Hi Sirquack,

I've played drums for a number of years. I have a Pearl Export Series Kit and have been very happy with it. Their entry level kit is the "Forum" series which would likely do the trick for you as well.

Any of the brands you listed are fine really. For some reason though I never liked the Ludwig kits, at least not their entry level ones - the hardware seemed kind of flimsy.

As well, I always associate a Tama kit with a random banger. For whatever reason, bangers and Tamas are a match made in heaven.

Buying used isn't a bad idea either as long as the skins are in decent shape (they can be pricy to replace).

Also, I wouldn't suggest piecing a kit together because that gets pricy as well. Buy a pre-packaged kit with a ride, crash, hi-hats etc.

Good luck,

Jordan