I don't have 'free' stands for the cymbals to use them with the electronic drums... also, the Tama's hardware is different than the Pearl hardware.
I actually do have some 'freestanding' hardware that would work but they have been stored decades ago and I have no idea where they are.
I think you're right that Pearls', in general' are a little louder than other kits. Just like guitars each model has their pro's and con's, (subjective opinion based on the dummer).
As far as the quality of sound I have long thought DW's, their best model, have the best 'sound'. I didn't buy them this last time because of price, they are very expensive.
This last time I bought a kit I did my very best to be 'honest' with myself.. not to go with what was popular, or rated the best, but rather what I 'liked'... I did a LOT of blindfold testing to not allow any 'bias' interfere.. for example:
I have always been VERY biased toward Zildjian cymbals. So I had Dana, (my friend the drum salesmen), hold them up randomly as I hit them in every possible manner... and ended up buying ALL Sabian's. Although... I do have a large Zildjian I add when I'm set up at home.
