Modern heads on vintage drums question

[mikeg]

I just bought an older (50's?) model Gretsch snare and wondered if anyone has had problems fitting newer heads on older drums? I know some drum head companies make vintage style heads, but I think those are more about sound than fit.

Thanks, -Mike

http://www.outawhack.net/gretsch1.jpg

[harryconway]

Indeed, not all 14 inches are "created" equal. Don't know why, it just is. Well, same applies to some kicks I've run across. As long as you can get the head on (it might be so tight as to not spin or move) and the drum will tune up, that's all that really matters (at least to me). And I think there is, or was, a company that made slightly oversized heads. I put Remo's on everything.

[criz p. critter]

Aquarian makes vintage heads that are slightly larger, but it looks like they only have them for toms...

http://www.aquariandrumheads.com/products/display.asp?id=9

Congrats on getting such a beautiful classic snare!

[mikeg]

Indeed, not all 14 inches are "created" equal. Don't know why, it just is. Well, same applies to some kicks I've run across. As long as you can get the head on (it might be so tight as to not spin or move) and the drum will tune up, that's all that really matters (at least to me). And I think there is, or was, a company that made slightly oversized heads. I put Remo's on everything.

Thanks for the reply. The snug fit was my concern. I also bought an old COB Perl snare (early 70's) and I almost had to pry the old Ludwig head off. The Evans Genera replacement head went on without binding. That experience made me wonder about an even older drum.

[mikeg]

Aquarian makes vintage heads that are slightly larger, but it looks like they only have them for toms...

Congrats on getting such a beautiful classic snare!

Thanks. The drum isn't in my hands yet, but it supposed to arrive tomorrow. I can't wait to play it.