The Alesis CompactKit 7 is a versatile tabletop electronic drumset that's great for a novice to train on with enough control to charm a veteran drummer.

Seven velocity-sensitive drum pads with realistic feel and response deliver hundreds of percussion sounds to choose from. It also comes with two pedals for hi-hat and kick drum, so you have all the options of an acoustic set in a smaller, portable package. You can pick from more than a hundred built-in songs and adjust their tempo so you're able to comfortably play them as you train, with options for a metronome to guide you and visual feedback for each pad strike and footswitch.

Think you're ready to expand your sound potential? Use the USB-MIDI output to connect CompactKit 7 to your favorite digital audio workstations (DAWs) and plug-ins to use it as a MIDI controller.

Unlike traditional kits, this one is small enough to join you on your roadtrips and family vacations. Use a wall outlet or put in six C batteries to provide up to 14 hours of battery life.

The built-in speakers and headphone output jack mean you can quickly switch between public performance and private practice—whatever fits the circumstances best. Indulge your creativity at 2 a.m. without making the rest of your family—or the neighbors—hate you.

A pair of drumsticks complete the package, but if you ever lose them, you're still all right: switch to Hand Percussion and play bongo-style.

The CompactKit 7 has something for the drummer in everyone.