Why Die-Cast Hoops?
Over the years, I've received a wide variety of questions about specific features on Gretsch drums. Among the most frequent is: Why do you use die-cast hoops?
We fit our drums with die-cast hoops for a number of reasons. To begin with, because they’re precision-cast in a mold rather than rolled from straight bar stock, die-cast hoops are always absolutely round. In addition, their alloy composition makes them thicker and more rigid than rolled hoops. These characteristics help them promote and hold accurate tuning. We've heard stories from drummers who discovered that a tension rod had completely loosened, and yet the drumhead was still held firmly in tune by the hoop.
Gretsch die-cast hoops help our snare drums deliver crisp, powerful rimshots. And cross-stick playing is made easier and more effective by the height of the hoop. On toms, die-cast hoops help produce optimum resonance, warmth, and depth.
Finally, I personally think die-cast hoops add a rich and classy appearance to Gretsch drumkits. Their higher profile (as compared to rolled steel hoops) displays more of their gleaming chrome plating. Put that together with an eye-catching drum finish, and you have a kit that looks and sounds terrific.
The epitome and legend of "That Great Gretsch Sound." The USA Custom series is hand-crafted every step of the way in our Ridgeland, SC factory by highly experienced and skilled drumsmiths. Our legendary Gretsch formula 6-ply shell is the cornerstone of our legendary sound. Shells are completed with 30-degree bearing edges, Silver Sealer, die-cast hoops and custom finishes - ingredients all combined to make a sound long recognized for its classic clear timbre, balanced tone and explosive projection. Custom design your Gretsch dream kit "a la cart" by choosing your desired drum sizes, colors and hardware options. The Gretsch legend continues.
The NEW Gretsch USA Custom Order Guide will explain the many options that are available to help you design a drum set that matches your individual voice as a drummer.
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The Catalina Maple series starts with the Gretsch maple formula shell. We carefully developed the maple shell specification to produce tones that explode with attack and volume and project a balanced amount of warm, low-end frequencies. All Catalina Maple shells are 7-ply, 7.2mm.
The Catalina Maples are available in two configurations - a 6-piece shell pack set and a 5-piece shell pack set. Add-on drums are also available to allow for further drum set expansion.
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