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1964 Ludwig Pioneer

Posts: 16 Threads: 3

I just picked up a 1964 Ludwig Pioneer and have a few questions. When I first played it it sounded like crap. Then I adjusted the snare (centered it) , a "Puresound". Then changed the head from an Ambassador to an Evans Genera. Started to sound better (may have had a tom head on it) because the sound was too deep. But the real change came when I backed the snare off almost half way. This drum sounds really good with the snare backed down until it's just under a quarter tight on the thread. Has anyone else experienced that with their Pioneer? TOTALLY different sound than my 65' Acrolite. (I know, metal vs. wood and 8 vs. 6 lugs) It also has an Evans 360 clear on the snare side but I think it's too thick thus holding back the sound. What do you think?

Posted on 12 years ago
#1
Posts: 1342 Threads: 71

I always use Ludwig heads. I like real thin snare heads on my pioneers.

Posted on 12 years ago
#2
Posts: 16 Threads: 3

Thanks, I just ordered some Ludwig Heads for my kit. I like the sound of them too.

Posted on 12 years ago
#3
Posts: 6170 Threads: 255

ive got a pile of pioneers. I have made the mistake of trying to tune them to sound like my jazz festivals. ive found that they sound best when tuned to let the 6 lugs and the shell really find its right sound. not too tight on the snares like you mentioned. I still think cranking the snare side head a bit brings out the character in these shells. I start a little tight on the batter and then back it down a bit. I prefer original heads on mine. but they are hard to find and not great if youre playing the drum all the time. Ludwig medium up top and a Ludwig snare side is great. coated ambassador and diplomat on the bottom also sound great to me. these are some great drums. ive got a 64 sbp pioneer setup behind my sbp 22/12/15 clubdates right now. its getting it done!

mike

Posted on 12 years ago
#4
Posts: 16 Threads: 3

I'm definitely going to remove the Evans 360 snare side. I don't believe that it is doing this drum any justice. I guess I'll find out tomorrow.

Posted on 12 years ago
#5
Posts: 2115 Threads: 26

When you say "Evans 360" is that actually a snare side head? That could be a single or double ply head such as a G1 or G2. If so, I am quite certain you will not like the sound.

tnsquint
Very proud owner of a new Blaemire Snare 6.5 x 14 made by Jerry Jenkins "Drumjinx"
Posted on 12 years ago
#6
Posts: 16 Threads: 3

I'm thinking the same thing you are. It's thicker and holding back the sound. Probably why the previous owner got rid of it, sounded like crap with that combination of heads. I'll change the bottom tonight and give an update. Thanks for the replies.

Posted on 12 years ago
#7
Posts: 9005 Threads: 266

68 - Try either; an Evans Hazy 300 or an original Ludwig snare side head. Either one will open up the sound of the drum for you. You've got a batter head on the snare side now which is why the drum sounds dead.

Those drums operate best within a certain range. They are GREAT tuned mid to low on top with the bottom cranked and with 'slightly splashy' snare tension.

John

Too many great drums to list here!

http://www.walbergandauge.com/VintageVenue.htm
Posted on 12 years ago
#8
Posts: 16 Threads: 3

Thanks for all the advice. I changed to Ludwig heads and all is good. Damm drum sounds great! I'm sold. Personally I like the Ludwig heads better than Remo and Evans for the vintage kits. I think they produce a better tone on the 3 plys.

Posted on 12 years ago
#9
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