So, you've been looking for an original '60s Ludwig kit in the Downbeat sizes (20/12/14) for some time when one shows up in the local area. You contact the seller and make the drive out to see it "up close and personal". The three pieces obviously need a good cleaning and polishing but you don't see any extra holes in any of the shells nor have any of the prior owners made any type of visible modifications. The kit's also in one of your favorite (original) sparkle wraps. Everything seems to be sound, both functionally and cosmetically speaking, until you take a close look at the interior shell of the bass drum. The two attached pics address that condition. Now, picture yourself being an "old geezer" with minimal to no repair skills, especially in this particular area. Would you still consider purchasing the kit, regardless of this condition? And, if so, where would you draw the line price-wise? Thanks in advance for any and all feedback.
Would you "pull the trigger"? Last viewed: 4 hours ago
I would buy it but only if I could get a super deal. As long as you play it and it appears no further damage will occur. Why not? I'd see how low the seller will go. If $400 or under I would buy it.
It may not have any effect on the sound, but you will always know that it is there. If that was the only issue, I may be able to get over it, but the deal would have to make sense. The 14x14 would probably be worth $400 plus. How much are they asking? I would give the bass drum minimal if any value. So, $400 for the floor tom, $150 for the rack tom and $50 for the bass drum. I'd go $600.
There's a repair I have that I can school u in sorry for the pun on words a abatron products
66/67 downbeat with canister
Super 400 small round knob
1967 super classic obp
once the brass ceases to glitter, and the drum looses its luster, and the stage remains dark, all you have left is the timbre of family.
i agree with Larry. id buy it at the right price. i think it could be repaired.
Robyn
Does this particular kit happen to be green sparkle?
It may not have any effect on the sound, but you will always know that it is there. If that was the only issue, I may be able to get over it, but the deal would have to make sense. The 14x14 would probably be worth $400 plus. How much are they asking? I would give the bass drum minimal if any value. So, $400 for the floor tom, $150 for the rack tom and $50 for the bass drum. I'd go $600.
I could apparently get the kit for $700, although the listed asking price is higher than that.
There's a repair I have that I can school u in sorry for the pun on words a abatron products
I actually enjoy the "play on words", thanks.
Nope. I've never actually seen an original Downbeat kit in green sparkle. I would assume that they're extremely rare.
You have to think of resale though even though you want to keep it. Your heirs may be dealing with it someday. Why not give them a chance to make some money? :)
- Share
- Report