Has Anyone Tried the Gretsch New Classic Drums? What Do You Think?

I’ve been eyeing the Gretsch New Classic drums lately and was wondering if anyone here has had a chance to play or own a kit. I’m really interested in their sound and build quality, especially compared to other options out there.

Specifications

From what I’ve read, the New Classic line boasts some impressive specs:

  • Shell Material: Select hardwood, which is said to provide a rich and warm sound.
  • Finish Options: Available in a variety of finishes, which is a nice aesthetic touch for performers.
  • Sizes: They come in different configurations, which is ideal whether you play jazz, rock, or something in between.

Features to Consider

Some features that caught my attention include:

  • Isolation-mounted toms for better resonance.
  • Triple-flanged hoops that might contribute to a great tone.
  • Gretsch’s signature sound—is it as good as they say?

Price Point

I’ve seen the pricing range from about $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the configurations. Is that typical for high-quality kits, or can you find better options at that price?

Reviews & Comparisons

If you’ve had experience with these drums, I’d love to hear your thoughts:

  • How do they compare to brands like Pearl or Yamaha?
  • What’s your opinion on the sound for live performances versus recordings?
  • Are there any drawbacks?

Final Thoughts

I’m seriously considering investing in a set for myself, so any feedback will be super helpful. Also, if you have any recommendations for accessories or hardware that pairs well with the New Classic drums, please share those too!

Looking forward to hearing your experiences!

I’ve played the Gretsch New Classic drums, and I must say the shell construction is superb. They use 3-ply maple for a warm tone, and the overall build feels very solid. Great choice for touring musicians.

That’s great to hear, Kenneth! The 3-ply maple sounds like a great choice for warmth. How do the finishes hold up over time?

6 Likes

I completely agree with both of you! I’ve had mine for about a year now, and the durability is impressive. The finishes are very vibrant and haven’t dulled at all. Definitely a good purchase.

The finishes on the Gretsch New Classic drums are fantastic! I play regularly, and I’ve noticed very little wear. They still shine like new!

I’ve seen some conflicting opinions about the hardware quality. Some say it’s top-notch, while others have had issues. What’s everyone’s experience?

I’ve not had any issues with the hardware at all! Everything feels robust and reliable. It could vary depending on usage though.

6 Likes

I find the aesthetics of the Gretsch New Classic to be stunning. The finishes available allow for customization, and I love how they look on stage! Anyone else think they enhance performance merely by being visually appealing?

5 Likes

Absolutely! There’s something about playing a beautiful set that just makes everything feel better. It’s like a confidence boost!

I agree with the aesthetic appeal, but still prefer a solid sound over looks. It’s good they offer both, though. Balance is key!

7 Likes

For sure! But don’t you think aesthetic can influence how we feel while playing? Sometimes the vibe can improve your overall performance.

1 Like

I’ve spent more on less quality, so in my opinion, they are worth it. The money buys longevity and great sound.

That’s a fair point, Ryan. I guess overall satisfaction can justify the cost. Have you tried other brands to compare?

Does anyone else have thoughts about the price point? While they are well-made, I wonder if they are really worth the investment compared to other brands.

I previously used a different brand and had some issues. Switching to Gretsch made a huge difference in sound quality and playability. No regrets!

Sounds convincing! But I still wonder how the longevity stacks up with heavier use. Any long-term users?

1 Like

I’ve had mine for three years, and they still perform like new! You’ve got to treat them well, but they’re definitely durable.

I’ve been using the Gretsch New Classic drums for a few months now. The tonal qualities are amazing! They work perfectly for jazz and rock, providing a warm, rich sound.

I’ve found that they shine in live settings as well. The projection is impressive, especially in larger venues!

I’m curious about how they perform in records. Anyone tried them for studio work? Can they handle different genres?