Vintage Yamaha Recording Custom 7-Piece Kit Quartz Grey

Vintage Yamaha Recording Custom 7-Piece Drum Kit - Quartz Grey

This vintage Yamaha Recording Custom 7-piece drum kit in Quartz Grey is an exceptional example of Yamaha's legendary Japanese-made birch drums. Featuring 100% Hokkaido birch shells, Yamaha's iconic high-tension lugs, and a distinctive lacquer finish, this kit represents one of the most influential drum designs in recording history.

Originally developed from Yamaha's renowned 9000 Series, the Recording Custom became a studio standard thanks to its focused attack, controlled resonance, exceptional tuning response, and remarkable consistency. These drums became synonymous with the sounds of legendary drummers including Steve Gadd, Dave Weckl, and Vinnie Colaiuta.

This expanded 7-piece configuration includes four rack toms, an oversized 18" floor tom, a 22" bass drum, and a matching 6.5x14 snare drum. The 18" floor tom and snare drum were acquired as add-ons to the original kit, creating an especially versatile setup with a wide tuning range and plenty of low-end depth.

Condition & Build Quality

This vintage Yamaha Recording Custom kit features Hokkaido birch shells and the original-style high-tension lug design that helped establish the series as a professional recording and touring standard. The Quartz Grey finish gives the drums a distinctive appearance associated with Yamaha's classic Recording Custom production era.

The 18x16 floor tom was added to the original configuration and features die-cast hoops, distinguishing it from the other toms in the kit. The matching 6.5x14 snare drum was also an additional acquisition and features plastic snare mechanism guides.

One of the plastic guides on the snare drum has slight damage. This is cosmetic and does not affect the functionality or performance of the snare mechanism.

As a vintage instrument, this kit may exhibit cosmetic wear consistent with its age, previous ownership, and normal use. Please review the available photos for a closer look at the shells, finish, hardware, and overall condition.

Please note: we do not accept returns on consignment or used products. Item is sold as-is.

Key Specifications

• Brand: Yamaha
• Series: Recording Custom / 9000 Series
• Configuration: 7-Piece Drum Kit
• Finish: Quartz Grey
• Shell Material: 100% Hokkaido Birch
• Manufacturing: Made in Japan
• Lugs: Yamaha High-Tension Lugs
• Construction: Multi-Ply Birch Shells

Drum Sizes

• Rack Tom 1: 10x8
• Rack Tom 2: 12x8
• Rack Tom 3: 14x10
• Rack Tom 4: 15x12
• Floor Tom: 18x16 - Add-on drum with die-cast hoops
• Bass Drum: 22x16
• Snare Drum: 6.5x14 - Add-on drum with plastic snare mechanism guides

About the Yamaha Recording Custom

Introduced in the late 1970s as the Yamaha YD-9000, the Recording Custom helped redefine the sound of professional drum recording. While maple shells dominated much of the American drum industry, Yamaha pursued birch construction to achieve a more focused, articulate sound with excellent projection and controlled sustain.

Early Japanese Recording Custom drums utilized carefully selected Hokkaido birch, precision shell construction, and Yamaha's innovative finishing processes. The resulting drums became especially popular among professional studio musicians for their clear fundamental tones, precise articulation, and ability to deliver a consistent sound under microphones.

Vintage Japanese-made Recording Custom kits remain highly regarded by drummers, engineers, and collectors. Their distinctive character, professional craftsmanship, and association with decades of recorded music have made them enduring favorites among players seeking the classic Yamaha birch sound.

Freight Shipping Information

Due to the size and number of drums included, this kit must be shipped via freight. Standard parcel shipping is not available for this item.

Please contact West Coast Drum Shop before purchasing to discuss freight shipping arrangements, obtain a shipping quote, and coordinate delivery. Local pickup is also available at our Bellevue, WA location.

Why Choose West Coast Drum Shop?

West Coast Drum Shop in Bellevue, WA specializes in professional, vintage, and collectible drum equipment. Our experienced drummers and drum technicians can assist with personalized setup, tuning, and recommendations. We carefully handle vintage drum kits and can coordinate freight shipping for larger instruments throughout the United States.