| Hey fryed,
In terms of fusion vs standard sets, there's really no way to tell you what exactly to get. You can easily beat out some funky beats with a standard set up. It all depends on tuning and they sound that you want from your kit. You shouldn't get a fusion kit just because of a funky style. It really doesn't make that much of a difference. The only difference is shell sizes which change the tone of the drums a little bit.
As for maple and birch, they say maple is louder and brighter and birch is clear and penetrating. Maple would be good if you plan on doing any live gigs or performances and birch is good for recording. But in the end, it all depends on the sound you're looking for so test them out and see what you like.
Mapex M are great drums from what I hear and I don't think you can go wrong with them unless you want to try other brands as well. |