Mapex M Birch VS Pacific X7

[Tidge]

Alright, I got a little question, I am going to get a new intermediate drumset today and I am looking at the Fusion Mapex M Birch 6 piece, which at the store is selling for $700, or a PDP X7 7 piece shell pack for $850

The one thing I don't like about the Mapex, is that it comes with a throne, bass pedal, high hat stand; all stuff I don't need.

If I got the PDP, it would involve getting a rack. I've heard mixed reviews on the X7, and heard a lot of great things about the Mapex. I'm leaning more torward the X7 because it has a great finish, one more tom, and the hardware looks great. I'm wondering which one is the better choice for me. I'd appreciate any help, thanks.

PS: I am looking to keep these drums for a while

Link to PDP X7 http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Pacific-Drums-by-DW-X7-7-Piece-Shell-Pack?sku=490012

[GRUNTERSDAD]

For that money I would buy this.....

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gretsch-Drums-Catalina-Maple-Fusion-Shell-Pack-with-Free-16-Floor-Tom?sku=445670

[rendezvous_drummer]

Out of those two kits, get the Mapex. No question, the Mapex is a much better kit than the PDP. I've played both and in the store I work in, we have a PDP X7 that's collecting dust because nobody wants to buy a piece of shite. We don't carry Mapex but I could tell you that it would sell. I think it sounds a hell of a lot better than the PDP.

So, in other words, DO NOT BUY PDP!

[Tidge]

Alright, since the X7 option is definitely out, I found another set that I liked and I'm having trouble between picking the Mapex or this one, a Gretsch Catalina Ash Fusion Shell Pack

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gretsch-Drums-Catalina-Ash-Fusion-Shell-Pack-with-Free-8-Tom?sku=445671

[Mapex589]

I am a Mapex M Birch Fusion kit owner and I love it. It is a great sounding kit and the hardware (need it or not) is of great quality. I am glad I went with the Mapex. The Gretsch kits are really nice too. Tough call but as an owner I have no complaints. Good luck.

[rendezvous_drummer]

The ash kit isn't as good as the M Birch if you ask me. Although, Gruntersdad's suggestion with the Catalina Maple is also one worth looking at. Also, if possible, check out the Yamaha Tour Customs. All Maple shells, top quality hardware and some pretty cool finishes. They are great kits as well and I would recommend them over any of the kits that have already been mentioned

[pearlygates]

For that money I would buy this.....

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gretsch-Drums-Catalina-Maple-Fusion-Shell-Pack-with-Free-16-Floor-Tom?sku=445670

I second this suggestion!

[mytquick87]

I have a mint pacific fx birch set,hardly used-6 pc,in black saphire lacquer,with all hardware 4/sale if interested-Matt 347 680 8642.

[ddrummer_boi]

Dude i was wantong to know the same thing!! I asked is stores, friends, everyone i know. Everyone told me Mapex. The only people that told me to buy PDP's were the people in the store that sell PDP's but no Mapex's. (Coincidence?)

--Simon

[Ironcobra]

For that money I would buy this.....

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gretsch-Drums-Catalina-Maple-Fusion-Shell-Pack-with-Free-16-Floor-Tom?sku=445670

You beat me to it. This kit is great, I've seen some with some amazing finishes, but I don't know if they're still options.