Ultracast vs. Ludwig Supraphonic

[drummerboy]

I have an aluminum Ludwig Supraphonic from either '79 or '80. I like the sound of the aluminum shell. It's the only snare drum which I don't have to muffle to get a clear sound w/o nasty overtones. I was considering a 14 x 5 Ultracast to add to my collection. How will this sound different from my Supraphonic? I assume it will be a little louder with less overtones due to a much thicker shell? It's a black lacquered coated shell. Will the black rims chip from rimshots? Finally, where do I buy one w/o selling the house first? I never see them on Ebay. Either, no one buys 'em, or the buyers keep 'em. Thanks.

[russb66]

I have an aluminum Ludwig Supraphonic from either '79 or '80. I like the sound of the aluminum shell. It's the only snare drum which I don't have to muffle to get a clear sound w/o nasty overtones. I was considering a 14 x 5 Ultracast to add to my collection. How will this sound different from my Supraphonic? I assume it will be a little louder with less overtones due to a much thicker shell? It's a black lacquered coated shell. Will the black rims chip from rimshots? Finally, where do I buy one w/o selling the house first? I never see them on Ebay. Either, no one buys 'em, or the buyers keep 'em. Thanks.I ssume that most buyers keep them since they only came out a few years ago.The best price you can find on an Ultrcast is from www.drumsonsale.com...The 3mm thick shell makes this drum loud,with clear overtones, and rather warm[compared to other metal shells.]

[drummerboy]

O.K. Russ. You said the same thing I did, "clear overtones". But, this isn't going have the nasty higher frequency overtones like a brass or steel shell, correct? The Supraphonic aluminum overtones are just right. My Sensitone brass rings like a church bell on Sunday. When I try to tone it down, I usually loose "all" desired openess. I'm hoping the Ultracast has somewhat mellow overtones.

[russb66]

O.K. Russ. You said the same thing I did, "clear overtones". But, this isn't going have the nasty higher frequency overtones like a brass or steel shell, correct? The Supraphonic aluminum overtones are just right. My Sensitone brass rings like a church bell on Sunday. When I try to tone it down, I usually loose "all" desired openess. I'm hoping the Ultracast has somewhat mellow overtones.Well, it does have mellow overtones. They aren't as harsh as Steel,but,they are there. I don't think you will be disappointed.