OK.
In Options>MIDI Devices, what options do you have?
Do you have any other MIDI controllers connected?
Do you have any other USB devices connected, such as an interface?
It looks like the friendly name associated with a USB Input has been changed to "e-drum".
However, this a blind association, and does not necessarily reflect the attached device.

Please show us a screen shot of your MIDI Devices screen.

The only way I have been able to duplicate what you are experiencing is to not have the DM6 selected properly in this screen.
Also, tell us more about your setup, and which version of Sonar 8(LE,SE,PE).
As you noted, it should be pretty much plug and play.
I'm asking for this information so we can find where the disconnect is in your system.
Help us help you.

http://imgur.com/h3maW I am using sonar 8 PE.

http://imgur.com/vJ1Ef Here is another shot of prop.

Do you have another USB port on your laptop?
If so, here's what I want you to do.
Close Sonar.
Plug the DM6 USB cord into the other USB port.
Let Windows assign a default driver.
Wait for Windows to acknowledge that your new USB device is ready for use.
Now, open Sonar 8, and go to Options>MIDI Devices.
What do you see?
I am standing by online.

i got the same thing. Just the e-drum. I selected it in both in and outputs.

Does the icon in the task bar still not flash?

Still doesnt flash. Went into the devices and pulled this up, should it be on edrum or usb? My drums are the only thing plugged into usb atm. http://imgur.com/kBsxe

I know that the drums are capable of working, i just plugged them into my ipad and used them with both garage band and fruity loops. So its either something im not doing right within sonar(total beginner here) or something with my laptop. However this laptop is brand new, like two days old. Got it with the sole purpose of recording with sonar.

just changed my driver mode to asio, and am now registering on the track! But I dont hear anything!

Copy that.
Clearly the DM6 is functioning properly.
The USB Composite Device is new to your MIDI choices.
Try that. You are running a newer OS than I am (I have XP), and you may have different options.
The fact that we see a new device is somewhat encouraging.
Select the USB Composite Device in the Options >MIDI Devices menu, then select that as your input in the MIDI track, channel 10.
Standing by, fingers crossed.