I love the idea give it some extra length, a little bit of a thicker shoulder and an acorn tip that's the size just between an Erskine Ride Stick and a SD11
I noticed that from where I am - and that is a somewhat intermediate level - every next pair of sticks I try feels better than the last one. That includes the sticks I previously tried and didn’t like, and now I do. I figured that it actually has nothing to do with the sticks. It’s just my hands are getting better every week as I practice.
Not exactly jazz but I have a couple of pairs of Danny Carey signature sticks. Man, they are huuuuuuuge but surprisingly articulate. I call them my mid-life crisis sticks.
I usually use Buddy Rich sticks or X55A Vic Firths but I have a set of Danny Carey sticks. I really like playing with them but they really change how I play which I kinda like. Nice to grab when I get in a rut
@@Dusther210 I usually use Promark 5A rebounds so I know what you mean about how they change your playing. Definitely not ones for an acoustic, coffee shop gig..... 😂
I mostly use the Vic Firth Keith Carlock sticks, because they feel the best for me. But sometimes I also use Peter Erskine Ride stick, for the sweet sweeeet sound.
My personal perspective on sticks has changed a lot over the last couple of years. Looking back on it it baffles me how I got away with using 2bs when now I like feel of something along a 5A or thinner. Especially as of recent, where I’ve been digging on the Vic Firth Steve Jordan signatures. They’re about the width of a 7a but with a lot more length which allows you to whip the hell out of them while also allowing for more delicacy if needed.
I remember the old Zildjian Will Calhoun sticks from the early 90's. They were like the Zildjian Rock model with a round tip. Sound like his new sticks would have a really nice feel to them.
Jay Weinberg's signature is my favourite, and not just because I'm a fan of the band lol. The reach, durability, and weight/balance of the stick is absolutely perfect
Thanks Quincy! As I think I said on instagram, I'd be super curious about your opinion on some of these, especially the tony williams, roy haynes, elvin, and bill bruford ones.
For sig sticks right now, it's about the Erskine ride. Steve Gadd stick is a funky one to session. It's short but great feel of you like back of the hand grip w nice articulation. Vic Firth Buddy Rich has amazing bounce for a heavier stick. Otherwise, vf sd10 swinger, vf modern jazz, and sd4 combo are good go tos.
Really digging the stuff I'm covering in the coaching course Nate . My drumming is getting better evidenced by comments from other musicians and just in listening back to my playing. Cheers big lad keep up the good work ye boyee
Vic Firth Quincy Davis signature sticks are incredible for jazz, although they've become nearly impossible to find. They're super-durable and a little longer than American Classics. They have a dark nylon bead which doesn't leave stick marks behind, and they do not splinter or break. As with everything, I use stick wax for added tackiness.
I LOVE the Promark Glenn Kotche signature sticks. They have the Active Grip tackiness, along with the Active Wave bumps or ridges. The sticks feel great and stay in your hands without having to grip tightly. You should try them out!
Thanks for the breakdown! Love the Roy Haynes model...I did many Classic Rock/Pop gigs in bars, clubs and some larger venues and they were perfect for me. Felt great. Nice comfortable grip. Heavy enough to get some volume. Light enough to play quieter when necessary. A really good all around stick for my needs. Believe it or not, Zildjian makes some good sticks!(As with all sticks, I roll them first to make sure they're as straight as possible)Other Zildjian I recommend: Zak Starkey model, 5A Anti-Vibe. - nonpaid spokesperson
I've tried a decent amount of them... and still always comes back to the Dennis Chambers signature pair... Just love the width and balance, and lacquered body for a good grip, with a just-right sized round tip bead. I do my best ghost notes with them and they make giving a good crack and rim shots really easy and so ooohlala feel-wise too.
Been on the Dennis Chambers sticks for years. It's nice to have the felt butt option for cymbal rolls, and not feel like you are playing a different stick!
FINALLY! Someone says what I’ve been saying for 15-20 years! Why did Promark (and the other stick makers) stop using the varnish that they had back in the 90s and earlier? At least make it an option for people who hate the bare wood feel, which just slips right out of my hands.
And that is why I started playing Regal Tip back in 1993. Seems they had a hiccup, but are now back in production! I did like the Vic Firth Doubleglaze too. If Firth brings them back, I may stay with them. I can sort of use the regular Firth sticks, but the Pro Mark and Vater regular series... Nope. I can't hold them to save my life.
@@ferd1572- Only with the Doubleglaze line. Their regular lime has a finish that only becomes slightly tacky once heated up. With real glazed sticks, they're able to be played immediately.
My first pair of signature sticks were Promark Jim Rupp 8A's (no longer made), then I switched to the Elvin Jones signature sticks and used them until 2019 when I got them signed by COOP3RDRUMM3R!
That zebra print hoodie is on sale down from $99 to $68. Haute Couture here I come, but now I can only afford Sound Percussion 7A bricks from Guitar Center. Trade off accepted.
I’ve been playing Neil Peart signature for 30+ years and despite him being a basher, they’re surprisingly versatile. I’ve played any kind of rock gig and jazz gig. Low volume gigs get the 7a; 99% of my shows though get my hero in my hands.
The “original” Weckl sticks have been my primary sticks since the 90s. I’ve yet to find any other current production stick that feels better or has better balance for my hands.
I had two pairs of the Mike Mangini Zildjian signatures. When I bought them, it was like a drumset friendly version of the Ralph Hardimon Hammers. After getting used to the weight, everything else felt like balsa wood in my hands
I have a couple pairs of the Firth Dennis DeLucia, and a pair of the Hammers. I tried those old Mangini sticks. Loved the tip! I think I would have liked a hickory version.
Some 1999 it's been the Regal Tip Groovers. It was Curt Bisquera's model when he was still with Regal Tip. Their lacquer finish allows me to easily grip the stick even when my hands are super dry. In the event Regal can't produce them consistently I've been looking to the Vic Firth DoubleGlaze in the 5A and 5B. The Groovers were nice because they sat in between the 5A and 5B. But, I really like the tips on the Firth sticks. They're clear, articulate, and pull such a beautiful tone out of the ride.
Best signature sticks for me have always been Vic Firth Thomas Lang, Buddy Rich, & Jojo Mayer - all 3 have the white coating. Zildjian Travis Barker were always nice too but made white marks on the cymbals
For me I like different ones for different genres Jazz: Mike Portnoy 420’s promark (very light and has a nylon tip for cymbal definition), Vic Firth dave weckl signatures Progressive metal and rock: Mike Portnoy Signature sticks again , Danny Carey signature sticks Vic Firth, Vic Firth 5A Rock: really and stick works for rock Metal: Joey Jordison promark signature 515’s (R.I.P), Vic Firth 5B-5A. These are just my personal preferences.
Thanks for the heads-up. Correction made 💪. 100% I got mixed up with the raft of famous drummer deaths we've been reading about. Glad Roy's still with us, and wish him long life!
I Have tried a lot of sticks since I started playing in the 5th grade (I'm 59 now)...my choice, after much experimentation is...Promark, Neil Peart Sig, size 5b (PW5BW) Shira Kashi Oak...Solid, Durable, Well Balanced...hits hard with good articulation...Neil would Approve...Peace to All...and...Rock On
Simon Phillips! Bobby Rock!!! Back in the 1980s I had a PrMark RED OAK Billy Cobham "808" that TOTALLY trashed all my drum heads... They broke. Simon Phillips is the ProMark 707 that I learned to play with... IMHO
I am not a fan of using signature sticks. Anyway I am not able to find a stick that I love more than the Carter Mclean, so unique. A close second is the Peter Erskine ride stick.
I searched the comments looking for this exact post. I agree. They used to be better. Lighter somehow. People thought I was crazy when I said they used to be different.
@@Gern5838 Right on! I was hoping I might hear from someone who knew what I meant. I have only one pair of the old ones left. I only use them on the pad so they don’t get beat up.
Interesting and great video! I love my sig sticks, particularly VF Jack DeJohnette sig sticks in white (wood tip), and lately the VF Buddy Rich sig stick have been feeling really good this year. I also use the Abe Laboriel Jr. sig stick if I want to really lay into my drums! Many of those sticks are long out of print because either the drummer has passed (TWs) or the drummer now plays a different brand of stick. EJ sticks are still in production, as well as the Neil Peart sig stick, but I think it's based on the company and/or the popularity of the stick. The VF BC sigs are hickory and thicker than the Pro-Mark 808s he played in the 70s-80s. If you want a hickory SD1, the BC sigs are it, plus a "pinky groove" on the stick, that feels great when you hold them towards the butt end. The Ron Bruner Pro-Mark sticks are gone, he's playing Zildjian now for the past 5-6 years. It's bright orange, which is one thing, but they are more similar to DCs sig sticks than those old Pro-Marks. Terry Bozzio has a "Phase 1" stick that VF makes for him. They feel like 5Bish, but the tips are barrel but flare out on the top of the tip. Very front heavy design, imo. When the tip is too large, it's difficult to play jazz ride patterns, but they're too thin for heavy rock playing, so...it's a weird middle ground. I Love my TW sigs, the only gripe is that they're too short for their weight. I had a private stick maker make me a TW sig stick in those specs but 1/2" longer. They feel nice, but are logs, I can no longer play jazz with them. I will try to get them again, but thinner. The DCs sig sticks are based on his old Regal Tip 8As he used to play in the Scofield days, but with a round tip. They have the double lacquer like RTs sticks have. I'd love to buy a pair of the WIll Calhoun VF sticks, they are close to my TW custom sticks I tried to have made, based on your description. He played Zildjian sticks in the 90's and his sig stick was essentially a hickory SD1. Huge. Cheers!
That was a fun video. Thanks for sharing those kinda random but cool signature sticks. I would enjoying trying those Will Calhoun sticks I think. I have his signature Mapex snare which would be a treat to use them on. Also, have you ever tried Ronald Bruner jr.'s current Zildjian stick? I'm not a fan of it being painted and orange but to me it is a great stick. Similar to a 5a with smaller teardrop almost balls on the end. Very versatile and quick.
My favorite sticks at the moment are James Gaddson’s Groovesickle from IP. It does everything amazing, you can grip in the back and it’s amazing or grip at the balance point and it works amazing. Perfect length.
I usually just use whatever brand's elongated 5a im into at the moment, but Questlove's and Peter Erskine's sticks I really like for when I need to get a really pretty ride sound.
Just got myself a pair of Carter McLean signature sticks. It’s taken some time to get used to the feel of them. I went from the Buddy Rich signature stick (which I loved) but they would leave white marks on my cymbals which really bugged me. I then moved to a pair of Vic Firth AH5Bs and I absolutely love them. But I decided to try out Carters new sticks. It’s really surprising how different things feel with a new pair of sticks. It’ll probably take some time to get used to
It's weird how carter plays really soft, but the sticks arer actually a little heavy. I can't play them really softly on the hihats for example. I'm using vic firth AJ2s, and sometimes 7a maple sticks.
Cool review. Zildjian’s Vinnie Colaiuta signature sticks were my favorite until they were discontinued. I know he has a Vic Firth version, but I have not tried them…Maybe someday. Anyway, I use Vater 5B now, and they’ve been great, so I have had no need to look for new sticks.
I used to use the Vinnie's too! Mostly for a Classic Rock gig I did. The funny thing about the Vinnie's was the weight disparity from pair to pair...I always had to try a few pairs to find the weight I liked.
I still have a pair of the Tony Williams Signature stick from Zildjian. They have unfortunately been discontinued. They actually play lighter and faster that the Vic Firth American Classic 5B's. And lighter. They have a short taper and a "sharper" bead than the Firth's, the bead is little longer but smaller in diameter to the Firths, and they have a much better balance. The Firth's feel more like 2B's than the Tony's. To me they were the perfect stick. Back when they were available, I gave a pair to a drummer friend of mine who played in a loud rock band and he loved them, he played much more relaxed and with a lot less effort. Plus they brought out a great sound on both the drums and cymbals. I wish they would manufacture them again. I am trying to find stick similar to them (along with the Zildjian Vinnie model), so if anyone has any suggestions it's much appreciated.
My go tos are Questlove and DeJohnettes. The Questloves are like an even longer, thinner version of a freestyle 7a. DeJohnettes are a bit heavier. I wish I could find the DeJohnettes in all wood.
Back in the 1980s I LOVED the Vic Firth Carmine Appice sticks. I think there were two types... They both had a light (tapered or mallet) butt ends, and a VERY long tapered neck and shoulder. I loved them. I broke them. Over and over.... Now they are long discontinued, but I may be able to find them on ebay... yeah there one of the mallet end types for sale.... IMHO
i'm suprised as i have taken more time to work on hand technique on a pad that i have started prefering 5B's over my usual 5A. I find i need the extra weight to drop/throw the stick and use the heavier weight for more impact using gravity. I dont play loud/hard. Its so intresting to look at your fave drummers stick specs and say, dam I cant use them! EG; terry bozzio using basically a 7A!!!. rockers using jazz sticks and jazzers using rock sticks!
I know everyone is throwing different sticks to review but I have two that I love a lot! Vader 52nd St. jazz sticks and my all-time favorite Vic firth Questlove natural finish. I’ve given these to some of my drummer friends as a gift and everyone agrees, they’re probably our all-time favorite. It’s just a thought. C
Vic Firth Dave Weckl's for me. The original series not the evolution ones. Although, I'll be trying out Vater's Recording model since they are the same exact length and diameter as the Weckl's and they are $4 cheaper.
My favorite sticks would probably be the Vic firth questlove sticks because they just feel great to play with and give great resonance. Also they have great rebound so I give them 5 stars
I remember I had a couple of pairs of the Zildjian model in 1993/94. They were nice, although I don’t play with a beefy drumstick like that anymore on drum set.
I like the harvey mason sticks but the discontinued harvey mason recording sticks were even better sounding I thought. Too bad I only even got to buy the one pair. :(
I have tried the Elvin sticks - I found them hard to play. For me, they were too thin, too light. I found I had to work quite hard to get any speed out of them - they didn’t bounce like I wanted them too. I’m a low volume jazz player, so I thought they’ be just the job… but they didn’t do it for me. I got more control with a heavier stick - which meant I could play fast stuff more quietly, if that makes any sense…
I at one point in time really liked Buddy Rich signatures , but the dam white paint was a pain , just came off on cymbals so lots of little white marks everywhere. Otherwise they were very balanced. And yes I've tried almost every stick out there. Will Calhoun's sounds like my next stick to try out !! Thanks
When did Billy Cobham play with weather report? Not trying to be a pedant, but a huge fan of both Billy and Weather Report so wondering if I’ve missed something?
I was watching a guy that looked like a zebra playing with the sticks of jazz lions. I was worried for you but you came out okay! Confession: I have an eKit. Booo I know. Nonetheless I have been trying out sticks. I don’t like heavy sticks like the Firth Danny Carey’s. I really enjoyed Pro-mark 7As for a bit but I seem to return to 5As every time. I have some non slip sticks but have yet to really give them a go. Sports players use some spray on stuff called “Stickum” and used very sparingly it can be useful. I enjoyed your video!
Hey Nate, I have the same problem of dry hands. I have tried all of the coated ones, always liked the Regal Tip finish. I recently discovered the Vic Firth Double Glazed sticks, they feel great…but I‘m not so thrilled about the weight differences. Give them a try, I think you‘ll like them.
@@danlc95 I liked the JR Robinson model, the 9A and the 5b E-series. If the Vic Firth's weren't tackier I would have gone with the Regal's because they last longer and I like their way of doing things a lot more.
@@thomasnussbaum4711 - Regal has been having issued upgrading their machinery, and thus having production issues. This is why I tried the Firth DoubleGlaze. The 5A and 5B should work for my needs.
I still have some of the old school vic firths, I think the logo mighta been burned in. They seem really tacky and I like the feel. I've tried some of the signature sticks herein and I still prefer the sd4 combos, I think they are called, most of the time. I've always wondered to what extent signature sticks are a gimmick, although I guess certain ones might be different enough to be a good option. I used to like the Phil Collins ones.
Nobody uses a nylon tip? I was a drummer late 60's-95, and I always used them. Why? Definition on cymbals/ride work. Also, I was beating the crap out of wood tips. Then I would always wrap the butt ends w/ white first aid tape. Done. Now go rock.
I always use nylon sticks, but I really don’t like the sound. I prefer wood tips… but got really fed up of having to discard sticks that were in great condition - except for the shredded tip. At $$$$$$ a pair - I decided to pretend I like nylon tips. Nylon tipped sticks last me for years - even though I play out maybe 2 to 6 hours a week (I use different sticks to practice, but still nylon, and they last for ages, too).
Anybody else want to see an 80/20 signature "Ride or Die" ride cymbal stick? 😳😳😳
You need to get a signature Ride cymbal, nice wash on the ride with a dry Bing bell maybe 😉
Oops dry ping. Dang auto-correct
Of course and I also want to see the Vic Firth Nate Smith ;)
I love the idea give it some extra length,
a little bit of a thicker shoulder and an acorn tip that's the size just between an Erskine Ride Stick and a SD11
@@channelthegetdown8495 they’re gonna be like 3 feet long
I noticed that from where I am - and that is a somewhat intermediate level - every next pair of sticks I try feels better than the last one. That includes the sticks I previously tried and didn’t like, and now I do. I figured that it actually has nothing to do with the sticks. It’s just my hands are getting better every week as I practice.
that's nice to hear 👌
And callus's
I feel that way with guitars. The better I get, the better every guitar I pick up is.
Played the Vinnie Colaiuta sticks for a long time, when they were Zildjian manufactured. After they moved to Vic Firth, they're not as beefy
Not exactly jazz but I have a couple of pairs of Danny Carey signature sticks. Man, they are huuuuuuuge but surprisingly articulate. I call them my mid-life crisis sticks.
They are nice for how huge they are
I usually use Buddy Rich sticks or X55A Vic Firths but I have a set of Danny Carey sticks. I really like playing with them but they really change how I play which I kinda like. Nice to grab when I get in a rut
@@Dusther210 I usually use Promark 5A rebounds so I know what you mean about how they change your playing. Definitely not ones for an acoustic, coffee shop gig..... 😂
@@PNW_Sportbike_Life i think they are great sticks. I've never played the ride bell with such conviction before I got them...
i used them for my rock gigs but my tips always split after couple hours of playing
I mostly use the Vic Firth Keith Carlock sticks, because they feel the best for me. But sometimes I also use Peter Erskine Ride stick, for the sweet sweeeet sound.
My personal perspective on sticks has changed a lot over the last couple of years. Looking back on it it baffles me how I got away with using 2bs when now I like feel of something along a 5A or thinner. Especially as of recent, where I’ve been digging on the Vic Firth Steve Jordan signatures.
They’re about the width of a 7a but with a lot more length which allows you to whip the hell out of them while also allowing for more delicacy if needed.
I remember the old Zildjian Will Calhoun sticks from the early 90's. They were like the Zildjian Rock model with a round tip. Sound like his new sticks would have a really nice feel to them.
That Dennis Chambers stick was my shit for like three years. I would sand the gloss off though. F the gloss.
Jay Weinberg's signature is my favourite, and not just because I'm a fan of the band lol. The reach, durability, and weight/balance of the stick is absolutely perfect
Bravo for doing this Nate! Didn’t know about most of these signature sticks.
Thanks Quincy! As I think I said on instagram, I'd be super curious about your opinion on some of these, especially the tony williams, roy haynes, elvin, and bill bruford ones.
I really (especially) liked your playing with the Roy Hanes sticks but I always like hearing what you can do, Nate!
For sig sticks right now, it's about the Erskine ride. Steve Gadd stick is a funky one to session. It's short but great feel of you like back of the hand grip w nice articulation. Vic Firth Buddy Rich has amazing bounce for a heavier stick. Otherwise, vf sd10 swinger, vf modern jazz, and sd4 combo are good go tos.
Really digging the stuff I'm covering in the coaching course Nate . My drumming is getting better evidenced by comments from other musicians and just in listening back to my playing. Cheers big lad keep up the good work ye boyee
Vic Firth Quincy Davis signature sticks are incredible for jazz, although they've become nearly impossible to find. They're super-durable and a little longer than American Classics. They have a dark nylon bead which doesn't leave stick marks behind, and they do not splinter or break. As with everything, I use stick wax for added tackiness.
I LOVE the Promark Glenn Kotche signature sticks. They have the Active Grip tackiness, along with the Active Wave bumps or ridges. The sticks feel great and stay in your hands without having to grip tightly.
You should try them out!
So, NO Weckl or Gadd sticks? I love both!!
Both great sticks! I used to use both Weckl models...The older, longer red one and the newer, shorter orange one 😃
Thanks for the breakdown!
Love the Roy Haynes model...I did many Classic Rock/Pop gigs in bars, clubs and some larger venues and they were perfect for me. Felt great. Nice comfortable grip. Heavy enough to get some volume. Light enough to play quieter when necessary. A really good all around stick for my needs.
Believe it or not, Zildjian makes some good sticks!(As with all sticks, I roll them first to make sure they're as straight as possible)Other Zildjian I recommend: Zak Starkey model, 5A Anti-Vibe. - nonpaid spokesperson
I've tried a decent amount of them... and still always comes back to the Dennis Chambers signature pair... Just love the width and balance, and lacquered body for a good grip, with a just-right sized round tip bead. I do my best ghost notes with them and they make giving a good crack and rim shots really easy and so ooohlala feel-wise too.
Been on the Dennis Chambers sticks for years. It's nice to have the felt butt option for cymbal rolls, and not feel like you are playing a different stick!
I was hoping Questlove’s signature sticks would be in there. I love playing with them.
I’ve never tried them. I might try them out one of these days.
Awesome stick i cant use anything shorter now although the black"rubber grip" always peels of after a few weeks
@@dmgsoultogetherness6667 Order online to get the natural version and thank me later. Best sticks I’ve ever used.
Same. I've gotten so used to the 17" length that my other sticks feel weird to me now. Was so glad they made a version without the grip, too.
I love this size. I hate the ones with the rubber grip and I rip it off right away. The all woods are awesome but harder to find for me at least.
FINALLY! Someone says what I’ve been saying for 15-20 years! Why did Promark (and the other stick makers) stop using the varnish that they had back in the 90s and earlier? At least make it an option for people who hate the bare wood feel, which just slips right out of my hands.
Vic Firth's lacquer is still there and feels great
And that is why I started playing Regal Tip back in 1993.
Seems they had a hiccup, but are now back in production!
I did like the Vic Firth Doubleglaze too. If Firth brings them back, I may stay with them.
I can sort of use the regular Firth sticks, but the Pro Mark and Vater regular series... Nope. I can't hold them to save my life.
@@ferd1572- Only with the Doubleglaze line.
Their regular lime has a finish that only becomes slightly tacky once heated up. With real glazed sticks, they're able to be played immediately.
@@danlc95 nah, I think the regular lacquer doesn't feel too bad
Mike Mangini vater sticks are a game changer great r&d
My first pair of signature sticks were Promark Jim Rupp 8A's (no longer made), then I switched to the Elvin Jones signature sticks and used them until 2019 when I got them signed by COOP3RDRUMM3R!
That zebra print hoodie is on sale down from $99 to $68. Haute Couture here I come, but now I can only afford Sound Percussion 7A bricks from Guitar Center. Trade off accepted.
Love the Dennis Chambers sig; but my all-time favorite are Peter Erskine Ride stick. I'm a rock player.
I’ve been playing Neil Peart signature for 30+ years and despite him being a basher, they’re surprisingly versatile. I’ve played any kind of rock gig and jazz gig. Low volume gigs get the 7a; 99% of my shows though get my hero in my hands.
The first edition of dave weckls signature sticks have insane rebound
I played weckls for a hot minute in high school
@@8020drummer What's a hot minute in metric units?
@@AluminumFool 1.2 hot centi-hours 🤣🤣
🤣🤣🤣
The “original” Weckl sticks have been my primary sticks since the 90s. I’ve yet to find any other current production stick that feels better or has better balance for my hands.
I had two pairs of the Mike Mangini Zildjian signatures. When I bought them, it was like a drumset friendly version of the Ralph Hardimon Hammers. After getting used to the weight, everything else felt like balsa wood in my hands
I have a couple pairs of the Firth Dennis DeLucia, and a pair of the Hammers.
I tried those old Mangini sticks. Loved the tip! I think I would have liked a hickory version.
The Tony Williams stick has been my favorite for years. I wish they were still around.
Some 1999 it's been the Regal Tip Groovers. It was Curt Bisquera's model when he was still with Regal Tip. Their lacquer finish allows me to easily grip the stick even when my hands are super dry.
In the event Regal can't produce them consistently I've been looking to the Vic Firth DoubleGlaze in the 5A and 5B. The Groovers were nice because they sat in between the 5A and 5B. But, I really like the tips on the Firth sticks. They're clear, articulate, and pull such a beautiful tone out of the ride.
Steve Houghton was a nice stick too.
Best signature sticks for me have always been Vic Firth Thomas Lang, Buddy Rich, & Jojo Mayer - all 3 have the white coating. Zildjian Travis Barker were always nice too but made white marks on the cymbals
For me I like different ones for different genres
Jazz: Mike Portnoy 420’s promark (very light and has a nylon tip for cymbal definition), Vic Firth dave weckl signatures
Progressive metal and rock: Mike Portnoy Signature sticks again , Danny Carey signature sticks Vic Firth, Vic Firth 5A
Rock: really and stick works for rock
Metal: Joey Jordison promark signature 515’s (R.I.P), Vic Firth 5B-5A.
These are just my personal preferences.
I can't fuck with coating at all, it pretty much guarantees that the stick is going to slip out of my sweaty hands within 5 mins
Love the Rich and Mayer sticks! I remember the Mayer's being a little shorter, but they felt great and had a nice weight to them.
I’ve been loving the Benny Greb Vic Firths.
12:52 Roy Haynes isn't gone yet! 😆
Thanks for the heads-up. Correction made 💪. 100% I got mixed up with the raft of famous drummer deaths we've been reading about. Glad Roy's still with us, and wish him long life!
@@8020drummer Here here!
He must be about 145 by now,surely 😵😵😵😵
Incredibly how long he was able to play for. I’ve watched videos of him in his 80s and was amazing!
@@SAHBfan Managed to catch him in 2019 at NY Blue Note, he's still kicking for sure!
I Have tried a lot of sticks since I started playing in the 5th grade (I'm 59 now)...my choice, after much experimentation is...Promark, Neil Peart Sig, size 5b (PW5BW) Shira Kashi Oak...Solid, Durable, Well Balanced...hits hard with good articulation...Neil would Approve...Peace to All...and...Rock On
I’ve just started using the Vic Firth Steve Gadd sticks, really like them
Simon Phillips! Bobby Rock!!! Back in the 1980s I had a PrMark RED OAK Billy Cobham "808" that TOTALLY trashed all my drum heads... They broke. Simon Phillips is the ProMark 707 that I learned to play with... IMHO
I am not a fan of using signature sticks. Anyway I am not able to find a stick that I love more than the Carter Mclean, so unique. A close second is the Peter Erskine ride stick.
The Vic Firth ‘Harvey Mason’ signatures that I used in the 80s are VERY different from the ones made today. I miss the old ones.
I searched the comments looking for this exact post. I agree. They used to be better. Lighter somehow. People thought I was crazy when I said they used to be different.
@@Gern5838 Right on! I was hoping I might hear from someone who knew what I meant. I have only one pair of the old ones left. I only use them on the pad so they don’t get beat up.
Had some Harvey's too! They were pretty thick but not too heavy. Felt good.
I use Bopworks Drum Sticks made in TEXAS. I love the Birdland model.
GREAT STICKS
Interesting and great video! I love my sig sticks, particularly VF Jack DeJohnette sig sticks in white (wood tip), and lately the VF Buddy Rich sig stick have been feeling really good this year. I also use the Abe Laboriel Jr. sig stick if I want to really lay into my drums!
Many of those sticks are long out of print because either the drummer has passed (TWs) or the drummer now plays a different brand of stick. EJ sticks are still in production, as well as the Neil Peart sig stick, but I think it's based on the company and/or the popularity of the stick.
The VF BC sigs are hickory and thicker than the Pro-Mark 808s he played in the 70s-80s. If you want a hickory SD1, the BC sigs are it, plus a "pinky groove" on the stick, that feels great when you hold them towards the butt end.
The Ron Bruner Pro-Mark sticks are gone, he's playing Zildjian now for the past 5-6 years. It's bright orange, which is one thing, but they are more similar to DCs sig sticks than those old Pro-Marks.
Terry Bozzio has a "Phase 1" stick that VF makes for him. They feel like 5Bish, but the tips are barrel but flare out on the top of the tip. Very front heavy design, imo. When the tip is too large, it's difficult to play jazz ride patterns, but they're too thin for heavy rock playing, so...it's a weird middle ground.
I Love my TW sigs, the only gripe is that they're too short for their weight. I had a private stick maker make me a TW sig stick in those specs but 1/2" longer. They feel nice, but are logs, I can no longer play jazz with them. I will try to get them again, but thinner.
The DCs sig sticks are based on his old Regal Tip 8As he used to play in the Scofield days, but with a round tip. They have the double lacquer like RTs sticks have.
I'd love to buy a pair of the WIll Calhoun VF sticks, they are close to my TW custom sticks I tried to have made, based on your description. He played Zildjian sticks in the 90's and his sig stick was essentially a hickory SD1. Huge.
Cheers!
Love those Buddy Rich sticks!
Personally I love Jack DeJohnette sticks for good rebound, and when I want something heavier, I go for Dave Weckl evolution sticks.
That was a fun video. Thanks for sharing those kinda random but cool signature sticks. I would enjoying trying those Will Calhoun sticks I think. I have his signature Mapex snare which would be a treat to use them on. Also, have you ever tried Ronald Bruner jr.'s current Zildjian stick? I'm not a fan of it being painted and orange but to me it is a great stick. Similar to a 5a with smaller teardrop almost balls on the end. Very versatile and quick.
My favorite sticks at the moment are James Gaddson’s Groovesickle from IP. It does everything amazing, you can grip in the back and it’s amazing or grip at the balance point and it works amazing. Perfect length.
I usually just use whatever brand's elongated 5a im into at the moment, but Questlove's and Peter Erskine's sticks I really like for when I need to get a really pretty ride sound.
Digging the Beetleguise shirt.
I like the Vic Firth Steve Smith sticks. 👍
Just got myself a pair of Carter McLean signature sticks. It’s taken some time to get used to the feel of them. I went from the Buddy Rich signature stick (which I loved) but they would leave white marks on my cymbals which really bugged me. I then moved to a pair of Vic Firth AH5Bs and I absolutely love them. But I decided to try out Carters new sticks. It’s really surprising how different things feel with a new pair of sticks. It’ll probably take some time to get used to
It's weird how carter plays really soft, but the sticks arer actually a little heavy. I can't play them really softly on the hihats for example. I'm using vic firth AJ2s, and sometimes 7a maple sticks.
I've always liked the balance, neck and butt of the VINNIE COLAIUTA STICK.
Used those too. Nice stick!
These were my go-to before finally landing on Neil’s; I broke hickory way too often.
Thank you for your inspiration. No, I didn't take up drumming, but I did achieve my Goethe Institute B1 German language exam and going soon for B2.
Got the mini course!
Cool review. Zildjian’s Vinnie Colaiuta signature sticks were my favorite until they were discontinued. I know he has a Vic Firth version, but I have not tried them…Maybe someday. Anyway, I use Vater 5B now, and they’ve been great, so I have had no need to look for new sticks.
I prefer the vic firth version. They're my favorite.
I used to use the Vinnie's too! Mostly for a Classic Rock gig I did. The funny thing about the Vinnie's was the weight disparity from pair to pair...I always had to try a few pairs to find the weight I liked.
I still have a pair of the Tony Williams Signature stick from Zildjian. They have unfortunately been discontinued. They actually play lighter and faster that the Vic Firth American Classic 5B's. And lighter. They have a short taper and a "sharper" bead than the Firth's, the bead is little longer but smaller in diameter to the Firths, and they have a much better balance. The Firth's feel more like 2B's than the Tony's. To me they were the perfect stick. Back when they were available, I gave a pair to a drummer friend of mine who played in a loud rock band and he loved them, he played much more relaxed and with a lot less effort. Plus they brought out a great sound on both the drums and cymbals. I wish they would manufacture them again. I am trying to find stick similar to them (along with the Zildjian Vinnie model), so if anyone has any suggestions it's much appreciated.
If you do please keep me posted, as I am very interested and love 2b’s
I've disliked every zildjian stick I've tried. So hard to find a straight pair. Lesser quality than others manufacturers IMO.
I've disliked every zildjian stick I've tried. So hard to find a straight pair. Lesser quality than others manufacturers IMO.
My go tos are Questlove and DeJohnettes. The Questloves are like an even longer, thinner version of a freestyle 7a. DeJohnettes are a bit heavier. I wish I could find the DeJohnettes in all wood.
Vic Firth Rock drumsticks is my go to sticks for my playing style. 🤘🏻🥁
Promark Michael Carvin sticks are still one of my favorite sticks of all time. I wish they’d bring it back.
Back in the 1980s I LOVED the Vic Firth Carmine Appice sticks. I think there were two types... They both had a light (tapered or mallet) butt ends, and a VERY long tapered neck and shoulder. I loved them. I broke them. Over and over.... Now they are long discontinued, but I may be able to find them on ebay... yeah there one of the mallet end types for sale.... IMHO
i'm suprised as i have taken more time to work on hand technique on a pad that i have started prefering 5B's over my usual 5A. I find i need the extra weight to drop/throw the stick and use the heavier weight for more impact using gravity. I dont play loud/hard. Its so intresting to look at your fave drummers stick specs and say, dam I cant use them! EG; terry bozzio using basically a 7A!!!. rockers using jazz sticks and jazzers using rock sticks!
This is a great idea
I know everyone is throwing different sticks to review but I have two that I love a lot! Vader 52nd St. jazz sticks and my all-time favorite Vic firth Questlove natural finish. I’ve given these to some of my drummer friends as a gift and everyone agrees, they’re probably our all-time favorite. It’s just a thought. C
Vic Firth Dave Weckl's for me. The original series not the evolution ones. Although, I'll be trying out Vater's Recording model since they are the same exact length and diameter as the Weckl's and they are $4 cheaper.
The neil peart sticks are more precious to me than water
Love Neil! He's my second favorite. But for some reason I never used his sticks...Maybe I was afraid 😃
The Rick Allen signature sticks ... you only get the one .....
😉
Nice review. Have you tried the Vic Steve Gadd’s? If so, what do you think of them? They are very different to the ones you reviewed.
great video! fun!!👍
Ghost notes? Yes they provide texture but also continue the motion & bounce of the stick. Agree?
my favorite sticks so far are Peter Erskine ride stick, i really love the feel of them and how i can get minute sounds out of the cymbal or drum
great vid nate!
Had some Erskine's too back in the day. Cool stick.
I had the Tommy Lee's with the red nylon tip back in 1990, those things where huge and worked great for me whos 6''4"
My favorite sticks would probably be the Vic firth questlove sticks because they just feel great to play with and give great resonance. Also they have great rebound so I give them 5 stars
The Vinnie Colaiutas from Zildjian then from Vic Firth. Sigh. I miss those.
I remember I had a couple of pairs of the Zildjian model in 1993/94. They were nice, although I don’t play with a beefy drumstick like that anymore on drum set.
Me too!
Uh... Billy never played with Weather Report. Maybe you meant to say Miles Davis? Nice video...
I was thinking the same lol
This is great
I didn’t know Benny Greb has sig sticks now. Saw them at the store and picked them up, they are pretty nice!
He has had a signature model since his former Pro Mark days.
The Vic Firth Benny Greb stick was released at NAMM in 2017 and hit the stores about 5 months later. I've been using them ever since.
Have you tried any of the Dip coated sticks (like the Senri Kawaguchi or Joey Kramer signature models) from Zildjian?
I like the 5b dip! I've only practiced with them. But I like the size, weight, and tip.
Did Cobham played with Weather Report? If I missed something, please, someone tell me... ;)
Thought the same thing.
Used to play with Tony sticks. Loved them but they are large 🔥
My two sticks of choice are the CrC (Chris Coleman) and the ray luzier sticks
It would be funny to see him play with KP2 sticks.
I’m still Vater Fusion all day every day 😆
I like the harvey mason sticks but the discontinued harvey mason recording sticks were even better sounding I thought. Too bad I only even got to buy the one pair. :(
Those Mason's were nice!
I fell in love wi vater 5a stretch. Longer than the regular. Use to like 55a and 5ax but they were too slow to me.
You have to try the new Nate Smith sticks!
I have tried the Elvin sticks - I found them hard to play. For me, they were too thin, too light. I found I had to work quite hard to get any speed out of them - they didn’t bounce like I wanted them too. I’m a low volume jazz player, so I thought they’ be just the job… but they didn’t do it for me. I got more control with a heavier stick - which meant I could play fast stuff more quietly, if that makes any sense…
I see nobody here in the comments using Matt Garstka's sticks, how's that possible, they're incredible and unique
Chris Coleman sticks are the best signature sticks imo 👌
I use the Buddy Rich sticks. Love how they feel
🏆
I at one point in time really liked Buddy Rich signatures , but the dam white paint was a pain , just came off on cymbals so lots of little white marks everywhere. Otherwise they were very balanced. And yes I've tried almost every stick out there. Will Calhoun's sounds like my next stick to try out !! Thanks
The Vater Westsides are good alternative. Basically the same stick minus the paint
@@willbennett9533 Thanks , I'll try em out !!!
What wood? Hickory, oak....? Actual weights, grams (scales)? lengths, cm? diameter, mm?
When did Billy Cobham play with weather report? Not trying to be a pedant, but a huge fan of both Billy and Weather Report so wondering if I’ve missed something?
I was watching a guy that looked like a zebra playing with the sticks of jazz lions. I was worried for you but you came out okay!
Confession: I have an eKit. Booo I know.
Nonetheless I have been trying out sticks. I don’t like heavy sticks like the Firth Danny Carey’s. I really enjoyed Pro-mark 7As for a bit but I seem to return to 5As every time.
I have some non slip sticks but have yet to really give them a go. Sports players use some spray on stuff called “Stickum” and used very sparingly it can be useful.
I enjoyed your video!
Hey Nate, I have the same problem of dry hands. I have tried all of the coated ones, always liked the Regal Tip finish. I recently discovered the Vic Firth Double Glazed sticks, they feel great…but I‘m not so thrilled about the weight differences. Give them a try, I think you‘ll like them.
I'm exploring the DoubleGlaze too. My favorite Regal Tips are the Groovers.
I'm hoping I can get a few more bricks during their next run.
@@danlc95 Yeah, they're great. A little to small for me, though...
@@thomasnussbaum4711 - Which were your favorites?
@@danlc95 I liked the JR Robinson model, the 9A and the 5b E-series. If the Vic Firth's weren't tackier I would have gone with the Regal's because they last longer and I like their way of doing things a lot more.
@@thomasnussbaum4711 - Regal has been having issued upgrading their machinery, and thus having production issues. This is why I tried the Firth DoubleGlaze.
The 5A and 5B should work for my needs.
Do Jack DeJohnette and Buddy Rich. They are my fav’s!
I still have some of the old school vic firths, I think the logo mighta been burned in. They seem really tacky and I like the feel. I've tried some of the signature sticks herein and I still prefer the sd4 combos, I think they are called, most of the time. I've always wondered to what extent signature sticks are a gimmick, although I guess certain ones might be different enough to be a good option. I used to like the Phil Collins ones.
Anyone know of a good custom drumstick maker? (Not personalized, but customized dimensions/taper/tip/etc.)
My favorite signature sticks are Steve Gadd's.
Nobody uses a nylon tip? I was a drummer late 60's-95, and I always used them. Why? Definition on cymbals/ride work. Also, I was beating the crap out of wood tips. Then I would always wrap the butt ends w/ white first aid tape. Done. Now go rock.
I always use nylon sticks, but I really don’t like the sound. I prefer wood tips… but got really fed up of having to discard sticks that were in great condition - except for the shredded tip. At $$$$$$ a pair - I decided to pretend I like nylon tips. Nylon tipped sticks last me for years - even though I play out maybe 2 to 6 hours a week (I use different sticks to practice, but still nylon, and they last for ages, too).
Omar Hakim comes to mind
Pleas da other drumstick video but do all vic firth
my hands get dry in the winter time also. I use bee's wax for that no slip grip.
Nate do you play with 2b's most often?
How to pick out a pair of sticks...made right for you...would be a good part ll video..
Since using the qwestlove vic firth 17/ im never going back