Best Drum Thrones in 2024 Reviewed

The Best Drum Throne

As a new drummer, when you embark on your journey to learning and becoming a pro player of this instrument, there are lots of hardware and parts you will have to learn about. However, there are some pieces of the drum kit that tend to get more attention than others. These include the cymbals, pedals and shell. Yes they are important to the overall quality of sound produced but they shouldn’t be concentrated on at the expense of the best drum throne.

Yes, this hardware is often overlooked and I dare say even ignored by professionals teaching newbies how to play the instrument. But it just so happens that the best drum throne has a great impact on your overall performance and your technique. Investing in a good throne will allow you to build a solid foundation. In addition to this, depending on the make and model you chose, the length of time the hardware serves you will vary.

That said, below are some of the best drum thrones in the market today.



The Drum Workshop CP9100AL 9000 Series is more of a traditional styled drum throne.

It comes with a simple design yet providing high quality and support.

There is no doubt that DW did an exquisite job with this drum throne.

If you are looking for a conservative and solid drum throne, this should be your first pick.

It is amazing how this drum throne has been built. For lack of another expression or phrase, this throne has been built like a tank.

It has a solid construction courtesy of high-quality materials and is heavy (probably too heavy for its own good) and it is easily adjustable. It features a tripod design only that it comes with four legs.

The seat of this drum throne is round and cushioned to provide comfort.

With regards to comfort, I should point out that the round seat top is filled with dual foam. This foam provides you with cushioning for long hours.

Your bum will not feel tired even if the event runs for hours without end. The fact that it is round means that it can accommodate people on the heavier side with great ease.

The seat is lined with seemingly high-quality leather. The stitching on the sides is clean which adds to its overall beauty.

On the side of the seat is the DW logo completing the premium look and feel.

Below the seat is a hydraulic system (airlift technology) designed to adjust the seat up and down. This may not be exactly groundbreaking for some but considering other units either lack this feature or use the manual swing, this is a feature to be proud of.

The hydraulic lever is ergonomic and easier to use.

The stem and the four legs of the unit are shiny and strong enough to support the weight of the drummer. Instead of the normal three legs, this unit features four legs for added support and stability.

You should note that the legs are collapsible which improve the product’s portability. The ends of the legs are covered with a rubber material to improve its grip.

Even on a smooth surface, the stool will not slide away from under you leaving you to land on the floor in the middle of your performance.

If you are in need of support, you will find this unit quite useful. How so? Isn’t it a barstool styled drum throne.

Well, the basic unit features a barstool style. However, sold separately is a padded backrest. The Drum Workshop CP9100AL 9000 Series is designed and constructed to accommodate the backrest.

You should note that it will cost you slightly more to enjoy the luxury of this backrest.

Pros
  • Hydraulic height adjustment
  • Sturdy and strong construction
  • Dual foam padding on its classic round seat top
Cons
  • Backrest available but at an additional cost
  • Quite heavy at 22.9 pounds

Final Verdict

The design and construction of this unit are satisfactory. Its comfort levels courtesy of the dense cushioning is impressive.

The packaging is also robust with great protection on the sides and the base.


The Roc N Soc brand has been in the industry for quite some time.

The company has quite a few models including the bucket style and round style seat drum throne.

The base design also varies from one model to the next each with their own set of pros and cons.

The top pattern and colors also vary. This particular model features a saddle seat.

The saddle/motorcycle seat is ergonomic and comfortable compared to other seat designs. Its curves at the front provide space for the legs to grab the seat comfortably.

The edge will not choke your legs (yes, this happens all too often than most drummers care to remember)

The saddle seat features a combination of velvet and synthetic leather. The stitching on the side is of great quality and gives a high end feel to the unit.

The velvet material is on the very top and complements the cushioning. Also on the top is a quality stitching of the Roc n Soc logo.

Speaking of cushioning, it may not be as thick as with other brands, but it is decent enough to provide you with protection from the hard base. It does not cut circulation from your bum after hours of performing.

This Roc N Soc model comes with a swivel height adjustment. This mechanism will get the job done like a hydraulic system.

The only downside is that you have to get off the seat and rotate it to make the adjustments. With hydraulic height adjustments, it is simply lifting or lowering a lever and the height adjustment is complete.

But despite this, it is easy to make the height adjustments.

While other drum throne models from the same company are bragging of office style bases, this unit features a tripod base. The base is made of shiny and strong metal.

It has a tripod design and supplementary support to provide ample support. Like the DW drum throne reviewed above, the tripod base comes with a collapsible design.

As such, even with limited cargo space on your vehicle, it is easy to fit it in the limited space available.

At the ends of the legs are some rubber paddings which help improve the grip. With the improved grip, even with excessive movement, jumping and smashing (which is bound to happen), the drum throne will not slide from under you.

Pros
  • Comfortable saddle seat
  • It is light and features a collapsible tripod base
  • Clean velvet and leather seat covering. It gives a sleek look
Cons
  • The swivel adjustment is not as fluid compared to hydraulic height adjustments

Final Verdict

Overall, this is a high-quality drum throne designed for both professionals and amateurs alike. Every feature of this throne is designed with the end user in mind.

All who have had the opportunity to use the unit have got nothing but praise for it. If you are interested in extra cushioning, you can purchase the Evans 2-Sided Practice Pad along with the drum throne.

Compared to other units, this unit is lighter and less bulky at 18.85 pounds and measuring 17 x 17 x11 inches.


Gibraltar has continuously asserted itself as one of the leading companies producing the best and most durable drum thrones and other drum set hardware.

The pieces of hardware it completes and throws into the market are of high quality and can only be rivaled by the best in the industry.

We shall start the review of this unit from the top.

Unlike the other drum thrones already reviewed, this unit features a round seat which is designed to provide maximum comfort. There are those that may argue that saddle seats are the best, but this does not refute the fact that the round seat is great as well.

Aside from being a perfectly round seat, the unit contains top grade foam which provides maximum comfort for the drummer. Despite the length of time spent on the seat, you can expect to have great cushioning without getting numb.

As for the height adjustment, the seat adjusts from 20” and 28” high. I noted that the height adjustment, though not a hydraulic mechanism is easy to use.

All you have to do is turn the seat which is supported on a threaded post and then lock it into position with a two-point lock mechanism and is complemented with a memory lock mechanism. The mechanism is effective and gets the job done.

Moving down to the base, it features a tripod design. The three legs are rock solid and are double braced for added support and strength.

The non-slip rubbers at the end of the legs add to the stability of the unit. It is also important to note that the unit features a collapsible tripod base.

The seat, on the other hand, can be unscrewed from the threaded base. This design works to improve the portability of the unit overall.

Speaking of portability, it is shocking that such a sturdy and a comfortable unit can be so light. The unit weighs a whopping 3 pounds and measures 23 x 16 x 13 inches.

If you wish it, you could buy this unit along with its supportive back accessory. If you experience back pain after prolonged hours of playing, this will help ease the pressure and stress exerted.

Pros
  • Has a two-point lock mechanism for its height adjustability
  • Has top grade foam for added comfort
  • Has rock solid tripod base
  • It is light
Cons
  • It is a bit too soft for some individuals

This Mapex features a three legged tripod design.

This is pretty common in the drum throne industry but this unit has a little advantage.

The legs are double braced and have rubber legs to improve the grip and reduce slippage.

The rubber at the ends is soft and feels more like plastic. Nonetheless, it is great in the job it is designed to perform.

The legs are curved and with the double braced design, it is stable and strong to support a lot of weight. You will not notice the throne sinking under your weight.

Below the double braced legs are supportive braces. These add to its stability as well as give the unit a collapsible design.

When transporting the unit, it will take up less space this way.

Below the seat is a height adjustability mechanism. Now while most units feature a threaded design or a hydraulic press mechanism, this Mapex drum throne features a non-threaded mechanism – a tube and collar lock.

This is quite exciting especially given the fact that other units tend to sink under the pressure. This unit, however, is strong enough and does not sink an inch.

Additionally, it can support a lot of weight.

The height adjustment is between 16.1 and 24.4 inches. This is the perfect height for both short and tall persons.

It is also pleasing to note that the unit is made using steel metal. This steel is the source of strength for the throne.

As for the seat, it is round and measures 14 inches. What is even more impressive is the fact that the unit features a cushion that is 4-inches thick.

Very few if any throne features such seat thickness. On this seat, you can rest assured of comfort.

Your legs will not go numb and your butt will not grow tired during your performance. The seat is covered in synthetic leather.

It’s stitching on the side is clean and sleek. On the side is the Mapex logo in white.

Last but not least, this unit features a 5-year warranty. How is this a big deal one might wonder?

Well, truth be told, any company that has the guts to provide its product with a warranty guarantee, it has confidence in the product. Mapex provides this seat with a 5-year warranty.

The unit weighs 0.16 ounces and measures 35 x 19.3 x 17.1 inches.

Pros
  • Steel construction which gives it durability and strength
  • 4-inch thick seat cushioning for added comfort
  • Rubber legs for an improved grip
Cons
  • The height adjustability mechanism may sink for some individuals

Final Verdict

There are a bunch of drum throne makes and models in the market. However, there are very few units that meet the high-quality standards that most drummers, professionals and newbies alike, are looking for.

Luckily, this Mapex is one of the best units. The drum throne is strong and sturdy.

It can last for ages on end. While it features a simple design, it is cool and most drummers love it (I know I do).


The cannon UP197 drum throne is one of the best units available.

When buying the best drum throne for your practice and performance events, comfort is one of the factors to consider.

With the double duty padded seat comfort is a guarantee with this seat.

It should also be noted that the seat is circular and measures 10-inches in diameter. This adds to the comfort of the unit.

Additionally, the unit can support a maximum weight of about 150 pounds. With this weight limit, you can rest assured that the throne will accommodate your weight with great ease, even if you are on the heavier side.

This 10-inch feature is the reason why most individuals prefer this unit over other drum thrones. The seat is covered with comfortable leather and an ample padding.

The leather has great stitching around the edge giving it a great finish.

Glancing at the throne, the first thing you will notice is that the legs of this unit are higher compared to those of other thrones. While this does not make much of a difference, it gives it a unique and different design, enough to catch the attention of most individuals.

Speaking of the legs, it is important to note that they are double braced and come with rubber padding. The rubber paddings are designed to improve the grip on the floor.

The rubber paddings are ridged. Those of other units do not have ridges, if anything, they are smooth.

The ridges on this unit work to increase the effectiveness of the rubber. The double braced legs are strong enough to support your weight.

Additionally, they come with a collapsible feature. The metallic supports between the tripod legs ensure this is the case.

When moving from one place to another, you will have an easier time.

The unit weighs about 7.3 pounds. While it may not be the lights, it is definitely not the heaviest either.

Moving it around should not be such a big hassle.

Pros
  • It is light
  • It has great cushioning and thus great comfort
  • The unit is strong and stable thanks to its metallic construction and non-slip rubber legs
Cons
  • The construction could be sturdier

Final Verdict

This drum throne has made it to this list courtesy of its comfort, safety, strength and sturdy nature. Needless to say, it has a lot going on for it.

Even better, and compared to other units listed, it fetches a cheap price, it is affordable to newbies in the drumming industry.

Best Drum Throne – Buyer’s Guide

Contents:

Comfort is Imperative

Best Drum Throne - PicWhen you are picking up a drum throne for your personal use, or a friend, comfort is the number one consideration you ought to make. These pieces of hardware are referred to as thrones for a reason – they should make you feel like the king while you play.

As such, quality is important and subsequently, attention to details is critical. Everything from how the throne feels on your butt to how it handles itself when you get lost in the music matters a lot.

As a drummer, you should bear in mind one thing – you will be seated for prolonged periods. You will never seat, play a short quick jam and leave to complete other errands.

Whether you are practicing, playing at a concert or jamming, you will find yourself seated for hours. Your playing would be rather painful and awkward if you choose a seat lacking in comfort.

It is a throne; you have to feel good, no great when you are seated on it. The throne should feel strong and sturdy enough to support you when you are pounding, reaching, crashing and at times even dancing.

Support

Truth be told, support is necessary. While other people may not want to admit it, there is no shame in admitting it.

Musicians are not exactly world-class athletes. But this does not mean they do not experience their fair share of ‘exercise’ and physicality that goes into playing the drums.

What most people do not realize is that seating and playing the drums for prolonged periods is a taxing process. It gives the body a massive workout and breaking a sweat is inevitable – playing the drums can very well be hard on your back.

Now for the young drummers, they have the benefit of youth, strength and perfect form. They do not have to worry about the pressure exerted on their back as a result of prolonged drum playing.

It is however different with the older drummers and again, it is okay to admit that you need the support.

In this light, more and more drum throne brands are incorporating backrests on their designs. As such, if you need on, by all means, ensure you get one.

It adds a considerable amount of hours to your playing time and some time as well into your life as a drummer. But is it all about the backrest? Of course not.

The surface of the throne is also a factor to consider. If you are big, you should ensure that you can bring it while on the seat without wobbling or feeling as though it will collapse under your weight.

If you are short, check if the seat has height adjustment. If it does have height adjustment, what technology is used to effect this feature?

Does it come with a hydraulic pump included or does it use a manual spindle? Both mechanisms will work just fine to adjust the height.

But they differ in the effort put in to realize the vertical adjustments.

Also, how many legs does the throne feature? If you want something sturdy and stable, you should go with a unit that has more legs or at the very least pay close attention to how the legs have been designed and constructed.

Do note that the higher the number of legs the unit features, the harder it is to move it around.

Speaking of the legs, you also should ensure that they have a great grip on the ground. The last thing you want is for the throne to slip right under you when you are giving the performance of your life.

Last but not least, consider the seat. This is where our comfort is concentrated.

On this, consider the seat style. There are different types of seat styles that have grown in popularity.

These are the motorcycle, saddle, and standard seat styles. Of the three, saddle styles have proven more comfortable and offer slightly more support.

The seat should also be well foamed and padded.

Durability

As a drummer, you will make lots of noise (silence loving individuals will probably run away from you) and will smash (the Hulk has got nothing on you). With all these, you will need not only a high-quality drum throne but one that can withstand the constant pressure.

Generally, the seat should outlast the cymbals and the drums. After all, it is these things that suffer a thorough pounding day in day out and for prolonged hours.

The seat should have a longer life. If you are a drummer who is on the road for the better part of the year, doing roadshows and tours, you will want a drum throne that can withstand the constant loading and off-loading from the van or bus.

For this, you will have to read the reviews done by individuals who have used the drum throne in question before. But the golden rule of thumb is that top-grossing brands produce high-quality drum thrones in comparison to other brands.

Portability

Peaking of being on the road, if you intend to move constantly or at the very least take your drums from your room into another, you should be sure that the drum throne can move with you. At times, moving your drum throne is as easy as creating some space at the back of your van.

However, there are some thrones that feature compressible legs and like music stands, these will be easier to move from one location to the next.

The very last thing you want is to have to rely on a folding chair throughout your gig or practice, just because the drum throne you bought cannot fit in the space left in your vehicle.

Design

The thing with musicians is that they want to sound good always. But even more important is their looks.

They are suckers for looking great, you know this better, chances are you spend a lot of time choosing an outfit for your gig than practicing as the event day nears. The worst bit is that your fans will expect you to be well dressed too, so the pressure in the industry is real.

Aside from your dressing, you also will want your tools of trade to look great as well. Performing is an art and you should as such take a moment to consider the look and design of your drum throne.

Unlike your outfit, you do not have the luxury of changing it as you please. And even if you could, it would cost you a pretty penny.

If the throne in question looks like one that belongs to a high school science lab, drop it. You are destined for greater things and a high school design drum throne will not cut it.

It should be something sleeker, and that blends with the kind of music you play.

Also, consider what the unit is made of. There are lots of materials that go into the construction of a decent drum throne.

At the top, and a material that contributes to comfort is memory foam. Currently, there is possibly no better material to have on your seat.

Last but not least is the throne’s design. Most drummers prefer keeping things simple.

But despite this, there are lots of ways you could spruce up the throne. This could be a different texture or just a different color scheme.

Having leather or velvet material on your seat would be perfect and give you a cool look. By now you obviously get the point.

If you are going to invest your hard earned cash in a drum throne, the least you can do is ensure that it looks everything like a throne.

Conclusion

Getting a great drum throne is imperative as the drum throne you choose will affect your technique as well as how fast you master the art. For this reason, it is highly advisable that you invest in one of the best drum thrones from the very start.

As a matter of fact, if you currently have a crappy drum throne, you should make plans on how you will get a new one, that is if at all you care about your drumming career and your back.

On this guide, we have provided a list of some of the best drum thrones we have had the opportunity of trying out. This list is not in the least the ultimate but it will provide you with a starting point.

Be keen when making the choice and consult widely after reading this post as well.


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