What is included in the Gretsch USA Brooklyn 3pc Shell Pack?

The shell pack consists of three drums: an 18-inch bass drum and two toms. It does not include a snare drum, cymbals, or any stands/hardware.

What material are the shells made from?

The shells are constructed from a 6-ply blend of maple and poplar wood. This combination is designed to balance warmth with a bright, punchy attack.

What is the function of the 'Silver Sealer' coating?

The Silver Sealer is an internal coating applied to the inside of the drum shells. It aids in the rigidity of the shell and contributes to a brighter, punchier overall tone.

Is this kit suitable for touring?

Yes, it is highly suitable for touring and gigging. The smaller 18" bass drum makes it more portable and easier to transport than kits with larger 22" bass drums.

What is the typical price for this Gretsch shell pack?

The typical price for professional Gretsch USA Brooklyn 18" shell packs is approximately £3,054 in the UK market.

How does the sound of the Brooklyn series differ from other kits?

The Brooklyn series is known for its 'Great Gretsch Sound,' offering a warm and dynamic tone. The 6-ply maple/poplar build provides more resonance and punch compared to standard all-maple kits.

Does the kit come with a snare drum?

No, this specific 3-piece shell pack does not include a snare drum. Snare drums are typically purchased separately to allow for further customization.

Is hardware like cymbal stands included?

Hardware and cymbals are not included. The user must provide their own stands, pedals, and plates to complete the kit.

What finish is used on this specific model?

This model features a Satin Mahogany finish. This provides a classic, professional look that is visually distinct from gloss or sparkle wraps.

How does this kit compare to the Ludwig Neusonic?

The Gretsch Brooklyn is positioned as a higher-end US-made kit compared to the Ludwig Neusonic. While both offer hybrid shells, the Brooklyn features the unique Silver Sealer and a different ply configuration for a more traditional Gretsch character.

Can I use this kit for jazz music?

Yes, it is excellent for jazz due to the 18" bass drum and the warm, dynamic response of the maple/poplar shells. Its sensitivity allows for the subtle playing often required in jazz settings.

Where are Gretsch USA Brooklyn drums manufactured?

The USA Brooklyn series is hand-built in the United States, adhering to Gretsch's high standards of domestic drum manufacturing.

Gear article

Gretsch USA Brooklyn 18" 3pc Shell Pack

The Gretsch USA Brooklyn 18" 3pc Shell Pack is a high-end acoustic drum kit manufactured in the United States, designed to deliver the signature 'Great Gretsch Sound'. It features a distinctive 6-ply maple and poplar shell construction finished with the brand's proprietary Silver Sealer internal coating.

See live prices

Overview and Construction

The Gretsch USA Brooklyn series represents a premium tier of acoustic drums, hand-crafted to capture a vintage aesthetic with modern reliability. The shell construction utilizes a 6-ply blend of maple and poplar, a combination known for producing a balanced and resonant foundation. A hallmark of this series is the 'Silver Sealer' internal coating. This silver-coloured finish is not merely aesthetic; it is applied to the interior of every shell to increase structural rigidity and enhance the overall tonal clarity.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the Brooklyn 18" shell pack is defined by a warm, encouraging tone that maintains high levels of dynamic sensitivity. The interaction between the maple/poplar shells and the Silver Sealer produces a bright, punchy attack that allows the drums to cut through a musical mix. Despite the punchy high-end, the poplar plies provide a fundamental warmth that ensures the kit sounds full-bodied rather than thin.

Portability and Application

This specific configuration features a 18-inch bass drum, which is slightly smaller than the industry-standard 22-inch models. This compact size makes the kit highly optimal for gigging musicians who require a portable setup for travel and small-stage environments. Its dimensions also suit weekly band practice sessions where space may be limited, without sacrificing the professional tone associated with the Gretsch USA production line.

Inclusions and Hardware

As a 'Shell Pack', this product focuses strictly on the drum vessels themselves. The package includes the bass drum and two toms but does not include a snare drum, cymbals, or mounting hardware. This allows drummers to customise their setup with their preferred choice of stands and auxiliary percussion. The Satin Mahogany finish provides a classic, understated visual appeal that fits various musical genres.

Market Comparison

The Gretsch Brooklyn occupies the premium market segment, retailing at approximately £3,054. In comparison to more affordable alternatives like the Yamaha Rydeen or Natal Arcadia Acrylic, the Brooklyn offers a more complex tonal palette and domestic US manufacturing. When compared to the DW Performance Series or Ludwig Neusonic, the Brooklyn distinguishes itself through its specific thin-shell 6-ply construction and the unique Silver Sealer, which provides a different harmonic resonance than the all-maple or maple-cherry blends found in competing models.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Gretsch USA Brooklyn 3pc Shell Pack?: The shell pack consists of three drums: an 18-inch bass drum and two toms. It does not include a snare drum, cymbals, or any stands/hardware.
What material are the shells made from?: The shells are constructed from a 6-ply blend of maple and poplar wood. This combination is designed to balance warmth with a bright, punchy attack.
What is the function of the 'Silver Sealer' coating?: The Silver Sealer is an internal coating applied to the inside of the drum shells. It aids in the rigidity of the shell and contributes to a brighter, punchier overall tone.
Is this kit suitable for touring?: Yes, it is highly suitable for touring and gigging. The smaller 18" bass drum makes it more portable and easier to transport than kits with larger 22" bass drums.
What is the typical price for this Gretsch shell pack?: The typical price for professional Gretsch USA Brooklyn 18" shell packs is approximately £3,054 in the UK market.
How does the sound of the Brooklyn series differ from other kits?: The Brooklyn series is known for its 'Great Gretsch Sound,' offering a warm and dynamic tone. The 6-ply maple/poplar build provides more resonance and punch compared to standard all-maple kits.
Does the kit come with a snare drum?: No, this specific 3-piece shell pack does not include a snare drum. Snare drums are typically purchased separately to allow for further customization.
Is hardware like cymbal stands included?: Hardware and cymbals are not included. The user must provide their own stands, pedals, and plates to complete the kit.
What finish is used on this specific model?: This model features a Satin Mahogany finish. This provides a classic, professional look that is visually distinct from gloss or sparkle wraps.
How does this kit compare to the Ludwig Neusonic?: The Gretsch Brooklyn is positioned as a higher-end US-made kit compared to the Ludwig Neusonic. While both offer hybrid shells, the Brooklyn features the unique Silver Sealer and a different ply configuration for a more traditional Gretsch character.
Can I use this kit for jazz music?: Yes, it is excellent for jazz due to the 18" bass drum and the warm, dynamic response of the maple/poplar shells. Its sensitivity allows for the subtle playing often required in jazz settings.
Where are Gretsch USA Brooklyn drums manufactured?: The USA Brooklyn series is hand-built in the United States, adhering to Gretsch's high standards of domestic drum manufacturing.