Yamaha all the way. Why?
Yamaha makes a great product.
DW makes a great drum sure. But why spend that much? I am a bit biased because I worked in the industry for a few years. I picked
Yamaha for because of how they sound first, then because of their hardware (there is none as solid), then price. Look at their intermediate level stuff. PDP drums sound ok, but the hardware sucks. I still like
Tama, but look at what you get for for the same money. The Imperial Stars are a joke compared the to original ones. Ok enough ranting. Simply
Yamaha is a better deal all around. Now Stage Custom or Birch Absolute? What can you afford? The new Stage Customs sound great (and look even better), but of course the Birch Absolutes are a big step up. I am satisfied with my Stage Customs for the time being. Hopefully you get the kit you want.