I was expecting way more difference in the shells themselves. It seems like a lot of the differences are in the hardware and the heads. I think I’ll just go with the design series and put my favorite heads on them
When I went to the NMM show in 20 1313, they were debuting the design series. I remember hitting the drums and being completely blown away by how great she sounded. So much so that at that time I thought they sounded better than any collectors kit I ever heard. I just recently got a design series for a really really good price and am blown away by those drums as well. I guess the lesson learned is if you want something specific, exotic, outer veneer, etc. go with the collectors, but I truly blown away by both performance as well as design.
These comparison videos are the best out there! Very accurate as far as hearing the drums because there's a full mix and room mics recording... And of course the attention to detail is incredible you guys are the best
I am very surprised by the small difference in sound between the kits. I agree that lookswise the collectors takes the prices. I would also like to hear all three kits playing with the exact same heads tuned the same. Thankyou for this video. I am very proud of my design series now. The sound comparison was really close for way less money spend.
As a fairly new drummer I bought the Design Series Piano Black 4 pc and I love the sound, even with the supposed subpar heads. Liked it so much I bought a second one. Maybe as I get more experienced, I will learn how to discriminate the different sounds between the supposedly better heads
The difference in price is the hardware on the snare. So if you want the best build and construction and don’t care about the flashiness of the higher modes then the design series is it. The design is about the sound more than what it looks like. Top end sound without the crazy expensive hardware and colors.
I own a DW Design set. I have owned a Collectors series (with rings, not the shells like these) and have played Performance series. For my situation, playing out in dive bars and moving my drums around, there's no way I could justify spending the many thousands of dollars it would take to buy a Collector's series. If I was playing at home and/or only recording, I would have DW Collector's series with these shells (not the rings, for me. I like this tone better). So, now speaking in terms of mere mortals' budgets: between Performance & Design; the similarity in tone and difference in price led me to the Design series. I could eventually stand to have more size choices, but I believe they're coming eventually. I'm thrilled with the sound, engineers are thrilled with the sound, and with Coated Ambassador/Clear Ambassador (toms) Ambassador X (snare) and Powerstroke 3 (kick) you get real DW drums, great sound, all at a SUPER affordable cost. Thanks very much for this comparison video. Very fair and objective.
Agreed. I have a frequent flyer and have owned an older Keller DW with rerings. I have a ton of respect for the guys at Portsmouth but I'm just not on board with the confidence thing. Granted, I have not played the amount of high end kits these gentlemen have but I do have a very nice Grand Master Series kit with brass lugs with thick shells and it it doesn't inspire anymore confidence then an Asian GMS SL birch I also own. In fact, in many ways I prefer that birch kit to the maple. They do play different but thicker shells will do that. I also have a Saturn and while that being a nice sounding kit, feels more like a junk Catalina I once owned. Now the Catalina hardware was garbage so that has to be factored in along with wood density and 1.6 hoops but when these guys talk about drums giving back, i think it may have a little to do with in DW'S case, giant turret lugs and a company like Tama, cast hoops.
I have an exotic DW Collectors series kit and a Performance series kit. I actually prefer the sound of the Performance series as the lack of reinforcement rings really opens up the drums. They are both great sets, but playing out, it's my Performance series all the way (also less worries playing a less expensive kit in the bars!!). But for recording, Collectors series is the way to go as the sound is more focused and refined, and works well in a studio environment. Great video and really has me thinking about the overall value of the Design series...
I agree. I had a Collector’s Series Kit that was made around the time that they started making their own shells. I could not get the floor or kick drum to sound the way I wanted. I ended up selling them and playing a few different brands of kits. A few years back I picked up a Performance Kit and I much prefer the sound of the Performance kit to my Collectors. I like the straight shells with no reinforcement and the smaller lugs look much better in my opinion.
@@kevinb8527 I did notice that the exotic kit in this demo did not have re-rings. They sounded damn nice! My exotic maple Collectors kit does have re-rings and they focus the attack/sound, still resonate well, but not as open as my Performance series. Finally, I'm a big fan as both Collectors and Performance series are Made in the USA. For me, I support USA made stuff if at all possible. Yeah you can make it cheaper outside of the country, but I do like the Oxnard connection and those kits support American workers...
James Rohl I agree 100%. I much prefer the sound of straight shells rather than shells with re-rings. My collectors kit was built in 2002 which was right at the time that DW started making its own shells. I think it’s known that they had some issues around that time with shells staying in round and I think my floor Tom and kick drum had some issues. No matter what I did as far as tuning on the floor Tom I could not get the “basketball” wobble” boing out. Tons of different head combos, tunings, etc and I couldn’t get rid of it. Some of that I put on the re-rings though. My performance kit is everything that I wanted out of my collectors kit. Solid even tones with the straight shells and the smaller lugs look and function fantastic. Plus the price point is much better. My kit is in Pewter Sparkle in really good sizes (8x10, 8x12, 12x14, 14x16, 18x22, and 6.5x14). My collectors kit was 9x10, 9x12, 10x13, 14x16, and 18x22 in Blue Diamond Pearl. My Collectors Kit was over twice the price (with no snare). I’ve owned a ton of high end drums (Pearl Masters, Pork Pie Custom, SJC, Gretsch Renown, Custom Keller, DW) and my collectors was one of my least favorite of the bunch. I have friends that have collectors kits that sound phenomenal, I just think there was something wrong with mine. My Performance kit can hold a candle to any of the top end kits I have owned for sure.
@@kevinb8527 Kevin those are cool sizes, especially the shorter 8 x 12 rack tom! My Performance kit is gorgeous ginger glass sparkle wrap (made only for the drum shop where I got them), in 8 x 10, 9 x 12, 12 x 14 floor, 14 x 16 floor, 18 x 22 kick, and 5 1/2 x 14 matching snare. I, like you, have owned many kits (Ludwig , Rogers, Pearl, Tama, Drumcraft acrylic, Crush acrylic). None were are good as my Performance kit! My exotic Collectors series is stunning. Twisted Rainbow lacquer in cool sizes (7 x 10, 8 x 12, 14 x 16 floor, and a cannon 20 x 22" kick, matching 6 x 14 snare). If I were to venture out again, Sonor and Yamaha are the kits that interest me. Sonor has a very musical tone to them, but almost too musical? I mean when you want to rock, your not looking for a xylophone! Yamaha rules the jazz scene and their kits sound great, but if you aren't miking them, they don't resonate as well as DW's. Nothing does IMO, thus I remain a DW guy. But always interested in the art of drum making and new sounds. Most likely going to round out my collection with a set of DW Design acrylics and call it a day...
James Rohl Thanks! Yea the store I worked at when I got my performance kit ordered two kits in the same finish. The other kit had an 8x12 so they let me switch out the 9x12 that I got in my Tom pack with the 8x12 that came in the other. I prefer the sound and the set up height of the shorter toms for sure. Very cool sizes on your collectors kit! Sonor kits sound incredible but I agree almost too musical. I’d look into a Yamaha kit too, they sound great. I do remember the older YESS mounts choking the drums bad on the bigger sized toms, but they still sounded good. Currently I still have my Performance kit, a SJC Custom Kit (18x24, 8x12, 12x14, 14x16 in red satin), a Pork Pie Custom Kit (18x22, 10x13, 13x16), and a Gretsch Renown (22, 10, 12, 14) that I recently picked up for $400. Couldn’t pass that one up.
Design is the BEST value for money..I have a performance series and it's great..but that DESIGN kit holds its own against the others and I can imagine with the right heads unbelievable!
I got a Design Series kit in Midnight Blue Satin for Christmas two years ago, and last year I bought a Design 14x6.5 Black Nickel Over Brass snare drum that just sounds killer!!!! The best snare I ever heard. It’s basically a less expensive Black Beauty snare (you know, Ludwig?).
I bought my Collector’s back in 2006 and I swear it sounds better with every year of age. There’s no shortage of amazing kits out there but DW really are something special. You get what you pay for
I had sold my DW a while back. Had it for a good 15 years and noticed right before I sold it that it had gotten better with age. I miss it but I got a Gretsch kit with more versatile sizes so it was a good move to sell it.
i hope that what you are saying is true!!😃 i have a 1997 dw custom made that i played no more than an hour since i got it 10 years ago and i was thinking about selling it but i think i willl leave it in ny basement as a good old wine getting better with ages! thanks for sharing your experience it can help others!!
A Collectors Kit is a masterpiece and like a museum piece. It’s like owning a classic car. Yes, you can buy a stock Yamaha or Gretsch for a cheaper price and still sound awesome and amazing but the unique Collectors has a vibe and it’s a kit fit for a king.
I have the Design series. I played them for a few minutes and immediately threw away the stock heads and put clear Emperor heads on the top and clear Ambassador heads on the bottom, with PS3's on the front and back of my bass drum. They kick ass. I've played almost everything and for the money they certainly hold their own against most of them. They really are good if you are considering them.
According to one of the factory employees, the wood on the Performance and Collectors are identical. The disadvantage with the Performance is that you can’t fully customize how many layers of ply you want. If you want exotic wood, you’re likely not able to get that with the Performance. If you’re picky about a certain sound, choose the Collectors. If you feel the Performance does not need modification and it’s fine to your taste, then the Performance will suit your needs.
That design series has allowed so many drummers to finally accomplish their dream of owning a DW without spending their life savings and it’s such a rewarding kit to play and own. I bought mine a couple of years ago, used the stock heads for almost a year and then replaced them with remo powerstroke 4’s clear and was blown away furthermore. I absolutely love that kit.
I own a Performance Series. Heads we do not care about as we change them anyway to suit our needs. Many of us can't afford the cost of the Collector's Series, though they are top of the line. Plus many of us have not played a gig in a long time because of Covid. So in my opinion, any of these lines are great based on your personal budget and skill level! Great job explaining the differences.
I would get the Collectors series for home studio because the nice finish set functions as furniture. It’s worth it since it should last a lifetime . For playing out live in dive bars, any good quality budget set is fine
Now this is a great video !! Thank you for taking the time to do this and also show casing the actual sound of the drums not just the snare and cymbals. Have a great day guys. stay safe and thanks again.
Having owned and played a Collector's Series kit for 10 years, the thing that no one seems to talk about is the durability. You can pound on a Collector's Series kit night after night for years on end and there will be no appreciable wear in any part of the drums. Of course, the sound is awesome, and the tuning range is huge, but it's the quality of construction and materials that (to me) is where the best bang for the buck is. BUT, because of this, they are HEAVY. I finally had to sell it off because I'm too old to carry them down and up the stairs to my 4th floor apartment every time I have a gig. LOL!!
Yes I bought Mapa Burl 2002 birthday and have little wear noticeable 20 years later. John Good is in a class by himself and continues to amaze. DW is the best players friendly beauty brains and brawn drums out there. Cut costs on girls not drums.
Ive had the design kit for almost a year now and I replaced the heads right away. Man what a difference. The bass drum is a straight cannon. I've got a Evans eq4 on the batter side and custom print Aquarian on the reso side with no port and minimal muffling. Everybody raves about how great that kick drum sounds. I'm an amateur musician and I know this DW kit will last me the rest of my life. Great build quality for the money. I got the four piece shell pack for 899. Can't beat it except with a stick. Love my DW kit.
What’s your thought on the design kit right now after playing it for some time? I’m considering getting the design kit instead of performance or collectors. Also, which heads would you recommend for the toms?
@@KyleLe I still love the kit and it sounds better than ever as I've learned to tune it I have frosted Evans and clear resos on toms. The finish has held up well and no hardware problems at all. Though there are a few imperfections in my piano black finish. I've averaged around 16 to 20 hours a week playing time for the almost three years I've had them and I would recommend them to anyone. The guys I'm playing with praise them and we're just a about ready to gig.
I’ve got a Workshop Series kit from the early 2000’s. They were the original entry level DW kit back then and for less then $1,500 they sound great. I’ve had so many complements on their sound over the years that I can certainly see why they were discontinued because in some instances they sound as good if not better then the Collector series! Other then esthetic where the Collector series can be works of art I couldn’t justify spending 4x as much because the difference in sound just isn’t there!
In 2009 we played a gig at the Viper Room for a certain celeb's b-day, the house kit is and has been a DW Collectors series. And as Shane said, when you play one you immediately understand why the price is in the $5700 and up range. However, from 2005-2012 the Arambula family in those years had 4 family members that had been working for DW in some cases upwards of 31yrs. The quality control was of the utmost top shelf craftsmanship and this family took pride in their work. Basically what I'm saying is during those years a lot of the collectors series kits or jazz series as well as the classics series are so sought after during that time. A used 5-piece basic configuration collectors series during that time. Right now, if you could find one used will go upwards of ten Grand, again that's IF you can find one. As always great video. And you guys know you have the best drum channel on the internet. It's pretty much common knowledge 😁 Thanks guys 🥁🤘
Wow. Only subtle differences in sound from a price difference of 5400$$$ top to bottom! Keeping in mind that the design series had cheap china heads on the toms. obviously the collectors sounded the best, but the design was a close second..save a LOT of moolah and get some wicked cymbals and hardware. value for dollar...DING DING! DW Design
True. The Design or even a cheaper brand can be amazing on recordings. I’m pretty sure a lot of hit songs were recorded with just modest level drum kits. And commonly on songs, you kind of want drums to sound bland so they don’t interfere with the song. If you’re a touring drummer, expensive is usually better because of better build quality. If it’s just for studio work, a budget kit can work fine.
I didn’t like the cheapest set… The middle set sounded great immediately! It wasn’t just that I know it’s cheap you can hear it if you are a musician. The collectors is really Beautiful to look at! The sound of the Collectors is much better and deeper and richer in tone. I would love ❤️ to buy them but I would be happy with the performance and would never 👎 buy the cheapest ones! I’m too old for cheap drums!
@@frankdaguanno4667 Yeah... Eric Moore used DW Design on the world tour with Eros Ramazzotti, but your ear is too refined for that and you don't accept anything under $5k in your practice room
A really useful video. One aspect I didn’t notice were the True Pitch tuning rods, Collectors shells with pitch designation, mounts, different constructions on the tome woods, etc. I’ve owned the Performance series for some and built a drum bank with them. Currently I’m using Evans Hydraulic head and an EMAD2 Extra heavy on the Bass drum and they sound incredible. Design series are made in China/ Taiwan so the real cost is not in the lugs, but in the labor.
All sounded good, and what I heard was more and more girth, low mids, as you moved from Design, to Performance to Collectors. Also, thank you for making these comparison videos, they must take a lot of effort to make, and I am for sure thankful for it!
I’d rather see an extra floor Tom rather than the matching snare with any of these sets. I ALWAYS loved the mini turret lugs but the 1/4 lugs are also a nice size.
i prefered the performance series. they sound better than the collector's series to my ears. i see no reasons of buying a collector's series unless you want the prestige and the more numerous options above anything else.
Although they all sounded good, I was partial to the Collector's. And when Tony said how the feel of those drums was so different that confirmed it. We as drummers focus on sound, but that can be manipulated with different heads, tuning, etc. The feel of a drum I think is inherent to the drum and for the most part can't be (or would be difficult) to change. I did like the finish and "middle sized" lugs on The Performance Series.
I totally get why you left the factory heads on the design kit, but I’d love to hear an A/B between the design series and performance series with the same heads.
Top Down Drumming well, well, we’ll!!!!!! Awesome!!!! It’s like that Disney song goes It’s a small world after all It’s a small world after all It’s a small world after all It’s a small, small, world Everybody now!!!!!
Top Down Drumming well, well, well!!!! So it is!!! It’s like that song from Walt Disney: It’s a small world after all It’s a small world after all It’s a small world after all It’s a small, small world Everybody now!!!
Thanks for doing this comparison. Your comment about the DW kits' difference in "feel" is spot-on. I think that feel is hard to explain. It must be experienced. My first kit was a Tama Swingstar, an entry-level kit. It sounded okay after putting mylar ring suppressors on the stock heads. A few years later I upgraded to a Tama Starclassic Birch/Bubinga kit in dark cherry fade. My immediate impression was it "wanted" to be played and I was drawn to do so. Not surprisingly, the Starclassics sounded much better than the Swingstar. But for me, it was the feel that really made the difference between them. It would also be interesting to see you do a blindfold test when comparing kits. It's easy to get drawn in by the "look" of a kit. In other words, do we subconsciously think a kit sounds better because it looks better? It would be hard, at least for me, to sit behind that beautiful DW exotic Collectors kit and not just rationalize that it sounds better than the others. "Better" is very subjective. Finally, I think this comparison will answer many questions for prospective buyers and/or for those of us generally interested in drum gear. I know it did for me. I've never understood the differences among the DW lines. This video explained them well. To that point, if you haven't done so already I would recommend doing a similar video for other lines you carry.
Great video!! You demonstrated and discussed all the points I was hoping for. I really hear a drastic difference w the Collector’s Series. It sounds like 2 levels up from the Performance Series to me. I’ve played all these myself as well, got to visit the factory in Oxnard. It was amazing!!
i have the design series black satin,which you can get add on toms.I added the 8" rack and 14" floor tom. Changed the heads to Remo coated ambassador. The drums sound just as good as the Performance series!
Would be interesting to hear how the PDP Concept stacks up with these, particularly with the Design series (maybe performance too). Cause to my ears, the best move is PDP Concept, and then upgrade straight to collectors after.
All three are great kits. I personally own the performance series. The design is a great house kit for a churches, clubs etc.... The performance series is an awesome overall and touring kit. The collectors series is an awesome studio kit. Id put the collectors series right up there with the Yamaha Recording Custom.
I truly appreciate this DW comparison review. It helped me choose my first DW drum set purchase. I selected the Design series and I am truly pleased with the aesthetics, craftsmanship, and tone of this instrument! Although it is the entry level of Drum Workshop, I do not feel that they manufactured an inferior product that lacks the integrity of their name! I appreciate being able to purchase a new DW percussion ensemble that is within my budget! Thank you again for this video!👍🥁
Would love to see a video with all the Tama lines. I know they’ve done separate videos of all the Tama drums but would love to see them back to back comparisons in one video. Imperialstar, Silverstar, superstar classic, supertar hyperdrive, Starclassic lines, Star lines
I have had a Performance series 7 pc kit for 10 years now and have been have loved the toms and kick (i sold the snare, I just don't like their throw-off). I took the 10" Performance tom with the same head and tuning and compared it to the Collector 10" same head and tuning. They were very very close in feel and tonal quality, just different not better. The Performance tom had a little less pure bottom, while the Performance had more low mids so it tended to be more up front in it's projection. I couldn't justify the Collectors much higher cost for what excellent quality sound and versatility I get from either coated or clear heads on my Performance series.
In my personal opinion and have owned a 7 piece collectors kit, the Design series has the same feel, same warmth, same volume, projection and power and near same tones. the only difference I can personally see is the customization restrictions on the Design series(being a factory line) and the glamorous hardware the Collectors series has which real does nothing for the sound quality(maybe the tuning). so my personal opinion is go for Design series if you cant afford Collectors.
Great video, I really like the look of the Performance, those smaller lugs make it look a bit more modern than the classic Collectors. Sounds incredible too for the price.
I'd love this same comparison w/ all of the same heads on them. It would be even closer! Tom sounds FOR ME are negligible ... I heard a difference in the Collectors Snare, and bass, but really, that was it .... great video as always
I have the SSC collectors series with one up ,two down. 12,14,16, 14×6.5 black chrome over brass snare, 22×18 bass drum. Love the deep tones and punch they have . Gives me what I want from my kit.
I have the Performance Series since 2011. They have a beautiful tone and tune and hold tune well. I since added an 8-inch chrome snare but I still like the HVX 11 ply snare that came with the kit. I use both. The Collector's Series demonstrated here sounds a bit warmer and a tighter sound. Less drift. I'd like to own a Collector's Series as well. Maybe someday. Cheers everybody!
Bought a collector's gold glass Last week.... Beleive it or not.... The kit was in the shop since 2008 and was not played..... This kit was waiting for me !!!!
This was a great comparison video, thank you guys. I have been trying to understand DWs line for a while now. From what I can tell from the videos it seems the drums get deeper (/darker? not sure what the proper term might be) as you go up in value. I am planning on getting a Collector's series but I have to agree with most folks here that the Design has the nicest snare sound. Thanks for the video, this was awesome!
After buying my first Camco chain drive bass drum pedal I have been enamored with doing research and playing everything DW makes. I met John Good several times and he is so down to earth.
I have a Design series and think it is the best choice,. It sounds great with some good heads and tuning. if micing you can make it sound even better. so best bang for buck.
The Performance kit sounded very close to the Collector's kit in terms of fullness. If I had my choice, I'd buy a Performance series kit and save money.
@@AMDpc067 yes they are! The only difference is customization. Performance are only available as they come. You simply choose what is offered. Performance quality and sound is equal to Collectors.
The Collectors will have better durability with more robust metal parts. It’s fit for a king. Either way, you can make Grammy award winning records with any decent drum kit that’s capable enough to blend in with the songs.
I own 3 Collector's drumsets (Pure Maple, Cherry and Exotic Rosewood) and 1 Performance. At the end of the day you can't tell them apart, once they are recorded and mixed with music. In my opinion with Collector's drumsets you are mainly paying for how it looks.
Value for dollar has to be the first kit... might not be everyone’s favorite but it is the correct answer. The kits do sound very, very similar yet they range in price like $5500
This weekend I’m acquiring my DW Performance Series kit. Actually the same finish and sizes as the one showcased here. Awesome comparison video, I’m definitely exited about what will be my new kit.
I own the special edition 3 piece and a Mini- Pro. Both sound amazing. From this video, especially in the head to head, there is almost no noticeable difference in the toms between the design and performance series. The kicks just get lower in each series, But personally, I liked the performance series kick and snare the best. These are great, very accurate, comparison videos! Great job guys, keep ‘em coming! Watching drum videos right now is the only thing keeping me sane admits all the chaos in the world!!! You guys rock! 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
To each his own. I played Ludwig and then played Tama for a number of years and then got a DW collectors kit a few years back. At times my body would hurt after long gigs with the Tama and when I gigged with my DW my body felt so much better the next day. I play hard and the DW works with me rather than against me in my opinion. Great kit!
First of all you guys are awesome! These videos are so helpful when shopping the market for kits! Especially when there isn’t a store near you that has one for you to sit behind and play. Secondly, as far as the comparisons go…Assuming the same EQ & Compression settings were applied to the audio after the recording - the Design Series wins for me. Even with the stock heads. They had a very clean sounding tone with nice attack to them that wouldn’t need much EQ’ing to make it sit nicely in a mix. The Performance and Collectors series kits had an unpleasant low-mid resonance to them that would most likely need to be scooped a bit in order to not muddy the mix and bring out the attack better so it can poke through a dense mix better. I think if you put some better 2-ply heads on that Design Series it will definitely wake it it up in an even better way than it already is. Also, there are a bunch of “add-ons” you can buy for the design series kits. if you wanted additional drums like an 18” floor, you could add that. You can also purchase a Black Nickel over Brass snare in a 14” x 5.5” as well as a 14” x 6.5”. Also concert Toms, a pancake drum and a bunch of other add-ons. They’re all listed on DW’s website.
Another Awesome Video!! I own a Collector’s Series and love them!! They are all Great Sounding Drums #1 The Bright & Openness Sound of the Design Series would be Great for a Pop Rock style of Music. “Chilly Peppers” #2 The Performance Series Are Quite the same as the Design Series but with more Volume and overtone which would be Great for all types of Heavier Rock Music. “ZZ Top” #3 The Collector’s Series are Warmer Sounding and have a Richer Sound, Round & Controlled, best suited for the Studio. “Toto” Thanks for the Work Guys 🎶🥰👍🥁
@Drum Center of Portsmouth Excellent video again. Please, an aluminum snare shootout including the Tama Starphonic and the British Aviator. Pretty please. LOL
I have both a Collector series (custom order) and a Performance series kit. I love them both. I prefer the Collector Series kit for live and the Performance for my praise service on Sundays. I guess I need a Design series for throw down gigs. DAMN YOU DWW!!!!!
You hear the difference in tone from Design to Performance pretty much instantly. Probably a good idea to replace the tom heads if you buy the Design kit. ....Monkey Pod. 333. Would like to hear a Santa Monica kit put through Shane's paces one of these days. Cheers! Best sound: Collectors Series Best Price/Performance: Performance Series If you can save the money, the Performance kit is hard to beat. I've enjoyed every Perf kit I had the chance to play. And you get different sizes, like an 18" floor, if you don't care for 14" floors, and a 14x24 bass drum.
That Collector's Series is probably one of the nicest kits I have ever heard. Sure, I've always liked DW and known they were good but was never blown away by them...but I completely get it now.
It sounded closer to the 90”s dw when they used Keller’s shells before they started making their own , if you like that sounding shell just check out some other custom shop kits that still use Keller’s shells like SJC , Truth , or pork pie , if your into that sounding shell you’ll love the aforementioned
Thanks for the great video! I had the privilege to spy on a huge production where the drum tech prepared a mix of DW Custom Jazz (Maple/Gum?) and Design drums. If I remember correctly 8+10 concert toms and 18 floor were Design, 12 (or 13?) tom, 16 floor, gong and bass drum Custom. Snares were Custom Edge and something I can't remember. Brilliant setup, spot on for the project! PS: I still get either nightmares or wet dreams from that freakin' gong drum...
For me, the Collectors sounded the best overall but that's expected. However, .... I wouldn't go to the Performance Series if I had to choose between those and the Design Series. Bang for your buck for a DW product .... I'd stay w/the Design series if size options weren't a big deal to you.
The collector’s kit can get you some of the finest cream of the crop wood. The champagne of wood. It’s for kings The Design is great too and capable of giving you home runs and audience cheers.
Nah, I got much more bang for my bucks with a used 7-piece Yamaha Maple Custom Absolute. Sold off the DW Collector kit and bought a second 6-piece YMCA kit. All for less than my 5-piece Collectors kit. I'm an Evans Coated skins on top and Ambassador Clears on the bottom guy. The Yamaha's gave me a much wider tuning range and longer sustain, especially on the lower end without going flat and muddy than the DW's Gotta give it to DW, they're much prettier. But my ears are the final judge, not my eyes. Great presentation, DCP!
Great video...thank you. I thought I had a good tuning of my collector's to get a good sound. But I really thought your collector's sounded great. I know tuning videos are dime a dozen. But it would be great to get your tricks and secrets in a tuning video especially re that collector's kit setup.
Thanks Joe! It's something we may do in the future, though we would want to do it in a way that is different than the hundreds and thousands of videos out there!
The step up in sound between the Design and Performance kits is pretty much all due to the heads. Why pay $1100 more when $150 in new heads will do the trick?
I own a collector series 6 piece kit, and a performance series 4 piece kit, with a 24” bass drum and 13” rack tom.. The performance series has that 70’s rock sound, due to the sizes. Both are great kits. I liked the snare with the 3 position tension bracket on my collectors kit, so i ordered it for my performance series snare. We play out a lot and the 4 piece kit is quicker and easier to transport to gigs! With powered subwoofers, the 24” kick shakes the neighborhood!
I like how you guys provide sound samples with both full mix and room mics. That's helpful cause most drummers are going to take a kit home and play them at room level and only mic them up for recording or live performances. I do however wish you would have provided more in depth info on the shell construction. There is a difference. Collectors series shells are thicker and use re rings or reinforcement hoops. Performance series are a bit thinner and do not have re rings. I'm not sure about the Design series. This affects how the drums are going to sound. I have two DW kits. A Workshop series kit from 1998 which was very similar to the Performance series that DW manufactured for a few years. Same shells as the Collectors, slightly different hardware, limited sizes and finishes. The big difference.. no re rings. My other kit is a Collector with re rings. They sound very different. The Collectors are tighter and more focussed, the Workshop series actually resonates a bit more and has a bit more bottom end.
3:05 design series
6:57 performance series
10:24 collector’s series
14:11 head 2 head
Fantastic drums. Love them, but too expensive.
Who wants to hear a comparison between PDP Concept maple and DW Design?
Right here! 🙋🏻♂️
Yeah I do! I have two pdp concepts maple kits and they sound killer for the price!
I do.
Please do a video on this
PDP for the win.
Ive owned both PDP and Design and the PDP to me, has more body; more tone.
I was expecting way more difference in the shells themselves. It seems like a lot of the differences are in the hardware and the heads. I think I’ll just go with the design series and put my favorite heads on them
When I went to the NMM show in 20 1313, they were debuting the design series. I remember hitting the drums and being completely blown away by how great she sounded. So much so that at that time I thought they sounded better than any collectors kit I ever heard. I just recently got a design series for a really really good price and am blown away by those drums as well. I guess the lesson learned is if you want something specific, exotic, outer veneer, etc. go with the collectors, but I truly blown away by both performance as well as design.
These comparison videos are the best out there! Very accurate as far as hearing the drums because there's a full mix and room mics recording... And of course the attention to detail is incredible you guys are the best
Comments like these are a breath of fresh air. Thanks, man.
I am very surprised by the small difference in sound between the kits. I agree that lookswise the collectors takes the prices. I would also like to hear all three kits playing with the exact same heads tuned the same.
Thankyou for this video. I am very proud of my design series now. The sound comparison was really close for way less money spend.
The Design series has graduated triple flanged hoops just like the Performance series, something that was overlooked in the video. Killer drum set.
As a fairly new drummer I bought the Design Series Piano Black 4 pc and I love the sound, even with the supposed subpar heads. Liked it so much I bought a second one. Maybe as I get more experienced, I will learn how to discriminate the different sounds between the supposedly better heads
call me crazy but the design snare really sounded great!
Totally agree! Loved it!
Agreed
You're not crazy even the design is a pretty high end kit.
@@drumcenternh sonor AQ series
The difference in price is the hardware on the snare. So if you want the best build and construction and don’t care about the flashiness of the higher modes then the design series is it.
The design is about the sound more than what it looks like. Top end sound without the crazy expensive hardware and colors.
I own a DW Design set. I have owned a Collectors series (with rings, not the shells like these) and have played Performance series. For my situation, playing out in dive bars and moving my drums around, there's no way I could justify spending the many thousands of dollars it would take to buy a Collector's series. If I was playing at home and/or only recording, I would have DW Collector's series with these shells (not the rings, for me. I like this tone better).
So, now speaking in terms of mere mortals' budgets: between Performance & Design; the similarity in tone and difference in price led me to the Design series. I could eventually stand to have more size choices, but I believe they're coming eventually. I'm thrilled with the sound, engineers are thrilled with the sound, and with Coated Ambassador/Clear Ambassador (toms) Ambassador X (snare) and Powerstroke 3 (kick) you get real DW drums, great sound, all at a SUPER affordable cost.
Thanks very much for this comparison video. Very fair and objective.
Thanks for watching, and your feedback!
Agreed. I have a frequent flyer and have owned an older Keller DW with rerings. I have a ton of respect for the guys at Portsmouth but I'm just not on board with the confidence thing. Granted, I have not played the amount of high end kits these gentlemen have but I do have a very nice Grand Master Series kit with brass lugs with thick shells and it it doesn't inspire anymore confidence then an Asian GMS SL birch I also own. In fact, in many ways I prefer that birch kit to the maple. They do play different but thicker shells will do that. I also have a Saturn and while that being a nice sounding kit, feels more like a junk Catalina I once owned. Now the Catalina hardware was garbage so that has to be factored in along with wood density and 1.6 hoops but when these guys talk about drums giving back, i think it may have a little to do with in DW'S case, giant turret lugs and a company like Tama, cast hoops.
I have a design kit. They need to add a 24" kick and more availability on the 18" floor toms and I'd be set!
I ordered a dw performance series for the price as a design series drum kit. Cannot wait until it arrives
I have an exotic DW Collectors series kit and a Performance series kit. I actually prefer the sound of the Performance series as the lack of reinforcement rings really opens up the drums. They are both great sets, but playing out, it's my Performance series all the way (also less worries playing a less expensive kit in the bars!!). But for recording, Collectors series is the way to go as the sound is more focused and refined, and works well in a studio environment. Great video and really has me thinking about the overall value of the Design series...
I agree. I had a Collector’s Series Kit that was made around the time that they started making their own shells. I could not get the floor or kick drum to sound the way I wanted. I ended up selling them and playing a few different brands of kits. A few years back I picked up a Performance Kit and I much prefer the sound of the Performance kit to my Collectors. I like the straight shells with no reinforcement and the smaller lugs look much better in my opinion.
@@kevinb8527 I did notice that the exotic kit in this demo did not have re-rings. They sounded damn nice! My exotic maple Collectors kit does have re-rings and they focus the attack/sound, still resonate well, but not as open as my Performance series. Finally, I'm a big fan as both Collectors and Performance series are Made in the USA. For me, I support USA made stuff if at all possible. Yeah you can make it cheaper outside of the country, but I do like the Oxnard connection and those kits support American workers...
James Rohl I agree 100%. I much prefer the sound of straight shells rather than shells with re-rings. My collectors kit was built in 2002 which was right at the time that DW started making its own shells. I think it’s known that they had some issues around that time with shells staying in round and I think my floor Tom and kick drum had some issues. No matter what I did as far as tuning on the floor Tom I could not get the “basketball” wobble” boing out. Tons of different head combos, tunings, etc and I couldn’t get rid of it. Some of that I put on the re-rings though.
My performance kit is everything that I wanted out of my collectors kit. Solid even tones with the straight shells and the smaller lugs look and function fantastic. Plus the price point is much better. My kit is in Pewter Sparkle in really good sizes (8x10, 8x12, 12x14, 14x16, 18x22, and 6.5x14). My collectors kit was 9x10, 9x12, 10x13, 14x16, and 18x22 in Blue Diamond Pearl. My Collectors Kit was over twice the price (with no snare). I’ve owned a ton of high end drums (Pearl Masters, Pork Pie Custom, SJC, Gretsch Renown, Custom Keller, DW) and my collectors was one of my least favorite of the bunch. I have friends that have collectors kits that sound phenomenal, I just think there was something wrong with mine. My Performance kit can hold a candle to any of the top end kits I have owned for sure.
@@kevinb8527 Kevin those are cool sizes, especially the shorter 8 x 12 rack tom! My Performance kit is gorgeous ginger glass sparkle wrap (made only for the drum shop where I got them), in 8 x 10, 9 x 12, 12 x 14 floor, 14 x 16 floor, 18 x 22 kick, and 5 1/2 x 14 matching snare. I, like you, have owned many kits (Ludwig , Rogers, Pearl, Tama, Drumcraft acrylic, Crush acrylic). None were are good as my Performance kit! My exotic Collectors series is stunning. Twisted Rainbow lacquer in cool sizes (7 x 10, 8 x 12, 14 x 16 floor, and a cannon 20 x 22" kick, matching 6 x 14 snare). If I were to venture out again, Sonor and Yamaha are the kits that interest me. Sonor has a very musical tone to them, but almost too musical? I mean when you want to rock, your not looking for a xylophone! Yamaha rules the jazz scene and their kits sound great, but if you aren't miking them, they don't resonate as well as DW's. Nothing does IMO, thus I remain a DW guy. But always interested in the art of drum making and new sounds. Most likely going to round out my collection with a set of DW Design acrylics and call it a day...
James Rohl Thanks! Yea the store I worked at when I got my performance kit ordered two kits in the same finish. The other kit had an 8x12 so they let me switch out the 9x12 that I got in my Tom pack with the 8x12 that came in the other. I prefer the sound and the set up height of the shorter toms for sure. Very cool sizes on your collectors kit!
Sonor kits sound incredible but I agree almost too musical. I’d look into a Yamaha kit too, they sound great. I do remember the older YESS mounts choking the drums bad on the bigger sized toms, but they still sounded good. Currently I still have my Performance kit, a SJC Custom Kit (18x24, 8x12, 12x14, 14x16 in red satin), a Pork Pie Custom Kit (18x22, 10x13, 13x16), and a Gretsch Renown (22, 10, 12, 14) that I recently picked up for $400. Couldn’t pass that one up.
Design is the BEST value for money..I have a performance series and it's great..but that DESIGN kit holds its own against the others and I can imagine with the right heads unbelievable!
Totally agree!
100% agree! The Design series for me with Coated Ambassador/Clear Ambassador are incredible sounding drums at a crazy affordable price.
I put Aquariun texture coated on my design series. It sounds incredible.
I got a Design Series kit in Midnight Blue Satin for Christmas two years ago, and last year I bought a Design 14x6.5 Black Nickel Over Brass snare drum that just sounds killer!!!! The best snare I ever heard. It’s basically a less expensive Black Beauty snare (you know, Ludwig?).
I put clear Remo Pinstripes on my Design kit and they sound incredible. Can't recommend them highly enough.
I bought my Collector’s back in 2006 and I swear it sounds better with every year of age. There’s no shortage of amazing kits out there but DW really are something special. You get what you pay for
I had sold my DW a while back. Had it for a good 15 years and noticed right before I sold it that it had gotten better with age. I miss it but I got a Gretsch kit with more versatile sizes so it was a good move to sell it.
i hope that what you are saying is true!!😃 i have a 1997 dw custom made that i played no more than an hour since i got it 10 years ago and i was thinking about selling it but i think i willl leave it in ny basement as a good old wine getting better with ages! thanks for sharing your experience it can help others!!
A Collectors Kit is a masterpiece and like a museum piece. It’s like owning a classic car. Yes, you can buy a stock Yamaha or Gretsch for a cheaper price and still sound awesome and amazing but the unique Collectors has a vibe and it’s a kit fit for a king.
Bought my collectors set in 1998 and its better than the day I bought it.
@William Perri Yes definitely
I have the Design series. I played them for a few minutes and immediately threw away the stock heads and put clear Emperor heads on the top and clear Ambassador heads on the bottom, with PS3's on the front and back of my bass drum. They kick ass. I've played almost everything and for the money they certainly hold their own against most of them. They really are good if you are considering them.
Another great video from DCP! Love the Performance..
Glad you enjoyed it
The Performance Set is the best bang for your buck ! 👍
According to one of the factory employees, the wood on the Performance and Collectors are identical. The disadvantage with the Performance is that you can’t fully customize how many layers of ply you want. If you want exotic wood, you’re likely not able to get that with the Performance. If you’re picky about a certain sound, choose the Collectors. If you feel the Performance does not need modification and it’s fine to your taste, then the Performance will suit your needs.
The performance series suits my taste. Has enough low end, not so long decay. The design snare OMG! Didn't expected that!!!
That design series has allowed so many drummers to finally accomplish their dream of owning a DW without spending their life savings and it’s such a rewarding kit to play and own. I bought mine a couple of years ago, used the stock heads for almost a year and then replaced them with remo powerstroke 4’s clear and was blown away furthermore. I absolutely love that kit.
The only difference is really the cheaper heads I wish they would’ve kept the same heads on all three kits they’re closer than one might think
What I like about DW Tom drums is that they kind of sound “generic”. This is great for blending in with songs.
I own a Performance Series. Heads we do not care about as we change them anyway to suit our needs. Many of us can't afford the cost of the Collector's Series, though they are top of the line. Plus many of us have not played a gig in a long time because of Covid. So in my opinion, any of these lines are great based on your personal budget and skill level! Great job explaining the differences.
best comment i’ve seen
I would get the Collectors series for home studio because the nice finish set functions as furniture. It’s worth it since it should last a lifetime . For playing out live in dive bars, any good quality budget set is fine
Now this is a great video !!
Thank you for taking the time to do this and also show casing the actual sound of the drums not just the snare and cymbals.
Have a great day guys. stay safe and thanks again.
Please do the same thing with the Sonor Series (SQ1, Vintage, ProLite, SQ2). Great Video :)
+aq1 + aq2
UP
Was looking for this 4 years ago! great job.
Glad you liked it!
You guys are great. And very informative without beating around the bush to much. Keep on going.
Having owned and played a Collector's Series kit for 10 years, the thing that no one seems to talk about is the durability. You can pound on a Collector's Series kit night after night for years on end and there will be no appreciable wear in any part of the drums. Of course, the sound is awesome, and the tuning range is huge, but it's the quality of construction and materials that (to me) is where the best bang for the buck is. BUT, because of this, they are HEAVY. I finally had to sell it off because I'm too old to carry them down and up the stairs to my 4th floor apartment every time I have a gig. LOL!!
Yes I bought Mapa Burl 2002 birthday and have little wear noticeable 20 years later. John Good is in a class by himself and continues to amaze. DW is the best players friendly beauty brains and brawn drums out there. Cut costs on girls not drums.
Durability? You're saying the other series would fall apart?
I noticed the older I get the lighter I want me gear to be! Great commentary!
Ive had the design kit for almost a year now and I replaced the heads right away. Man what a difference.
The bass drum is a straight cannon.
I've got a Evans eq4 on the batter side and custom print Aquarian on the reso side with no port and minimal muffling. Everybody raves about how great that kick drum sounds. I'm an amateur musician and I know this DW kit will last me the rest of my life. Great build quality for the money. I got the four piece shell pack for 899. Can't beat it except with a stick. Love my DW kit.
Eq4 is my favourite bass head
What’s your thought on the design kit right now after playing it for some time? I’m considering getting the design kit instead of performance or collectors. Also, which heads would you recommend for the toms?
@@KyleLe I still love the kit and it sounds better than ever as I've learned to tune it I have frosted Evans and clear resos on toms. The finish has held up well and no hardware problems at all. Though there are a few imperfections in my piano black finish.
I've averaged around 16 to 20 hours a week playing time for the almost three years I've had them and I would recommend them to anyone. The guys I'm playing with praise them and we're just a about ready to gig.
I’ve got a Workshop Series kit from the early 2000’s. They were the original entry level DW kit back then and for less then $1,500 they sound great. I’ve had so many complements on their sound over the years that I can certainly see why they were discontinued because in some instances they sound as good if not better then the Collector series! Other then esthetic where the Collector series can be works of art I couldn’t justify spending 4x as much because the difference in sound just isn’t there!
All sound pretty good. Good representation of how good quality heads truly make a difference.
Design series all the way!
They’re all good. When you buy DW, you can relax and know that you have quality.
@@ramencurry6672 BAHAHAHA...OVERPRICED CRAP
@@harryballsacky I'm guessing you don't own any DW drums? You wouldn't be saying that otherwise. Nobody who owns a set of DWs says that.
In 2009 we played a gig at the
Viper Room for a certain celeb's b-day, the house kit is and has been a DW Collectors series. And as Shane said, when you play one you immediately understand why the price is in the $5700 and up range. However, from 2005-2012 the Arambula family in those years had 4 family members that had been working for DW in some cases upwards of 31yrs. The quality control was of the utmost top shelf craftsmanship and this family took pride in their work. Basically what I'm saying is during those years a lot of the collectors series kits or jazz series as well as the classics series are so sought after during that time. A used 5-piece basic configuration collectors series during that time. Right now, if you could find one used will go upwards of ten Grand, again that's IF you can find one. As always great video. And you guys know you have the best drum channel on the internet. It's pretty much common knowledge 😁
Thanks guys 🥁🤘
Thanks, Bobby. We appreciate you.
Wow. Only subtle differences in sound from a price difference of 5400$$$ top to bottom! Keeping in mind that the design series had cheap china heads on the toms. obviously the collectors sounded the best, but the design was a close second..save a LOT of moolah and get some wicked cymbals and hardware. value for dollar...DING DING! DW Design
True. The Design or even a cheaper brand can be amazing on recordings. I’m pretty sure a lot of hit songs were recorded with just modest level drum kits. And commonly on songs, you kind of want drums to sound bland so they don’t interfere with the song. If you’re a touring drummer, expensive is usually better because of better build quality. If it’s just for studio work, a budget kit can work fine.
I didn’t like the cheapest set… The middle set sounded great immediately! It wasn’t just that I know it’s cheap you can hear it if you are a musician. The collectors is really Beautiful to look at! The sound of the Collectors is much better and deeper and richer in tone. I would love ❤️ to buy them but I would be happy with the performance and would never 👎 buy the cheapest ones! I’m too old for cheap drums!
@@frankdaguanno4667 Yeah... Eric Moore used DW Design on the world tour with Eros Ramazzotti, but your ear is too refined for that and you don't accept anything under $5k in your practice room
A really useful video. One aspect I didn’t notice were the True Pitch tuning rods, Collectors shells with pitch designation, mounts, different constructions on the tome woods, etc. I’ve owned the Performance series for some and built a drum bank with them. Currently I’m using Evans Hydraulic head and an EMAD2 Extra heavy on the Bass drum and they sound incredible. Design series are made in China/ Taiwan so the real cost is not in the lugs, but in the labor.
All sounded good, and what I heard was more and more girth, low mids, as you moved from Design, to Performance to Collectors.
Also, thank you for making these comparison videos, they must take a lot of effort to make, and I am for sure thankful for it!
I’d rather see an extra floor Tom rather than the matching snare with any of these sets. I ALWAYS loved the mini turret lugs but the 1/4 lugs are also a nice size.
I liked the Performance series.
i prefered the performance series. they sound better than the collector's series to my ears. i see no reasons of buying a collector's series unless you want the prestige and the more numerous options above anything else.
Been waiting for this mashup for a long time!!!
Although they all sounded good, I was partial to the Collector's. And when Tony said how the feel of those drums was so different that confirmed it. We as drummers focus on sound, but that can be manipulated with different heads, tuning, etc. The feel of a drum I think is inherent to the drum and for the most part can't be (or would be difficult) to change. I did like the finish and "middle sized" lugs on The Performance Series.
Totally Dan, the feel is often overlooked because you can't demonstrate that, but it is SUPER important!
The metal , rubber and plastic added to D.W. drums due to the tom mount
Spoils the look of the drums
I know the lungs are iconic and so unmistakable dw but I personally think they’re hideous.
@@clayfoster8234 I never warmed up to the round lug look either.
Nice recording and mixing. All the drums really sound great.
Thanks so much Greg!!
I totally get why you left the factory heads on the design kit, but I’d love to hear an A/B between the design series and performance series with the same heads.
Yup. Likely impossible to tell them apart in that scenario.
@@bakedalaska4363 I was thinking the same and selling more of the design kits would be the result. Lol
I'd get the design series, I really like those little lugs and finishes.
The different lines just sound different, not better than each other, to me.
I love my DW Design series. To me you can’t beat the value for that price.
Brother, I gotta agree with ya!!! I have a Design Series kit in Midnight Blue Satin.
David McAninch that’s the same one I have! Love that finish!
Top Down Drumming well, well, we’ll!!!!!! Awesome!!!! It’s like that Disney song goes
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small, small, world
Everybody now!!!!!
Top Down Drumming well, well, well!!!! So it is!!! It’s like that song from Walt Disney:
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small world after all
It’s a small, small world
Everybody now!!!
Thanks for doing this comparison. Your comment about the DW kits' difference in "feel" is spot-on. I think that feel is hard to explain. It must be experienced. My first kit was a Tama Swingstar, an entry-level kit. It sounded okay after putting mylar ring suppressors on the stock heads. A few years later I upgraded to a Tama Starclassic Birch/Bubinga kit in dark cherry fade. My immediate impression was it "wanted" to be played and I was drawn to do so. Not surprisingly, the Starclassics sounded much better than the Swingstar. But for me, it was the feel that really made the difference between them.
It would also be interesting to see you do a blindfold test when comparing kits. It's easy to get drawn in by the "look" of a kit. In other words, do we subconsciously think a kit sounds better because it looks better? It would be hard, at least for me, to sit behind that beautiful DW exotic Collectors kit and not just rationalize that it sounds better than the others. "Better" is very subjective.
Finally, I think this comparison will answer many questions for prospective buyers and/or for those of us generally interested in drum gear. I know it did for me. I've never understood the differences among the DW lines. This video explained them well. To that point, if you haven't done so already I would recommend doing a similar video for other lines you carry.
The green color collection series is beautiful and closer to what I can afford. Definitely interested.
Great video!! You demonstrated and discussed all the points I was hoping for. I really hear a drastic difference w the Collector’s Series. It sounds like 2 levels up from the Performance Series to me.
I’ve played all these myself as well, got to visit the factory in Oxnard. It was amazing!!
Oh my goodness I can't believe that Adam has a mr. Bungle California t-shirt God bless you!!!!!!!!!!!
Gracias!
i have the design series black satin,which you can get add on toms.I added the 8" rack and 14" floor tom. Changed the heads to Remo coated ambassador. The drums sound just as good as the Performance series!
Would be interesting to hear how the PDP Concept stacks up with these, particularly with the Design series (maybe performance too). Cause to my ears, the best move is PDP Concept, and then upgrade straight to collectors after.
I’d definitely go with the performance series
All three are great kits. I personally own the performance series.
The design is a great house kit for a churches, clubs etc....
The performance series is an awesome overall and touring kit.
The collectors series is an awesome studio kit. Id put the collectors series right up there with the Yamaha Recording Custom.
really great comparison, especially the head to head at the end, thanks for this!
Glad you liked it!
Mr. Bungle California my all time favorite album!
So good.
I truly appreciate this DW comparison review. It helped me choose my first DW drum set purchase. I selected the Design series and I am truly pleased with the aesthetics, craftsmanship, and tone of this instrument! Although it is the entry level of Drum Workshop, I do not feel that they manufactured an inferior product that lacks the integrity of their name! I appreciate being able to purchase a new DW percussion ensemble that is within my budget! Thank you again for this video!👍🥁
The bass drum of the collectors series booms the best! That was thunderous
I play dw drums collector’s exotic for 16 years,the sound is very good!!!
Would love to see a video with all the Tama lines. I know they’ve done separate videos of all the Tama drums but would love to see them back to back comparisons in one video. Imperialstar, Silverstar, superstar classic, supertar hyperdrive, Starclassic lines, Star lines
I have had a Performance series 7 pc kit for 10 years now and have been have loved the toms and kick (i sold the snare, I just don't like their throw-off). I took the 10" Performance tom with the same head and tuning and compared it to the Collector 10" same head and tuning. They were very very close in feel and tonal quality, just different not better. The Performance tom had a little less pure bottom, while the Performance had more low mids so it tended to be more up front in it's projection. I couldn't justify the Collectors much higher cost for what excellent quality sound and versatility I get from either coated or clear heads on my Performance series.
Another great video. You guys are great at these comparision videos.
No doubt collector's series is the best
Thank you for the positive feedback and glad you like them!
In my personal opinion and have owned a 7 piece collectors kit, the Design series has the same feel, same warmth, same volume, projection and power and near same tones. the only difference I can personally see is the customization restrictions on the Design series(being a factory line) and the glamorous hardware the Collectors series has which real does nothing for the sound quality(maybe the tuning). so my personal opinion is go for Design series if you cant afford Collectors.
Great video, I really like the look of the Performance, those smaller lugs make it look a bit more modern than the classic Collectors. Sounds incredible too for the price.
Thanks for watching!
I'd love this same comparison w/ all of the same heads on them. It would be even closer! Tom sounds FOR ME are negligible ... I heard a difference in the Collectors Snare, and bass, but really, that was it .... great video as always
I have the SSC collectors series with one up ,two down. 12,14,16, 14×6.5 black chrome over brass snare, 22×18 bass drum. Love the deep tones and punch they have . Gives me what I want from my kit.
I have the Performance Series since 2011. They have a beautiful tone and tune and hold tune well. I since added an 8-inch chrome snare but I still like the HVX 11 ply snare that came with the kit. I use both. The Collector's Series demonstrated here sounds a bit warmer and a tighter sound. Less drift. I'd like to own a Collector's Series as well. Maybe someday. Cheers everybody!
Two more points. The Design series also have acrylic shells. The Collector’s have a host of wood layers (acoustic veneers) to choose from.
I F L my design series acrylics. I'm a metal drummer and I can tell you that the musicality and projection is absolutely phenominal.
I have a design series kit, and its honestly the best kit I've played. For the price nothing comes close.
Collectors no doubt
Bought a collector's gold glass Last week....
Beleive it or not.... The kit was in the shop since 2008 and was not played.....
This kit was waiting for me !!!!
With drums, most people hear them with their eyes!
Well said !
Yes they do
Thank y’all! I’ve always wanted to hear exactly that. I guess I’ll be saving up and selling my design ones. Great job.
This was a great comparison video, thank you guys. I have been trying to understand DWs line for a while now. From what I can tell from the videos it seems the drums get deeper (/darker? not sure what the proper term might be) as you go up in value. I am planning on getting a Collector's series but I have to agree with most folks here that the Design has the nicest snare sound. Thanks for the video, this was awesome!
The Design has the best, fattest snare sound hands down!
After buying my first Camco chain drive bass drum pedal I have been enamored with doing research and playing everything DW makes. I met John Good several times and he is so down to earth.
I love your youTube name! :)
@@dr.p3637God bless you
Good comparison thanks. IMHO I would include open double and single stroke rolls on the snare and some double pedal on the bass. 🙂
I have a Design series and think it is the best choice,. It sounds great with some good heads and tuning. if micing you can make it sound even better. so best bang for buck.
As far as heads go, that's never been a deal breaker for me. Typically a new set of heads is in the car with my new drums. So yes DW, cut costs there!
The Performance kit sounded very close to the Collector's kit in terms of fullness. If I had my choice, I'd buy a Performance series kit and save money.
The performance series is collectors shells
@@AMDpc067 yes they are! The only difference is customization. Performance are only available as they come. You simply choose what is offered. Performance quality and sound is equal to Collectors.
The Collectors will have better durability with more robust metal parts. It’s fit for a king. Either way, you can make Grammy award winning records with any decent drum kit that’s capable enough to blend in with the songs.
I own 3 Collector's drumsets (Pure Maple, Cherry and Exotic Rosewood) and 1 Performance. At the end of the day you can't tell them apart, once they are recorded and mixed with music.
In my opinion with Collector's drumsets you are mainly paying for how it looks.
They all sound great except the collector's series kit because that's incredibly awesome
Value for dollar has to be the first kit... might not be everyone’s favorite but it is the correct answer. The kits do sound very, very similar yet they range in price like $5500
This weekend I’m acquiring my DW Performance Series kit. Actually the same finish and sizes as the one showcased here.
Awesome comparison video, I’m definitely exited about what will be my new kit.
I own the special edition 3 piece and a Mini- Pro. Both sound amazing. From this video, especially in the head to head, there is almost no noticeable difference in the toms between the design and performance series. The kicks just get lower in each series, But personally, I liked the performance series kick and snare the best. These are great, very accurate, comparison videos! Great job guys, keep ‘em coming! Watching drum videos right now is the only thing keeping me sane admits all the chaos in the world!!! You guys rock! 🤘🏻😎🤘🏻
To each his own. I played Ludwig and then played Tama for a number of years and then got a DW collectors kit a few years back. At times my body would hurt after long gigs with the Tama and when I gigged with my DW my body felt so much better the next day. I play hard and the DW works with me rather than against me in my opinion. Great kit!
9:58 Is that badge not level?!!
good eye
I noticed it as well. It's slightly low on the left side.
I think you're right, everything else seems level save for the badge! Maad Props on The Eagle Eye Bro!!
First of all you guys are awesome! These videos are so helpful when shopping the market for kits! Especially when there isn’t a store near you that has one for you to sit behind and play.
Secondly, as far as the comparisons go…Assuming the same EQ & Compression settings were applied to the audio after the recording - the Design Series wins for me. Even with the stock heads. They had a very clean sounding tone with nice attack to them that wouldn’t need much EQ’ing to make it sit nicely in a mix. The Performance and Collectors series kits had an unpleasant low-mid resonance to them that would most likely need to be scooped a bit in order to not muddy the mix and bring out the attack better so it can poke through a dense mix better. I think if you put some better 2-ply heads on that Design Series it will definitely wake it it up in an even better way than it already is. Also, there are a bunch of “add-ons” you can buy for the design series kits. if you wanted additional drums like an 18” floor, you could add that. You can also purchase a Black Nickel over Brass snare in a 14” x 5.5” as well as a 14” x 6.5”. Also concert Toms, a pancake drum and a bunch of other add-ons. They’re all listed on DW’s website.
Glad you find them helpful! Yes, the same settings are used for all 3 kits.
Another Awesome Video!!
I own a Collector’s Series and love them!!
They are all Great Sounding Drums
#1 The Bright & Openness Sound of the Design Series would be Great for a Pop Rock style of Music. “Chilly Peppers”
#2 The Performance Series Are Quite the same as the Design Series but with more Volume and overtone which would be Great for all types of Heavier Rock Music. “ZZ Top”
#3 The Collector’s Series are Warmer Sounding and have a Richer Sound, Round & Controlled, best suited for the Studio. “Toto”
Thanks for the Work Guys 🎶🥰👍🥁
Thanks so much Marc!
@@drumcenternh You’re Very Welcome!
Happy New Year 🎊
@Drum Center of Portsmouth Excellent video again. Please, an aluminum snare shootout including the Tama Starphonic and the British Aviator. Pretty please. LOL
And the Dunnett aluminum ... And maybe a Pearl too ...
@@jasonb2180 Pile on guys! Let's make this happen!!
Great suggestion! It is definitely on our list of videos to do, may have to move it up the list!
@@drumcenternh Thank you! Really waiting for this one.
Could you guys do this with Gretsch? I've wanted to see a good video comparing the new Renown series to USA custom specifically for a long time.
It came down to design series or Gretsch renown for me. I bought the dw set.
@@justinlee2268 I have the Renown 13" 16" 24" configuration. Found them for a really good deal (floor model, $600). INCREDIBLE drums for the price.
I would love to see that too.
I'm fortunate enough to own a Renown (RN2) and a Design Series kit. Both sets are fantastic.
I have both a Collector series (custom order) and a Performance series kit. I love them both. I prefer the Collector Series kit for live and the Performance for my praise service on Sundays. I guess I need a Design series for throw down gigs. DAMN YOU DWW!!!!!
That Collectors snare drum was money! But to my ears the Performance series toms sounded fuller and more powerful.
I just bought a Design Series kit replacing the original DW kit that I bought in '97. They sound fantastic!
You hear the difference in tone from Design to Performance pretty much instantly. Probably a good idea to replace the tom heads if you buy the Design kit.
....Monkey Pod. 333. Would like to hear a Santa Monica kit put through Shane's paces one of these days. Cheers!
Best sound: Collectors Series
Best Price/Performance: Performance Series
If you can save the money, the Performance kit is hard to beat. I've enjoyed every Perf kit I had the chance to play. And you get different sizes, like an 18" floor, if you don't care for 14" floors, and a 14x24 bass drum.
That Collector's Series is probably one of the nicest kits I have ever heard. Sure, I've always liked DW and known they were good but was never blown away by them...but I completely get it now.
It sounded closer to the 90”s dw when they used Keller’s shells before they started making their own , if you like that sounding shell just check out some other custom shop kits that still use Keller’s shells like SJC , Truth , or pork pie , if your into that sounding shell you’ll love the aforementioned
You get that from this video?
Thanks for the great video!
I had the privilege to spy on a huge production where the drum tech prepared a mix of DW Custom Jazz (Maple/Gum?) and Design drums. If I remember correctly 8+10 concert toms and 18 floor were Design, 12 (or 13?) tom, 16 floor, gong and bass drum Custom. Snares were Custom Edge and something I can't remember. Brilliant setup, spot on for the project!
PS: I still get either nightmares or wet dreams from that freakin' gong drum...
For me, the Collectors sounded the best overall but that's expected. However, .... I wouldn't go to the Performance Series if I had to choose between those and the Design Series. Bang for your buck for a DW product .... I'd stay w/the Design series if size options weren't a big deal to you.
Design snare did sound pretty sweet but love that collectors kit hands down
The collector’s kit can get you some of the finest cream of the crop wood. The champagne of wood. It’s for kings The Design is great too and capable of giving you home runs and audience cheers.
Very good video thank you gentlemenYou have a class a number one store and I love the comparisons as I am a collector series owner great drums
Diference:
Design - 3:29
Performance - 7:17
Collectors - 10:51
That performance series just sounds so good…
I had the collectors series and was sad the day I sold them for an electronic kit. But the performance set sounds really really good!
Nah, I got much more bang for my bucks with a used 7-piece Yamaha Maple Custom Absolute. Sold off the DW Collector kit and bought a second 6-piece YMCA kit. All for less than my 5-piece Collectors kit. I'm an Evans Coated skins on top and Ambassador Clears on the bottom guy. The Yamaha's gave me a much wider tuning range and longer sustain, especially on the lower end without going flat and muddy than the DW's Gotta give it to DW, they're much prettier. But my ears are the final judge, not my eyes. Great presentation, DCP!
Great video...thank you. I thought I had a good tuning of my collector's to get a good sound. But I really thought your collector's sounded great. I know tuning videos are dime a dozen. But it would be great to get your tricks and secrets in a tuning video especially re that collector's kit setup.
Thanks Joe! It's something we may do in the future, though we would want to do it in a way that is different than the hundreds and thousands of videos out there!
Made in the U.S.A still means something and The small step in sound is worth it to me .
The step up in sound between the Design and Performance kits is pretty much all due to the heads. Why pay $1100 more when $150 in new heads will do the trick?
I own a collector series 6 piece kit, and a performance series 4 piece kit, with a 24” bass drum and 13” rack tom..
The performance series has that 70’s rock sound, due to the sizes.
Both are great kits.
I liked the snare with the 3 position tension bracket on my collectors kit, so i ordered it for my performance series snare.
We play out a lot and the 4 piece kit is quicker and easier to transport to gigs!
With powered subwoofers, the 24” kick shakes the neighborhood!
I like how you guys provide sound samples with both full mix and room mics. That's helpful cause most drummers are going to take a kit home and play them at room level and only mic them up for recording or live performances. I do however wish you would have provided more in depth info on the shell construction. There is a difference. Collectors series shells are thicker and use re rings or reinforcement hoops. Performance series are a bit thinner and do not have re rings. I'm not sure about the Design series. This affects how the drums are going to sound. I have two DW kits. A Workshop series kit from 1998 which was very similar to the Performance series that DW manufactured for a few years. Same shells as the Collectors, slightly different hardware, limited sizes and finishes. The big difference.. no re rings. My other kit is a Collector with re rings. They sound very different. The Collectors are tighter and more focussed, the Workshop series actually resonates a bit more and has a bit more bottom end.
Somehow I liked design series more than performance. But collectors.... damn