The Drummer's Vinyl Paradigm Shift: Drums vs. Cymbals

For many drummers, the evolution of their equipment is a fascinating journey. Drummers often find themselves questioning the consistency and variety in their instruments. A common conversation flows around whether a drummer would use a lot of different brands for their drums but stick with one brand for cymbals. Let's explore why this phenomenon occurs, and the reasons behind the preferences and practices that shape a drummer's setup.

H1: Drum and Cymbal Preferences in the Drummer's Universe

At the heart of a drum set are the cymbals, which are the most personal and essential components of a drummer's arsenal. Many drummers have a strong emotional attachment to their cymbals, often making them the centerpiece of their setup. Some drummers even stick with a single brand for the entirety of their career, considering cymbals as lifelong companions. Contrastingly, drums are frequently part of a complete kit that is often purchased and maintained as a unit, making it less common for drummers to stick with one brand throughout their setup.

H2: A Case for Multibrand Drums: The Phantom Phenomenon

It’s often the case that drummers opt for drums from the same manufacturer, while their cymbal selection often involves a mix of different brands. This phenomenon can largely be attributed to the nature of the drum kits and cymbals.

Drum sets are typically purchased as a cohesive unit, designed with a unified set of sounds in mind. Most drummers invest in a full kit from a single brand, ensuring a consistent and balanced sound. Cymbals, on the other hand, offer so much versatility in terms of style, weight, and tone that a single brand may not cover every requirement. It’s like mixing and matching ingredients to create the perfect dish; a versatile kit of cymbals can lead to a more tailored and nuanced sound. Cymbals from different brands can fill in gaps, add color, and enhance the overall performance, much like addingMSG to a recipe for that extra boost of flavor.

H2: Frankenkits and Jellybean Kits: The Creativity of Mixing and Matching

Several drummers choose to construct their kits as a mosaic of different manufacturers. These setups are often referred to as frankenkits or jellybean kits, named after the concept of combining various parts from different sources. Such setups can be seen as a personal expression of a drummer’s artistic vision—an amalgamation of different elements that come together to form a unique and powerful whole. These kits are a testament to the drummer's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional setups. They can be unpredictable, innovative, and highly individualized.

The term "Frankenkits" originated from the video game 1979 Revolution, where players could combine parts from different units to create custom weapons. This concept was adapted to the world of drums, where drummers began mixing and matching cymbals, sticks, and other equipment to create their own unique sound. A "jellybean kit" is a playful term that imagines a kit filled with cymbals from different brands like a bowl of candy, each with its unique flavor and texture.

H2: Embracing the Variegated Setup: The Benefits of a Mixed Palette

Using a variety of brands for drums and sticking to a single brand for cymbals opens up a world of possibilities for drummers. It allows for a more personalized sound, catering to individual preferences and musical styles. Just as a painter can choose a mix of brushes to create a unique masterpiece, drummers can harness the strengths of different brands to craft their perfect setup.

By sticking with one cymbal brand, drummers can ensure a consistent and cohesive sound, which is crucial for tight and polished performances. Conversely, the diverse selection of drums can add depth and variation, creating a versatile kit that can adapt to different genres and playing styles. This approach not only satisfies the musician's creative desire but also ensures impeccable sound quality and longevity for the instruments.

Conclusion

In the realm of drumming, the choice between sticking with one brand or mixing and matching between different brands is a matter of personal preference and creative expression. While preferences may vary, the approach of using a single cymbal brand and a variety of drum brands can lead to a setup that is both personal and versatile. Whether it’s through a traditional setup or a creative frankenkits approach, the journey of evolving a drum kit is about finding the perfect balance between sound and individuality. As drumming continues to evolve, so too will the drummer’s quest for the ideal setup, making every setup a story waiting to be told.