Quality

[pixelsnpings]

Can give me an idea of the difference in quality between
The Gretsch renown maple and TAMA’s Superstar Hyperdrive Maple?

[gmrakich]

I would think that it is pretty close. They are most likely made in the same ROC factory, maybe even by the same guys. That is not a bad thing. The quality of mid level kits now is great. Get the one with the options you want.

[pixelsnpings]

Thats one thing I did think about.
The options for both kits are just about identical.

I just need to know if I go with the cheaper (TAMA) will I be giving up
significant sound quality.

The diffrence is only around $200, but its enough for a good stand.

[KarlCrafton]

Thats one thing I did think about.
The options for both kits are just about identical.

I just need to know if I go with the cheaper (TAMA) will I be giving up
significant sound quality.

The diffrence is only around $200, but its enough for a good stand.

Play them both and see which one sounds better to you.

Take some time and mess with the tuning too.

If you are a serious buyer, a drum shop will usually let you give a kit the once over.

Is there something that draws you to either kit besides the price?

Tama makes real nice gear, but I haven't played a Hyperdrive.

I have played a Gretsch Renown, and it does sound great.

Very rich and full sound, great quality kit--fittings and hardware on it are very nice.

The "quality" of either kit is most likely pretty even, so go for the sound you like better--regardless of brand, or the "image" one might have for a certain style.

Each will have their own character--get what makes you feel better, and sounds better when you play them.