Which drum sound?

[XNavyDrummer]

For those of you who've heard the early and later Weckl Videos, which drum sound do you prefer? The Recording Customs on the Back to Basics/Next Step Videos or the Maple Vintage Customs on the latest video set? And why?

[Nikk]

I sort of equate Dave's old-school Recording Custom sound with the idea of modern guitarists playing through old Marshall 4x12s. Both drummers and guitarists should have respect for these respective institutions within the realm of their instrument.I think playing older Recording Customs is sort of the drummer's version of playing an old Les Paul, etc...old Recording Customs are simply BADASS!! Just ask Steve.

[mja61]

I think they're both great, but I'd have to go with the earlier sound being my favorite. I'm not sure it's so much the "birch vs. maple" issue as it is the tuning, heads, miking, EQ-ing, etc. The first time I ever heard Weckl play was on his "Spur of the Moment" Sound Supplement in Modern Drummer. Not only did the playing floor me, but I had never before heard drums that sounded like that. I might be biased since I am really into the jazz/funk/fusion music of the 80's and early 90's, and that deep, dark, rich, funky tom sound with a touch of pitch bend just really appeals to me (though it's beginning to sound a bit "dated").

Today's sound seems to be more open and natural. The more I hear it, I'm finding I also like that kind of sound. The higher tuning seems to record more nicely, and cut through the music a little better. The "fat" sound can get too muddy sometimes.

Chick Corea once said something in an article that stuck with me. He was talking about all the drummers he's played with, and what really stood out about Weckl was the sound of his drums. He said he never knew anyone who cared about the sound of his drums as much as Dave. It's interesting he would say that, because I have always just automatically assumed a great drum sound whenever Weckl's playing.

[Steve Holmes]

Old recording customs = the shit.

The end.

[Lorenzini]

Steve don't you play recording customs???? I agree, I think that the birch sound of old was great, although I never cared for his tuning. Those drums had a certain quality to them that complemented his style.