Overview

The Pearl Export EXX is a five-piece drum kit that continues the legacy of the best-selling drum set in history, designed for beginner and intermediate drummers who want a complete, gig-ready setup at an affordable price. The shells are constructed from a six-ply poplar and Asian mahogany blend, providing a warm, balanced tone with adequate projection and a full-bodied low end. The kit typically includes a 22-inch bass drum, 10-inch and 12-inch mounted toms, a 16-inch floor tom, and a 14x5.5-inch matching snare drum, along with all necessary hardware including a cymbal stand, hi-hat stand, snare stand, bass drum pedal, and a drum throne. The sound is surprisingly refined for the price tier, with the toms producing clear, focused attack and the bass drum delivering solid punch that cuts through a band mix. The 830 Series hardware is sturdy and stable, providing professional-level functionality at a fraction of the cost. Shell finish options are diverse, with wrapped finishes that look sharp under stage lighting. The Pearl Export EXX is an outstanding starter kit for new drummers and a reliable option for gigging musicians on a budget. The included cymbals in package deals are typically entry-level and most players will want to upgrade them relatively quickly.

Acoustic Drums

The best-selling drum set in history, delivering complete gig-ready setups with poplar and mahogany shells, 830 Series hardware, and diverse finish options at an affordable price.

Instrument Details

$749 Beginner
Brand Pearl
Type 5-Piece Drum Kit
Made In China
Year 2014
4.5 1 vote

AI Reviews

4.5 /5

The Pearl Export EXX isn't just a starter kit; it's a rite of passage. Pearl's Superior Shell Technology (SST) ensures these poplar/mahogany shells punch far above their price point. The inclusion of Asian mahogany adds a necessary depth and low-end warmth that pure poplar kits often lack, making the toms sound surprisingly lush and resonant when tuned down.

The real star of the show, however, is the 830-series hardware pack. While competitors often skimp on stands at this level, Pearl provides gear that can actually survive a consistent gigging schedule. The Opti-Loc mounting system is a significant ergonomic upgrade from the pipe-mounts of the past, allowing the shells to vibrate more freely while maintaining rock-solid stability during heavy play.

On the flip side, the stock heads are strictly for practice; to unlock the kit's true sonic potential, you'll want to swap them for high-quality coated or clear batters immediately. Additionally, while the snare is snappy and reliable, it lacks the complex overtones of a dedicated maple or brass drum. Still, as a total package, the EXX remains the industry benchmark for value. It's the ultimate 'first real kit' for students, but it's also robust enough to serve as a dependable B-rig for the gigging semi-pro who needs a kit that stays in tune under pressure.

Category Ratings

Acoustic Drums
4.5
Feb 15, 2026
AI-Generated Review Generated via Google API. This is an automated evaluation, not a consumer review. Learn more
Pearl Export EXX Screenshot

Added: Feb 12, 2026

pearldrum.com/products/kits/drumsets/export

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