Gear article
Gretsch USA Brooklyn 22" 3pc Shell Pack
The Gretsch USA Brooklyn 22" 3pc Shell Pack is a professional-grade acoustic drum kit manufactured in Ridgeland, South Carolina. It features a unique 6-ply North American maple and poplar shell construction finished with the brand's signature 'Silver Sealer' internal coating to deliver a punchy, warm, and dynamic tone.
See live pricesOverview and Construction
The Gretsch USA Brooklyn series represents a modern interpretation of the classic Gretsch sound, handcrafted in the company's American facility. This specific shell pack is configured around a 22-inch bass drum, providing a substantial foundation for a variety of musical settings. The shells are constructed from a 6-ply blend of maple and poplar, a combination chosen for its balanced resonance and structural integrity.
A defining characteristic of this kit is the 'Silver Sealer' internal coating. This proprietary finish is applied to the interior of every shell, serving two primary purposes: it adds significant rigidity to the wooden structure and creates a reflective surface that enhances the brightness and projection of the drum's natural tone.
Sound Character
The sonic profile of the Brooklyn series is often described as punchy and warm. The maple/poplar shells provide a rich, encouraging fundamental tone that responds well to different playing dynamics. The 22-inch bass drum is engineered to deliver an 'earth-shaking' punch, ensuring the kit can dominate large venues and cut through dense musical arrangements. The inclusion of the Silver Sealer ensures that despite the warmth of the wood, the drums retain a bright, articulate attack with every hit.
Target User
This shell pack is designed for professional drummers and serious enthusiasts who require a versatile instrument capable of performing across genres. Its high-end construction makes it suitable for both studio recording and live performance in large-scale environments. Due to its price point and premium build, it is aimed at players who value the heritage of the 'Great Gretsch Sound' and the specific tonal characteristics of American-made shells.
Market Comparisons
Within the high-end drum market, the Gretsch Brooklyn competes with several other notable series:
- DW Performance Series: Also offering North American construction, though often with different shell thicknesses and hardware philosophies.
- Ludwig Neusonic: A more accessible American-made alternative, though generally utilizing different shell blends and lacking the specific Silver Sealer interior.
- Tama Superstar Classic and Sonor AQ2: These series serve as more affordable entry-to-mid-level options, typically featuring different wood types like maple or birch without the boutique USA manufacturing process.
- Natal Arcadia Acrylic: Offers a completely different aesthetic and sonic profile based on synthetic materials rather than the traditional wood blend found in the Gretsch Brooklyn.
Related gear
£2,418.00 ($3,071)Ludwig
Ludwig Neusonic 20" Downbeat 3pc Shell Pack Blue Super Sparkle
£2,249.00 ($2,856)DW Drums
DW Performance Series 22" 3pc finish ply Black Diamond Shell Pack
£739.00 ($939)Tama
Tama Superstar Classic 22 3pc Shell Pack Transparent Black Burst
£1,495.00 ($1,899)Sonor
Sonor AQ2 20 5pc Shell Pack Transparent Black
£859.00 ($1,091)Sonor
Sonor AQ2 Safari 4pc Shell Pack White Pearl
£2,971.00 ($3,773)Ludwig
Ludwig Neusonic 22 Rapid MOD2 4pc Shell Pack Satin Gold Slumbers
£589.00 ($748)Yamaha
Yamaha Rydeen 20" Drum Kit w/ Hardware Burgundy Glitter
£941.00 ($1,195)Natal
Natal Arcadia Acrylic 22 4pc Shell Pack Transparent
Frequently asked questions
- What is included in the Gretsch USA Brooklyn 3pc Shell Pack?
- The shell pack includes three drums: a 22-inch bass drum and two additional shells (typically a rack tom and floor tom). It is important to note that cymbals, a snare drum, and hardware are not included in this package.
- What is the specific finish of this model?
- This specific model features the Grey Oyster finish, a classic aesthetic that provides a vintage-inspired look suitable for various stage environments.
- What wood is used for the shells?
- The shells are constructed from a 6-ply blend of North American maple and poplar. This combination is designed to balance warmth and resonance.
- What is the Gretsch Silver Sealer?
- The Silver Sealer is a unique internal coating applied to Gretsch shells. It helps increase the rigidity of the shell and contributes to a brighter, punchier sound profile.
- How large is the bass drum in this kit?
- The kit features a 22-inch bass drum, which is a standard large size designed for high volume and significant low-end punch.
- Where are Gretsch Brooklyn drums manufactured?
- The Brooklyn series drums are handcrafted at the Gretsch factory located in Ridgeland, South Carolina, USA.
- Is a snare drum included with this purchase?
- No, this is a 3-piece shell pack only. The snare drum must be purchased separately to complete the kit.
- Does the kit come with cymbal stands or a bass drum pedal?
- No, hardware such as cymbal stands, hi-hat stands, and pedals are not included in the shell pack and must be sourced individually.
- What kind of sound should I expect from this kit?
- Expect a dynamic and warm tone with a bright, punchy attack. The 22-inch bass drum provides a powerful, venue-filling low end.
- How does the Brooklyn series compare to the Ludwig Neusonic?
- While both are professional-grade, the Gretsch Brooklyn features the specific maple/poplar blend and Silver Sealer, whereas the Ludwig Neusonic uses different shell constructions and lacks the unique Gretsch internal coating.
- What is the typical price range for this shell pack in the UK?
- The typical retail price for this specific 3-piece configuration is approximately £3,159.
- Is this kit suitable for live performances in large venues?
- Yes, the manufacturer describes the 22-inch bass drum as having an 'earth-shaking punch' specifically designed to dominate any size venue.
