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Fitting heads to gretsch round badge

Posts: 308 Threads: 27

This is probably addressed elsewhere but I couldn't locate the info.

I'm looking for advice on fitting modrern heads to my gretsch round badge drums. I have two sets. The 12" tom on one will not accept any of the modern heads I've tried. In fact the only heads that seem to fit are the originals, which I still have amazingly! I have previously had a remo ambassador and a slingerland calf on each side. The were pretty much forced on. I want something that will fit less violently. The wrap is coming up at the seem but not bubbling. I'd like to glue the wrap back on and get some good heads on both sides. I took the drum to Buffalo Drum Outlet yesterday and tried everything that he had in single ply coated, which is my preference. This included ambassador, fiberskyn, Aquarians modern vintage, Evans (both the traditional and the new 360) and even a clear newer gretsch, which I suspect is an Evans because of the way it fit. Evans heads will go on better than the others but not as good as the original permatones. The fiberskyn a were easier to force on than the rest Paul Musili (BDO Proprietor) ordered Aquarian American vintage for me. If that fails I'm not sure where to go.

I've heard of trimming the wrap at the edge and in fact this was suggested by Nodar Rode. I'm not interested in doing that. Also read about using a dermal tool to reduce the width of the collar. I wonder if this weakens the integrity of the head though. I'd appreciate any help solving this problem.

Thanks in advance,

John

Posted on 10 years ago
#1
Posts: 10714 Threads: 579

John due to gretsch having oversized shells, This is a common problem with roundbadge era. you can cut the drum head collars this will allow the heads to fit, also remo custom makes over sized heads. you have to special order them, they only due this twice a year, I've done it several times for my radio kings, and my 50's gretsch kit, etc. If you catch remo at the right time the wait isn't that long.

Your drummers not much good is he!? What you need is someone that's as good as me. ! John Henry Bonham !!
Posted on 10 years ago
#2
Posts: 2010 Threads: 19

Have you tried one of the new Evans 360 heads?

They are reputed to fit troublesome RB Gretsch drums. I have some of those heads (which I like) but haven't yet tried one on a RB drum.

Oops, rereading your post more carefully I see that you have tried them.

The odd thing is that this problem does not seem to happen with all RB drums. Either there was some slight variation in the sizes of the shells, or else heads must vary to a degree. I have round badge drums where it's nearly impossible to get any head on and others that will accept almost any head.

Posted on 10 years ago
#3
Posts: 6170 Threads: 255

I'd be surprised if that Aquarian American Vintage doesn't fit for you. I have an early 20's 5x15 Leedy in which I was having troubles with tight heads. That same head you mentioned fit wonderfully on mine.

Mike

Posted on 10 years ago
#4
Posts: 2713 Threads: 555

Yes - as Mike says - surprising the Aquarian MV don't fit. I have a 58 Gretsch kit that all modern heads I've tried do not fit with exception of the Aquarian MV head - it fits perfectly.

An aside - Gretsch is trimming back the wrap on modern shells as well! I ordered a Custom USA 3pc in 2011 and the Champagne Sparkle wrap is trimmed back. I was very surprised as I thought the shells would have been 'Custom' made to allow the finish to the bearing edges. I was not happy with only that aspect of the buildout - everything else is beautiful.

Posted on 10 years ago
#5
Posts: 6170 Threads: 255

I don't think he has tried them yet Gary. I think he mentioned they were ordered.

Mike

Posted on 10 years ago
#6
Posts: 308 Threads: 27

Yes I ordered the American vintage. I'm hoping they fit. I think that possibly the champagne sparkle is thicker than other wraps. Also wondering if when I re glue the seam if I clean out some of the old residue that may help a little. Looking at the wrap seam, you can see the extra distance it adds and there is a clear space where the wrap isn't doubled over.

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Posted on 10 years ago
#7
Posts: 308 Threads: 27

I don't know if these photos help at all the first one (above) is the new Evans 360. The second is the permatone. The Evans fits but the drum is choked. The permatone actually sounds ok considering it is over 50 years old.

I have two sets. This drum is from an 18, 12, 14 with a matching wood snare. The other is 22, 16, 13, 12 with matching wood snare. This drum is the only one that won't take modern heads.

Thanks everyone for your knowledge and interest.

John

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Posted on 10 years ago
#8
Posts: 1362 Threads: 229

Notch the drum heads. I did that on a few of my Gretsch RB kits I played hard rock and punk. So under some extreme playing not an issue at all. Like others said some Gretsch drums from the RB era are larger than others.

Manny

Sonor SQ2 10 14 18 American Walnut
L.A. Camco 12 14 18 Moss Green
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 18 w/snare Champagne
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 20 w/snare Burgundy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhdcpleTKlI

82nd ABN DIV OEF OIF Combat Infantry Veteran
Posted on 10 years ago
#9
Posts: 308 Threads: 27

How do you notch the heads Manny? Is this the same as cutting the collar vintagemore2000?

Posted on 10 years ago
#10
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