1) Gretsch -- I was very fortunate to be able to custom-order and purchase my USA shells in 1977............at that time, these shells were CLEARLY the best thing in drums that money could buy. Other drum manufacturers have since developed some incredibly fine shells of high quality but IMO, none of those companies have created anything so remarkably superior to the Gretsch USA legacy that I have to own it............not yet.
2) Ludwig -- my first pro-line kit...........vintage 1973. Very high quality American-made drums and a veteran of many tough gigs. The '73 Supra was a very fine workhorse snare. The Gretsch USA shells described above is the only reason I no longer have the Luddies. I made my living during 1975 & 76 playing 6 nights per week and these Ludwigs were there every step of the way...........dependable equipment with no failures of any kind.
3) Slingerland -- my first kit ever; purchased used by my Dad from the local newspaper want-ads..........given to me for my 11th birthday. This was easily my most memorable birthday. The vintage of these Duco shells was mid-50s. I taught myself all of the basics on this kit.
4) Tama -- my first impression of Tama shells was not good............imported crap. They have since changed direction and convinced me of their drive to create high-quality products and stay a step ahead of the competition. I am most impressed with the functionality, quality and the true value of their hardware. As each piece of my mixed-brand hardware SLOWLY wears out, I find myself buying RoadPro every time in order to replace something/anything..........great stuff. In addition, the Speed Cobra double pedal is an amazing piece of equipment............very impressive and costs less than anything comparable.
5) Drum Workshop -- because it is an American manufacturing entity that strives every day to create the best in quality equipment...........I'm not a believer (yet) that they have clearly surpassed other American manufacturers of drum shells, but they have certainly matched all competition............most of what they do was earlier an innovation of Gretsch or Ludwig............but I am convinced they try to do these things better than everyone else. Some day I might be impressed enough to buy DW equipment. It's not a far-fetched idea anymore.
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