Hi guys this is my first post!


#1-- Can you tell much of a difference sound-wise between the Mapex Meridian Maple and a Pearl Masters Maple?

I played a Masters on stage in an auditorium (not mic'ed) and I REALLY liked it. Mapex also makes a 6ply Maple kit in the same size and it's about half the price. Do you think the Pearl sounds noticeably better?


#2-- I can't decide what SIZE to get them in. I had a Yamaha stage custom for about 10 years, which I liked but it was too big to gig. It was a standard 12, 13, 14 snare, 16, 22" config. I want to either go with a 10,12,14, 14 SN, 20" setup OR possibly something even smaller, like:

18x 14 bass, 12, 14, 14 snare.

As far as the sound I'm sure the bigger bass will sound better but I'd like to keep this kit relatively quiet so I'm torn.

I have my electronic kit to practice on, and I love it, but I'm starting to miss the feel of real drums. Finally if you can think of other options I'm all ears!

Budget: under $2,000 for shells only, maple, relatively small and portable. used is fine too

THANKS!


-- Jeff