What is the difference between Nova and standard Vic Firth sticks?

Nova sticks are crafted from the same hickory as standard Vic Firth lines but are offered at a reduced price. They may have minor cosmetic imperfections but maintain the structural integrity required for heavy play.

What does the '2B' size signify?

The 2B size indicates a thicker and heavier stick than the standard 5A or 5B models. It is specifically designed for high-volume applications and drummers who prefer a substantial feel in their hands.

What are the benefits of a nylon tip on the 2BN?

Nylon tips provide a brighter, more consistent sound on cymbals and are more resistant to chipping than wood tips. On the Nova 2BN, these tips are designed to be stable and unattachable.

Is the black finish purely cosmetic?

Yes, the black finish provides a unique aesthetic look on stage. It covers the hickory wood without negatively impacting the balance or the acoustic properties of the stick.

What kind of wood is used in the Nova 2BN?

The sticks are made from hickory. This wood is chosen for its strength, weight, and ability to absorb the shock of heavy hitting, protecting the drummer's wrists.

Are these sticks suitable for jazz or light playing?

While they can be used for any genre, the 2B size is generally considered too heavy for delicate jazz. They are better suited for rock, metal, and heavy grooves.

How does the taper affect the stick's performance?

The Nova 2BN features a medium taper. This design ensures a balanced rebound, meaning the stick returns to the playing position efficiently after a stroke.

Do these sticks offer good value for money?

Yes, they are specifically marketed as a value-for-money option. They typically retail for around £7.00, making them more affordable than premium professional lines.

Can the nylon tip fall off during play?

Vic Firth describes the tips on the Nova 2BN as 'unattachable' and stable. They are designed to stay securely fastened even during aggressive drumming sessions.

What is the sound difference between a 2BN and a 5A stick?

The 2BN is thicker and longer, producing a 'fatter' sound with more power. A 5A stick is thinner and lighter, offering more finesse but less raw volume.

Does the black finish rub off on cymbals?

While all finished sticks may show wear over time, the black finish is applied to be durable. However, the nylon tip itself is what primarily contacts the cymbals, preventing black marks on the brass.

How long are these sticks compared to standard models?

The 2B profile typically offers more reach than standard 5A models. This extra length helps drummers reach further across large kits without overextending.

Gear article

Vic Firth NOVA 2BN Nylon Tip Drumsticks (Black Finish)

The Vic Firth NOVA 2BN Nylon Tip Drumsticks are a high-value percussion accessory designed for heavy hitters and rock drummers. Constructed from the same hickory used in Vic Firth's premium lines, these sticks offer a weighted feel and increased durability at a more accessible price point.

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Overview and Design

The Vic Firth NOVA 2BN is a larger-format drumstick specifically engineered for power and reach. As part of the Nova range, these sticks are manufactured using hickory, a wood favoured in drumstick production for its density and shock-absorption qualities. The '2B' designation indicates a thicker profile, while the 'N' suffix denotes the inclusion of a nylon tip. This specific model features a sleek black finish, distinguishing it aesthetically from standard natural-finish sticks.

Performance and Handling

Designed for 'heavy hitters', the weight of the 2BN model allows drummers to drive heavy grooves without excessive physical force. The sticks feature a medium taper, which provides a balanced rebound response, ensuring that despite their larger size, they remain manageable for technical playing. The extra length and thickness contribute to a fatter sound and extended reach across the drum kit, which is particularly beneficial for rock and heavy metal genres.

Sound Characteristics

The combination of the heavy hickory body and the nylon tip creates a specific sonic profile.

Drums: The weight drives a deep, punchy 'fat' sound, especially effective on snares and floor toms.
Cymbals: The nylon tip is designed to be stable and unattachable, providing a brighter, more pronounced 'smack' and clarity on cymbals compared to traditional wood tips.

Target Audience

These sticks are primarily aimed at drummers who require durability and volume. Because they are positioned as a value-for-money option, they are ideal for touring professionals who go through many pairs of sticks, as well as students and hobbyists looking for Vic Firth quality at a reduced price. They are particularly suited for rock, punk, and metal styles where volume and power are paramount.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Vic Firth ecosystem, the Nova line serves as a more affordable alternative to the standard American Classic series. While premium sticks may undergo more rigorous weight and pitch matching, the Nova 2BN uses the same hickory wood. Compared to lighter sticks like the Gear4Music 5A Wood Tip Maple Drumsticks, the 2BN is significantly heavier and more durable, though it lacks the softer, subtle touch of maple.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Nova and standard Vic Firth sticks?: Nova sticks are crafted from the same hickory as standard Vic Firth lines but are offered at a reduced price. They may have minor cosmetic imperfections but maintain the structural integrity required for heavy play.
What does the '2B' size signify?: The 2B size indicates a thicker and heavier stick than the standard 5A or 5B models. It is specifically designed for high-volume applications and drummers who prefer a substantial feel in their hands.
What are the benefits of a nylon tip on the 2BN?: Nylon tips provide a brighter, more consistent sound on cymbals and are more resistant to chipping than wood tips. On the Nova 2BN, these tips are designed to be stable and unattachable.
Is the black finish purely cosmetic?: Yes, the black finish provides a unique aesthetic look on stage. It covers the hickory wood without negatively impacting the balance or the acoustic properties of the stick.
What kind of wood is used in the Nova 2BN?: The sticks are made from hickory. This wood is chosen for its strength, weight, and ability to absorb the shock of heavy hitting, protecting the drummer's wrists.
Are these sticks suitable for jazz or light playing?: While they can be used for any genre, the 2B size is generally considered too heavy for delicate jazz. They are better suited for rock, metal, and heavy grooves.
How does the taper affect the stick's performance?: The Nova 2BN features a medium taper. This design ensures a balanced rebound, meaning the stick returns to the playing position efficiently after a stroke.
Do these sticks offer good value for money?: Yes, they are specifically marketed as a value-for-money option. They typically retail for around £7.00, making them more affordable than premium professional lines.
Can the nylon tip fall off during play?: Vic Firth describes the tips on the Nova 2BN as 'unattachable' and stable. They are designed to stay securely fastened even during aggressive drumming sessions.
What is the sound difference between a 2BN and a 5A stick?: The 2BN is thicker and longer, producing a 'fatter' sound with more power. A 5A stick is thinner and lighter, offering more finesse but less raw volume.
Does the black finish rub off on cymbals?: While all finished sticks may show wear over time, the black finish is applied to be durable. However, the nylon tip itself is what primarily contacts the cymbals, preventing black marks on the brass.
How long are these sticks compared to standard models?: The 2B profile typically offers more reach than standard 5A models. This extra length helps drummers reach further across large kits without overextending.