Vintage drums have long been considered to be some of the finest musical instruments in the world. With their warm, rich tones and classic look, vintage drums have been a staple of many legendary recordings and performances.
For this article, I wanted to look into the reasons why vintage drums have a special place in the hearts of drummers and music enthusiasts everywhere, and why they continue to be highly sought after even today. From the materials used in their construction to the aging process, I will delve into the unique qualities that make vintage drums truly one of a kind.
So, if you’ve acquired a vintage drum set or there happens to be one down at the local shop you’re thinking about picking up there should be something helpful in this article. Let’s uncover the magic of vintage drums and why they continue to be the standard by which all other drums are judged.
Why Do Vintage Drums Sound Better
Vintage drums sound better largely because they were made with more traditional methods using materials such as solid wood shells and untreated metal hardware. Both of these factors have changed over the years and as a result, so has the timbre of modern drums.
Firstly, they were made using traditional methods and materials that are no longer in use today. This includes shells made of solid wood, such as maple, mahogany, and birch, which are known for their warm, rich tone. The use of thicker shells and simple, open-air designs also contributed to the warm and natural sound of vintage drums.
Another factor is the type of hardware used in vintage drums. Older drums often had simple, uncoated brass or nickel hardware, which adds to the overall tone and resonance of the drum. Modern drum hardware is usually coated and made from other materials, which can deaden the sound of the drum.
Finally, vintage drums have been played and “broken in” over time, which has a significant impact on their sound. The repeated impact of sticks and the natural expansion and contraction of the shells have helped to shape and refine the tone of vintage drums. As a result, they often have a more complex and nuanced sound than new drums.
Do Drums Get Better With Age
Whether drums get better with age is a matter of personal opinion and depends on several factors. On one hand, certain vintage drums have developed a reputation for sounding better with age due to factors such as the type of materials used, the construction methods, and the playing and “break-in” time. As a result, many drummers consider vintage drums to have a warmer, richer tone compared to newer drums.
However, the aging of drums also depends on factors such as proper storage, maintenance, and use. If a drum is not stored in a controlled environment and protected from extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental factors, its quality can deteriorate over time. Similarly, if a drum is not properly maintained and protected from damage, it can also lose its tone and resonance.
Generally, drums that are made from high-quality materials, stored and maintained properly, and used regularly will continue to sound good over time. However, if a drum is not cared for properly, its sound quality may decline, regardless of its age.
How Old Do Drums Need To Be To Be Vintage?
The term “vintage” is typically used to describe drums that were manufactured at least 20-30 years ago. However, the exact definition of “vintage” can vary and there is no universally accepted definition.
Some drummers and collectors consider drums from the 1950s to the 1970s to be vintage, while others consider drums from the 1960s to the 1980s to be vintage.
To determine when a drum is officially vintage, there are several elements to consider such as the brand, model, and type of drum…in addition to the materials used for its creation along with hardware. In general terms, drums that have been constructed decades ago utilizing quality components like untreated metal fittings and traditional methods usually qualify as vintage.
How Do I Tell How Old A Drum Set Is?
There are several ways to tell how old a drum set is. The most common method is to look at the serial number, which can be found on the inside of the drum shell. Generally, this will provide an estimated date of production and can help you determine exactly how old the drums are.
- Serial Number – Many drum manufacturers stamped a serial number on the drums or hardware. You can check the manufacturer’s website or contact the manufacturer to see if they can use the serial number to determine the date of manufacture.
- Research – Research the brand and model of the drum set, including the type of hardware used. This can give you an idea of the era in which the drum set was manufactured and can help you determine its age.
- Physical Inspection – Look for physical characteristics that can indicate the age of the drum set, such as the type of hardware used, the type of lugs and hoops, and the type of drum heads.
- Expert Opinion – If you’re still unsure about the age of the drum set, consider consulting a drum expert or appraiser who has experience evaluating vintage drums.
Pro Tip – Some drum sets may have been modified or renovated through the years, making it difficult to determine when they were purchased. Despite this challenge, researching and closely examining the drums can offer a good approximation of their age.
Do Vintage Drums Need To Be Treated Or Stored Differently Than Newer Sets?
Vintage drums, like all musical instruments, should be stored and maintained properly to preserve their sound quality and longevity. Here are some steps that can be taken to care for vintage drums:
- Proper Storage – Vintage drums should be kept away from drastic temperatures, humidity levels, and other atmospheric elements that can inflict harm to protect them in a controlled climate.
- Regular Maintenance – To preserve the quality of vintage drums, it’s essential to clean them routinely and check for any potential damage or tear. Any loose hardware should be firmly tightened, whereas worn drum heads ought to be swapped out with new ones.
- Handling with Care – Pay close attention when transporting your vintage drums and never place heavy items on top of them, to preserve the finish and hardware. Proper care will ensure that your drums remain beautiful for years to come.
- Protection from Damage – To maintain the quality of vintage drums and ensure they remain free from scratches, dents, or any other damage that could impact their sound output, using a drum cover is highly recommended during transportation as well as storage.
Ultimately, vintage drums demand a higher level of care and maintenance than newer sets. But with the right handling and storage practices, they can remain in fantastic shape for decades.
Final Thoughts
Vintage drums are an important part of music history and should be cared for with the utmost respect. With proper storage, regular maintenance, careful handling, and protection from damage, vintage drums can remain in great condition for many years to come.
Knowing how old a drum set is can help you determine what type of care it requires…whether that’s researching its serial number or consulting a professional appraiser. Ultimately, by following these tips and taking good care of your vintage drum sets, you’ll ensure they continue making beautiful music for generations to come.