Sound Pure's Take

In rare instances, we are able to offer price drops on boutique items, often in partnership with a manufacturer - this is a rare opportunity for a kit we really love, and a deal you really shouldn't pass up.

We were thoroughly impressed to find the attack on these drums to be round with incredible sustain and only moderate decay. Not only did we find the sound large, but also smooth and quite musical – the kind of sonic texture you want out of a top-caliber vintage kit, but without the cost and risks associated with owning one. In many ways, this is the best of both worlds – a dreamy vintage sound coupled with the pragmatic approach associated with new construction from one of today's top boutique builders. Perhaps more impressive is the way that C&C has been able to maintain price-point accessibility and the build quality we at Sound Pure have come to expect to the short-run, smaller production outfits that inspire our personal playing.

Gladstone drum shells are the product of decades of vintage drum restoration from the people at C&C Drums. Using their knowledge of vintage shells, they created these unique and vintage-inspired instruments. Their standard maple shell contains over 30% more wood than a typical 8-ply Keller maple shell. This means more durability, and it is a key component to this tone-machine's magical vintage sonic reproduction.

In our extensive testing, we found that the toms performed extremely well in multiple tuning ranges with single- or two-ply heads, and have incredible rebound. C&C is rather known for their tuning range and versatility among professional players, and we agree wholeheartedly. The shallow bass drum has a fantastic definition but it too can be softened, for greater dynamic expression.

We love this Satin Walnut finish – it is both classic and subtle. Just gorgeous. Players who find themselves yearning for vintage sounds but don't want to sacrifice build quality should give the Gladstone Series from C&C Drums a listen. Call us to discuss our personal experience with the entire C&C setup, or even establishing a "Try Before You Buy" free trial in your own studio. We know you will be as impressed as we were.

 

From C&C Custom Drums

With thicker cuts than the industry standard, our Maple ply configuration is a refined version of the shell construction that put us on the map. The Gladstone series features 7 plies of North American Rock Maple, our single-ended Deco Lug and proprietary Bread and Butter bearing edge. This edge allows for a more open and resonant tone. It also promotes more body than what is typical of a modern maple shell, making for a very musical and versatile sound.

C&C Gladstone Big Beat Drum Set Features: 

  • C&C single-ended Deco lug
  • 2.3mm Triple Flanged Hoops
  • Modern “Telescoping” spurs
  • Die-cast bass drum claws
SHELL PACK INCLUDES:
14x22 Bass , 8x12 Tom , 14x16 Floor Tom

Free 3-Year Warranty

Sound Pure stands behind our products. Free three-year warranty on this item. Coverage exclusions live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.

Level of support and expertise that simply isn't available at big-box megastores. Read the warranty →

Returns

Try Before You Buy: 48-hour audition. Program details →

Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.