I've had some experience with ddrum electronic kits, and I can share my thoughts on how they stack up, especially compared to brands like Roland and Alesis.
Firstly, in terms of reliability, ddrum has carved out a niche for itself by offering decent quality at a more budget-friendly price point. They might not have the same bulletproof reputation as Roland, which is often seen as the gold standard for durability in electronic kits, but they do hold up quite well if you're mindful of care and maintenance. I have a friend who gigs with a ddrum set, and he's happy with it, although he did need to replace a couple of pads over time, which is relatively common regardless of brand.
When it comes to sound quality, ddrum kits generally have good samples that work well for practice scenarios. Their newer modules offer a range of sounds that can suit various music styles. However, if you're looking for versatility and the ability to customize or expand sounds extensively, Roland's sound modules are typically ahead of the pack. One thing to keep in mind is that ddrum's pads might not pick up the nuances as well as some of the higher-end models from Roland, which can affect playability if you're focusing on dynamics.
As for playability, ddrum kits have a responsive feel, although I would say they sit slightly behind Roland and sometimes even Alesis in terms of the authentic 'acoustic kit' feel. That said, for practice and small gigs, especially if budget is a consideration, they can more than do the job. I played on a ddrum DD Beta kit a while back, and it was surprisingly responsive for such a modestly priced set—definitely a solid tool for honing skills or playing smaller venues.
You mentioned practice and small gigs, so it might be worth looking into models like the ddrum DDBeta or DD One series. They have received positive reviews from players who need a portable setup.
If you’re comparing specifically against Roland or Alesis, think about what you prioritize most: is it sound quality, durability, features, or price? Roland tends to excel in sound and durability, while Alesis offers robust features and expandability at competitive prices.
I’d suggest trying out a few models in a store if possible—you'll get the most honest assessment through your hands and ears. Also, do check out online reviews and forums dedicated to electronic drummers; there’s a wealth of personal experiences and tips that could further guide your decision.
Have you had the chance to try any of these in person yet, or are you basing your decision mainly on research so far? I'm curious to hear what you think after comparing them in a hands-on environment!