Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (7)
$1,099.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (10)
$1,099.99
Amazon
4.0 (36)
$999.99
Musician's Friend
4.0 (18)
$1,099.99
Thomann
4.7 (79)
$1,111.00

Average Price: $1,082

Standard/Professional

$999

$2500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Pearl Export". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Pearl Export drum set is an enduring favorite among drummers worldwide, known for its blend of craftsmanship and affordability. This iconic series has returned with upgrades that elevate its performance while retaining the qualities that made it a classic. At the heart of this drum set are the 6-ply shells crafted from a blend of poplar and Asian mahogany, delivering a full-bodied sound with a rich, balanced attack. Pearl's proprietary Superior Shell Technology (SST) ensures each shell is robust and resonant, thanks to an innovative construction process involving extreme heat and over 1,000 pounds of hydraulic pressure.

The Pearl Export features the Opti-Loc Mounting System, designed to enhance the kit's resonance and sustain. This system securely holds the rack toms with rubber isolators at all connection points, reducing wobble and allowing the drums to vibrate freely. Complementing this are the low-mass lugs, engineered for minimal shell interaction to maximize sound quality.

With its stylish chrome hardware and a striking Jet Black wrap finish, the Pearl Export is as visually impressive as it is acoustically. Included in this set is Pearl's reliable 830-series hardware, featuring adjustable Uni-lock tilters and a Demonator kick drum pedal for precision and control. Whether you're recording in the studio or performing on stage, the Pearl Export offers a dynamic and robust sound that's perfect for any musical style.

Key Features:

  • 6-ply shells made from poplar and Asian mahogany
  • Superior Shell Technology (SST) for enhanced durability and tone
  • Opti-Loc Mounting System for stable, wobble-free performance
  • Chrome hardware with 830-series stands and Demonator pedal
  • Jet Black wrap finish for a sleek, professional look

Shell Configuration:

  • 22" x 18" Kick drum
  • 12" x 08" Tom tom
  • 13" x 09" Tom tom
  • 16" x 16" Floor tom
  • 14" x 5.5" Snare drum

Product specs

Finish Jet Black Wrap
Configuration Drum Kit
Number of Drums 5
Snare (Depth x Diameter) 5.5" x 14"
Mounted Toms (Depth x Diameter) 8" x 12", 9" x 13"
Floor Toms (Depth x Diameter) 16" x 16"
Bass Drums (Depth x Diameter) 18" x 22"
Shell Material Asian Mahogany/Poplar Hybrid
Included Stands 1 x Cymbal Boom Stand, 1 x Cymbal Straight Stand, 1 x Hi-hat Stand, 1 x Snare Stand
Included Drum Pedal 1 x P-930 Single Kick Pedal
Tom Holders 2 x TH70I Tom Arms

FAQs

What materials are the shells of the Pearl Export drum set made from?

The Pearl Export drum set features shells made from a hybrid of Asian Mahogany and Poplar, providing a balanced tone with warmth and projection.

Is the Pearl Export drum set suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Pearl Export drum set is suitable for beginners as well as more advanced players, offering quality construction and versatile sound that can grow with the player's skill level.

What hardware is included with the Pearl Export drum set?

The Pearl Export drum set includes a cymbal boom stand, cymbal straight stand, hi-hat stand, snare stand, and a P-930 single kick pedal, providing a complete setup for drummers.

How does the Pearl Export's Opti-Loc Suspension System benefit the sound?

The Opti-Loc Suspension System enhances the resonance and sustain of the toms by minimizing shell contact, allowing for a more open and vibrant sound.

What is the finish of the Pearl Export drum set?

The Pearl Export drum set comes in a Jet Black wrap finish, offering a sleek and classic appearance that suits various stage and studio settings.

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Pearl Export Series Drum Set Performance

Video thumbnail for Pearl Export Series Drum Set Performance by Kraft Music

Pearl Export Series Drum Set Performance

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for Pearl Export • Zildjian Cymbals Pack by Pearl Drums

Pearl Export • Zildjian Cymbals Pack

Pearl Drums

Pearl Drums

Video thumbnail for PEARL Export by Drumcenter cz

PEARL Export

Drumcenter cz

Drumcenter cz

Video thumbnail for Casey Cooper x Pearl Export Series by Pearl Drums

Casey Cooper x Pearl Export Series

Pearl Drums

Pearl Drums

Video thumbnail for Product Spotlight - Pearl Export Drum Kit by Guitar Center

Product Spotlight - Pearl Export Drum Kit

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Pearl Export Series Kit - Drummer's Review by Drummer's Review

Pearl Export Series Kit - Drummer's Review

Drummer's Review

Drummer's Review

Video thumbnail for How to set up a Pearl Export Drumkit | Authentic Drummer | Adrian Violi by Authentic Drummer

How to set up a Pearl Export Drumkit | Authentic Drummer | Adrian Violi

Authentic Drummer

Authentic Drummer

Video thumbnail for Pearl Export Drum Kit Demo by PMTVUK

Pearl Export Drum Kit Demo

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Pearl EXX Export 7pc Double Bass Drum Kit with Jason Bowld track montage | Gear4music by Gear4music Guitars

Pearl EXX Export 7pc Double Bass Drum Kit with Jason Bowld track montage | Gear4music

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for Pearl Export In-depth Review and Sound Test! A Best and Worst Gear Review by Will Drums Daly

Pearl Export In-depth Review and Sound Test! A Best and Worst Gear Review

Will Drums Daly

Will Drums Daly

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality across various music styles, suitable for gigs and recordings

  • Durable hardware, withstands frequent setups and tear-downs

  • Versatile, suitable for beginners and experienced drummers alike

  • Beautiful finishes enhance stage presence

  • Responsive P-930 Demonator pedal with adjustable settings

  • Well-crafted shells offering balanced tone and resonance

  • Affordable price for high-quality build and performance

  • Easy assembly and tuning, beginner-friendly

  • Expandable with additional toms for customization

  • Long-lasting, praised for reliability over years

CONS

  • Stock heads not optimal, recommended to replace for better sound

  • Some screws may loosen over time

  • Hi-hat stand may auto-adjust unintentionally during play

  • Cymbals included are basic, not ideal for professional recordings

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pearl Export.

Build quality

  • Older Pearl Exports, particularly from 1992-1994, used Birch wood, which owners say gave them a professional sound with the right drum heads.

    Source
  • A 2002 Export owner notes the chrome wrap was actually made with thin gauge steel, not plastic, highlighting unexpected durability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The "power tom" setup in some Export kits, with sizes like 12", 13", and 14", is considered unconventional; replacing the 13" with a 10" is suggested for better balance.

    Source
  • The Export's plastic shell coating can be removed and replaced for a more personalized finish, enhancing both appearance and sound.

    Source
  • ZBT cymbals, often included in these kits, are noted as entry-level and may need upgrading for better sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Pearl Export kits, even from the late 90s, have been praised for their durability, often lasting over 20 years with regular gigging and practice.

    Source
  • Owners highlight that Pearl Export kits are consistent in build, but occasionally a shell may not tune well, though this is rare.

    Source
  • Owners report Pearl Exports are robust enough to last decades, with some having used them extensively for over 20 years.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite marketing, poplar used in newer Pearl Export kits is noted to be durable and provides good value, challenging perceptions of it as a lesser wood.

    Source
  • A $450 price for a used Pearl Export with included hardware and cymbals is generally considered a good deal, particularly if all hardware is functional.

    Source

Comparisons

  • In the $700-900 range, the Pearl Export competes with the Yamaha Stage Custom, Mapex Armory, and Gretsch Catalina, among others, offering solid quality at a competitive price.

    Source
  • It’s mentioned that Pearl Exports don’t match the sound and playability of higher-end DW kits, though they continue to be a great, reliable option.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted that while Pearl Exports excel in rock and funk/RnB, they may not suit jazz or melodic styles due to kick drum tone limitations.

    Source
  • The Pearl Export is frequently recommended as an ideal starter kit, allowing for skill growth and future upgrades.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users repaint or rewrap their kits for aesthetic variety, with one owner rewrapping in red sparkle for a fresh look.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users recommend replacing factory drum heads with double ply heads, like Evans coated G2 over clear G1, for reduced overtones and a fuller sound.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Pearl Export Series Review: A Look At the EXX and EXL Kits

drumspy.com

The Pearl Export Series delivers a solid entry-level drum kit perfect for beginners and intermediates, boasting durable construction and the reputable sound quality of Pearl's SST technology. The EXX and EXL models offer aesthetic choices without affecting sound, and the inclusion of the P930 Demonator Pedal is a noteworthy perk. However, the hardware, including the Opti-Loc Mounting System, can be cumbersome and lacks adjustability, potentially irksome during setup. The absence of cymbals and a throne may be a drawback, but this allows for more personalized choices. Overall, the Export series offers great value and sound, making it a wise investment for aspiring drummers.

positive

Pearl Export Series Kit review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Pearl Export Series Kit makes a strong comeback, offering excellent value with its upgraded shells, hardware, and overall design. The Asian mahogany shells deliver impressive sound, and the hardware package, including the Demonator bass pedal, is top-notch for the price. However, the snare and cymbals fall short, suggesting an upgrade to better cymbals for a more professional sound. Overall, the Export series remains a stellar choice for entry-level drummers, maintaining its status as a market leader in affordable drum kits.

positive

Pearl Export Series Review (A Drummer's Guide) in 2025

thedrumninja.com

The Pearl Export Series 8-Piece Shell Pack is a powerhouse for beginner to intermediate drummers looking for a massive setup without breaking the bank. With a hybrid shell design of poplar and mahogany, it delivers warm, low-end tones perfect for metal drumming. Its robust build quality and included Pearl 830-Series hardware make it a durable investment, with the potential to split into two kits. However, its sheer size may be overwhelming for non-metal drummers or those seeking a more compact setup. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, offering a comprehensive kit for under $1500, though buyers might consider a higher-end setup at a similar price with fewer components.

positive
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 24 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
K

Exceptional Kit

Great drum kit for players of all age and skill level. With the right tuning, heads and accompanying cymbals, this five-piece kit sounds exceptional

dakota_platt

I love Pearl always will great kit

The Pearl Export kits sound and look really good. Very great kit for the money I love it!

nextgen

Drumkit

My current drumkit but all the pearl cymbals broke so i replaced them with Sabian :)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mac DeMarco uses Pearl Export

Mac DeMarco

Singer, Guitarist

Mac DeMarco

...
Verified via Imgur

In an image from the "Mac Drums" album on Imgur, Joe Mcmurry, Mac DeMarco's drummer, is shown playing a Pearl Export drum set. The set is identifiable by its older lugs, with "Pearl" visible on the kick drum and floor tom. Notably, the tom-tom has its wrap removed.

See how Mike Portnoy uses Pearl Export

Mike Portnoy

Drummer

Avenged Sevenfold

...
Verified via Photo

Music drums concerts band Guns n roses

See how Matt Nicholls uses Pearl Export

Matt Nicholls

Drummer

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via MusicRadar

Matt Nicholls confirmed his use of the Pearl Export drum kit, stating, "I had a Pearl Export before that and we were like, we need a new drum kit to make this sound good. I went to a drum store in Rotherham and a guy took me round a few kits. It looks cool too, orange sparkle. I’ve used that to record the last four records" (MusicRadar, Chris Barnes, "Bring Me The Horizon drummer Matt Nicholls on confidence, computer composition, clicks and more").

See how Brian Chippendale uses Pearl Export

Brian Chippendale

Singer, Drummer

Lightning bolt

...
Verified via Modern Drummer Magazine

At the end of the article, Chippendale's equipment is listed. The Pearl Export is the first on the list.

See how Samus Paulicelli uses Pearl Export

Samus Paulicelli

Guitarist, Bassist

Goatwhore

...
Verified via Photo

Samus Paulicelli incorporates a Pearl Export drum kit into his setup, featuring three rack toms, two floor toms, and two bass drums. This is evidenced by his Instagram post, where he invites fans to a live YouTube session showcasing his raw drum sounds.

See how Nick Menza uses Pearl Export

Nick Menza

Drummer

Megadeth

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in this poster by Pearl Drums promoting the Export Series

See how Bora Karaca uses Pearl Export

Bora Karaca

Singer, Guitarist

Tally Hall

...
Verified via The Laboratory Audio

Bora Karaca lists on the gear page for his studio The Laboratory Audio that he has a Pearl Export drum kit. This was also used for various live shows for Cojum Dip.

See how Colm Ó Cíosóig uses Pearl Export

Colm Ó Cíosóig

Bassist, Drummer

My Bloody Valentine

...
Verified via Photo

A user-uploaded photo confirms that Colm Ó Cíosóig uses a Pearl Export drum set.

See how Stuart Cable uses Pearl Export

Stuart Cable

Drummer

Stereophonics

...
Verified via Cynon Valley Museum Trust

Stuart Cable's Pearl Export Drum Kit is displayed at the Cynon Valley Museum, as documented by Sarah Mayo of the Cynon Valley Museum Trust.

See how Neil Hennessy uses Pearl Export

Neil Hennessy

Drummer, Composer

Smoking Popes

...
Verified via Lawrencearms

In the interview, Neil talks about him and his brother buying a dark green Pearl Export kit together. He says it's on every Lawrence Arms recording up until The Greatest Story Ever Told.

See how Sam Acchione uses Pearl Export

Sam Acchione

Guitarist, Drummer

The Skin Cells

...
Verified via Photo

In a live set, Sam Acchione can be seen using a Pearl Export drum set, as evidenced by the image available on Equipboard.

D

David Elitch

Drummer

The Mars Volta

...
Verified via YouTube

At 33:56 in this episode of Bill Burr's podcast, Dave Elitch says:

When I played drums when I was a kid I got a $300 CB 700 kit that was a piece of shit and I beat the brakes off of it, then I got a Pearl Export, and I worked my way up.

Album Usage

The Pearl Export has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Pearl Export, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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