Ludwig has added new 8x14” Black Beauty and Copper Phonic snare drums to its product line for 2017, alongside new Stainless Steel snares, 45th anniversary Vistalite kits, an Alex Van Halen Supraphonic, and two new lines aimed at the budget-minded player.
Never before has the 8x14” size been an option for any American-made Ludwig metal snare drum, ensuring these drums will be welcomed with open arms by longtime devotees of the brand. The Black Beauty offers a deeper, full-throated take on the classic studio favorite, while the Copper Phonic expands upon the earthy, articulate tones of its shallower counterparts. Both drums feature the traditional Imperial lugs and center-beaded shell but sport Ludwig’s upgraded P85-AC snare strainer/butt plate for improved ease of use.
A new shell material also finds its way to the snare drum range this year, with 5.5x14” and 7.5x14” Stainless Steel drums joining the fold. Both snares feature flat Imperial lugs and a non-beaded matte brushed shell with custom engraving. No word on when these will be available for sale, and full specs have yet to be published by Ludwig.
Though the venerable Supraphonic line proper remains unchanged for 2017 thus far, a limited Alex Van Halen signature model will be offered with copper tube lugs/hardware, a matte aluminum finish, and custom hard case with signed COA. Only 100 drums will be available worldwide.
2017 seems to be the year of anniversaries in the drum world, and Ludwig is bringing their A-game with two kits celebrating the 45th year of Vistalite: a Green Sparkle acrylic kit in Pro Beat sizes (13/16/18/24”), and a Tri-Band Black/Smoke/Clear kit in traditional “Fab” sizes (13/16/22”). Limited to 45 sets each, these outfits are sure to be collectors’ items and make a visual statement as bold as the originals must have when they debuted in 1972.
The Evolution Maple series is a mid-priced 6-piece outfit designed for intermediate players, though its North American Maple shells and high-gloss lacquer finishes would make it a great road-worthy choice for a gigging drummer. A free 8” tom is available for a limited time with the purchase of an Evolution Maple kit.
Finally, two limited edition snare drums announce the arrival of the Standard Maple series, a budget-friendly line made alongside Classic Maple in Ludwig’s Monroe, NC factory. These 8x14” 7-ply Maple drums are offered in Mojave Cherry and Black Flame finishes with classic bowtie lugs and are sure to offer much of the same warm, versatile tone as their pricier brethren.
As the drum industry continues to lean on heritage and vintage reissues as selling points, it’s great to see an iconic American manufacturer take some chances and refresh their classic designs to meet the demands of the 21st century player while keeping their 108-year history in mind. Keep an eye out for further new Ludwig products this year, including another snare drum to be announced in the coming months.
LudwigSee more Drums & Percussion News from Winter NAMM 2017