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Legendary Vintage Drum Kits You Might Be Lucky to Stumble Upon

  • Writer: Tapetown
    Tapetown
  • Sep 12
  • 2 min read

Vintage Slingerland drum set with golden-brown finish, displayed against a white background. Visible brand logo on bass drums.

A good drum kit can make or break a groove, whether you’re laying down tracks or playing live. Vintage kits from the 1950s to 1970s, used by drummers like John Bonham and Ringo Starr, have warm, punchy tones that modern kits often lack. Their limited production makes them rare, but they’re prized for music creation. Here are 10 vintage drum kits that can inspire your rhythms.


1. Ludwig Hollywood (1960s)

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: John Bonham on Led Zeppelin II

  • Sound: Powerful, warm maple shell tones for rock.

  • Rarity: Specific setups like Bonham’s are hard to find.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its punch is perfect for recording studios and live shows.


2. Gretsch Round Badge

  • Era: 1950s–1960s

  • Used By: Charlie Watts on Rolling Stones records

  • Sound: Crisp, warm jasper shell tones for versatile grooves.

  • Rarity: Early round badge kits are scarce.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its soulful sound suits music creation.


3. Slingerland Radio King

  • Era: 1940s–1950s

  • Used By: Gene Krupa for jazz

  • Sound: Deep, resonant maple tones for big band and rock.

  • Rarity: Many worn out from heavy use.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its vintage vibe inspires studio recording.


4. Premier 2000 Series

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: Keith Moon on The Who’s Tommy

  • Sound: Bright, explosive birch tones for dynamic playing.

  • Rarity: Early UK models are rare.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its power fits performance gear and live gigs.


5. Rogers Holiday

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: Ringo Starr with The Beatles

  • Sound: Warm, focused mahogany tones for pop and rock.

  • Rarity: Specific finishes like Starr’s are scarce.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its classic sound is great for recording studios.


6. Leedy Broadway

  • Era: 1950s

  • Used By: Early rock drummers in studios

  • Sound: Rich, vintage maple tones for soul and rock.

  • Rarity: Small brand, limited before merger.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its warmth enhances music creation.


7. Camco Oaklawn

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: Dennis Wilson on Pet Sounds

  • Sound: Clear, punchy oak tones for pop and rock.

  • Rarity: Limited before brand acquisition.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its clarity works for studio recording.


8. Sonor Teardrop

  • Era: 1950s–1960s

  • Used By: European jazz drummers

  • Sound: Melodic, warm beech tones for jazz and rock.

  • Rarity: Early teardrop lugs are rare.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its unique sound inspires songwriting.


9. Ludwig Super Classic

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: Mitch Mitchell with Jimi Hendrix

  • Sound: Versatile, dynamic maple tones for rock.

  • Rarity: Custom setups are scarce.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its power suits performance gear.


10. Fibes Crystalite

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Billy Cobham for fusion jazz

  • Sound: Bright, cutting acrylic tones for modern grooves.

  • Rarity: Limited production, niche brand.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its bold sound fuels music creation.



Vintage drum kits like the Ludwig Hollywood and Gretsch Round Badge offer drummers warm, unique tones for music creation and performance. Their rarity makes them special for recording studios and live stages. Check out our articles on electronic percussion for more rhythm tools.


Related Reading: About a Studio: Sound City https://www.tapetownstudio.com/post/about-a-studio-sound-city

 
 
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