Seeking advice on Drum brands and pricing

[C.Thep]

Do expensive drums really sound much better than inexpensive drums? Why is there such a huge price difference between them? I can understand the quality and the quality of the hardware, and the use of exotic woods, but aren't they all just rolled peices of wood? (yes, noob question) Is it worth it to save up for a nice kit? I can spend about 800 dollars for one (not including cymbals) so which brand would you recommend? Pearl? Tama? Yamaha? Mapex?

For the past year, I've been using my freind's Tama rockstar kit, which he gave to me until he finds room for it, but now he has his own place, so i have to give it back. Even though i can play, i have no idea when it comes to equiptment. The Tama rockstar is pretty good, but i'm looking to get something a little more upscale.

[Thomas Welch]

I don’t want to be the one that gives you your final advice, but I would say this....If I were in your position I would play and price as many drum kits as possible. You never know what kind of deal is waiting for you out there. Find what feels good to you. Yes, in My opinion drums are like anything else, there are a lot of differences in them, some matter to some people and some don’t.
I always think you can get a better deal on used equipment.

Try Electronic drums. While the good ones are not in your price range, I think you will learn something about drum volume and reverb and such. Play the really good acoustic stuff too. And by all means if you get acoustic drums and play in a small room get one of those clear plexiglass sound shields. Your guitar players will thank you and still be able to hear in a year or two....... After you have played as many as possible, I believe you will know exactly which drums to purchase.