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At a Glance

The AODSK AED-500 comes out as the victor, a set suited for beginners looking for a kit that they won't outgrow quickly. Its larger pads, more realistic kick, additional sounds, and recording features provide a comprehensive and engaging drumming experience.

AODSK AED-500 vs AODSK AED-403 (2024) Head to Head

When comparing the AODSK AED-500 to the AODSK AED-403, the AED-500 stands out as the more advanced model, offering larger and more responsive pads, a greater variety of sounds, and additional recording capabilities. On the other hand, the AED-403, while slightly more basic, still provides a solid foundation for beginners or those on a tighter budget.

Key Differences

The AED-500 uses a tower kick, which typically offers a more realistic pedal feel and response, compared to the trigger pedal of the AED-403.

The AED-500 comes with an 8-inch snare pad, larger than the 6.5-inch pad of the AED-403. A larger pad generally provides a better playing experience with a more realistic feel.

With 225 sounds, the AED-500 surpasses the AED-403's 195 sounds, offering a broader palette for creativity and expression.

The AED-500 has three 8-inch toms, while the AED-403 has three 6.5-inch toms. Larger toms provide a more realistic playing experience, closer to a conventional acoustic set.

The AED-500 features on-board recording of internal sounds, which is absent in the AED-403.

The AED-500 is equipped with the AED-500, while the AODSK AED-403 uses the AED-403.

Kick Type
Tower
Trigger Pedal
Snare Pad Size
8-inch
6.5-inch
Number of Sounds
225
195
Drum Module Name
AED-500
AED-403

Key Features in Common

MIDI-over-USB functionality is present in both models, facilitating easy connection to computers and other MIDI-compatible devices for recording and sound expansion.

Both sets include 10-inch hi-hat and ride cymbal pads with single-trigger zones, plus one crash cymbal pad, providing a consistent setup for basic drumming needs.

Each kit features mesh toms, offering a more realistic feel and quieter practice sessions.

Both models come with a built-in metronome and also feature 15 preset kits, allowing for a range of sounds to suit different musical styles.

MIDI Connectivity
MIDI-over-USB
MIDI-over-USB

Check out the AED-500 in action.

And here's a video of the AODSK AED-403.

Price Comparison Between The AED-500 and AODSK AED-403

Use the below to get up-to-date prices for both the AED-500 and AODSK AED-403

We have included a head-to-head comparison of the features on both the AED-500 and AODSK AED-403.

Hi-Hat

Hi-Hat Size (Inches)
10-inch
10-inch
Hi-Hat Type
Electronic hi-hat pedal
Electronic hi-hat pedal

Cymbal Pads

Ride Cymbal Pad Size (Inches)
10-inch
10-inch
Ride Cymbal Zones
Single-Trigger
Single-Trigger
Number of Crash Cymbal Pads
1
1
Crash Cymbal Sizes
10"
10"

Toms

Tom pad sizes
8", 8", 8"
6.5"
Number of Tom Pads
3
3
Tom Pad Material
Mesh
Mesh
Tom Zones
Single-Zone
Single-Zone

Drum Module

Number of Sounds
225
195
Drum Module Name
AED-500
AED-403
Metronome
Yes
Yes
On-Board Recording (of internal sounds)
Yes
No
Audio Outputs
1 Output
1 Output
Audio Input (Auxiliary Input)
1/8" inch
1/8" inch
Effects and Sound Editing Capabilities
Low
Low
MIDI Connectivity
MIDI-over-USB
MIDI-over-USB
Number of Kits
15
15

Snare

Snare Mount Type
Mounted to Rack
Mounted to Rack
Snare Pad Size
8-inch
6.5-inch
Snare Pad Material
Mesh
Mesh
Snare Zones
Single-Zone
Single-Zone

Kick

Kick Type
Tower
Trigger Pedal
Kick Pad Material
Rubber
-
Kick Pad Size
8-inch
-

Overview

Verdict

In conclusion, your choice between the AODSK AED-500 and AODSK AED-403 should be guided by your specific needs, playing level, and the importance of features like pad size, sound variety, and recording capabilities in enhancing your drumming experience.

Matt Taylor

Matt Taylor

I'm Matt Taylor, a guitarist with a genuine love for music. I've had the pleasure of playing in a few bands and collaborating with some amazing artists along the way. As a music journalist, my goal is to share my passion and learnings with you while keeping my finger on the pulse of emerging trends and talents.