Let's talk maple...

[Kamikazee89]

Does anyone know the difference between the maple some of the drum companies use? Like, whats the difference between DW's All-Maple shells and Ludwig's Classic Maple shells. I have heard people say that the newer Ludwig's have an older tone to them, has that classic tone that they are known for. I actually own a DW maple kit, and I love the tone it gives but part of me still wants to try Ludwig's maple (especially since I could sell this kit and almost get two Ludwigs =P). I'm just curious what the difference is in the maple the two companies use. I'm assuming that the prices differ so much because DW is a custom company, would I be wrong on that? Thanks and Peace ;-)

[gmrakich]

If you really want the old time ludwig sound, keller is making shells now that are exactly the same maple/poplar/maple set up the was used by ludwig in the 1960s...right down to the maple reinforcing hoops. DW uses these shells to make the vintage drums. DW does some interesting things to the shells they make which may make the classic ludwig sound/gretsch/slingerland sound hard to reproduce. Ludwig IMO would try to stick with what made them famous (other than the British guy with the huge beak) and try to make a shell that recaptures the Ludwig sound. I will say that my DWs with coated ambassadors top and bottom have a great vintage warmth to them, but as usual, for me anyway, the rage is not that great.

[Drummer Karl]

Well...it could be that Ludwig uses other maple than DW, maybe they use Maple from North West coast....and DW uses Maple from north east coast or so. but mainly the shell quality makes the difference. and every drum company has its own sound.
So, mainly the edges, glue, tradition, quality and experience make the difference.
So you can clearly hear the difference of sound character of DWs and Sonor maples for example...

PS: What I`ve noticed long time ago: The heads are a huge factor for the sound of a drum.

Karl

[harryconway]

There are the new Ludwig shells, the older 6 ply shells (what I play) and the older still 3 ply shells. All 3 types have different qualities. DW has at least 3 different shell types to offer up, so all of those have different characteristics. So regardless of the maple being the same or not, the number of ply's, the way the wood is laid, bearing edges shaped, re-inforcement rings or not. Certainly, there are more differences than similarities. Go drive a Ludwig kit, it'll probably put a smile on your face.

[Sirwill]

I speak as a Ludwig Freak. Welcome aboard my friend!

[Kamikazee89]

Now I'm just put in the position of if selling the DW is worth it. I love the drums, but I will admit that they aren't as amazing as all the hype says. They are good...just something about em. It's just tempting considering the kit I really want is the Bonham Classic Maple, and that this kit could bring in enough to get that plus new hi-hats.lol What's your guys thoughts on that? Also, how much do you think I could sell an Edge snare for? Its in decent shape, but my Supraphonic rips it apart so I tend to like it more ;-).

[Sirwill]

Go with your heart and get the Bonham kit. You will love the thunder! Also for about $1,200 try the new Accent custom Zep kit in mahogany shells. I bought one and it truly sounds as good as many $4,000 kits. I love it so much I sold my 6pc Maple Ludwig because I knew I would never play it much after the new kits arrival. If your very lucky you may find one in natural finish. I was told buy a Ludwig dealer they only made about 75 or so in this lacquer finish.

http://www.drummerworld.com/mydrumset/mydrumsetdrummers/Billy_Twinem.html

[harryconway]

My Ludwig 6 ply kit sizes are 26x14, 15x12, 16x16, 18x16. Sound kinda familiar? I'd say you can't go wrong with the Ludwig Classic Maple. Big drums. Big sound. I'd stay away from the more affordable Zep. kit and go for the real deal. Otherwise, you're trading in Pro-level drums (DW) for a large sized Accent kit.

[Kamikazee89]

I'm really tempted to go with the Ludwigs, now I just gotta find a way to come up with a way to sell some stuff and not be drumless. =P