.
- • Satin black matte finish looks classy and minimizes unwanted glare.
- • DrumCraft hardware is robust; feels solid and well-engineered.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion may slightly limit versatility for very modern, dry sounds.
- • Matte finish can be a fingerprint magnet requiring frequent cleaning.
- • Legs, while functional, aren't the most premium adjustable design.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523727
$516
DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SN-NM
by
DrumCraft
Size
22"
Live Performance
Metal
Large Venues
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 kick drum is a solid choice for players seeking a warm, full sound without spending a fortune. The maple/walnut blend offers a pleasing tonal balance, and the undrilled design gives you plenty of tuning options. It's a great option for rock, pop, and even jazz drummers who appreciate a classic vibe.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Undrilled design allows for customized head placement and tuning flexibility.
- • Wooden hoops enhance resonance and offer a vintage feel and aesthetic.
- • Satin natural finish showcases the wood grain beautifully and minimizes stick glare.
CONS
- • Maple/walnut construction may lack the ultimate projection of all-birch shells.
- • Matte finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • The included Remo heads are decent, but serious players will likely upgrade.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523731
$516
Yamaha Stage Custom 22"x17" BD NW
by
Yamaha
Size
22"
Live Performance
Pop
Large Venues
Key Feature:
The Stage Custom 22” bass drum is a solid choice for gigging musicians or those building a versatile kit. Its birch construction provides a balanced tone, suitable for a wide range of styles from rock to pop, and the natural wood finish gives it a classy look. This drum is a great value for players seeking quality without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • 100% birch shell delivers a warm, focused low-end response
- • High-gloss lacquer provides a professional look and protects the wood
- • 6-ply construction enhances resonance and projection
- • Well-built legs offer stability and a clean aesthetic
CONS
- • Natural wood finish may require more frequent cleaning and care
- • Hardware, while functional, isn't quite as premium as higher-end options
- • Shell thickness leans toward thinner, may lack the ultimate thump for heavier genres
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 358880
$510
Yamaha Stage Custom 22"x17" BD CR
by
Yamaha
Size
22"
Metal
Rock
Standard
Key Feature:
The Stage Custom 22-inch kick drum is a solid choice for gigging musicians and home recordists. The birch shell provides a balanced, articulate sound that cuts through a mix, and the Cranberry Red finish looks fantastic under stage lights. It's a great value for a drum that delivers professional-level performance.
PROS
- • 6-ply birch delivers a warm, focused low-end punch
- • Cranberry Red finish provides a striking, stage-ready aesthetic
- • Yamaha’s shell construction ensures consistent resonance and projection
- • Solid, reliable legs provide stable, quiet playing experience
CONS
- • Lacquer finish can be prone to stick marks and fingerprints
- • Hardware, while functional, isn't top-of-the-line
- • Birch shell might lack the ultimate 'boom' of maple for some players
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 571019
$510
Yamaha Stage Custom 22"x17" BD HA '14
by
Yamaha
Size
22"
Live Performance
Rock
Large Venues
Key Feature:
The Yamaha Stage Custom 22” bass drum is a solid choice for drummers seeking a warm, articulate sound without spending a fortune. Its birch shell provides a well-rounded tone that works well across many genres – it's a great all-around option for gigging musicians or studio work looking for a premium-priced drum.
PROS
- • 100% birch construction delivers a focused, warm, and resonant low-end.
- • High gloss lacquer finish enhances shell projection and visual appeal.
- • Yamaha’s Stage Custom series offers a great balance of quality and affordability.
- • The 6-ply construction provides durability without excessive weight.
CONS
- • Honey Amber (HA) finish might not suit all aesthetic preferences.
- • Standard legs, while functional, aren’t the most robust for heavy hitters.
- • Birch shells, while versatile, lack the extreme projection of maple.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 364501
$510
DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SB-NM
by
DrumCraft
Size
22"
Rock
Standard
Pop
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft kick drum is a solid choice for players seeking a warm, resonant low-end. The maple/walnut construction offers a unique tonal balance, and the undrilled design gives you real flexibility for customizing your sound. It’s a great option for rock, funk, or any genre where you want a full, vintage-inspired thump.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut blend delivers warm low-end with focused attack.
- • Undrilled design allows for custom mounting and dampening options.
- • Wooden hoops enhance resonance and offer a vintage tonal character.
- • Satin black finish provides a sophisticated, understated aesthetic.
CONS
- • Maple/walnut construction may lack the outright projection of birch.
- • Undrilled design requires extra hardware and potentially more setup time.
- • Matte finish can be susceptible to fingerprints and require more cleaning.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 523732
$499
Yamaha Stage Custom 22"x17" BD RB '14
by
Yamaha
Size
22"
Standard
Rock
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Stage Custom bass drum is a solid, reliable choice for gigging drummers. The birch construction gives it a punchy, articulate sound that cuts through a mix, making it ideal for rock, pop, and funk. It's a great balance of quality and affordability for players needing a workhorse kick drum.
PROS
- • Birch shell delivers a focused, warm low-end with good attack
- • Raven Black lacquer looks sharp, resists chipping better than some
- • 6-ply construction balances resonance and controlled projection
- • Well-built legs provide stability, even with heavier hitters
CONS
- • Birch shells can lack the 'boom' of maple for certain styles
- • Lacquer finish requires careful handling to avoid scratches
- • Legs are functional, but not the most premium hardware available
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 348230
$499
DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SBR-NM
by
DrumCraft
Size
22"
Large Venues
Live Performance
Rock
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft kick is a real winner if you’re chasing a warm, controlled low-end—think classic rock, vintage soul, or even jazz. The maple/walnut combination gives it a lovely, full tone, and the unique fade finish looks fantastic. It's a great option for drummers wanting premium tone without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell delivers a warm, resonant low-end with surprising projection.
- • Wooden hoops enhance resonance and sensitivity compared to standard steel hoops.
- • Undrilled construction allows for custom hardware placement and versatility.
- • Satin Black to Red fade finish is striking and offers a unique aesthetic.
CONS
- • Maple/walnut blend might lack the outright thump of a birch kick for modern genres.
- • Matte lacquer finish can be susceptible to stick marks and requires careful maintenance.
- • The included hardware, while functional, might be a later upgrade point for serious players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 543698
$464
DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SBB-WM
by
DrumCraft
Size
22"
Large Venues
Standard
Live Performance
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft kick drum is a real sleeper. The maple/walnut blend gives it a lovely warmth and vintage vibe, and the unique fade job makes it look fantastic. It's a great option for players wanting a quality, affordable kick with a bit of character—perfect for rock, blues, and even some funk.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell delivers warm, resonant low-end thump
- • Wooden hoops enhance resonance and vintage tone character
- • Satin Black to Vivid Blue fade is striking and unique
- • DrumCraft hardware feels surprisingly solid and well-damped
CONS
- • Walnut content may limit versatility for very modern, dry sounds
- • Remo heads are decent, but an upgrade would unlock full potential
- • Matte finish can be prone to stick marks and fingerprints
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 543706
$463
Every 22" bass drums that matches
32 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SN-WM | Size 22" | $452 |
| 17 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SBB-NM | Size 22" | $452 |
| 18 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD Jet Black | Size 22" | $447 |
| 19 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD S. White | Size 22" | $447 |
| 20 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD G. Silver | Size 22" | $447 |
| 21 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD M. Amethyst | Size 22" | $447 |
| 22 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD Mid. Blue | Size 22" | $447 |
| 23 | Pearl 22"x18" Export BD Sat. Scarlet | Size 22" | $447 |
| 24 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SWB-NM | Size 22" | $440 |
| 25 | Tama 22"x18" Imperialstar BD -BOB | Size 22" | $440 |
| 26 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD BP-NM | Size 22" | $429 |
| 27 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD BP -WM | Size 22" | $417 |
| 28 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SBR-WM | Size 22" | $417 |
| 29 | DrumCraft Series 6 22"x18" BD SWB-WM | Size 22" | $406 |
| 30 | Millenium Focus 22"x16" Bass Drum Black | Size 22" | $185 |
| 31 | Millenium Focus 22"x16" Bass Drum White | Size 22" | $185 |
| 32 | Millenium Focus 22"x16" Bass Drum Red | Size 22" | $180 |
22" Bass Drums by the numbers
Measured across all 32 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $452
from $185 to $754
Size
median 22"
from 22" to 22" · 32 models
How to Choose the Best 22" Bass Drums
1
Shell Material
Maple shells will give you that warmer, more resonant low-end thump, but birch is often more common in this budget and delivers a tighter, more focused sound that cuts through the mix better. Poplar is a budget option - expect a more muted, less complex tone.
2
Bearing Edge
A sharper, more consistent bearing edge will generally translate to more sustain and better tuning response. You won't find perfectly machined edges on everything under $800, but look for something reasonably consistent. Sloppy edges kill resonance.
3
Hardware Quality
This is where a lot of corners get cut. Cheap hardware means wobbly legs, poorly functioning claws, and a bass drum pedal that feels like it's fighting you. Solid, functional hardware is crucial for gigging.
4
Resonance & Sustain
A good 22" kick should have some sustain and a defined low-end response. It shouldn't just be a "thud." Listen for a bit of resonance that allows the drum to sing, especially when tuned lower.
5
Finish & Aesthetics
Let's be honest, looks matter. A well-applied finish can make a budget drum feel more premium, but don't sacrifice tone for a pretty paint job. A simple, durable finish is better than a flaking, glossy one.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect slightly thinner shells than you'd find in higher-end drums. Hardware is the biggest area for compromise - upgrade it later if needed. Don't get caught up in fancy features; focus on a drum that sounds and feels solid. A good head makes a huge difference, so factor in a few extra bucks for a decent aftermarket head if the stock one is lacking.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 32 22" bass drums from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, fewer plies (like 10) will be a bit more resonant, while more plies (12) will be tighter and have less sustain. It's not always a clear-cut thing, as wood combinations and shell construction play a bigger role.
Not really. Vintage drums had specific wood combinations, shell construction techniques, and often, decades of seasoning. You can get a warm, full tone, but don't expect that dry, woody character you hear on classic recordings.
Absolutely. The stock heads on many budget drums are... functional. A coated single-ply head will give you more attack and a more open sound. A two-ply head will add more punch and durability.
For rock/metal, a birch or maple/birch hybrid shell will generally cut through the mix better. Look for a drum with a bit more attack and less boomy low-end. Consider a thicker resonant head for more punch.
Definitely! You can often find higher-end drums in good condition for less than their original price. Just be sure to inspect the drum carefully for cracks, damage, and worn hardware.
