Reference Series...pictures

[bean]

Per Jesse Bradman designer of the kickport the optimal hole size is 5.2" - 5.5".

I wonder how many people on the PDF use the kickport?

[AL PERCIVAL]

I wonder how many people on the PDF use the kickport?

6-7 PDF members that I know of including me. I was teching for Chris Williams last year (PDF member Drumgodpc3) and I was sold the minute I heard his kicks from out in front of the crowd. Amazing low end and punch added.

[Stefan Ray]

I wonder how many people on the PDF use the kickport?

They are awesome Bean! ;)

[nova]

REF in #194 Granite Sparkle
22x18
12x10
13x10
16x16
18x16

Tony LeCroix who cut down Eric Singer (KISS) toms has taken my 12x10 and 13x10 and cut them down to:

12x8.5
- and -
13x8.5

and re-did the bottom edges to factory spec.

I pick up the RFB1465 (Ref Brass) on Friday


I saw part of your Referennce with the cut down rt's Al! It is beautifull!! It wants to go home and get set up and played plus a photo shoot! (drums have a special way of communicating with me); and I wouldn't lie!:rolleyes:

[nova]

60 is the new 40. :)

You should what Steven Tyler 60' Aerosmith says ..... "Don't call me 60 call me 20 with forty years of experience!" :D

Thanks for that! I'm 20 with 37 years of experience! You gave me a better outlook; though I wish I looked 20 again!:D:cool:

[ARdrummer009]

Everyone on here is way more "experienced". Im just 20............

[nova]

Everyone on here is way more "experienced". Im just 20............

Rubbing it in. 00**

[LeftySlammer92]

Rubbing it in. 00**

heck im only 17 :p

[Action Jackson]

heck im only 17 :p

Hey kid your not aloud in here:eek:

[militia3311]

Looks so ANGELIC with that beautiful sunlight coming in Eric!!! I'm sure you were going for that weren't you???? Your kit never ceases to amaze me. It's glorious!!!!:D:D


BTW, Eric is being very humble, he's a phenomenol drummer that has and still has a great career. C'mon Eric, just tell them.


Im waiting to here an answer... lol

A gold record is a gold record..... Unless he is embarassed to be part of the band? lol

[drummeric]

Looks so ANGELIC with that beautiful sunlight coming in Eric!!! I'm sure you were going for that weren't you???? Your kit never ceases to amaze me. It's glorious!!!!:D:D


BTW, Eric is being very humble, he's a phenomenol drummer that has and still has a great career. C'mon Eric, just tell them.
Justin, the check is in the mail! :D Seriously, thank you for the compliments. You are a class act.

Im waiting to here an answer... lol

A gold record is a gold record..... Unless he is embarassed to be part of the band? lol
Truth be told, I didn’t even realize the gold record was in the picture. I don’t pay much attention to it these days – it’s just on the wall there. That just happened to be the best full kit picture from out front that I’ve taken to date.

Not embarrassed by the band at all. Extremely proud of what we accomplished together. I’d just prefer to be somewhat anonymous as far as that aspect of my life. A couple guys here on the PDF know, and that’s fine with me. It seems as though it was a ‘lifetime ago’, and we disbanded ten years ago (due to a member’s life changing accident and resulting permanent injury), so it isn’t anything current. We were a melodic rock/progressive band (think Rush, Kansas, Styx style) and with grunge and alternative music being so huge in the US at the time, pretty much all of our exposure and short-lived success was overseas in the mid 90’s. The label didn’t push us here in America at all, so we were basically unknown here, anyway. I should point out that we didn’t “go gold” here in America, so this isn’t from the RIAA. This album went gold in Japan, and a single went gold in Japan, Germany, and Brazil – though it also did very well for us in many other countries. Having it in a movie soundtrack didn't hurt, either. ;) ASCAP still collects earnings on that from over 40 foreign performance rights societies, on our behalf.

I’m very fortunate and proud, and it’s opened doors to the work I’m still involved with these days. I have an enjoyable drumming career, and I think I've explained it well enough, so I’ll leave it at that. It was never my intention to hijack this thread…or have it hijacked because of one of my posts. :) I just wanted to show off my new beautiful wine red Reference with gold hw. And for those of you that find it as beautiful as I do...thank you! :)

Back to everyone else's awesome Reference pictures! :D

[Steve Thompson]

Justin, the check is in the mail! :D Seriously, thank you for the compliments. You are a class act.


Truth be told, I didn’t even realize the gold record was in the picture. I don’t pay much attention to it these days – it’s just on the wall there. That just happened to be the best full kit picture from out front that I’ve taken to date.

Not embarrassed by the band at all. Extremely proud of what we accomplished together. I’d just prefer to be somewhat anonymous as far as that aspect of my life. A couple guys here on the PDF know, and that’s fine with me. It seems as though it was a ‘lifetime ago’, and we disbanded ten years ago (due to a member’s life changing accident and resulting permanent injury), so it isn’t anything current. We were a melodic rock/progressive band (think Rush, Kansas, Styx style) and with grunge and alternative music being so huge in the US at the time, pretty much all of our exposure and short-lived success was overseas in the mid 90’s. The label didn’t push us here in America at all, so we were basically unknown here, anyway. I should point out that we didn’t “go gold” here in America, so this isn’t from the RIAA. This album went gold in Japan, and a single went gold in Japan, Germany, and Brazil – though it also did very well for us in many other countries. Having it in a movie soundtrack didn't hurt, either. ;) ASCAP still collects earnings on that from over 40 foreign performance rights societies, on our behalf.

I’m very fortunate and proud, and it’s opened doors to the work I’m still involved with these days. I have an enjoyable drumming career, and I think I've explained it well enough, so I’ll leave it at that. It was never my intention to hijack this thread…or have it hijacked because of one of my posts. :) I just wanted to show off my new beautiful wine red Reference with gold hw. And for those of you that find it as beautiful as I do...thank you! :)

Back to everyone else's awesome Reference pictures! :D

Well said Eric. Hopefully everyone will respect your privacy. I certanily will.
Sorry if I opened up a bag of worms.

Highest regards,

[phips]

^^^ What he said. :)

It's nice to have people like you on the PDF, that share knowledge of music and drums. Hope to here more about your musical endeavors as time rolls on. :D

Your kit is beautiful, thanks for sharing. :cool:

[styleone]

I saw George Kollias from Nile play this weekend. He has a beautiful Rootbeer Fade (I believe) double-bass kit:

http://www.georgekollias.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2205


If you want to see more of that beautiful kit...

http://www.youtube.com/v/7htuJoZ5Lj8

http://www.youtube.com/v/rf2V6tXBpdo

[ROMAN]

Always liked this black/black. Good driver seat on this one.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/IMG_8763-1.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/IMG_8767.jpg

[ROMAN]

Ref pics.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/RF924XSPNM-xlarge.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/REFERENCE-IVORY-PEARL.jpg

[Genius Switch]

that BOB is *****in. Love how he flipped the tom arms around so the logo is horizontal. The Roc N Soc is the perfect touch.

[Steve Thompson]

Ref pics.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/RF924XSPNM-xlarge.jpg
http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n163/rootsboogie/REFERENCE-IVORY-PEARL.jpg

Roman,

Do you or anyone else for that matter have any other shots of Natural Maple?
I may have just (finally) decided on a finish.

Thanks,

[Stefan Ray]

Pulled these off of google for you Steve.

[Jutt8]

Look up Mr. Johnson too, he has a Reference in Natural Maple. It's fantastic!!!!

[Steve Thompson]

Look up Mr. Johnson too, he has a Reference in Natural Maple. It's fantastic!!!!

Thanks Stefan and Jutt8. I have been kicking around 3 finishes for
Reference; 100 Wine Red, 102 Natural Maple and 103 Piano Black. Piano Black
was my first choice but most likely the most bothersome to keep clean and would show scratches more than the other two. I think Natural Maple would be the easiest to live with. Wine Red would fall in the middle as far as this thinking goes. I have not seen Wine Red in person but would very much like to. The pictures on this forum look great. I will go with chrome hardwear.

I have also been thinking about getting an MCX kit to play out with. I looked at one yesterday. There were things about it I liked but also things I didn't.
I do however, very much like the price, for a kit that might suffer the stresses
of getting carried out(in cases of course).

Thanks again.

[drummeric]

I have been kicking around 3 finishes for Reference; 100 Wine Red, 102 Natural Maple and 103 Piano Black.

Wine red is my favorite color, but I will advise that it shows up dark and undetailed under typical stage lighting. Not an issue for me, as (aside from a DVD shoot a couple months ago) I have no plans to use my kit in a live capacity. It stays in my well lit studio.

IF you're looking for a nice finish for stage use - I'd select natural maple out of your three choices. It will show up the best on dimly lit stages, and will react well with lighting color changes. A black finish is always timeless and beautiful - but I've never liked looking at a black kit on stage. If you were soliciting 'votes' for a kit to use on stage, mine would be #102 Natural Maple all the way.

[Steve Thompson]

Look up Mr. Johnson too, he has a Reference in Natural Maple. It's fantastic!!!!

I can't find Mr. Johnson. I'm probably doing something wrong.:confused:

[Action Jackson]

Those are some nice drums kits. Is that Ivory white?

[Action Jackson]

Wine red is my favorite color, but I will advise that it shows up dark and undetailed under typical stage lighting. Not an issue for me, as (aside from a DVD shoot a couple months ago) I have no plans to use my kit in a live capacity. It stays in my well lit studio.

IF you're looking for a nice finish for stage use - I'd select natural maple out of your three choices. It will show up the best on dimly lit stages, and will react well with lighting color changes. A black finish is always timeless and beautiful - but I've never liked looking at a black kit on stage. If you were soliciting 'votes' for a kit to use on stage, mine would be #102 Natural Maple all the way.

I to like all 3 choices but I will add a 4th, What about plat mist? I have been thinking about that veary issue of stage lights myself.
I am torn between natural or plat mist.

[Steve Thompson]

I to like all 3 choices but I will add a 4th, What about plat mist? I have been thinking about that veary issue of stage lights myself.
I am torn between natural or plat mist.

I haven't seen that color but I think I want to keep it simple. I will probably always be able to get NM or Piano Black. From the pictures in the catalog and on line I can't see much difference between PM and NM. Good thought though.

[AL PERCIVAL]

Looks very good Al! Love the elaborate cowbell mounting too!

I saw Eric Singer take a Pearl Tom arm with the HA-100 hi-hat post and mount his LP cow bell on his Japan MMX silver sparkle KISS tour kit so I thought wow pretty heavy duty and it's rock solid!

[AL PERCIVAL]

Al, that just looks killer, but now we all have to have chrome reso heads with Kickports.Way to go Big Guy!!! Now, lets have all the dirt on that big bad, Reference Brass snare.

The 14x6.5 ref brass is just plain Bad A-ss with a capital "A". It has the power and projection of the ref cast steel + tonal warmth with plenty of attack because of the 3mm brass shell. Surprisingly it is also very articulate and sensitive but is the perfect snare for live outdoor shows and loud amplification. It cuts right through - I love it.

[Steve Thompson]

The 14x6.5 ref brass is just plain Bad A-ss with a capital "A". It has the power and projection of the ref cast steel + tonal warmth with plenty of attack because of the 3mm brass shell. Surprisingly it is also very articulate and sensitive but is the perfect snare for live outdoor shows and loud amplification. It cuts right through - I love it.

That was exactly waht I wanted to hear!!! Thanks, and shouldn't a man of your age be in bed by now?

[AL PERCIVAL]

That was exactly waht I wanted to hear!!! Thanks, and shouldn't a man of your age be in bed by now?

I was writing this on my laptop while watching TV in bed! :p ;)

[Steve Thompson]

I'm waiting for my meds to kick in so I have the strenght climb the stairs, slip into my Depends and trun on the Vaporizer.

[ROMAN]

Wow Al, nice dubs! Looks nice with that head. Maybe I need to speak with Jim and get some silver sparkle MW heads done up, or something similar. Nice! Me likes!

Got to say, GS would look hot with black..:p

[AL PERCIVAL]

Wow Al, nice dubs! Looks nice with that head. Maybe I need to speak with Jim and get some silver sparkle MW heads done up, or something similar. Nice! Me likes!

Got to say, GS would look hot with black..:p

Jim did a silver sparkle for me on my old Masters kit - check it out!

[pearlygates]

I wonder how many people on the PDF use the kickport?

Kickport is amazing!! Highly recommended!!!:cool:

[nova]

Still polishing up the cymbals but Here ya go Jim! The head looks great on the kit! - Thanks Again!

That Kit is a 10+ on the droolworthy scale! Now I have to get a new cowbell, a new and better mount for it, and a Kick Port. That's my new list but all of my last spree has yet to arrive; so it will wait! Glorious Kit! Do you also have the Eric Singer Snare for when you feel like Maple? It would be a nice 2nd snare if there's room. That's also on my list but not untill they start hitting e bay!

[SoCalMike]

Kickport is amazing!! Highly recommended!!!:cool:

+1 on this :eek:

[SeelenlanD]

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2Lfq1DY7Aaw/S2pKiW4IpQI/AAAAAAAAACA/3iJTCWzBYJY/s800/IMG_1153.JPG

awesome! The Emerald Fade is an amazing color. I just recently picked up my new Reference Kit not that long ago...and its occupying space in a corner of my apartment..break in at the studio forced me to move out after one practice and one show with them..:mad:

ANYWAY, I hope to post some quality pictures soon, but in the mean time I can just send everyone here...some less than stellar pics with my phone's camera:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=139179&id=529864542&l=a69a12b7c3

I have got it set up slightly different since then..figured out my rack better and all that jazz! I just got word tonight that we have a new studio space now, so when I get it set back up I'll take some better pics to post in here!

oh, and BTW, hello everyone! I did not realize I had signed up for this forum some SEVEN years ago (until I tried registering again..lol), but I think this is my first official post..glad to be here!

*EDIT* I just looked and saw this is my 4th post..errr whatever. I don't remember posting before...but then again, that was some time ago now..

[ROMAN]

Jim did a silver sparkle for me on my old Masters kit - check it out!

Yes, I remember this. Thanks for sharing again though, now I am pretty much sold. Do you have his contact info, like email? I need pricing. I like the silver sparkle heads you got, only I would love to see white logos. Nice!!!:eek:

[AL PERCIVAL]

Yes, I remember this. Thanks for sharing again though, now I am pretty much sold. Do you have his contact info, like email? I need pricing. I like the silver sparkle heads you got, only I would love to see white logos. Nice!!!:eek:

Ryan - you can contact Jim at e-mail: jim@drumart.com.
Jim can give you consumer pricing.

[ROMAN]

Ryan - you can contact Jim at e-mail: jim@drumart.com.
Jim can give you consumer pricing.

Okay, went to the web sight. They look very affordable and they dont charge for the extra BS. Hum... Was your silver sparkle a removale or normal? I am SURE he can do the MW logo on the bottoms.. I just need to find him a good pic of that.

[DrumART Jim]

Yes, I remember this. Thanks for sharing again though, now I am pretty much sold. Do you have his contact info, like email? I need pricing. I like the silver sparkle heads you got, only I would love to see white logos. Nice!!!:eek:

Hi Roman,

Please feel free to e-mail me directly and I'll be happy to help! jim@drumart.com

Thanks!

--Jim.

[SeelenlanD]

ok..I threw the drums back up in order to take some more quality pics to share with all of you in here. I didn't feel the need to set it up in its full glory with hardware,cymbals,pedals,etc, as I'm moving all of that stuff into a new studio space soon anyway, so there's always later when I can take pics of the full kit, but since this is a Reference Pics thread, isn't it just best I concentrate on those? :D

First off, from the front:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/IMG_4803.jpg

Rear-ish..you get the idea anyway:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/IMG_4805.jpg

Badge:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/IMG_4806.jpg

Specs:
Reference Series in color #148-Emerald Fade
black hardware...supposed to be all black Optimounts, but the 10" came with chrome..a new one is being shipped to the shop I picked these up at in order to fix it.

Toms:
10"x8"
12"x9"
13"x10"
Floor Tom:
16"x16"
Kick Drums:
22"x18" (x2)

And here's a pic of my rotating cast of snares:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/IMG_4817-1.jpg
From top to bottom:
DDrum 'Diatribe' series 14"x6" Birch -This is my main snare drum actually..got it as a free replacement for my total junk of a snare that came with my cheap DDrum kit when I was getting back into drumming..long story for another time. lol! But it is an absolutely fantastic sounding snare! Plenty of body, attack, all that good stuff.

Pearl Joey Jordison Signature series 13"x6.5" Aluminum -I don't think I need to explain this one, as far as sound goes, since this is a Pearl forum and all. But I will say that this was a great birthday present a couple years back from my fiance.

DW Collector's Series 14"x5.5" Maple (I am assuming) -I say "assuming" for this is an old one, according to DW from the 80's, but the hardware that was on it (a Camloc throw), they were not familiar with! And you're probably wondering about the color, since we all know the Collector's series is a clear coat on the natural wood,right?
Well. I actually found this snare in someone's TRASH PILE!!!! They obviously did not know what they had, as I am assuming it was a relative's whom was not around anymore, and it was not a family of drummers.
So yeah, found it outside, it had some water damage inside the shell (actually, standing water, it was out in the rain.. :( ), but I was able to lightly sand out the discoloration, and where it was starting to slightly come apart at the seam where the shell was fused together, I took some heavy duty wood glue, smeared it liberally on the seam and into where it was coming apart, used a good clamp to hold it together, and its been good as new for over two years now!
And now, the finish. It started off as a clear coated, classic Collector's series, but since I didn't have to pay for it, and since it was looking a bit worse for the wear from years of playing and then being outside, my fiance and I took turns sanding the original coat off that badboy, applied a sanding sealer to make sure everything was nice and even, then I applied a couple coats of a heavy duty dye wood stain, in a color called "Old World Mahogany" (the company that makes it is called Chemcraft International..I got this from a paint store I had worked in for a number of years.)
While I was staining the shell, my fiance took Brasso and refinished the lugs, the rods, and hoops, removing the rust and overall grime on them. Then we put it back together, and I ended up with what is now a one of a kind, DW Collector's series snare. Sorry for the long winded story about something that's not a Reference piece! haha

Anyway, in addition to those, I have one of these guys on layaway at the music shop...been sitting there for awhile and nobody had bothered to even look at it I guess..one of the Limited Edition "Snare of the Month" pieces:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/mynewbaby.jpg
the 14"x7" Maple. :D

[SeelenlanD]

hmm. didn't expect the pics to turn out so small...sorry!

[DRUMMER X]

Stunning kit!
I love emerald fade with black h/w so much.

[ROMAN]

hmm. didn't expect the pics to turn out so small...sorry!

Bloody amazing. Period. Be sure to snap some more once she is all set up!

[SeelenlanD]

Bloody amazing. Period. Be sure to snap some more once she is all set up!

oh I will for sure, especially since I have more cymbals to pick up, and my awesome fiance ordered me extra clamps (which were actually on the rack in the pics, but the pics are so small you can't see it...lol), to go with 4 Pearl cymbal arms she also ordered for me. She is definitely supportive, that's for sure! :D

and with all these additional arms, I need more brass to fill them up with I suppose...haha

[Stefan Ray]

Welcome to the "Club Double Kick Ref"!!! Awesome!!

[SeelenlanD]

Welcome to the "Club Double Kick Ref"!!! Awesome!!

ha! thank you very much! :D I am excited to be part of the club.

You guys want to know what the deciding factor was on this kit? Cost. Initially when I was fed up with total the total POS cheap DDrum kit I was playing before this (I briefly mentioned that I got it just to have something to play, as I took about a 5 or so year break from drumming..not necessarily cuz I wanted to..anyway..), and so I started looking at the high end stuff. I'm playing in bands, recording, etc, so it was definitely time to make an investment!

So I was totally sold on DW for awhile,right? I had played on a couple, and they sounded amazing, all that jazz, but when it came down to the cost of it, I got my 6pc Reference shell package (all those shells you saw in the pics), for like $100 more than a 4pc shell package from DW. That and playing on a Reference kit that was set up at the store, not really even in tune, and it was just as good (probably better,actually) as the DW stuff! That and my first real kit was a Pearl (old school Export series..my buddy in another band still has it! And he too is a Reference player), I've always liked Pearl, so yeah, it was time to go home as it were. So cost and familiarity I guess were the real factors for me.

[Action Jackson]

That's cool for the money you can't go rong with Pearl and I believe
they are as fine a drum set as you can buy except for Craviotto but you can't
get one of them for under $5000.00 and more like 7 to 10.:D
Ciller looking set have fun.

[SeelenlanD]

That's cool for the money you can't go rong with Pearl and I believe
they are as fine a drum set as you can buy except for Craviotto but you can't
get one of them for under $5000.00 and more like 7 to 10.:D
Ciller looking set have fun.

Thanks, I will! And yeah, Craviotto drums are NNNIIIICCCEEEEE. Who knows, maybe someday I can get my hands on a snare of theirs...something about 1/3 the cost of my kit you know..lol ;)

[Stefan Ray]

I got my 6pc Reference shell package (all those shells you saw in the pics), for like $100 more than a 4pc shell package from DW. That and playing on a Reference kit that was set up at the store, not really even in tune, and it was just as good (probably better,actually) as the DW stuff!

That is the best part about Pearl. I think they are way better quality than dw at half the price. ;)

[SeelenlanD]

That is the best part about Pearl. I think they are way better quality than dw at half the price. ;)

Yup. I do like their snares though, they have some killer ones...like that one I posted above that I had found and refurbished!

[Action Jackson]

I am going down to Forks Drum Closet tomarrow and check out some kits,
Who knowes maby I will buy one. I am looking at Pearl Reference, Brady, Ludwig Classic Maple and Craviotto.:D

[Stefan Ray]

I am going down to Forks Drum Closet tomarrow and check out some kits,
Who knowes maby I will buy one. I am looking at Pearl Reference, Brady, Ludwig Classic Maple and Craviotto.:D

Get Ref bro! They will have plenty for you to choose from. ;) :D

[Action Jackson]

I am leening tword Reference because you get an awsome kit for a lot les money. Oh! sure I would like a Craviotto or evon a Brady but Pearl Reference is
the bomb. I think all of these kits would get a 10 out of 10

[ROMAN]

I still cannot get over the emerald fade kit. Steller. I would like chrome, but the black is classic cool on that finish. I almost want one. That, or emerald green sparkle, fade into shimmer green sparkle (without the gold flakes). Yummy green. Green rules the world. IMO, best finishes ever from pearl have to be the emerald fade, shimmer of oz and green sparkle. Hands down. The EF is just so dam classic, it's a sure winner every time. From a 3pc to a 10pc, it's just super dooooper!

[SeelenlanD]

I still cannot get over the emerald fade kit. Steller. I would like chrome, but the black is classic cool on that finish. I almost want one. That, or emerald green sparkle, fade into shimmer green sparkle (without the gold flakes). Yummy green. Green rules the world. IMO, best finishes ever from pearl have to be the emerald fade, shimmer of oz and green sparkle. Hands down. The EF is just so dam classic, it's a sure winner every time. From a 3pc to a 10pc, it's just super dooooper!

I could not agree more, in regards to the EF. :D

[empire]

I still cannot get over the emerald fade kit. Steller. I would like chrome, but the black is classic cool on that finish. I almost want one. That, or emerald green sparkle, fade into shimmer green sparkle (without the gold flakes). Yummy green. Green rules the world. IMO, best finishes ever from pearl have to be the emerald fade, shimmer of oz and green sparkle. Hands down. The EF is just so dam classic, it's a sure winner every time. From a 3pc to a 10pc, it's just super dooooper!

So, Your saying you like green? Geeshhh! We all know roman! :D (green smilie)

[ROMAN]

So, Your saying you like green? Geeshhh! We all know roman! :D (green smilie)

Well, I guess you could say I like green. I only wish I was some big famous drummer that could get his own signature kit. I would ask for something GREEN, satin hardware, in ref or MW. Guess it would be a bit costly for the average drummer, but man, if I had the chance...:D

[Stefan Ray]

Well, I guess you could say I like green. I only wish I was some big famous drummer that could get his own signature kit. I would ask for something GREEN, satin hardware, in ref or MW. Guess it would be a bit costly for the average drummer, but man, if I had the chance...:D

I have green coming! Soooo stoked!!

[Stefan Ray]

Ray Luzier's new Pearl Reference kit!

Pearl Reference Series:
Granite Sparkle (194)

12x8 rack tom
13x9 rack tom
14x14 floor tom (mounted as a gong drum)
16x16 floor tom
18x16 floor tom
24x18 kick drum (x2)

Snares:
14x6.5 Reference Wood
14x6.5 Free floating maple
14x5 Reference Brass

[DRUMMER X]

Ray Luzier's new Pearl Reference kit!

Thats one crazy rack setup!

[Stefan Ray]

Thats one crazy rack setup!

Updated the previous post as well.

[Snakes&Arrows]

I'm waiting for my meds to kick in so I have the strenght climb the stairs, slip into my Depends and trun on the Vaporizer.

Ahh, something to look forward to in a few years time!! LoL! :D

[Steve Thompson]

Ahh, something to look forward to in a few years time!! LoL! :D

Oh just you wait!! You will have more fun that you can dream of. I can however, still play for 4 hours.

Just remember, "Life is but a purple antelope in a field of tuna fish''

[biaxident]

Ray Luzier's new Pearl Reference kit!

Pearl Reference Series:
Granite Sparkle (194)

12x8 rack tom
13x9 rack tom
14x14 floor tom (mounted as a gong drum)
16x16 floor tom
18x16 floor tom
24x18 kick drum (x2)

Snares:
14x6.5 Reference Wood
14x6.5 Free floating maple
14x5 Reference Brass

Nice kit and rack setup !
Just a question ! Why does he set a double bass drums if he uses double pedals ? (and you can notice there is no microphone set on his left bass drum).

[ricohorton]

the second kick is for show and easier for tuning. its just too difficult to match the tuning with two bass drums. just imagine how heavy that is. a reference kit is very heavy to begin with. then add the hardware of that rack. my aching back.

[Steve Thompson]

the second kick is for show and easier for tuning. its just too difficult to match the tuning with two bass drums. just imagine how heavy that is. a reference kit is very heavy to begin with. then add the hardware of that rack. my aching back.

I have always tuned my two bass drums at different pitches, giving me more
versatility. Some drummers like Ginger Baker use different size kicks to accomplish this. I personally like the look of matched drums so I use different tunings and felt strips placed differently in eash drum. If I wanted to have matched pitches, I don't think I would have a problem doing that, especially
in the lower octaves. I also don't like setting up gear I don't use. But, the big show is the big show.

This is just my thinking and the way I do things. I mean no disrespect and am not arguing your points.

Best rgeards,

[md4man]

Hey guys - I'm new here and wanted to start by sharing a few pictures of my reference kit. I hope you like them. This is my dream all Pearl/Zildjian/Aquarian set. I apologize for the difficulty in getting good pictures - the set is within a Clearsonic Mini Mega in a fairly small room, which limits my options for picture taking. Also, please note that the pictures show the floor cowbell attached to a Pearl P120P pedal. I just replaced that pedal with an Eliminator pedal but do not have a new picture.

Here is the complete laundry list (I thought I should document EVERYTHING for insurance purposes):

Drums: 8x10, 10x12, 14x14, & 16x16 toms (mounted toms have Optimounts), 18x22 bass, 5.5x14 wood snare, 13" Pearl Primero brass timbale (with ISS mount) - NOTE: The toms and snare all have Ring Arrestor Drum Mufflers, the best protection against overtones I have found. I bought them to combat the overtones from the stock heads that were on the drums (which they did), but they became truly unnecssary when I switched to the Aquarian heads. I just left them on rather than letting them go to waste.

Cymbals: 8" & 10" splashes, 16" & 18" Rock Crashes, 16" & 18" Medium Thin Crashes, 18" & 20" China High, 20" Ping Ride, 14" New Beat Hi Hats, 14" Quick Beat Hi Hats (all previous cymbals A. Zildjian), 20" Z. Zildjian Light Power Ride, 6.5" & 9" Zil-Bel cymbals

Percussion: Pearl BCM7 Mambo Bala cowbell (attached to the Eliminator 2000C bass pedal), Pearl Horacia "El Negro" Hernandez Chabella cowbell, Pearl Anarchy cowbell, Pearl PTB-30 tri bells, Pearl Anarchy wood block, Pearl PTM50BHR Ultra Grip Series brass tambourine w/jingle Control

Hardware: All Pearl hardware including Icon 503C rack, Demon Drive 3002D double bass pedal, Eliminator 2000C Bass Pedal, H2000 Eliminator hi hat stand (with DCL300P drop clutch), RH2000 Eliminator remote hi hat stand, S900 snare stand, D1000 Roadster throne, PPS37 Cowbell Holders (3), PPS15 Cowbell Stackers (3), PPS20 Bass Pedal Cowbell Holder, CH80 cymbal arms (9), CH70 cymbal arms (4), TH88i tom holders (3), PCL100 pipe leg clamp (2), PCX100 pipe clamp (6), PCX200 pipe clamp with adjustable angle jaw (4), AX20 clamp.

Drum Heads: Tom Batter Heads - Aquarian Performance II, Tom Resonant Heads - Aquarian Classic Clear, Snare Batter Head - Aquarian Texture Coated, Snare Resonant Head - Aquarian High Performance, Bass Batter Head - Aquarian Super Kick II with Aquarian DKP2 double kick pad affixed, Bass Resonant Head - Aquarian Full Force with artwork designed by me and printed by drumart.com (highly recommended, by the way), Timbale Head - stock coated head

Sticks: Zildjian Super 5A, Zildjian stick bag

[Steve Thompson]

Very nice job. You have done well!!

[Stefan Ray]

Very nice, though I might reccomend you swivel your DD beaters around so they can fluff out again.

Beautiful kit!

[AL PERCIVAL]

Mike - welcome to the PDF! - beautiful Reference kit!

[md4man]

Thanks, guys, for the compliments. I am very happy with how this turned out. I'd like to have at least one more tom, but I'm pretty much maxed out given the space limitations imposed by the MiniMega. If only I had another 1 - 2 feet in width to play with...

And to Stefan - you gave me a "Duh" moment if ever I've had one. I've been away from acoustic drumming for 15 years & have lost a few steps including some of my basic common sense when it comes to hardware maintenance. Thanks for the recommendation. It was spot on.

[ricohorton]

I have always tuned my two bass drums at different pitches, giving me more
versatility. Some drummers like Ginger Baker use different size kicks to accomplish this. I personally like the look of matched drums so I use different tunings and felt strips placed differently in eash drum. If I wanted to have matched pitches, I don't think I would have a problem doing that, especially
in the lower octaves. I also don't like setting up gear I don't use. But, the big show is the big show.

This is just my thinking and the way I do things. I mean no disrespect and am not arguing your points.

Best rgeards,

whatever floats your boat i always say.;)

[Stefan Ray]

Thanks, guys, for the compliments. I am very happy with how this turned out. I'd like to have at least one more tom, but I'm pretty much maxed out given the space limitations imposed by the MiniMega. If only I had another 1 - 2 feet in width to play with...

And to Stefan - you gave me a "Duh" moment if ever I've had one. I've been away from acoustic drumming for 15 years & have lost a few steps including some of my basic common sense when it comes to hardware maintenance. Thanks for the recommendation. It was spot on.

You are very welcome! Get yourself some of these and you won't have to worry about it. I have been using these on my DD's and they are awesome! It is the wood version for th DD's.

[SBEXR]

Hey md4man can you give some info on your booth? Price, size, etc.

[md4man]

Hey md4man can you give some info on your booth? Price, size, etc.

Oh, the booth... the stories I could tell about that thing! It is a ClearSonic MiniMega isolation booth. I bought it as it seemed like the best over all value for my needs when factoring cost & effort to do something to make myself a better neighbor. When assembled it basically produces a circular enclosure that is 7 feet accross. It comes with a boat load of sound deadening panels that do a good job of controlling echo within its acryllic walls. I actually removed three of the panels that go along the front bottom for the pictures so there are a few more that are not pictured. Per the company, it controls 60 - 70% of the decibles. I do not know if that is true but I can say that when I am playing inside of it, my wife & kids do not need ear plugs to be comfortable. It definitley reduces the decibles significantly. You can't see it in the picture, but the walls are 6 1/2 feet tall and there are 3 large panels that make the roof. The roof does not go all the way to the back of the booth to enable air flow. It also comes with a little clip on fan. I added a clip on lamp I picked up at Target as it can be kind of dark inside since no light enters from above.

I can't remember the name of the company I bought it from, but I recall it was a Christian music & sound equipment supply store from Southern California. They had the worst customer service of anyone I have ever encountered, but they did place my order right away and offered the best price I could find. I got mine for $2249 or so. Everywhere else, people wanted around $2479. Since this is such a niche item I doubt you'll find it cheap anywhere, but again, in a given situation it may be the best way to go.

Just take my advice - have a friend with you when you set it up. I did it on my own & am sure I took four times as long as I needed to as it was very hard assembling & moving in to position the panels that way.

I hope this helps.

[DRUMMER X]

Purple craze with gold hardware.

[SoCalMike]

Now that I'm done with my kit it's time for some pic's.........

[premiumdrummer]

Purple craze with gold hardware.
that is hideous imo.

[Steve Thompson]

Now that I'm done with my kit it's time for some pic's.........

Looks great!! I wouldn't change a thing.

[LeftySlammer92]

that is hideous imo.

agreed.

[Stefan Ray]

that is hideous imo.

x3

[drummeric]

Purple craze with gold hardware.
Can't believe I missed this one. Definitely not a finish that works well with gold hardware. imo

['][' [[]] [[]] ][,]

Purple craze with gold hardware.

Go Lakers!

[rassy]

Purple craze with gold hardware.

mmmm....well....I'd personally stick with chrome or black hardware. Gold doesn't do it for me at all.

[Action Jackson]

V:Deary nice kit.

[exordium]

My contribution to society.

[DRUMMER X]

I REALLY love that kit!

[ROMAN]

My contribution to society.

This is sweet! Crazy how different this looks from one pic to another. The angles change the gold/green visual. I like pic 1, you see more green then gold. I would die for a MW in just that green sparkle. Anyway, looks so good with gold. Now, about them cymbals...:p

[Action Jackson]

That kit is super nice that is shimmer of OZZ yes? I didn't think it had gold flake but maybe it does, :cool:

[AL PERCIVAL]

That kit is super nice that is shimmer of OZZ yes? I didn't think it had gold flake but maybe it does, :cool:

It has lots of gold microflakes in the finish.

[Action Jackson]

Cool and that gold HW brings it out nicely.:D

[AL PERCIVAL]

Cool and that gold HW brings it out nicely.:D

Wine Red and Shimmer of OZ are the only finishes I like with gold hardware.

[Action Jackson]

Wine Red and Shimmer of OZ are the only finishes I like with gold hardware.

Really, what about walnut and natural and plat mist?
But I like gold so...

[Steve Thompson]

Ok gold fans, I have 2 questions. How is gold hw to maintain and how does it hold up long term? By long term I mean many years.

[Action Jackson]

I don't know about many years but I had gold on an MHX kit for 3 years
and it was flawless no pitting no chiping at all it was fine.
I will say though you should ware gloves when handling it because of
the oils from your skin will cause it to tarnish some.

[Steve Thompson]

I don't know about many years but I had gold on an MHX kit for 3 years
and it was flawless no pitting no chiping at all it was fine.
I will say though you should ware gloves when handling it because of
the oils from your skin will cause it to tarnish some.

Thank you!

[AL PERCIVAL]

Ok gold fans, I have 2 questions. How is gold hw to maintain and how does it hold up long term? By long term I mean many years.

If you use a quality jewerly cloth it will help the gold plated hardware not tarnish.

[Steve Thompson]

If you use a quality jewerly cloth it will help the gold plated hardware not tarnish.

Thanks Al. As great as gold looks on WR, I think I'm still a chrome guy. Just less bother.

[Action Jackson]

Hey I just noticed that you play 26" kicks:eek:
How do they sound and what do you use for heads?

[Steve Thompson]

Hey I just noticed that you play 26" kicks:eek:
How do they sound and what do you use for heads?

Hello Mr. Action Jackson, Sir. I have had these drums for a long time. They are almost as old as my wife. I can get just about any sound I want out of them. I am still using Ludwig Silver Dot heads for the batters and clear Ludwig WeatherMasters out front. These heads are old as well but they still
soung great. I use 6'' black felt strips on both heads. I have these strips placed differently on each bass drum to give me different sounds with about the same tensioning. I like having the same rebound speed from my pedals.
My drums are chrome and I had Ludwig paint the insides glossy black. Thus the black felt strips. The heads are clear.

I have been thinking of replacing the heads with Remos but I kinda hate to mess with them. My pedals are Premier 252's. Carl Palmer had these on his big SS engraved set. I was looking for something better than Speed Kings
or Gosts. We didn't have much to choose from back then. I was talking to Mr. Palmer's drun tech one night after a show and he showed me these. I had 2
the next week and still haven't found any that are much better.

So now to give you a short answer to you question, these thick drums sound great. I change the tunnings every once in a while just for "kicks".

My next set will probably have 22's which will be a big change. These drums were custom from Ludwig. It took me almost a year to get them. There is more to the story but this enough for now.

Thanks for asking.

[j kuhl]

I'm partial to this combo but thats because I own it ,however I would agree that gold doesn't work always.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_2Lfq1DY7Aaw/S2pKiW4IpQI/AAAAAAAAACA/3iJTCWzBYJY/s800/IMG_1153.JPG

[Action Jackson]

Hello Mr. Action Jackson, Sir. I have had these drums for a long time. They are almost as old as my wife. I can get just about any sound I want out of them. I am still using Ludwig Silver Dot heads for the batters and clear Ludwig WeatherMasters out front. These heads are old as well but they still
soung great. I use 6'' black felt strips on both heads. I have these strips placed differently on each bass drum to give me different sounds with about the same tensioning. I like having the same rebound speed from my pedals.
My drums are chrome and I had Ludwig paint the insides glossy black. Thus the black felt strips. The heads are clear.

I have been thinking of replacing the heads with Remos but I kinda hate to mess with them. My pedals are Premier 252's. Carl Palmer had these on his big SS engraved set. I was looking for something better than Speed Kings
or Gosts. We didn't have much to choose from back then. I was talking to Mr. Palmer's drun tech one night after a show and he showed me these. I had 2
the next week and still haven't found any that are much better.

So now to give you a short answer to you question, these thick drums sound great. I change the tunnings every once in a while just for "kicks".

My next set will probably have 22's which will be a big change. These drums were custom from Ludwig. It took me almost a year to get them. There is more to the story but this enough for now.

Thanks for asking.

Hey Steve, have you tryed the Deamon Drive Pedals, they are veary nice?

[Steve Thompson]

Hey Steve, have you tryed the Deamon Drive Pedals, they are veary nice?

Yes Action Jackson I have tried the DD Petals. They are the best I have seen.
When I buy pedals I will buy DDs. The 252s I have feel almost the same though. I am sure that after getting the DDs home and setting them to my liking, that they will please me greatly. For now I'm living with what I have.
Thank god that when I bought my set,hw, cymbals, etc., I bought the best
stuff out there at the time. I will admit that when I got my set, I was stuck on Ludwig and didn't give much thought to other brands. A lot of landmark stuff was played on the kind of stuff I have. I am glad I have it for the sake of history and collectables. My next move will be all Pearl when that comes down.

[Action Jackson]

Well I am thinking about toing Ludwig for my next kit probably classic maple.
Will they sound as go as Pearls MCX's? Because I think they will, maybe evon better. I wantt a drum to be thick enough to have some volum but thin enough to be rich with tone and sustane. I am looking for a kit close to the one Bonham used in 1969-1970 he played a natural maple finish with these sizes 14x12 tom 16x16 floortom 18x16 floortom 26x14 bass drum and the
suprafonic LM402 14x6.5 snare drum. I said close because I want a 26x16.
One guy on her told me to just get the same setup with a 22x18 he said all
I would be missing would be the look of a 26" bd, lol I told him 22x18 wouldn't evon come close and he said with todays technology that a 22" bd could get as low and punchy as a 26". I don't believe that at all a 22 today or yesterday is still a 22 it is not a 26. As far as todays technology, the only advancments I see is when you go to a steam bent 1 ply shell like Craviotto does, now! that is a real leap over the 1960-70 drum kits but still evon a 22SB bd is still a 4" difference in diamator.
Ok enough of my raving and sorry about the spelling.
What do you think?

[Steve Thompson]

A.J.

I will always love my Ludwigs, end of story. However in todays world, for me Pearl is the answer. The 6 ply maple classic Ludwigs will cost you more and besides being made in the USA, I don't believe they are as good as MCX. I couldn't believe the quality on MCX
when I looked at them. I heard Todd Sucherman play a set Thursday night at a clinic
and they were KILLER and looked GREAT(chestnut fade)!! I think the Ludwigs will cost you as much a Reference or more. Throw in the lifetime warrenty and you can't beat Pearl.

As far as bass drum size goes, I have always wished I had bought 24'' kicks. If you can't
live with 22s, get a 24''x 18'' and you will have all the drum you can handle. It will also be easier to set up with. I agree with your friend, todays 22s will give you all you could
need or want. I think the size of the BD gets down to your height and how you put set together. Also the size of the stages you want to play on.

I played a set of Reference w/ 13x9,16x16 and 24x16 and those drums sounded almost exactly like mine. My shells are 14ply maple and poplar(thick drums). I can't speak for the smaller Reference tom as I can't find any to play. I have played a set of MCX w/
10x8,12x9,16x16 and 22x18. I could live with those drums. Especially as a set to carry
out and for my sons to learn on. I have never seen so much drum(s) for the money.

You can get great prices at Casio Interstate(Nathan). I an guessing 50% off w/ on shipping or taxes.

[Action Jackson]

Thanks Steve for the thoughts, have a nice day and happy easter.:D

[Steve Thompson]

Thanks Steve for the thoughts, have a nice day and happy easter.:D

Same to you. Please take my gabbering for what it is worth. Sorry if to windy.

[exordium]

Now, about them cymbals...:p

I have 2 Paiste's. :) I sure love my Sabian's, though...

About the finish: It has LOTS of little gold sparkles in it which really brings the gold hardware out. Obviously, it's really hard to photograph...it truly is amazing to see this finish in person. The way it looks under lights is incredible.

I just wipe everything down with one of those ShamWOW cloths. I am having some trouble getting some finger prints off, though. They don't want to come off with the cloth...gets annoying. I have to compulsively wipe everything down I touch.

[BGH]

That red is sexy.

So, if you cannot get a ref, you can buy one drum at a time and be like this guy...

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e11/mattytoo123/Vince_Ditanna_Pearl_Reference_Drums.jpg


Funky kit. This is a great photo. It picks-up the sparkle finishes very well.

[SeelenlanD]

As promised some many pages ago, here's my Emerald Fade Ref set up in the studio:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/CIMG2795.jpg

Behind-ish view:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/CIMG2797.jpg

And I didn't take too much time in taking pics of our studio mate's kit, but here's a pic that does show our studio is an awesome one. Yes, that is TWO Ref kits in there, his is the Wine Red (#100 for those keeping tabs) with black hardware. His cymbals, throne, and hi-hat stand are missing as he was sharing another drummer's kit for a gig he had over the weekend. Anywho..
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e7/SeelenlanD/drums/BRAND%20NEW%20PEARLS/CIMG2796.jpg

I'm so happy I've finally been getting some good playing time on these badboys, and it feels GREAT. :D

[Diofter]

Killer kit! Any bigger pics?

[Action Jackson]

Veary nice kit, looks like frankenstine to me.:D

[SeelenlanD]

Killer kit! Any bigger pics?

I am wondering that myself, for whenever I go to Photobucket now, I can't seem to change the size of the pics to what you saw there. And for the record, I always have my settings on the highest quality on both of my cameras, so in other words, they should be normally gigantic files,right? but not when it gets onto Photobucket..so I don't know what it is I need to do! Any suggestions?

[ROMAN]

Boy, I dont know why but this set up looks hot!00**

[ROMAN]

And PS, this is the BEST looking inca set up I have seen to date! H-O-T-!!!!! Perfect!!! I shall give myself rep for finding this pic... OMG!

INCA SEX!

http://www.smi-music.com/images/Inca%20Gold%20Burst.jpg

[Action Jackson]

That is Cool I would like it better with another floor tom but, still hot.:cool:

[Action Jackson]

Every thing Pearl makes is cool but Inca is not dooing it for me.:(

[ROMAN]

Every thing Pearl makes is cool but Inca is not dooing it for me.:(

:eek::eek::eek:

No.......!:p

[TVTjoey]

Every thing Pearl makes is cool but Inca is not dooing it for me.:(

same.. just NOT a fan of the yellow.... i thought i was the only one ! haha


still.. for some reason wheneversomeone posts pics of it, i try to envision myself behind one.. and i cant lol

[Genius Switch]

Every thing Pearl makes is cool but Inca is not dooing it for me.:(

Me too. I bet it looks much better in person but from here it reminds me of when you mix yellow and black crayon together as a kid, and it turns into a big mess.

[Action Jackson]

Does anyone have a Reference in Platinum mist with gold hw please put it up.:D

[ROMAN]

Nice! Looking GOOD!!! Needs a 2nd kick though...;) I dont like the 24x16 at all. Looks odd.

http://i.ebayimg.com/06/!Br3QSuwBWk~$(KGrHqEH-EEEvDydbGIgBL1fVvv(Cg~~_3.JPG


http://i.ebayimg.com/20/!Br3QfQQB2k~$(KGrHqIH-DoEvC+l-b(zBL1fWUj8sw~~_3.JPG


http://i.ebayimg.com/19/!Br3Q4lg!Wk~$(KGrHqEH-CcEvDIQI)SCBL1f(Yt4U!~~_3.JPG


http://i.ebayimg.com/21/!Br3RE4!!2k~$(KGrHqEH-DUEvErMGq1nBL1f(8R-q!~~_3.JPG

[Diofter]

I saw that kit on ebay and thought: Wow!The toms look small compared to the kick and then read it is a 24inch bassdrum and then noticeds the hoops on the kick are not of the same color......... Don't like that much the finish. Should be a great deal though!

[Diofter]

Every thing Pearl makes is cool but Inca is not dooing it for me.:(
Same here! Sure it is a very impressive finish but I find other reference finishes much better IMO.

[Action Jackson]

Is that Rythem Blue?

[AL PERCIVAL]

Is that Rythem Blue?

Yes that color is #197 Rhythm Blue.

[Action Jackson]

That's a nice finish it looks better than I thought it would:D

[ROMAN]

That's a nice finish it looks better than I thought it would:D

Really does. I would actually love it much more (and IMO so would others) if it was sparkle in this shade blue. Yes, the reference line up needs a green and blue sparkle IMO. Perhaps a burst!?!?:eek: Solid is best though, very safe.

[Action Jackson]

Yea, I would rather see some sparkles like Green and Blue and Silver and Gold
than Inca and some others that exist. I would like to be able to order Walnut
as well but we don't get what we want all the time so ok hat's of to Pearl.:D

[md4man]

I thought I was done with my kit but then I found out about the 8x8 toms for sale on eBay. So, despite being extremely limited for space, I figured I could move a few things around to make room for one of them. Below are updated pics with the new tom. I apologize for the picture quality - it's really hard getting good pictures with the drums in an isolation booth within a fairly shallow room.

Here is the updated laundry list:

Drums: 8x8, 8x10, 10x12, 14x14, & 16x16 toms (mounted toms have Optimounts), 18x22 bass, 5.5x14 wood snare, 13" Pearl Primero brass timbale (with ISS mount) - NOTE: The snare has a Ring Arrestor Drum Muffler, the best protection against overtones I have found.

Cymbals: 8" & 10" splashes, 16" & 18" Rock Crashes, 16" & 18" Medium Thin Crashes, 18" & 20" China High, 20" Ping Ride, 14" New Beat Hi Hats, 14" Quick Beat Hi Hats (all previous cymbals A. Zildjian), 20" Z. Zildjian Light Power Ride, 6.5" & 9" Zil-Bel cymbals

Percussion: Pearl BCM7 Mambo Bala cowbell (attached to the Eliminator 2000C bass pedal), Pearl Horacia "El Negro" Hernandez Chabella cowbell, Pearl Anarchy cowbell, Pearl PTB-30 tri bells, Pearl Anarchy wood block, Pearl PTM50BHR Ultra Grip Series brass tambourine w/jingle Control

Hardware: All Pearl hardware including Icon 503C rack, Demon Drive 3002D double bass pedal with wood beaters (I took Stefan's advice - so far, so good), Eliminator 2000C Bass Pedal, H2000 Eliminator hi hat stand (with DCL300P drop clutch), RH2000 Eliminator remote hi hat stand, S900 snare stand, D1000 Roadster throne, PPS37 Cowbell Holders (3), PPS15 Cowbell Stackers (3), PPS20 Bass Pedal Cowbell Holder, CH80 cymbal arms (9), CH70 cymbal arms (4), TH88i tom holders (4), PCL100 pipe leg clamp (2), PCX100 pipe clamp (7), PCX200 pipe clamp with adjustable angle jaw (4), AX20 clamp.

Drum Heads: Tom Batter Heads - Aquarian Performance II, Tom Resonant Heads - Aquarian Classic Clear, Snare Batter Head - Aquarian Texture Coated, Snare Resonant Head - Aquarian High Performance, Bass Batter Head - Aquarian Super Kick II with Aquarian DKP2 double kick pad affixed, Bass Resonant Head - Aquarian Full Force with artwork designed by me and printed by drumart.com (highly recommended, by the way), Timbale Head - stock coated head

Sticks: Zildjian Super 5A, Zildjian stick bag

Isolation Booth: ClearSonic Mini Mega

[fpdrummer]

I like your rack tom set up. If you ever want to trade your 14x14 for a 14x11 I know a guy ;)

[Action Jackson]

I love your kit RB fade, nice.
Where can I find an iso booth and what would they run as far as cash?

[md4man]

I love your kit RB fade, nice.
Where can I find an iso booth and what would they run as far as cash?

After a lot of research I decided the iso booth I wanted was the ClearSonic Mini Mega. From there I used Price Grabber & Google and found only a few places that sell it. Most of the sellers are Christian music supply stores as it seems most buyers are churches. A lot of the web pages say to call the store for the best price so that's what I did. I found it cheapest here: http://www.yoursoundsource.com/clearsonic-minimega.html

"Cheapest" was not cheap, however. It cost $2245. Given my particular circumstances, I considered it worth it & took the plunge. Despite the sticker shock, it's been a good investment as far as I am concerned.

About the the seller - While I got the best price there, it was a scary experience buying from them. I placed my order over the phone & they said they'd email a receipt to me but never did. I called & emailed them repeatedly to ask for information on my order but never got a response. Finally, I called the ClearSonic company (phone number on their web site) and they were able to tell me the booth was ordered & provided the tracking numbers for my shipment. So, while I can say nothing good about the seller's customer service, they did promptly order the booth & had the best price.

Lastly, if you get one heed my advice: have someone else with you to help you set it up. I did it by myself and I will never do that again.

[Action Jackson]

Hey thanks man, what do you use as far as mikes?
Between the 2 finishes Platinum Mist #151 or Ivory Pearl #330 wich
one would you pick? Any thoughts on monoter systems?

[md4man]

Hey thanks man, what do you use as far as mikes?
Between the 2 finishes Platinum Mist #151 or Ivory Pearl #330 wich
one would you pick? Any thoughts on monoter systems?

AJ: I'd be the wrong guy to ask about mics. I haven't played out or recorded acoustic drums since 1995. I'm sure my knowledge is incredibly dated. These days, I'm just a hobbyist trying to make music that makes me happy. If you vistited my MySpace page, all drums were recorded using a Yamaha DTXPress II Special set. No mics or monitors are needed for what I do. I'd like to record my Pearls but I can't see myself investing in even more recording equipment than I currently have to make something that sounds decent.

As for which finish, I'd prefer Ivory Pearl. I really don't know what to make of Platinum Mist. Not my cup of tea. If I ever had a white set, I'd have black hardware, for sure. That combo looks awesome to me.

[jrsummers1]

I normally play behind a Clearsonic Isopac A (you're right about not setting it up yourself if you can help it, those plastic panels are a beast!!!) For microphones I use Audix D6 1/2 to 3/4 inside port on the bass drum pointed just off center of the batter head. For the floor toms I am using the Audix D4's, for the rack toms Audix D2's (or Shure SM57.) For the snare I use either an Audix i-5 or a Shure SM57. Then I am using condensor microphones for the hi-hat, ride cymbal (bell,) and 1 or 2 overheads (if needed.) So far we've been able to get a good sound out of them.

For monitors I've found in ears to be the best bet (in my opinion.) They definitely help to protect your ears. I am using Westone UM-1 which cost $100 plugged into a Rolls PM55 ($70) for volume adjustment and the ability to add in another sound like metronome if desired without having to run it through the main board. I've used both wedge speakers and headphones in the past. With the wedge speakers everything has to be so loud to get over the volume of the kit. With the headphones, I was always bugged by the weight and they also made it more difficult to get into the music for fear of them falling off if you move your head too much. The UM-1's are a single driver like the Shure SCL-2 (formerly E2) and do the job. However there is little to no low end on a single driver monitor so the next upgrade will be to a dual driver monitors for a better range of sound but they run in the $300 range for standard foam ear inserts. If you want them custom made to your ear they are over $600 pretty much where ever you go (Westone, Ultimate Ear, etc.)

[Action Jackson]

Hey thanks for the help guys. We are building a praise band at church
and I needed to know what what would get the best sound for a room
that would hold 300 to 1000 people for now. When we build a new
worship center it will hold about 3000 so I may pick your brains again
at that point.

Thanks

[MW_Runpali]

Just found some amazing pics from Pearl Finland Facebook page and thought you guys might want to see them:

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/935/32236419004924399316155.jpg

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/8783/32236419004934399316155.jpg

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/2535/32236419004944399316155.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/8015/32236419004949399316155.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/212/32236419004954399316155.jpg

Looks nice in Diamond Burst with chrome:D

[Diofter]

That kit needs a second kick!!!! Nice burst!

[rassy]

Nice setup...I like that finish also!!

[Steve Thompson]

I think the chrome makes the set.Congradulations!

[ROMAN]

That kit needs a second kick!!!!!

This. You cannot have 4 rack toms and NOT have 2 kicks... Shameless...:p Looks good.

[ggaites]

I have waited a long time for this! And I am completely stoked!!!

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4644300170_7c843b7717_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4641387726_27004d74d4_b.jpg

Thank you A.K. at Jim's Music Center in Tustin, CA. He made me a smokin' deal. I have never been treated so well at a music store. After he set up the drums for me to demo, I could not get the floor toms and kick out of my head. And that reference steel snare is so fun to hit. I saved a lot of money. The price was amazing. I have no reason to shop anywhere else.

More Pictures Here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cycledoctor/sets/72157624138885044/

[Diofter]

Looks great any other pics?Welcome to PDF and the ref family!

[ROMAN]

WOW

http://www.use.com/images/s_2/33c6b4d53767dea5ae09_1.jpg?is=true&ps=true&rand=943838021315

[AL PERCIVAL]

Jimmy Degrasso's new reference kit in a smoking red sparkle lacquer for the upcoming Alice Cooper Tour.

[Steve Thompson]

WOW

http://www.use.com/images/s_2/33c6b4d53767dea5ae09_1.jpg?is=true&ps=true&rand=943838021315

This finish is without peer!!

[AL PERCIVAL]

This finish is without peer!!

Looks incredible up-close. :)

[Steve Thompson]

Looks incredible up-close. :)

The choice of a finish is all in the eye of the beholder, but some just reach out and grab you. Jimmy or someone at Pearl did a great job on this one!

[BGH]

I saw that photo on eBay. Beautiful! Is it called Tangerine Sparkle, or something like that?

[AL PERCIVAL]

I saw that photo on eBay. Beautiful! Is it called Tangerine Sparkle, or something like that?

It is actually called F19 Apricot Flake - from House of Kolor.

[BGH]

Thanks, Al.

[AL PERCIVAL]

Thanks, Al.

There is also a F18 Golden Orange Flake that is just a tad lighter - also from House of Kolor.

[MW_Runpali]

I love that finish! It has such depth to it. Hopefully we'll see some new finishes on Refs in the near future ;)

[Hunk-a-hunk-a-burning-love]

WOW

http://www.use.com/images/s_2/33c6b4d53767dea5ae09_1.jpg?is=true&ps=true&rand=943838021315

is that Jimmy Degrasso's artist finish? that's lovely - very similar to the custom finish I've been thinking of recently...

[Hunk-a-hunk-a-burning-love]

It is actually called F19 Apricot Flake - from House of Kolor.

so can someone special order that finish AL?

[AL PERCIVAL]

so can someone special order that finish AL?

It was an custom artist finish with special reference badges exclusively made for Jimmy Degrasso. I cannot speak for Jimmy but you'd probably have to go through San Jose Pro drums and get Jimmy's permission to do it.

[Hunk-a-hunk-a-burning-love]

It was an custom artist finish with special reference badges exclusively made for Jimmy Degrasso. I cannot speak for Jimmy but you'd probably have to go through San Jose Pro drums and get Jimmy's permission to do it.


I know that other members have talked about it previously, but how would that work with warranty issues? I live in the UK....

You mentioned a slightly lighter orange colour - is that colour available the same way?

[Action Jackson]

That F19 is veary nice, and pearl can't make it for the public?

[ROMAN]

just buy a reference and the house of color flake, and have a shop do it... ;)

I am sure Jimmy would have no issue with someone using that finish, so long as you order with SJPD. They are good people, and they do well with price matching, so all in all, not bad!

[pearlygates]

That is truly awesome.. Never been much of a fan of "orangy" looking finishes.. but this one grabs me like Shimmer of Oz does!

[Hunk-a-hunk-a-burning-love]

just buy a reference and the house of color flake, and have a shop do it... ;)

I am sure Jimmy would have no issue with someone using that finish, so long as you order with SJPD. They are good people, and they do well with price matching, so all in all, not bad!

there was a thread a bit ago about someone wanting to order that particular finish. Basically, Jimmy had no problem with it as long as you ordered from SJPD, which the guy did he's not around here anymore though.

I would be worried that a customer would not be covered by the lifetime warranty....

[AL PERCIVAL]

I know that other members have talked about it previously, but how would that work with warranty issues? I live in the UK....


Our lifetime warranty are for U.S. Consumers only. For international consumers contact your local dealer as warranties vary from country to country so make sure you know in advance before purchasing.

[Hunk-a-hunk-a-burning-love]

Our lifetime warranty are for U.S. Consumers only. For international consumers contact your local dealer as warranties vary from country to country so make sure you know in advance before purchasing.

coolio Al, as always you are the man with the answers!

Another few for you -

So let's say there was a lifetime warranty in the UK, I'd be covered even if I bought them in the States?

finish F18 Golden Orange Flake, is that an artist finish? I that Available as special order?

[Steve Thompson]

I know that other members have talked about it previously, but how would that work with warranty issues? I live in the UK....

You mentioned a slightly lighter orange colour - is that colour available the same way?

I could be wrong but I think there is a Masterworks Snare in the F18 finish on
page 5 of the 2010 Peal Master catalog.

[AL PERCIVAL]

I could be wrong but I think there is a Masterworks Snare in the F18 finish on
page 5 of the 2010 Peal Master catalog.

Nah, actually that snare is below and was purchased by a PDF member HarleyDan not long ago.....

[Steve Thompson]

Nah, actually that snare is below and was purchased by a PDF member HarleyDan not long ago.....

Well, I said I could be wrong, but they are pretty close.

[AL PERCIVAL]

Well, I said I could be wrong, but they are pretty close.


Not your fault at all - that promo pic makes it slightly harder to determine what the 'actual' color really is.

It was also a 20-ply

[Steve Thompson]

Not your fault at all - that promo pic makes it slightly harder to determine what the 'actual' color really is.

It was also a 20-ply

No worries, I'm just poking fun. But wow, another great shot!! Is that a 20ply maple snare and what would it sound like in all mahogany?

Thanks Al,

[AL PERCIVAL]

No worries, I'm just poking fun. But wow, another great shot!! Is that a 20ply maple snare and what would it sound like in all mahogany?

Thanks Al,

I believe it was a 13x8 20-ply reference spec (14-ply maple 6-ply birch) with a slightly higher pitch range to it.

[Steve Thompson]

I believe it was a 13x8 20-ply reference spec (14-ply maple 6-ply birch) with a slightly higher pitch range to it.

The woodwork is quite beautiful and very well done.

[CarlDrum]

I have a REFERENCE 5 PIECE BLACK PEARL KIT!YEAH1. brass 14x5" snare

[BGH]

I have a REFERENCE 5 PIECE BLACK PEARL KIT!YEAH1. brass 14x5" snare

Pics?

[CarlDrum]

I'm currently sound proofing a room in my house, so i don't have it set up right now. here's the snare with an iphone shot..crappy..in my kitchen:

http://bildr.no/thumb/656926.jpeg (http://bildr.no/view/656926)

I'll get try to get some pic's up tomorrow..it's in the middle of the night here, and bad lighting.
I originally wanted a colored set, but I got a very good deal on a black pearl kit, and black is very gig friendly.

[SLIPKNOT1]

Looks incredible up-close. :)

That drum is beautiful.

[DRUMMER X]

Nah, actually that snare is below and was purchased by a PDF member HarleyDan not long ago.....

Hmm... gold hardware would be interesting

[Harleydan]

Nah, actually that snare is below and was purchased by a PDF member HarleyDan not long ago.....
Hey, that looks really familiar. I was just pounding away on that little guy last night. :D
Thanks Al!

[AL PERCIVAL]

Hey, that looks really familiar. I was just pounding away on that little guy last night. :D
Thanks Al!

:)

When you coming back up to Nashville?

[rocklando]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1402/4732518774_d647189fc3_b.jpg

10x8, 12x9, 14x11, 16x13 toms
14x5 20 ply snare
22x18 bass drum

chrome hardware :D

[SeelenlanD]

NICE!!!! That is a beautiful kit!

[pearlygates]

^^ Agreed! Sweet looking finish rocklando!

[DrummerSuperStore]

I love the Referace Series by Pearl. The 22x18 kick drums sound very solid. The Round bearing edge really helps damped the overtones!

[Drumbasher007]

I'm getting a purple craze one in the next few days!

[hughforik]

http://s682.photobucket.com/albums/vv183/hughforik/Currently%20Still%20Available%20for%20Sale%20or%20 Trade/?action=view&current=Jedpics022.jpghttp://s682.photobucket.com/albums/vv183/hughforik/Currently%20Still%20Available%20for%20Sale%20or%20 Trade/?action=view&current=Jedpics022.jpg