In addition to entry-level models that include all the cymbals, there are also custom-made drum sets for those who want their own unique set. These are called shell packs and do not come with hardware or cymbals. You can select and purchase from various lineups based on your budget, desired materials, etc. Some of you may want a kit that is one step up from the entry-level model, but you don't know which one to choose.
This time, I would like to introduce the PEARL / MDT764P / C from among shell packs, which is suitable for use on small stages, street live performances, and acoustic live performances.
The PEARL / MDT764P / C is a small-diameter shell pack that uses 6-ply poplar shells and are equipped with REMO heads as standard equipment. It doesn't come with cymbals, hardware, or a case, but if you have what you need, you'll be ready to go. The specifications of the kit are as follows.
- Shell: 6-ply (7.5mm) poplar shell
- Lug: Small type regular lug (NEL)
- Tom mount system: Optilock tom mount system (OPL)
- BD Front: Poplar Wood Hoop / Remo UC P3 Coated Head
- BD Strike: Poplar Wood Hoop / Remo UC P3 Clear Head
- TT / FT striking surface: 1.6mm steel hoop (RH) / Remo / UC clear (D) / head
- TT / FT bottom: 1.6mm steel hoop (RH) / Remo / UC clear (D) / head
- Bass drum: 16" x 14" (w /lift)
- Tom tom: 10" x 7"
- Floor tom: 13" x 12"
- Snare drum: 13" x 5.5"(* Snare stand is not included)
- Tom holder: TH-70I / C
First, check the contents of the set. It's very exciting to open a new product. Don't rush into it just because you want to try it out quickly. Let's check the product carefully.

The contents are like this, so make sure there are no missing items. Since it is 16 inches, a lift is included. I introduced how to assemble a drum kit on my blog before, so I will omit the explanation this time. However, the structure is easy to understand so that it can be assembled without instructions, but the instructions are included so it will not be a pain to assemble.

The lift is attached like this. The rim has a recess to prevent the bass drum and pedals from interfering with each other. However, please note that some pedals from other manufacturers cannot be installed. This time I will set it up with the PEARL / P2050C.

The front head is coated. There is no sound hole, but if you tune it properly, the bass will come out well.

Set the toms and combine the set with your cymbals and hardware to complete the drum set. Because the bass drum has a small caliber, it is very compact, but it can produce a solid volume and produces plenty of bass. It will sound even better if you have a head with an open sound hole. In the image, it is set directly on the floor, but it will move around as you play, so I recommend using a drum mat or on a surface where there is no problem with using spikes such as on a carpet.

After use, it can be put away so compactly. It's not a recommended practice, but if you don't want it to take up space, it may be useful to know how to put it away like this. When I actually used the PEARL / MDT764P / C this time, I was able to produce a warm sound unique to poplar, and depending on the tuning, I was able to get a good bass, so it fully demonstrated its capabilities even for an acoustic live performance and recording. I'm using the bass drum without muting, but it doesn't sound too loud and I can play comfortably. By opening a sound hole in the front head or applying a slight mute, I think that a better sound could be produced, so I would like to try these at a later date. If you purchase an additional case for the set, it will be a good companion that can also be used for live shows.
I hope this will be one of your options when purchasingyou’re thinking about getting a drum set.