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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
 Posted - 24/07/2010 : 21:03:01
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Hi guys and gals,
Although this is my first post, I have been reading this forum for a while now and it seems you are the best people to ask questions to (and most honest when it comes to your answers!).
I have been playing a fantastic silver sparkle Premier Genista for about 8 or 9 years now and I love it to bits. I will never part with it.
That aside, every now and then, I get the urge to try something else, so last year I bought myself a PDP Platinum, and although it is a great sounding kit (when you stick better heads on it), it just doesn't satisfy me in the same way the Genista does.
So, I am again thinking of experimenting with something else.
As I play in a 60's cover band, I did think about trying out one of the Ludwig Accent Fab 4 kits, or maybe their new Epic X-Over, but my main problem is, you can't really tell how good a kit is going to be until you had a couple of sessions on it.
Has anyone out there got either of these kits or can recommend or condemn them. Or maybe suggest something else up to £1500.00. Or do I already own the best drum kit so I should just be happy with what I got?
AM I GOING THROUGH A MID-LIFE DRUM CRISIS!!
I would welcome your thoughts.
Best wishes
Jay |
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Diesel74
Advanced Contributer
Cyprus
18962 Posts |
Posted - 24/07/2010 : 21:45:36
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Welcome to the forum, Jay. It's normal. We are always delightfully happy with our kits, but secretly lust after other ones. It must be a male hormone type thing for most of us, but even the female drummers follow this pattern
A Genista is a pretty piece of kit. Great sounding. It sounds to me like sleeping with Jennifer Aniston isn't enough for you, so you're having fantasies about Jennifer Connelly, too.
As I say, it's perfectly normal, but not always necessary |
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Prog
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
15278 Posts |
Posted - 24/07/2010 : 21:49:32
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Welcome indeed.
The Genista is a wonderful kit and one of the best that Premier ever made. However, the grass is always greener and I know exactly how that feels. It's perfectly normal as Deez says. |
Highwood - Premier - Beverley - Slingerland - Paiste - Ufip - Bigdog - Roland - Silverfox - Protection Racket - Hardcase
Me - http://www.myspace.com/chrisleeondrums |
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MCMartyP
Excellent Contributer
United Kingdom
197 Posts |
Posted - 24/07/2010 : 23:59:08
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What's been said so far. The Genista is a lovely (and highly desirable) kit. As is the 9000 I have. Like you, I fancy a sonic change of scenery, not through any fault whatsoever of the kit. I don't blame you. But, as mentioned, the grass is always greener.
If you're truly after the retro sound, by far and a way your best bet would a proper vintage kit (Ludwig, Premier, et al). Just be careful with your expectations. |
Yamaha 9000 in Cobalt Blue, 1964 Ludwig 400 main snare, assorted backup snares, Ziljdians, DW Pedals, SD9s and two left feet.
Kit: http://www.dropbox.com/gallery/7386867/1/Drums?h=592c98
Band: http://www.themistreated.co.uk |
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oldestswinger
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
6736 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 00:57:47
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GAS goes with the territory I'm afraid - if you got that kind of dosh to lay on a new kit why not consider going custom and really get something unique - many of the great British custom builders will be able to sort you out and most are usually more that happy to chat about your needs and how best to put a kit together that meets those.
Welcome to the posting side of the forum too by the way  - see, not so bad once you've dipped your toe into the water  |
New demo tracks now installed - The Sensations
Radio Clash - new website up and running
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ornby
Advanced Contributer
346 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 01:19:38
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Hi Jay
I've been going through a similar process as you and have managed to get hold of and gig some great kits recently.
I would say if you want a new kit and a new sound get a kit which has a significantly different construction to the one you have now.
For example DW's have a unique sound because they have very thin (low pitched) shells.
Mapex Saturns sound great because of the inner plies of Walnut.
Gretches have a unique pitchy sound mainly due to the heavy diecast hoops.
If you were to get a Ludwig i would suggest you get one that has the same shell construction as used in the 60's.
Or if you go custom I think Keller make some nice "vintage" shells.
Or as Marty says why not just buy a second hand 60's luddy!
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adam hayes
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
733 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 02:10:50
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| Just because I have one on the way I'm going to add gretsch to the list: the renown maple kit I'm getting is excellent value, with tasty finishes, 100% north American maple shells, silver sealer, die cast hoops: I've been assured that sonically it's an indecently close match to the US Custom, and they do seem to have very similar specifications, other than the USA custom being handbuilt whereas the Renown is handmade by robots... |
London based hip hop, neo soul and RnB session drummer - check out www.myspace.com/adamhayesdrummer
Ah... what the hell: Gretsch Renown Maple 20", 14"
Vintage 14x5.5 Gretsch 6 lug maple snare
Lucky Premier Modern Classic maple 14x4
Sabian HHX 13" Groove hats and 20" Legacy O-Zone ride
No rack toms for me tah |
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luke3030
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
8177 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 09:18:15
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This happens to me at least 4 times a year, the cure is simple, go and buy some new gear!
Seriously, you may need to do it just to get it out of your system! Ive always wanted a DW. I dont need one, but one came up 3 weeks ago on the bay so i went for it and got it.  |
Wanted - DW Collectors in Broken Glass, Mapex Saturn in RootBeer Burst and Laser Ivory. |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 10:34:34
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| That is pretty much why I went for the PDP Platinum last year, I wanted to try an up to date new type of kit. I have to say that it is really good for the money in every area, but it didn't get 'it' out of my system! I now seem to be on a mission to find something else. I have had 2 kits for years, I sold my Yamaha 9000 RC last time, so I could get the Platinums. That is why I am now considering one of the 'classic' makes like Ludwig or Gretsch, both of which I have never tried before. |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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Prog
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
15278 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 11:54:16
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| If you get a vintage kit and don't get on with it then you'll almost certainly get your money back when you sell it on. You may even make a profit. |
Highwood - Premier - Beverley - Slingerland - Paiste - Ufip - Bigdog - Roland - Silverfox - Protection Racket - Hardcase
Me - http://www.myspace.com/chrisleeondrums |
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luke3030
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
8177 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 11:54:40
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| another vote for the Renown. Got mine about 2 months ago 24,13,16 and snare in red sparkle. |
Wanted - DW Collectors in Broken Glass, Mapex Saturn in RootBeer Burst and Laser Ivory. |
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thedrumhead
Excellent Contributer
Ireland
169 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 12:20:01
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Welcome Jay
What sound are you looking for?
Do they give you the sound you want?
Consider this.
A Pearl Forum you can pick up for around 499.
For an extra 200+ beer tokens you can have an all birch Yamaha Stage Custom with rock/fusion config still well within most budgets.
Which is better value for money?
(I left cymbals out as they are to your personal taste) |
I started off in the music business with nothing and 35 years later, I still have most of it left. |
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ornby
Advanced Contributer
346 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 16:28:08
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I wish i'd kept my Renown ,great build quality ,bearing edges are good, proper US maple and one of the nicest bass drums i've played. You can pick them up secondhand for as little as £450- £500 ...bargain! |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 18:41:20
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| Having had a little look about on the interweb, I must admit that the Renown are looking very good value for the money. One thing is becoming very clear now, it seems like this mid life drum crisis seems to effect ALL drummers!! Ha Ha! |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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Diesel74
Advanced Contributer
Cyprus
18962 Posts |
Posted - 25/07/2010 : 18:45:00
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Right, I'm going to ruin it for you now.
Look up Animal Custom Drums.
Highwood Drums.
Noonan Drums.
Carerra Drums.
There's more, but I think that's not bad for starters ;-) |
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steveh
Advanced Contributer
Australia
3106 Posts |
Posted - 29/07/2010 : 16:28:47
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quote:
Originally posted by jay-on-drums
That is pretty much why I went for the PDP Platinum last year, I wanted to try an up to date new type of kit. I have to say that it is really good for the money in every area, but it didn't get 'it' out of my system! I now seem to be on a mission to find something else. I have had 2 kits for years, I sold my Yamaha 9000 RC last time, so I could get the Platinums. That is why I am now considering one of the 'classic' makes like Ludwig or Gretsch, both of which I have never tried before.
Hi Jay, I too own a 2001 year/model Genista Red Sparkle and find that as I play all genres of music and a heap of 60's, this kit cuts it every time. I can, fortunately drag either of 4 x 60/70's Luddys or one of many 50/60/70's Premier Vintage kits off my shelves to gig with, but they will be harder to work with than the Genista.
They will probably look more the part with their vintage sizes and wraps, but thats cosmetic.
Why try the PDP, as a "modern" kit, you say. I think you still have a modern kit in the Genista.
This weekend I'm taking off the Remo Renaisonce heads that have been on since birth and replacing with Evans G1's coated.
I may have a new kit to play on?? |
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ian-40
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
4506 Posts |
Posted - 29/07/2010 : 17:20:06
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| if you play in a 60's type band, then i'd go for the thin shells..... the older Peral Masters are 4 ply (i think), modern and extremely well made, so they'd give you a warmer sound than a 'thicker' shelled kit. Other than that, a vintage equivalent. |
No. 26 |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 30/07/2010 : 21:09:34
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| Thanks for your views guys, as I said earlier, I think I am not the only one here who feels like this! We all seem to love our kits, BUT WANT MORE!! |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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Bazarre
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
5869 Posts |
Posted - 30/07/2010 : 22:23:24
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quote:
Originally posted by jay-on-drums
Thanks for your views guys, as I said earlier, I think I am not the only one here who feels like this! We all seem to love our kits, BUT WANT MORE!!
Oh dear. You seem to have contracted GAS -- Gear Acquisition Syndrome. The earlier it gets you, the worse it is. A bit like malaria, you can't really get rid of it. It gets worse as you get older, too. Genestas are gorgeous and set a high standard for those afflicted by GAS. Sorry, mate -- you're hooked. |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 31/07/2010 : 07:26:25
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| But how many kits can one man posess? I now have 3 and STILL find myself looking through ads everyday, searching out a bargain. |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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luke3030
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
8177 Posts |
Posted - 31/07/2010 : 09:33:43
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| I have 24. Sorry Jay but you have the bug... |
Wanted - DW Collectors in Broken Glass, Mapex Saturn in RootBeer Burst and Laser Ivory. |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 10:04:47
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| Blimey Luke! You can't be married. Having a choice of what to play is great, but a choice of 24 would seem a little excessive! And I see in your postings that you are after a couple more as well! Do you sell any or just buy? |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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luke3030
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
8177 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 10:13:49
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Im not married, correct, and if I was I would still do it. You only live once mate, so you got to enjoy it! Some may see it as excessive, however, I have the room and I have the money to enjoy it so why not? I dont smoke or drink alot, drive a modest car, and have a decent paid job, so I spend my money on what I want to. That said, over half the kits are vintage which didnt cost me a huge amount.
I dont sell much, hence why I have alot of gear! I really need to not get "attached" to some of my gear and just sell it on! |
Wanted - DW Collectors in Broken Glass, Mapex Saturn in RootBeer Burst and Laser Ivory. |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 10:24:12
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| Well said, I am sure (if I could) I would be the same. I did gave up smoking 2 weeks ago so maybe I could....... |
http://www.drumsites.net/Jay/ |
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2twentytwo
Advanced Contributer
343 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 11:11:11
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quote:
Originally posted by luke3030
I have 24. Sorry Jay but you have the bug...
24 !!!! god where do you keep em
what are they
thats serious GAS
sell 15 of em and go on luxurious holiday |
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luke3030
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
8177 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 11:19:53
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Storage Unit
Premier, DW, Highwood, Spaun, Tama, Meazzi, Rogers, Gretsch, Ludwig, Mapex
luxurious hol will be over in 2 weeks. these kits will give me years of enjoyment.
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Wanted - DW Collectors in Broken Glass, Mapex Saturn in RootBeer Burst and Laser Ivory. |
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steveh
Advanced Contributer
Australia
3106 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 12:24:13
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quote:
Originally posted by jay-on-drums
But how many kits can one man posess? I now have 3 and STILL find myself looking through ads everyday, searching out a bargain.
41 I believe |
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steveh
Advanced Contributer
Australia
3106 Posts |
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ian-40
Advanced Contributer
United Kingdom
4506 Posts |
Posted - 01/08/2010 : 12:49:34
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quote:
Originally posted by luke3030
luxurious hol will be over in 2 weeks. these kits will give me years of enjoyment.
sums it up 100% |
No. 26 |
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jay-on-drums
Active Contributer
United Kingdom
74 Posts |
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steveh
Advanced Contributer
Australia
3106 Posts |
Posted - 02/08/2010 : 00:14:22
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| A couple more are on the way. |
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