Hi Michael,

I have a set of the Bonham reissue amber vistalites. They definitely do not have a short decay. They are super lively sounding drums that ring and ring and ring (in fact, I think they are still ringing from this past weekends gig) :) .

I also practice with a 70's red vista owned by my guitarist. The 70's kit has a shorter decay, but, to be fair, also has thicker heads that dampen the overtones (Super 2's I think). The shell sizes also differ between the kits (22" vs 26" bass for example) making comparisons a little difficult. Anyway, they both sound great, just different. I have a feeling that you could probably achieve most of the sound you're looking for, even with the modern kits, with the right set of heads.

Good luck in your search. Would love to hear what you decide to do.

James

the way the shells were made in the 70's vs today are kinda different.the edges weren't that great back then and the shell thickness varied around the shell (again due to the time frame)

however today's shells also have a little thickness issue as well but its still 1,000 times better then the 70's shells.i'm a ludwig guy but not a pro when it comes to vistas.i'm also refering to the aftermarket shells were it was more noticable.though they also supply shells to ludwig,i think ludwig's q.c. is very strict.

i used to work for a guy who worked for ludwig so i can atleast state the above.i also used to work at a indie drum co,and we used to re-cut the 70's edges all the time cause they weren't that great to begin with,or someone wanted a different edge or just cleaned up,etc...we also make acrylic kits.

as for sound,everything makes a difference from: the edges,shell depth,hdwr,

heads,hoops,etc...

I like the 70s vistalites sound better then the newer ones.I have alot of the 70s sets [12 in all] sizes of the toms are from 10" up to 20" floor toms.bass drum sizes are from 20" up to 28"..I had to re-cut all the edges at the shop to get a better sound out of them...Heads will make or brake the sounding of the drums..I used Remo P.S on all the drums...Great drums to play outside!!! Mikey

Hey Michael, I see you found one of the places that I hang at for vintage drum info! Welcome

Steve Traversi

The '70's Ludwig Stainless Steel drums have the "in your face" attack and little sustain sound. They also sell for about what vintage vistalite sell for.

Well that's awfully funny because My Stainless Steel kit Sounds nothing like what you just described and, please show me where the vistalite and stainless steel kits are selling for about the same cost???

Look in ebay, under completed.

I watch them every day!!! still not a comparison!

Here's a fellow that knew a thing or two about stainless steel!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lSfy07CYT8&feature=player_embedded#!