Music Radar Team

For 2008, Fender discontinues the American Series and reinvents the American Standard

The QR Series is the entry point to the Mapex brand, and as a starter or second kit, it won't disappoint

Pacific's loud and proud MXR kit is more versatile than appearances might suggest

An upgrade from the standard DM5, the Pro model feels more sophisticated while retaining its affordability

The DX-MIDI-Pro is an affordable entry-level e-kit and not as flimsy as it looks - but pretty uninspiring all the same

Koby have a reputation for making fine electronic drum paraphernalia, and this compact rig offers good value and feel

The TD-12K may not boast the high spec of the TD-20K, but it's more affordable and offers a thoroughly rewarding ownership experience

One of the most affordable e-kits around, the E400 boasts mesh heads and a much-improved brain

A welcome addition to the lower end of e-kits, it's not perfect, but if you buy a decent brain to go with it you're laughing

The rare delivery of an Ayotte kit is always a reason for celebration, and this fantastic-sounding Custom set is no exception

A combo with a very familiar look and vibe that offers numerous voicings and onboard FX

It's Yamaha's best-selling electric guitar and it's just got better!

Pacific's X7 kit offers the complete package in terms of sound, and boasts several of DW's high-end features - minus the big price tag

The Force 3007 kit is a well-appointed upgrade from the 3005 range and rather intriguingly, features maple from two continents

This lean, mean amp emulating machine would be a worthy addition to any guitarist's virtual rack

This super cheap entry-level kit punches above its weight in more ways than you'd imagine, it's just a shame about the godawful cymbals

This exact replica of Rush's 30th anniversary tour kit is outstanding, albeit extremely expensive

Along with a number of stompboxes and the tiny Pandora units, the ToneWorks range features multi-effects units to suit a variety of budgets, from the tiny AX10G to the AX1500G.

If you're looking for portability and easy, one-touch tuning then Flats Lite is for you - as long as you don't mind the dated looking hardware

Fender's Classic Player series offers astonishing value for money, and this tweaked vintage-style Tele is no exception

Mapex's birch offering comes with a surprisingly excellent kick drum and tom set ups but you may choose to replace the snare

You may have to replace the heads for a more grown-up playing experience but this is a commendable kit at an extremely reasonable price

Apart from a few minor hardware niggles, the maple shells, cast hoops and isolation mounting make the Cabria XPK a great addition to the budget market

Premier evokes the Spirit of Lily while staying true to Moonie and his famous custom kit