Vision Series vs. ECX Maple Export

[Genius Switch]

Some people asked why I'd choose the Vision series over the new all maple Export. Below I have created a chart showing the basic differences between the new ECX and the new Vision Series. I am also copying my post from another thread which is extensive but might also solve some confusion about the new products.

Either way you cut it, both kits are excellent, but I think the Vision outshines the ECX in finish options, hardware, and overall value. I'd buy the Vision Series over the ECX basically because you're getting more for your money. To go into more detail please read my evaluation.

There were no real improvements to the Exports this year. All they did was merge the Session series into a "custom" Export line called ECX. You are getting a 6 ply maple shell which I would assume is the same as the old SMX shell, or at least the same quality wood. In order to keep the costs low they used existing lugs and offered four basic (boring) lacquer finishes. Also the ECX is sold as shell-packs only, another way to keep costs low.

The Vision is manufactured in Pearl's new China factory. With the Vision series you get an improved birch/basswood shell that's 6 ply for rack toms and 8 ply for floor toms and bass drums. You also get all new lugs featuring brass inserts (!!!!!), new recessed bass drum claws, and new tom brackets all designed to resemble the Reference Series. Don't forget 2 ply heads, all new 900 series stands and pedals, new badges, molded rubber gaskets (another really nice feature!) and your choice of 4 lacquer OR 5 wrapped finishes. On top of that you also get Pearl's new limited lifetime warranty.

The all maple ECX is a huge advance for the Export name, but the Vision appears to be the nicer of the two kits in terms of fit and finish. I'm sure someone will say that an all maple shell is better. You may be right to some degree, maple is definitely an excellent wood but with the right heads and tuning you can make almost any kit sound wonderful regardless of what wood is used. I also think the ECX finishes are rather plain, but I expect this to change once ECX sales take off.

Once I actually play the ECX and Vision series in person, that's when my final vote will be cast.

Please share your comments or arguments....

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Good points.

[Thrashed]

I can't wait till they start putting up more info on pearl's website about the ECX it would seems like a good kit and great deals are bound to start showing up eventually like with other exports...hopefully

[AL PERCIVAL]

close-up of the Vision super high-gloss UV finish with wood grain showing lacquer, new lug design and brass-inserts.

[LetMeGoRockNRoll]

I think the Vision series will be just as popular as the Exports were.. But for thoes who really like Export...now is the time to take advantage of the great prices at music shops trying to get rid of them!

[rejectedsuperstar]

im inline for a vision vsx personly its my next set i really want but ill see what ppl think after its out and around

[Genius Switch]

Thanks for the close-up AL. I hope the NAMM section of Pearldrum.com gets launched soon. I haven't seen as many Pearl pics so far this year.

[Genius Switch]

Here's some good shots I snatched up from drumrock.com (I hope they don't mind) I can't wait to see Clear Birch or Black Fade in person.

In this order
VSX in Strata White
VSX color range
VLX color range
ECX in Electric Blue
ECX color range

[GTHO_PhaseIII]

Good points you've got. I think people might be better of saving the extra cash for the MCX (thats the in-stock Masters, right?) than the ECX.

The Vision line should do really well.

[rejectedsuperstar]

looks dreamy I WANT ONE !!!!!!! vsx for sure once i can get some money and new cymbals

[McEvoy]

Thanks a lot for the info man! Great stuff.
Still i think the Maple should sound a bit better then the Visions. But is there a big difference between the maple lugs and the reference inspired vision lugs?
Because i think you can get a better sound out of the maples, if you put the right heads on.


THe ECX finishes do look boring, but the electric blue looks pretty cool though.

[trickg]

1.6 mm hoops. Ugh! Those have GOT to go. I believe that 2.3 mm hoops should be a minimum requirement on any kit that costs more than $500. The price difference can't be that much to put those on instead of the 1.6 mm thin cheapie hoops, and they make a world of difference in intonation and sound.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Why do people hate the 1.6 mm hoops so much?

[Thrashed]

because 2.3mm hoops keep the drums in tune much better than 1.6mm its just a matter of keeping the drum in tune and I'm pretty sure there is better resonance with 2.3mm than with 1.6mm

[trickg]

Not only that, but if you hit the rims with sticks, either on purpose (rimshot) or accident, they'll bend. 2.3s will bend, but you really have to abuse them first.

[TommySalami]

Not only that, but if you hit the rims with sticks, either on purpose (rimshot) or accident, they'll bend. 2.3s will bend, but you really have to abuse them first.
True, there are a couple dents in my forum hoops.
Damn 2b's that I used when I started out

[Akahito]

Not only that, but if you hit the rims with sticks, either on purpose (rimshot) or accident, they'll bend. 2.3s will bend, but you really have to abuse them first.

That, and the ISS system attaches to the hoop. With a soft and bending hoop such as the 1.6mm ones, it'll affect the tuning a lot when you hang it on the rack. With stiffer, thicker hoops this wouldn't be a problem.

[triplecross]

i'm gonna go for the vission, haha, looks like a better deal




Bills

[Jeffrey.]

I really like the clear birch, black fade, and the electric blue.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

That, and the ISS system attaches to the hoop. With a soft and bending hoop such as the 1.6mm ones, it'll affect the tuning a lot when you hang it on the rack. With stiffer, thicker hoops this wouldn't be a problem.

Hmmm...are there any drum sets in the same price range that have 2.3 mm hoops?

[trickg]

Hmmm...are there any drum sets in the same price range that have 2.3 mm hoops?
Yeah - just about ANY other kit in that price range has at a minimum 2.3 hoops or even die cast hoops standard.

I've always been surprised that Pearl hasn't changed that - it is in my opinion one of the worst aspects of the Export series drums.

[teej]

I just got mine changed to 2.3mm hoops. I can't tell the difference yet with my 12" coz i dont have an optimount for it so its on a snare stand, but my 16" definitely sings alot more than it used to.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Now I'm starting to think I should go with a Mapex M-Birch for my next kit.

[Five.Bolt.Main.05]

The Vision Series looks to have many advantages to it than the ECX and i really like the sound of birch too.

[Thrashed]

The more I think about it the more I'm leaning toward the Vision series I'll just have to upgrade the hoops and convert from I.S.S. mounts to Optimounts after all that is done it should be a killer kit.

[Genius Switch]

Now I'm starting to think I should go with a Mapex M-Birch for my next kit.

By luck, my local shop just got the new M Birch Black Forrest Sapphire with the virgin 24" kick drum. You get a deep 14x6.5 snare, free 10x9 tom, and some sweet tom/cymbal combo stands. Awesome kit. Here's the shot from NAMM.

[Genius Switch]

The more I think about it the more I'm leaning toward the Vision series I'll just have to upgrade the hoops and convert from I.S.S. mounts to Optimounts after all that is done it should be a killer kit.

The Vision Series looks to have many advantages to it than the ECX and i really like the sound of birch too.

It's too soon to say, but at some point I would predict the ECX to get absorbed into the Vision production facility, adopting the new lugs and brackets. Maybe if sales are really good, Superhoops and/or optimounts might be a viable upgrade. That's all pure speculation though. Those upgrades would be a few years off I'm sure.

[jaehyun89]

By luck, my local shop just got the new M Birch Black Forrest Sapphire with the virgin 24" kick drum. You get a deep 14x6.5 snare, free 10x9 tom, and some sweet tom/cymbal combo stands. Awesome kit. Here's the shot from NAMM.
Beautiful! Go for it mate!

[xwestcoast]

I liked your thread on vision vs export. being an older and very beginner drum person I really appreciate the helpful info.

[Genius Switch]

I liked your thread on vision vs export. being an older and very beginner drum person I really appreciate the helpful info.

No problem! Welcome to the forum. There's lots to learn, and this forum has everything you need.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Actually, I'm really not sure which way I'll go. I've heard other people say that they've used 1.6 mm hoops w/ ISS mounts for years and never had any problems. Someone on this forum said that as long as the mounts are very tight, it shouldn't warp the hoop. I've also heard people say that they've never had problems keeping their Exports in tune.

[AL PERCIVAL]

Actually, I'm really not sure which way I'll go. I've heard other people say that they've used 1.6 mm hoops w/ ISS mounts for years and never had any problems. Someone on this forum said that as long as the mounts are very tight, it shouldn't warp the hoop. I've also heard people say that they've never had problems keeping their Exports in tune.


The 1.6mm steel hoops are actually very strong and durable. I was just looking at the mount and hoops today on a couple of Vision kits and they were sturdy and durable, didn't react badly to hard rim shots and didn't nick or bend.

I too wish we'd go to 2.3mm triple flange, who knows? maybe down the road.

[Thrashed]

where can you buy 2.3mm hoops?

[AL PERCIVAL]

where can you buy 2.3mm hoops?

Gibraltar makes 2.3mm hoops. Our Pearl Superhoop II's are actually 2.3mm.

[jhorse345]

Umm...should it really matter that much what heads are on the kit when you buy it new?? Wouldn't you buy new heads along w/ the kit??

[trickg]

where can you buy 2.3mm hoops?
You can also get them pretty inexpensively from suppliers like:

http://www.amdrumparts.com
http://www.drumfoundry.com

[Genius Switch]

Umm...should it really matter that much what heads are on the kit when you buy it new?? Wouldn't you buy new heads along w/ the kit??

No it doesn't matter that much, but it is a difference worth mentioning. Also consider that a beginner is less likely to upgrade the heads immediately. Since the 2 ply Protones were standard in the Sessions series, it's strange they didn't find their way onto the ECX instead of Vision.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

You can also buy 2.3 mm hoops from www.drummaker.com

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Vision series sucks hard. Anything with bass wood steer clear of. There just trying to push sales with all this new stuff. I would be going a Sonor. Best cheap kit around

That's a matter of opinion. Many people think basswood sounds just fine. I've played Tama Superstars which are made from basswood and birch, and I thought they sounded fantastic. Also, Pearl's 800 hardware is ecellent, and the 900 series will only be better. The brass tension rod inserts also prevent corrosion, plus the lugs have gaskets which prevent the rods from loosening during play.

I think the Vision drums sound really good. The only thing that gives me pause is the complaints I've heard about the ISS mounts and the hoops. Some people have had problems with the hoops warping, but I've heard other people say that as long as the mounts are tightly secured to the hoop, warping won't be a problem. I've heard other people say that they've used ISS mounts for years and had no problems

[Genius Switch]

Tama Starclassic Performer Series originally had birch basswood shells. Those were more akin to professional level drums than most at the time.

The bottom line is that drums keep getting better and less expensive each year, especially the beginner and intermediate level drums.

[McEvoy]

Hey iron cobra, i realised you also made a Catalina Birch review. What do you think is the best kit , quality-prise wise. The Catalina Birch Or the Vision/ECX?

[Genius Switch]

Hey iron cobra, i realised you also made a Catalina Birch review. What do you think is the best kit , quality-prise wise. The Catalina Birch Or the Vision/ECX?

Price wise they are all in the same ballpark. The main factor is whether or not you need stands and pedals. The Catalinas are sold by many dealers as shell packs, even though accompaning Gibraltar hardware is available. (Gretsch and Gibraltar are distributed in the US by the same company KAMAN MUSIC.) The ECX will be available in shell packs only. Only the Vision comes with stands and pedals included.

Since I haven't played the ECX or Vision yet, I can't make a true verdict on the sound quality. Then again it is a Pearl, so you can already expect great construction and durability.

I would put the Vision series over the Catalina or ECX in terms of shell hardware. I think the new lugs, with the brass inserts and rubber gaskets, beat just about any other kit in it's price range. The Catalinas feature somewhat generic (but not faulty) mounts, brackets, and snare throw-off.

I never expected the Catalinas to sound as good as they did. I wasn't even in the market for a new kit until I played them. I miss that kit more than my DWs!

Having said that I think that once you find a kit that matchs your ideal sound, it doesn't matter what the shell is made of, or what the lugs look like, or what finish it is. What matters most is the sound and only you can decide what's better for you.

I see that you are in Belgium, so I can't promise that the prices and options are the same as they are for this side of the pond. If you are looking to buy from a dealer over hear, look no further than www.massmusic.net Those guys can sling some awesome deals and get the drums to you quick and easy.

Thanks for you interest in my reviews!

[McEvoy]

Thanks again for the great info!

[DD_drummer44]

All this Vision talk about the drum construction (reference inspired) and spankin new hardware is making me convinced this will be my next kit to buy. I'm just gonna wait for the reviews to come in (from Modern Drummer, DRUM!, and fellow forum members) before i'm absolutely sold.

[Genius Switch]

All this Vision talk about the drum construction (reference inspired) and spankin new hardware is making me convinced this will be my next kit to buy. I'm just gonna wait for the reviews to come in (from Modern Drummer, DRUM!, and fellow forum members) before i'm absolutely sold.

I hope the reviews come soon, though MD sometimes misses the point of their product close-ups by reviewing only high end or limited edition gear. They need to do another cover story on intermediate level drum kits where they compare ALL brands against each other, which was last done in '98 I think. The Tama Rockstar was selected as the best overall, and the Export was 3rd or 4th. Lots of changes since then.

[Thrashed]

Well I'm almost completely sure that I want to get a Vision VLX as my next set almost sure it will take just one more thing to push me from almost sure to totally sure

[drummingod]

to me, i dont think these are major differences apart from the heads.

to be honest, altho ive just received my exr, i love it, and wouldnt change.


companies do this stuff all the time its the same with bikes.

they offer a 1bhp power increase on a new bike.
they offer a different lug design on drums.

big wow.

i think its nice to have the change, but they aint massive so if i was to buy another kit, it would be something higher up the price range.

[Genius Switch]

companies do this stuff all the time its the same with bikes.

they offer a 1bhp power increase on a new bike.
they offer a different lug design on drums.

big wow.

They could change nothing at all, and every bike would still be kick start.

[Lonestar Jammer]

ironcobra8,
I am in the process of buying a new Kit. Musicians Friend has the Visions listed for $899 but I have the opportunity to buy the Catilina Maple for $599 at my local drum shop. My question is (I know you have not tried the Visions yet), but in terms of shell composition, would the 300 dollar difference be worth buying the Visions over the Catalina Maples in your opinion? A question for anybody, what would the general difference be in tone and projection on birch/basswood from a maple kit, given using single ply heads on the resos and "standard double plys on the batter"? Any information would help.

[Genius Switch]

Sorry I haven't played Catalina Maples yet, but this video may help.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=h213zrZ8dpI

[DrumLove]

The only thing that gives me pause is the complaints I've heard about the ISS mounts and the hoops. Some people have had problems with the hoops warping, but I've heard other people say that as long as the mounts are tightly secured to the hoop, warping won't be a problem. I've heard other people say that they've used ISS mounts for years and had no problems

Yeah... I had an export several years ago... I tune with a dial, and found that if I tuned with the drum off the stand that when I mounted it the pressure on the hoops changed the tuning. Play on them, and it is even worse. THe work around was tuning while mounted, but you can never get around playing them... the larger toms are the really bad ones, with the weight of the drum really stressing the hoop tuning points. 00**

[DrumLove]

ironcobra8,
I am in the process of buying a new Kit. Musicians Friend has the Visions listed for $899 but I have the opportunity to buy the Catilina Maple for $599 at my local drum shop. My question is (I know you have not tried the Visions yet), but in terms of shell composition, would the 300 dollar difference be worth buying the Visions over the Catalina Maples in your opinion? A question for anybody, what would the general difference be in tone and projection on birch/basswood from a maple kit, given using single ply heads on the resos and "standard double plys on the batter"? Any information would help.

Research research research would be my advice.

Gretsch makes great drums, but their legacy is built on US made higher end shells, and I have a feeling (no research ;) ) that the cheaper Gretsch kits are shells made in Taiwan or China.

That said, Visions are a Birch inner ply, with basswood which has been passed off as "Asian Mahogany" for years. The sets are very similar to the Reference series if you ask me... however, all this means nothing without specs on the Gretsch kit your looking at:

Dont worry about heads IMO... you'll no doubt end up changing whatever you have anyway.

Check out: How many bass drum and snare lugs? I was disappointed to see the Visions only have 8.

Next, mounting system. The less tension and stress on tuning points the better (example Rims vs ISS vs lug isolation mounts)

Checkout the hardware packages for each, shipping costs, and colors.... oh yeah colors... for me that is often the deal maker or breaker :D

[althatjazz]

Hi all. I was set on the Session Custom SMX Maple kit until the local dealer (and the neighboring countries too) stop taking orders altogether for this series that was discontinued by Pearl. So, now i'm lookin into the Vision or the ECX Maple Export. I love the color choices that the Vision offers, but i found nothing else on the ECX except the Terracota color(if i'm not mistaken). Anyone has a photo of the other colors for ECX, especially the Electric Blue? Another thing, i was thinking of replacing the ISS mounts with Optimounts for the ECX. Can it be done and Is it worth doing? Any significant improvement if i did? Thanks a bunch in advance for your input guys...

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

Hi all. I was set on the Session Custom SMX Maple kit until the local dealer (and the neighboring countries too) stop taking orders altogether for this series that was discontinued by Pearl. So, now i'm lookin into the Vision or the ECX Maple Export. I love the color choices that the Vision offers, but i found nothing else on the ECX except the Terracota color(if i'm not mistaken). Anyone has a photo of the other colors for ECX, especially the Electric Blue? Another thing, i was thinking of replacing the ISS mounts with Optimounts for the ECX. Can it be done and Is it worth doing? Any significant improvement if i did? Thanks a bunch in advance for your input guys...

The Optimounts are compatible with Vision and Export drums. Some people claim that, over time, ISS mounts put too much pressure on the hoops and can cause warping of the hoops, detuning, and that they can choke the drum's resonance. Other people claim that they've used ISS mounts for years without any problems. I don't really know what to believe, since I don't have a lot of experience with ISS mounts. I played on an EXR for about an hour, and I thought the toms sounded great, with nice sustain. I haven't heard anything negative about Optimounts, though.

[Northdrummer17]

ironcobra8,
I am in the process of buying a new Kit. Musicians Friend has the Visions listed for $899 but I have the opportunity to buy the Catilina Maple for $599 at my local drum shop. My question is (I know you have not tried the Visions yet), but in terms of shell composition, would the 300 dollar difference be worth buying the Visions over the Catalina Maples in your opinion? A question for anybody, what would the general difference be in tone and projection on birch/basswood from a maple kit, given using single ply heads on the resos and "standard double plys on the batter"? Any information would help.

The catalina maples probably don't have a hardware package included whereas the visons have a full hardware package. Check and see if the Catalinas at your shop have a hardware package, if they don't that will be the price difference. The hardware package that comes with the visions would cost at least $300.

[-Glenn-]

Birch And Basswood VS 100% Maple....common sense

[-Glenn-]

Sorry I haven't played Catalina Maples yet, but this video may help.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=h213zrZ8dpI

I have a Catalina Birch 8" 10" 12" 14" 20" its kick ***.

[AL PERCIVAL]

I hope the reviews come soon, though MD sometimes misses the point of their product close-ups by reviewing only high end or limited edition gear.

Modern Drummer just finished their review of the Vision VLX series kit. We are waiting for the official write-up so we can post it.

[TommySalami]

Modern Drummer just finished their review of the Vision VLX series kit. We are waiting for the official write-up so we can post it.
so long as they don't rip it apart :cool:

[AL PERCIVAL]

so long as they don't rip it apart :cool:

They kept the drums longer than expected, I hope that's a good sign. :) ;)

[Genius Switch]

cool can't wait for that review, thanks AL.

[WaleyGao]

By luck, my local shop just got the new M Birch Black Forrest Sapphire with the virgin 24" kick drum. You get a deep 14x6.5 snare, free 10x9 tom, and some sweet tom/cymbal combo stands. Awesome kit. Here's the shot from NAMM.

i just got one of them for my birthday 2 days ago.

its pretty awesome if you ask me.

[TommySalami]

They kept the drums longer than expected, I hope that's a good sign. :) ;)
Because it took em that long to get them sounding not like poo :p

[skywalker2]

I think that both the visions and ecx's are getting a lot of flak from people for no reason. Aside from iron cobras' excellent posts regarding both drums, i think they are lacking the praise they deserve.


And i think its within each drumline's packaging that allows this to happen.
If the ecx's had all the sessions spec hardware (optimounts, masters bass spurs, 2.3 mm hoops) there would be no way they could sell it at this price. But then again if they did offer this, there would at least be no real way to offer the same cool finishes offered before on the smx/sbx lines.


Honestly i think that if pearl would have kept the same color options on the ecx's as the old sbx/smx lines, but retained the hardware they currently kept, we may have been less likely to jump down their throats. Granted, i would have loved them to have included at least 2.3 mm hoops, but for the most part they did ok. I think the ecx's will sound amazing. Plus the fact that they come in so many different shell packs will give people who already have hardware, or want a got, cheap kit and would like to start from scratch, a great base to build on. (i personally would love to get a shell pack w/virgin bass, wrap it in a cool color and throw some 2.3's and opti's on em!)


The visions is a nice step forward for pearl; although you can get 2.3's and even die cast hoops on kits in this price range (i.e. tama superstar) i think that they are sharp looking drums and they at least offer a more competetive shell as far as wood content goes. The 900 series hardware is a welcome addition, seeing as how companies like tama include great hardware like roadpro with thier kits (imho its better than the old 800 series on the exports), pearl is now closing the gap on its competition.

The sensitone snare seems great; is this the same sensitone snare that you can buy seperately? The elite stainless stell i think its called? Because if it is it makes the visions an even stronger contender.

Just my two cents!

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

I think that both the visions and ecx's are getting a lot of flak from people for no reason. Aside from iron cobras' excellent posts regarding both drums, i think they are lacking the praise they deserve.


And i think its within each drumline's packaging that allows this to happen.
If the ecx's had all the sessions spec hardware (optimounts, masters bass spurs, 2.3 mm hoops) there would be no way they could sell it at this price. But then again if they did offer this, there would at least be no real way to offer the same cool finishes offered before on the smx/sbx lines.


Honestly i think that if pearl would have kept the same color options on the ecx's as the old sbx/smx lines, but retained the hardware they currently kept, we may have been less likely to jump down their throats. Granted, i would have loved them to have included at least 2.3 mm hoops, but for the most part they did ok. I think the ecx's will sound amazing. Plus the fact that they come in so many different shell packs will give people who already have hardware, or want a got, cheap kit and would like to start from scratch, a great base to build on. (i personally would love to get a shell pack w/virgin bass, wrap it in a cool color and throw some 2.3's and opti's on em!)


The visions is a nice step forward for pearl; although you can get 2.3's and even die cast hoops on kits in this price range (i.e. tama superstar) i think that they are sharp looking drums and they at least offer a more competetive shell as far as wood content goes. The 900 series hardware is a welcome addition, seeing as how companies like tama include great hardware like roadpro with thier kits (imho its better than the old 800 series on the exports), pearl is now closing the gap on its competition.

The sensitone snare seems great; is this the same sensitone snare that you can buy seperately? The elite stainless stell i think its called? Because if it is it makes the visions an even stronger contender.

Just my two cents!

The Vision Sensitone is actually slightly different than the normal Sensitone. I don't know the specs, but I do know there is a difference.

The Visions do look like good drums, but I've just heard so many people say that they've had problems with the ISS mounts. Right now, I'm leaning towards the Sonor Force 2007 for my next kit (it changes quite frequently :) ) because it's cheaper than the Vision, and it is 100% birch, with 2.3 mm hoops, and I've heard nothing but good things about the hardware and mounting system.

[TommySalami]

I think that both the visions and ecx's are getting a lot of flak from people for no reason. Aside from iron cobras' excellent posts regarding both drums, i think they are lacking the praise they deserve.
If people are complaining about stupid things, that means that there are probably only stupid things to complain about. That's a good thing.

[Against]

Good points man, Vision ftw.

[skywalker2]

If people are complaining about stupid things, that means that there are probably only stupid things to complain about. That's a good thing.



Too true!

[skywalker2]

The Vision Sensitone is actually slightly different than the normal Sensitone. I don't know the specs, but I do know there is a difference.

The Visions do look like good drums, but I've just heard so many people say that they've had problems with the ISS mounts. Right now, I'm leaning towards the Sonor Force 2007 for my next kit (it changes quite frequently :) ) because it's cheaper than the Vision, and it is 100% birch, with 2.3 mm hoops, and I've heard nothing but good things about the hardware and mounting system.


Thanks son( :D funny). I've been dying to know the specs on the snare! I've heard good things about the sonors too though!!

[AL PERCIVAL]

Thanks son( :D funny). I've been dying to know the specs on the snare! I've heard good things about the sonors too though!!

This particular sensitone is made exclusively for the Vision series. It is not the standard Sensitone Elite STE1450 model. The Vision sensitone shell is a 1.0 beaded steel shell, the hardware is completely different. The lugs are the new TLS-55 Tube style lugs and the strainer and throw are different then the standard sensitone elite. I've played it, its a very nice full sounding snare with a wide tuning range and tonal clarity.

Vision Sensitone Specs: [b]

[b]SS-1455S

Shell: 1.0mm Beaded Steel

Hoops: 1.6 Steel

Tension Rods: 16x TR-5052 (w7/32x52mm)

Lug Type: TLS-55 Swivel Tube Style

Strainer/Snares: DR-900/SNW-1420

[skywalker2]

thanks al. a definte improvement over one of the few quibbles some had over the old exports.

[`teabagz.]

Hey I think they got the visions and ecx's in my local Long&McQuade, im not sure though I saw a bunch of people there carrying out drums and stuff and I think one of them looked like a electric blue, and I saw another guy holding a amber fade.
Never got to check it out though.

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

ironcobra8, you have probably answered this question in this thread earlier but, which would you rather purchase a MCX or a ECX? In terms of cash. I would think the MCX would be better but I'm not sure... I could use as many peoples opinions as possible it would really help me.

[skywalker2]

ironcobra8, you have probably answered this question in this thread earlier but, which would you rather purchase a MCX or a ECX? In terms of cash. I would think the MCX would be better but I'm not sure... I could use as many peoples opinions as possible it would really help me.

i know this was directed to iron cobra, but i'll throw my 2 cents in if you don't mind?

I've always looked at the ecx as a good kit if you want to build from the ground up and already have hardware available. This can be said of the mcx as well though. It has better spurs, a better mounting system (imho), better hoops and nicer finishes that are sure to grow soon. If you wanted a nice sounding kit, but just needed a shell pack and maybe wanted to wrap it later on, the ecx would be the way to go, it IS less costly than the mcx. The mcx is like a more expensive version of a sessions; less finishes and only one wood option, but better shell hardware all around.

The ecx's are like the hot rod export, a good platform to start on. They are just burdened with features that most similarly priced maple kits don't have; such as 1.6mm hoops, an older (but tried and true) mounting system, and not so amazing finsish options.

It seems like the ecx is destined to be the best SOUNDING export ever, just not the best looker or feature laden.

The mcx's will look much more professional, and you have your choice of a wrap as well. (only lacquered's for the ecx.) It really just depends what your price point is and how important the look of your finish is. The mcx wins in that regard.

The ecx is probably better if decent looks, but killer sound is your priority. Although the mcx's have more sound-enhancing qualities (hoops, optimounts) the average person...heck the average dummer probably wont be able to tell the difference.

Hope this helps!

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

Yeah it helps thanks a lot. So what you're basically saying is that the MCX just has a different name and better hardware? If that's the case I might as well go with the ECX.

[Genius Switch]

...from what I've gathered, the ECX shell is the same as the old SMX shell. Those SMX shells were made from the same woods as the Masters, but were just designated to a lesser grade because of their finish and grain properties.

[skywalker2]

...from what I've gathered, the ECX shell is the same as the old SMX shell. Those SMX shells were made from the same woods as the Masters, but were just designated to a lesser grade because of their finish and grain properties.


yes ironcobra8 is right; its the same shell as the old sessions, which was the same shell as a masters.

With ecx, you get the shell, you just don't get the better colors or diecast hoops or optimounts.

With the mcx's you get all those things, plus (subjectively) better colors.

[-Glenn-]

once again. 100% maple and birch and basswood....use your head

[skywalker2]

once again. 100% maple and birch and basswood....use your head


still don't think that automatically means bad sounding drums.


one of the best selling drumsets in the world is a poplar one, should they have used their heads too? :rolleyes:

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

If the SMX has the same shell as the ECX and the Masters... I guess I'll just go with the ECX. Althoght I hate the triple flanged hoops and ISS mounts...

[ian40uk]

If the SMX has the same shell as the ECX and the Masters... I guess I'll just go with the ECX. Althoght I hate the triple flanged hoops and ISS mounts...


the hoops i can live with, the ISS i could'nt !

come on Pearl , replace them with a better design. Mapex, Yamaha, Premier, PDP, Sonor all have a better tom mount system than the ISS. my opinion i know, but i've owned or played them all and it comes a poor last place against any of the others.

[ian40uk]

once again. 100% maple and birch and basswood....use your head

sorry mate,
Classic luddys - mahogany, poplar, maple in all configurations.
Sonor Phonics - Beech
Premier XPK - Birch/eucaplyptus/birch
Mapex Pro M (older model) - Basswood

the list goes on


Maple has tonal qualities different to other woods, but it certainly isnt better.

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

Agreed ian40, Since I started drumming I have used a Pearl Export and I always had problems with the ISS... I have seen the Optimount and LOVED it. The should include the Optimount with the ECX, sales would go waaaaay up then. It's just not worth spending 1499 for a MCX with the same shell better hardware then 959 same shell, old hardware. I'd rather by the hardware sepratley than. I think It would be cheaper... I don't know...

[skywalker2]

pearl drummer man: the money you save on getting an ecx can very easily be used to buy some 2.3 mm rims (i'd just get generic non pearl ones, they'll be cheaper) and some opti's!

That would be a good alternative.

I agree; at least optimounts could have been included.

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

Can't you buy Master Cast hoops though? I tried looking for some for say online, but failed.... I'd rather get the Master Cast hoops. I just like having all matching stuff, that's how I am. lol

[skywalker2]

Can't you buy Master Cast hoops though? I tried looking for some for say online, but failed.... I'd rather get the Master Cast hoops. I just like having all matching stuff, that's how I am. lol


oh, sure you can! Die cast hoops such as the mastercasts are very expensive though, and i understand about the desire to have everything match! :)


In that case, just get some pearl 2.3 superhoops, they'll at least be a little cheaper and they will be much better than the 1.6's.

[PearlDrummerMan0000]

Alright, I'll go the supers. Thanks for all your help you gave me, I really appriciate it.

[althatjazz]

Hi All!

Anyone have photos of ECX in Electric Blue finish? I wonder if this version of blue is nice. Can't really tell from the color chart. Thanks y'all...

[Genius Switch]

Hi All!

Anyone have photos of ECX in Electric Blue finish? I wonder if this version of blue is nice. Can't really tell from the color chart. Thanks y'all...

check out the first page of this thread. all the ECX colors are shown.

[althatjazz]

Oops! How could i have missed it?!? Thanks bro...

[skywalker2]

AL: when is that modern drummer review coming? It sure has been awhile....

and i know i've beaten this to death already, but in regards to the sensitone on the visions...one of the reasons i figured to stray away from midrange kits is because of the snare; i'd rather choose my own and get a very nice one. The tama superstars' snare is rumored to be fairly good, but i'd rather have a metal snare, and a maple one if i'm going to go wood. Having said that, the sensitone on the visions is a welcome addition!

Anyway, my question is this, if you were to compare the visions sensitone to the regular one, would there be a tremendous difference? Lets say i was saving up for a steel sensitione and someone handed me a visions sensitione for very little moolah. Would i still be saving up to get the better version? Or would i now look for a different snare since the sensitione from the visions is so close to the sound of the normal sensitione?

[Private_Snowball]

the answer is simple.

ECX

100% maple shells > Birch/Basswood shells

its all about sound and the shell construction the ECX has quality shells and im sure the Vision does aswell but Maple has been proven for many years as a good shell material.

hardwear and all the other bits are not important in my opinion as they are purely for asthetics (besides the hoops and mounting system)

my only problem with the ECX as many would agree is the lack of 2.3mm hoops. pearl could have atleast included them on the ECX as no other kit in currently production uses them. they would also benifit them being 100% maple shells.

something for pearl to concider improving on the ECX which would make the ECX again a MUCH nicer sounding kit.

[Son of Shub-Niggurath]

the answer is simple.

ECX

100% maple shells > Birch/Plywood shells



To my understanding, plywood simply means a piece of wood made up of several plies. Therefore, any drum that is made up of multiple layers of wood is plywood, even the ECX. Plywood is not a species, but basswood is, and that's what's included in the Vision.

[skywalker2]

To my understanding, plywood simply means a piece of wood made up of several plies. Therefore, any drum that is made up of multiple layers of wood is plywood, even the ECX. Plywood is not a species, but basswood is, and that's what's included in the Vision.


tru dat.


Even tho the woods differ, the shell quality between the ecx and visions is exactly the same.

I disagree on the hardware tho, it may be for asthetics, but the ecx's biggest problems to me are the fact that it looks like an elx and it doesn't have the perks of other maple kits in that it has subpar hoops for the price and doesn't have hardware or good color choices, like some other maple drum competitors. The sessions were sort of in the same boat, but you had the benefit of opti's, great finishes and 2.3 mm hoops. The fact that it didn't have hardware was outweighed by these features.

[skywalker2]

To my understanding, plywood simply means a piece of wood made up of several plies. Therefore, any drum that is made up of multiple layers of wood is plywood, even the ECX. Plywood is not a species, but basswood is, and that's what's included in the Vision.


true, and birch/basswood has proven to be a great combo too. If you can make and export sound killer, i'm sure the visions will have no problems sounding great.

Sounding 'better' will be purely subjective. How many people do you think will 'hear' the basswood? :rolleyes:

[AL PERCIVAL]

true, and birch/basswood has proven to be a great combo too. If you can make and export sound killer, i'm sure the visions will have no problems sounding great.

Sounding 'better' will be purely subjective. How many people do you think will 'hear' the basswood? :rolleyes:

Everyone who was at the Columbus Pro Percussion "DRUM DAZE" thought the Vision kit Terrence Higgins used sounded excellent. This included Shelia E, some other Artist Relations folks from other companies and manufactures who were present including 200+ in the audience.

[TommySalami]

tru dat.


Even tho the woods differ, the shell quality between the ecx and visions is exactly the same.

I disagree on the hardware tho, it may be for asthetics, but the ecx's biggest problems to me are the fact that it looks like an elx and it doesn't have the perks of other maple kits in that it has subpar hoops for the price and doesn't have hardware or good color choices, like some other maple drum competitors. The sessions were sort of in the same boat, but you had the benefit of opti's, great finishes and 2.3 mm hoops. The fact that it didn't have hardware was outweighed by these features.
YOu didn't mention the price of it though

[AL PERCIVAL]

AL: when is that modern drummer review coming? It sure has been awhile....

and i know i've beaten this to death already, but in regards to the sensitone on the visions...one of the reasons i figured to stray away from midrange kits is because of the snare; i'd rather choose my own and get a very nice one. The tama superstars' snare is rumored to be fairly good, but i'd rather have a metal snare, and a maple one if i'm going to go wood. Having said that, the sensitone on the visions is a welcome addition!

Anyway, my question is this, if you were to compare the visions sensitone to the regular one, would there be a tremendous difference? Lets say i was saving up for a steel sensitione and someone handed me a visions sensitione for very little moolah. Would i still be saving up to get the better version? Or would i now look for a different snare since the sensitione from the visions is so close to the sound of the normal sensitione?

To be quite honest, I don't hear a big difference from the Sensitone Elite 1.2mm beaded snare and the Vision 1.0mm beaded shell snare and I think the tube lugs on the Vision sensitone are nicer looking.

[skywalker2]

YOu didn't mention the price of it though

ah yes! My bad!

[skywalker2]

To be quite honest, I don't hear a big difference from the Sensitone Elite 1.2mm beaded snare and the Vision 1.0mm beaded shell snare and I think the tube lugs on the Vision sensitone are nicer looking.

AL: why are you so awesome!? :D

Thanks much, i think this is the only kit that will have a stock snare that people wont be running to replace immediately! (I didn't think that .2 mm of steel would make such a world turning, weather changing difference.)

This may be the thing that turns me away from the superstars...i heard that the snare they have is pretty darn good, probably due to the die cast hoops, but i've always preferred a metal snare. God i cant wait to get one! Thanks al.

[Private_Snowball]

To my understanding, plywood simply means a piece of wood made up of several plies. Therefore, any drum that is made up of multiple layers of wood is plywood, even the ECX. Plywood is not a species, but basswood is, and that's what's included in the Vision.


misstyped it. my bad