People always assume that because I am a drummer I know all about the best drums on the market, and I own all the best equipment. But the truth is, I done know too much about the actual products out their and how they stack up. I know when a drum sounds bad, and I know when it sounds good. I know how to assemble and tune a drum, But if you asked me who makes the best toms in the game, or what crash cymbal has the best tone, or what time of drum shell produces the darkest tone, I would be at a loss.
For me the quality of the drum has never been a priority. Perhaps it comes from always looking for the cheapest options for students. I collect used drums in hopes that when a student needs something I will have it ready for them. Maybe it is because I came from a marching background and Ive never had the drumset literacy to notice the difference between a good sounding drumset and a great one. Either way, I have always believed that its the drummer that makes a set sound good, and that any drum can be tuned and upgrade when needed.
For students who are new to the drums, dont bust the bank on your first kit. Maybe even rent to make sure you are invested. But the gear doesn’t make the drummer. When you are rich and famous, then you can get the best drumset on the market!
Hilary