No finish issues yet, although I treat all of my gear carefully, and the Signets are in plush bags. I would recommend exercising caution as you would with anything you want to remain in nice shape.
The accessory thing is a matter of taste and need, I installed tom mounts on my kicks right off the bat! If Atlas mounts are desired, all of Ludwig's other lines accept them, as do just about any drum manufacturer's.
As for value, I don't know of any other new, US-made drum that can be had at that price. If owning a US Ludwig kit isn't important, then yes, there are other drums that cost less, even from Ludwig.
Bermuda
The accessory thing is a matter of taste and need, I installed tom mounts on my kicks right off the bat! If Atlas mounts are desired, all of Ludwig's other lines accept them, as do just about any drum manufacturer's.
As for value, I don't know of any other new, US-made drum that can be had at that price. If owning a US Ludwig kit isn't important, then yes, there are other drums that cost less, even from Ludwig.
Bermuda