GMS Drums - What's the Word?

GL33 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-05-2010, 03:24 PM

I've been looking for great quality American made drums, and it doesn't seem like there's many manufacturer's left in the US. What's the group's take on GMS? I like what I've seen so far, but would appreciate any feedback from anyone with actual experience with GMS. I like a lot of the Pearl sets, but I can't quite get over the big "made in China" on the badge. Sure, I could take 'em off, I suppose. http://www.drumsetconnect.com/forums...lies/laugh.gif

Thanks.

**Der Trommler** · #2 (**permalink**) 07-05-2010, 09:01 PM

I am with you 100% GL33!, I am not fond of Chinese built equipment either.

For American made shells you might look into DW (all of them), Gretsch (USA Custom Series), Ludwig (Classic Maple and Legacy Series), Noble & Cooley (CD Customs) and Pork Pie (Maple and Acrylic Series). After you look there you have a host of custom drum builders all over the US, but most don't make their own shells.

GL33 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-05-2010, 10:01 PM

I didn't know the Gretch series you mention were US made. Also, I know "Tre Cool" of Green Day uses Leedy drums, which are American made. Thanks.

**Der Trommler** · #4 (**permalink**) 07-06-2010, 09:13 AM

You know after reading back through my answer just now I realized I never really answered your question, so here goes.

I have no experience with GMS drums and I can't think of anyone I know that has. If you are considering them and you want US built shells I would contact them and ask where their shells are made. Some of the custom companies out there actually use imported shells to build their sets to keep costs down. If you want a true custom kit I can drum up a list of companies I am familiar with.

GL33 · #5 (**permalink**) 07-06-2010, 02:13 PM

I've been working with Tim at Troy's Drum Shop in Dallas, TX and he gave the following insights: Yes, GMS uses Keller shells (as DW did when they started), that are made from North American grown hardwoods in New Hampshire.

GMS and DW are really tough to compare. DW drums tend to have a very specific sound, which is the exact reason that some people love them and some people hate them. For me personally, I much prefer GMS and find them more versatile sonically, but it all comes down to personal preference as usual. Both companies make top level drums, and you can't go wrong with either!

**Der Trommler** · #6 (**permalink**) 07-07-2010, 08:38 AM

Thats good info to know, thanks for the heads up GL33. Well sounds like you have a winner. If you like the sound of the GMS's and they are in your budget range then you can't go wrong (Keller makes well built shells).

JAGGED · #7 (**permalink**) 09-03-2010, 12:32 AM

I own both a GMS and Dw Kit. The GMS was manufactured in '91 and the DW in '94. Both companies use(d) Keller shells at that TOM but I believe DW began producing their own shells about 10 years ago but I could be wrong. The specs:
GMS
20 INCH KICK
8
10
12
14 INCH TOMS

DW
24 INCH KICK
8
10
13
16 INCH TOMS
GMS shells are heavier than the DW in that they are thick 8 ply with no reinforcement rings.
DW are thin 6 ply maple with the reinforcement rings top and bottom of shells for added stability, strength and influential head vibration.
What does all this mean? Well, let me say that I am not here to tell you "what or which" is better than this/that, etc. Seen that done too many times and all that does is tend to confuse people in the end. I will however give you my preference(s) pertaining to application-
The GMS shells are DEFINITLEY louder, project better and sound better with many different types of head selections. This last observation in large part is due to the fact that the reinforcement hoops on the DW's tend to influence the drumhead and airlfow inside the drum. Clear Emps, G2's and the old Aquarian Double Thins sound amazing on these drums and sound very near EQ when brought up to tune.
No matter what I put on the GMS, they always sound good, especially to my ear behind the kit. Focused, bright yet with amazing warmth and roundness. I absolutley love the DW's in the studio and the GMS live but my personal edge would go to GMS and that is only because they are easier to transport (sizes), are louder (don't HAVE to mic toms in a small room like I would with the DW's)
and more versatile with head selection. As another poster mentioned, both are great companies and from time to time I will yank the DW's out of the studio for a live gig but overall, GMS just deliver.
BTW, I think it's awesome you are trying to go American, especially with the times we are in. I've seen recent videos of Tama and Mapex kits on YouTube that sound absolutely fantastic . But buying American does mean something and that is awesome you are looking to go that way.
One more thing, GMS (Grand Master Series) uses machined brass lugs...very nice, solid touch. This review of GMS is for their American line (not the CL or BL or Aisan whtvrs) although I hear they sound amazing too. Good luck, I assure you will not be disappointed with GMS.

GL33 · #8 (**permalink**) 09-03-2010, 12:57 PM

Hey, I appreciate the great detailed response. I was back in the US a few weeks ago and had the chance to visit a couple music/drum stores and look around a bit. I saw both DW and GMS kits and also looked a little closer at the Gretch line. I'll probably make the purchase on my next return trip. Thanks again for the information.