That's about what the Tama B/Bs go for. Its not a steal. The DW Collectors for $1,800 seems like a great price. That's usually what the lower line Performer Series goes for. I'd probably jump on that if that 4 piece set fits what you want. It looks like it has a 20x18 bass drum tho, where the Tama has a 22x18. Make sure that's what you want. Of course as a Mapex player I'm going to have to suggest you look at the Saturns as they are in the same price range and you can get a 5 piece for around that price with a 22" bass. Let us know what you decide and post pics.
I looked at Mapex one time - i understand they are more difficult to tune because of the number and position of the pins around the rim
I'd get the tama b/b. I just like the sound alot more.
I'm not sure where you got that information from, but it's not correct. Bubinga produces a lower fundamental, but it has the same highs as maple. Muffling is a personal preference of course. How you muffle depends on why you want to muffle. Frankly, good tuning skills & correct head selection for the characteristics you're seeking gets you pretty much there apart from the extremes of dead sounds, & if you want the extreme of dead sounds, it doesn't matter what drums you use.i understand you have to do more muffling with the maple sets.
I'm not sure where you got that information from, but it's not correct. Bubinga produces a lower fundamental, but it has the same highs as maple. Muffling is a personal preference of course. How you muffle depends on why you want to muffle. Frankly, good tuning skills & correct head selection for the characteristics you're seeking gets you pretty much there apart from the extremes of dead sounds, & if you want the extreme of dead sounds, it doesn't matter what drums you use.
FWIW, I'd go for the Tama every time from the selection you've presented. Try giving us an idea of the sonic characteristics you're seeking, then you'll get more targeted advice.
I would go for the Tama's. An un-drilled BD makes no difference in my opinion.
The problem i have with the b/b is that the toms are mounted in the bass drum.
Just because the tom tree is there doesn't mean you have to use it. You can still fly the toms from stands.
Oh wait, this just in....apparently you do have to use the tom tree. If you don't, guys from Tama dressed in white suits will track you down and make mean faces at you at your gigs.
Too bad.
:-D
I'm curious why the choice is just between those two companies? Do they not have anything else at this Guitar Center or are you just not interested in anybody else's offerings? All the companies make great drums in that price range.
Very much depends on the drum, but in the case of the Tama BB, or indeed the DW, only a very small difference.An un-drilled BD makes no difference in my opinion.