The throne is the most underestimated part of a whole drum set. A drummer has to sit on something while playing the drums, but many looked at the importance of having a proper drum throne (or drum stool).
As a drummer, you must feel comfortable while playing a drum set to give your audience the best performances. That’s why you need a quality drum throne.
Choosing a suitable drum throne is not as easy as it seems, as thousands of models are available out there. It is even more complicated if you are a big guy.
So which are the best drum thrones for big guys that suits your budget and individual playing style? Take a seat and read my reviews!
Best Drum Thrones for Big Guys Reviews
#1. Donner Adjustable Drum Throne – Best For Overall
Key features
No matter how many times you jump up and how intensely you sit down, this throne will still give you maximum comfort.
Although this model is designed to last, I still recommend that you treat this artificial leather throne concerning prolong its life.
It is the best model for me among all the models that I have tested. With the smooth pad filled with foam, this chair won’t tire you from sitting for hours practicing and performing, even if you’re a big guy.
This motorcycle-style drum stool is covered with thick rubber feet, so worrying about slipping down during a practice or performance session is unnecessary.
It will stay in place the entire time you play the drums unless you actively push it aside. However, I find it quite challenging to move it because of its double-braced base and premium steel leg. The good news is that it’s ideal for prominent people thanks to its sturdy construction.
This chair measures 19.29″ x 15.35″ x 7.87″. A thick lock is available under the pad, allowing you to adjust the throne’s height.
Don’t forget to tighten the lock after adjusting. Do not worry. It is easy to do, even when you are on a stage.
Things we like
- Legs fold in.
- Decent pad.
- Easy to adjust.
- Double braced leg base
- Great-quality artificial leather.
Things to consider
- Do not rotate even when you need it.
#2. ROC-N-SOC Nitro Throne – Best For Spinning Seat
Key features
Roc N Soc officially opened in 1987 and focuses on providing quality chairs for musicians, including drummers.
This brand has released countless quality products in the industry, and this nitro throne is one of them. This model remains one of the brand’s most popular offerings, even though it is an early design.
One of the things I like most about this model is that it spins freely. Besides giving the drummer the privilege of movement, it can be more beneficial for their body as they do not have to twist certain joints. During testing, I could turn where needed comfortably.
In addition, this unit comes with a decent shock absorber which will perfectly cushion your body every time you put your butt on it. Over time, it can prevent joint problems and make you feel less stressed after each performance.
At first glance, you might think this throne can be very heavy. However, it’s a lot lighter than it seems, at just 11.4 pounds. The light weight makes this model perfect for touring and performing activities.
The ROC-N-SOC nitro throne is a bit pricey and doesn’t seem to offer more than similarly designed but cheaper thrones.
Things we like
- Adjustable height.
- Comfortable seat
- Well-built with a sturdy frame
- Good design for helping posture.
Things to consider
- Quite expensive.
#3. Gibraltar 9608MB Throne – Best For Extended Live Performances
Key features
This motorcycle-style throne is among the most unique chairs I have ever tried.
It comes packaged with a backrest, which sets it apart from products from Roc-n-Soc, requiring you to purchase the backrest separately.
Once you have invested in Gibraltar 9608, you will get a combo that includes a backrest, support, and cushion. So this product can effectively protect the health of drummers.
In addition, this drum throne allows you to adjust the height from 20 to 28 inches easily. It almost caters well to every drummer, including big ones.
Its adjustable pitch will be perfect when you perform at a gig. All you need to do is adjust your throne until you feel most comfortable.
Don’t forget to use the memory lock and the fastener on your chair. It will keep you comfortable by preventing the cushion from swinging.
At 21.3lbs, this model is slightly heavier than many other drum stools, mainly due to its sturdy backrest and rigid support. As a result, moving it might be a bit difficult, making it perfect for extended live performances and classrooms.
Things we like
- Strong build.
- Easily collapsible frame.
- Easy seat adjustments
- Affordable price.
Things to consider
- Backrests might be inefficient.
#4. Vangoa Drum Throne – Best For For Adults, Teenagers, and Kids
Key features
Vangoa doesn’t specialize in producing drum thrones. Instead, the brand offers a wide range of musical instrument-related products. However, its drum throne is surprisingly good.
The throne’s cushion includes high-density soft sponges, while its seat cover is high-quality artificial leather.
Therefore, you can expect this drum stool to be undistorted and give you maximum comfort after prolonged use. I spent hours on this seat playing games with no problems. Also, it is ideal for drummers of different weights.
Thanks to three rubber feet, this drum chair is unlikely to shift and move while you practice or perform. In addition, its stability is enhanced by its aluminum alloy double-braced bracket, which is of high quality.
It is possible to adjust its height. All you need to do is spin the throne’s center post and tighten the wing nut to lock the specific size.
You can adjust the height of this stool from 17 to 24.6 inches, making it suitable for adults, teenagers, and kids.
When you purchase this drum throne set, you will receive a pair of drumsticks compatible with many different instruments and an instruction manual that will allow you to set up the throne easily.
Things we like
- Affordable price.
- Strong build.
- Very easy to set up.
- The height is adjustable.
- Come with a pair of drumsticks.
Things to consider
- The backrest is not included.
#5. DW Drum Workshop 5000 – Best for Heavy Duty Use
Key features
Not only gives you the comfort you need, but this throne also looks professional.
This 13-inches height throne features a 3-inches thick seat and comes with an excellent locking nut for any active drummer. So you will always lean on it without looking back while performing.
This model has a solid double-braced base that measures 1 1/8 inches. Plus, it comes with chair rotates, providing freedom while performing, even if you have to work with a 7-piece drum set with some cymbal stands.
It also allows you to adjust your height, just utilize its lock under the pad. Wearing about it breaking under you is unnecessary thanks to its sturdy tripod base.
It is light, weighing only 13.9 pounds, allowing you to carry it around easily. The Drum Workshop brand guarantees that this throne can hold up to 300 pounds, ideal for big guys.
I found its cushions comfortable to sit on for hours. In addition, you can easily fold this stool when not in use.
Things we like
- Easy to fold down.
- Comfortable seat.
- Hold big weights.
- High-quality materials.
- Sturdy base.
Things to consider
- Quite expensive.
#6. Gibraltar Pro Throne – Best For Value
Key features
The Gibraltar pro throne has impressive build quality with good-quality materials and decent stitching across the fabric.
The seat top is a 17” oversized throne. It features a durable seat with extra-soft foam padding. It feels supportive and soft and enabled my thighs to slope down easily towards my pedals but did not restrict my movement.
This throne’s base is extremely sturdy, which has oversized rubber feet and sturdy double-braced legs for maximum support and rigidity.
It also allows you to adjust the height, with the height ranging from 20 inches to 28 inches in height.
This drum chair is one of the impressive models from Gibraltar. It is the ideal model for those looking for a good-quality, durable throne at a reasonable price.
You can expect fantastic support and many years of comfort. In my opinion, the Gibraltar Pro Throne is the best throne available in its price tag.
Things we like
- Stability.
- Decent seat.
- Excellent support.
- Extra-soft padding with multi-layer foam.
Things to consider
- Not the most portable drum stool available.
#7. Starfavor Drum Throne – Best For Budget
Key features
While most thrones come with black top leather, this model is accentuated with brown leather. I believe it will contribute to lighting up your drum setup.
Its butt-shaped seat is designed for all drummers, which can disperse their weight from the legs evenly to reduce pressure from the tailbone.
There’s no denying that this model is ideal for drummers who often have to practice or perform for long periods.
Its crosshair-like structure is more stable and sophisticated than many drum stools on the market. In addition, it can withstand up to 330lb max, perfect for any large drummer.
You can rotate this throne to adjust its height which ranges from 18 inches to 23.6 inches.
The throne has a large landing area of the rubber feet, keeping it in one spot. Its stableness is fantastic, thanks to its double-braced iron feet. Its rubber feet are larger than many thrones, giving this drum stool more grip on the ground.
Things we like
- Stability.
- Sturdy base.
- Excellent support.
- Support up to 330lb.
- Adjustable height.
Things to consider
- Lack of the backrest.
#8. HXW Drum Throne – Best for Beginners
Key features
The HXW often provides good-quality hardware that is affordable, including drum thrones. This drum stool is an excellent example of that.
You can change the height of this throne from 18 to 24 inches. As a result, this model is very efficient for all band members.
Adjusting the height of this throne will be comfortable for all members of the team.
So it is unnecessary to need to buy various stools for each member who plays instruments. This will be expensive and a waste of money if your brand operates with a limited budget.
This stool has a reinforced structure, making it more durable and sturdy than other thrones. In addition, its sturdy support system allows this stool to carry up to 500 lbs.
This throne allows you to rotate 360 degrees, providing comfort for you to play music without restraint.
I prefer the cushion’s compact size as it is comfortable. When performing, it didn’t distract me. When I adjusted the throne into position, it did that until I finished my performance.
Things we like
- Maximum comfort.
- High durable.
- Stable.
- Adjustable height.
- Rotatable.
Things to consider
- It does not have a backrest.
#9. Ahead Drum Throne – Best For Back Problems
Key features
This drum chair comes with a beautiful red fabric seat surface. So if you want your gear to stand out at shows, that is a plus.
This model is designed to deliver more support to the drummer’s body, whether in motion or rest state. It is ideal for those struggling with back problems since you can get more comfort and support by replacing your chair.
One thing that makes this throne stand out is its split-seat design. Because of this groove, the chair will remove some pressure from your tailbone.
This pressure is typically a cause of pain for many drummers who sit for a long time because of pressure and friction in this area. It often happens during drum sessions where you constantly move.
This seat is well supported, and it is very comfortable and soft. Also, this model is lighter in weight than many of the products on this list, allowing for easier mobility and safer carrying for those with back problems.
The Ahead drum throne allows you to adjust the height, allowing it to fit almost all drum players.
Things we like
- Sturdy frame.
- Comfortable seat.
- Prevent several back problems.
- Less pressure on your tailbone.
Things to consider
- Red is easier to get dirty than black.
#10. Bolt Drum Throne – Best For All Body Types
Key features
If you favor strength, this model will impress you as it can hold up to 550lb. So, no matter how big a drummer you are, you will find comfort here.
In addition to unparalleled durability, this drum throne is very comfortable and easy to use. It comes with the pneumatic height adjustment feature, making it easy to set this stool to your expected height.
You probably won’t be able to set it as high as some models on my list, but that is only a problem for a very tall drummer.
As we all know, sitting for long periods can significantly affect your posture, causing pain all over your body and making it difficult to play the drums properly.
By having a decent backrest, this throne will prevent those problems from arising in the first place. During testing, I sat on it for 6 hours straight playing games, and I was fine.
The seat is of medium softness, catering to most players. It also turns smoothly, allowing you to reach all the cymbals and drums without putting strain on your back.
This drum chair is not in the cheap segment, but you cannot put a price on user-friendliness and comfort.
Things we like
- Comfortable seat.
- Easy to adjust the height.
- Absorbs impact.
- Protect your back.
Things to consider
- Expensive.
FAQs
Why Is a Proper Drum Throne So Important?
You will have difficulty playing the drums if you don’t have a comfortable place to sit and the ability to move your feet freely.
A proper throne will provide a balance that is fundamental to playing the drum.
Is a Round Throne Better Than a Bicycle One?
It will depend on your preference. A bicycle throne leads to less friction and will not hamper blood circulation. But if you favor more support beneath the thighs, you can’t go wrong with a bicycle stool.
How Much Should I Spend on a Drum Throne?
You can spend $100 to $300 to get a high-quality throne.
Should I Modify My Drum Stool?
If you want to adjust your drum throne, ensure it allows for customization, such as height and backrest adjustment.
The Bottom Line
Whatever your budget may be, various great options are waiting for you.
Of course, investing in a high-quality drum throne is essential. But too many drummers underestimate the importance of owning one.
It is the only piece of drum hardware that actively contributes to maintaining your physical well-being. It is why the drum throne should be considered a priority!
After doing a lot of testing, I highly recommend the top three models:
- Donner Adjustable Drum Throne – Best For Overall
- ROC-N-SOC Nitro Throne – Best For Spinning Seat
- Gibraltar 9608MB Throne – Best For Extended Live Performances
So let’s consider carefully choosing a model that will provide you maximum comfort for many years. Ensure your chosen throne is a worthy investment.
Thank you for reading!
