70s-80s vs brand new USA Maple Gretsch

carlo · Newbie Alert Joined: 19 May 2005 Posts: 1

Hallo everybody,
I'm a drummer from Italy, I' looking for a usa maple set 18-12-14, for playing jazz. I've found one from late 70s - early 80s at about the same price of a new set.
The question is:
do 20 or more years ageing make a drumset sound better than a new one?

or should I go for a new set?

thank you!

Carlo.
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drumonster · Posted: Fri May 20, 2005 5:35 am Post subject:

Hi Carlo,

If you planning to buy the vintage drum, just be sure you can inspect it before you buy it. If you spend that amount of money you have to be sure it is in good shape. Check for roundness of the shells. If the shells are wrapped be sure it is not faded or coming off, also check if the chrome is still in good condition. These are things you have to consider when you buy the vintage drum.
Regarding the sound, Gretsch still builds quality drums, no doubt about that, but they say there is something special about those vintage drums.
The vintage drums will also keep their value or even go up if you treat them well.

BTW Valentino Rossi rocks (Moto GP)

Groove Master · Newbie Alert Joined: 10 Oct 2005 Posts: 1

Monster is correct that you should be able to inspect the vintage drums prior to purchasing. If they are in decent shape, I would go with the vintage kit. They will have a lot more character to them, and will hold their value.