Question about Pearl

[MetalToDeath]

Okay, now i'm looking for a Pearl 8-piece. I've already found what i want on Guitar Centers' site, and will probably do a special order at a local shop. Question, what is the difference between the Export, the EXR, and the EXL models? I want to get this model in Strata Blue, but what is the difference?

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_pearl_exr_8piece_double_bass_kit?full_sku=4478 88

[midknight]

The only difference is the finish. EXRs have a different wrap, and ELXs have the see through finish. Other than that they're exactly the same. On a side note, You can do far better than an Export for the price. Check out the Gretsch Catalina line or the Mapex M Birch. Far better shell quality at a much lower price. Most of what you're paying for on an Export is the Pearl name.

[MetalToDeath]

Thanks man, I'll definitelt look into the Grestch sets and such. Thanks.

[Pearl Player]

Okay, now i'm looking for a Pearl 8-piece. I've already found what i want on Guitar Centers' site, and will probably do a special order at a local shop. Question, what is the difference between the Export, the EXR, and the EXL models? I want to get this model in Strata Blue, but what is the difference?

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_pearl_exr_8piece_double_bass_kit?full_sku=4478 88

Just a note, Pearl just upgraded the export line. So you may want to look at the pearl site. I'm an export player, have the ELX in cobalt fade. And I have to say, I just love em. There are some around that are just so dead set against the Exports. Bottom line. With decent heads (you will have to do that on any entry level kit ya get) and some good tuning. The Pearls will sound just as good as any other entry level Kit. Its your ears you have to satisfy. No one elses. Beware of blanket statements.

Mike

[Legacyrik]

Just a note, Pearl just upgraded the export line. So you may want to look at the pearl site. I'm an export player, have the ELX in cobalt fade. And I have to say, I just love em. There are some around that are just so dead set against the Exports. Bottom line. With decent heads (you will have to do that on any entry level kit ya get) and some good tuning. The Pearls will sound just as good as any other entry level Kit. Its your ears you have to satisfy. No one elses. Beware of blanket statements.

Mike

Having said that, most people around here, not sponsored by Pearl seem to think they are over priced for the quality you get.. Especially compared to other sets like mapex or gretch. In my, non expert opinion I would agree.

[rendezvous_drummer]

I do think they are way over priced for their lack of quality. You really could do much better. If it's a 6+ piece kit that you're looking for, I'd really recommend the Mapex M Birch. It sounds great and comes with a free tom. I'd also check out the Yamaha Stage Custom. Great sounding kit with amazing quality in the shell construction and hardware. I own the Stage Custom and am very very pleased with it. Check them out man, but I wouldn't opt for the Pearl Export.

[dingbat]

Not trying to stir the pot, but the Pearl Export is to drums what Taco Bell is to Mexican food, and this is coming from someone who used to own an export years ago. Instead of spending your money on an 8 piece set of mediocre sounding drums, I think your money would be better served to get a smaller kit higher in the food chain. If you are set on Pearls, for the price you would pay (if not more) for an 8 piece export shell pack, have you considered the now discountinued Session series, either in maple or birch SMX/SBX? Pearl still has thesev kits in inventory and are blowing them out for $999 or less through many of their authorized retailers, GC included, check the latest mailer. These kits are far superior sounding and made of premium quality maple or birch, vs the poplar the export is made of.

[harryconway]

Okay, now i'm looking for a Pearl 8-piece. I've already found what i want on Guitar Centers' site...

http://www.guitarcenter.com/shop/product/buy_pearl_exr_8piece_double_bass_kit?full_sku=4478 88

Pearl is replacing the Export line with the Vision (birch and basswood). The Export Customs, all that will remain, will be upgraded (100% maple). So shop around, 'cause the old sets are sure to be getting dumped somewhere. Either in stores or on line. Seeing your age and your name, I can only imagine that's why you want a double kick 8 piece. I don't see a price on the kit/link provided, but I'll assume it's under $1K. For the same money, you could shop around and get a better kit. I, personally, would rather have 4 really high quality drums than 8 so-so quality drums. I sold my "gently used" Yamaha Recording Customs for $850. 22, 13, 16. Buy drums like that, and you quite possibly will have drums you will want to keep for life. And pick a popular color, so you can add on drums later (like white or piano black or wine - that's just in reference to the Yamaha colors). Indeed, you only have to satisfy your ears, but I kinda have a hunch you haven't even played the Exports yet.

[crazyhorse]

What kind of budget are you working with? That kinda determines what you're able to buy. Also, are you set on the 9 piece or would you rather have a nice 5 piece set that you can always add on to when you've got the cash?

I NEVER go to guitarcenter unless I absolutely have no other avenue to hear an instrument before I purchase it. Maybe it's just the place by me but the kids they hire are too busy trying to impress each other by thrashing the equipment to bother actually helping customers.