And I wish just once a matching snare would be included.

The NC & Renowns are different, but equal. The biggest difference is the NC's have "proportional" shells. Bigger the drum, thicker the shell. That 's a lot of the weight difference. The Renowns are closer to USA models. Same hardware, standard shell thickness. I do prefer the shells. And, the real Gretsch lugs.

Btw, guitar center's got a set of NC's on their used gear page that appear to be the same as mine. $800. And, they ship really cheaply.

here's a deal on some new New Classics (probably not your sizes...they are MY sizes but I already have too many sets...dang)

http://www.drumforum.org/index.php?/topic/89677-gretsch-new-classic-bop-3-piece-1149-new-in-boxes/

How popular is turquoise? I love the color, but my favorite color is teal. I think teal is a little darker and more of a bluish green. How many manufacturers would make teal colored drums? I am still holding out for Gretsch. Keep on Pl

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I can't say enough good things about my Renown 57s. I think it's a US kit assembled in Taiwan? Shells are stunning lacquered. Warm vintage sound but x10. Loud! My favorite non vintage drum kit.