While we whittle away the days awaiting a local release of the much anticipated Rock Band, the Activision crew have been getting their act together (sorry about that one) by putting a prototype drum kit of their own through it’s paces. Part of the development of new instruments for the upcoming Guitar Hero IV title, their team has come up with this kit, which includes 3 drum pads, a kick, and 2 cymbals.

While the Rock Band kit is known to have cases of cracking and general breakage, this prototype kit is designed not to be susceptible to similar issues. The layout of this GH4 kit, while still not sporting a traditional snare + hi-hat combination, is much more true to life than the RB kit.

Unlike in the US where buyers will likely to have to make the call between one kit or another for the living room, it’s possible that this could be the first gaming kit available at retail in Oz. Now excuse me while I tap away feverishly at my desk while waiting for a local release date…

[via Joystiq]