House of Drumming.com

Hi there. I have two sets, Yamaha Maple Custom Vintage (1997) first ow er. A friend o mine wants to trade it for a Gretsch Jasper shell 1980 same configuration as mine. Both drums are in top condition. I already have a Gretch (1998) don't know what to do, it is tempting but with all honesty don't know what to do.

Help...!!!

I had a Gretsch set from that era and the workmanship was pretty bad at that time. I don't particularly like those Maple Customs either though, so....I think it would depend on the finish of the Gretsch drums.

have you played it?

I took my Maple Custom out of storage a few weeks ago after a session with the PHX.....no matter what kit I play I always come back to the 1996 Maple Custom.

There is something about it no other drum kit has and I can't put my finger on it, this is a very personal decision but I would stay with the Maple Custom.

Just my $1.78 worth.

How about trusting your ears? Not trying to be an smartass... Both are quality kits with good resell value, take the time to really listen (and examine the hardware too) and you´ll be fine... Post pics!

Yup, play them but REALLY look at the hardware on the Gretsch kit. It won't be anywhere near as good as your Yamahas. It can be replaced but that's more time and money for you.

Thanks for all the response. Let me bring some details, first I'm from Puerto Rico the guy is from texas, he's a friend of one of my best friend. The exchange will be obviously by FedEx or UPS and it will be shells only. His Gretsch has no holes on it, no scratch or else, mine I put them RIMS and it has some scratch on them but only because I gig with them 5 times a week, so is my work horse at the moment.

Tell me you'll your opinions so I can make an informed decision.

Fro some reason the pic is not showing (Fatal user error) here's the link

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid= ... =3&theater

Those Gretsch drums look beautiful. I love that finish. I don't like the Gretsch tom mount on the bass drum, but at least the toms have no mounts on the shell, so you could easily change things. The bass drum spurs are not very good though, and you're stuck with them.






I don't know. You have a history with your Yamahas, and although those Gretsch look nice, and probably sound great, I would pass. If you want Gretsch, the drums they're putting out now are their best ever in my opinion.

There was a related discussion on this topic on "Another Forum." A guy who is normally all about Gretsch added a Yamaha kit to get a different sound. If you already have "that great Gretsch sound," I wouldn't trade the Yamaha. That and $1.50 will buy a cup of coffee in most places...