Gretsch Introduces "Custom Plus" Snare Drums

GGPBE4155, 20-lug, with Birdseye Maple Finish and Gold-Plated Hardware (Click for a close-up)

At this year's Summer NAMM show in Nashville, the Gretsch Drum Company will introduce six new Custom Plus snare drums beautifully hand crafted in the USA. These handsome new snare drums in natural finish began with a special request from world-renown drummer and long-time Gretsch endorser, Vinnie Colaiuta. During a recent visit to the Gretsch factory, Vinnie asked that Gretsch make him a snare using a thicker shell on the wood snare drum. With Vinnie's request in mind, Gretsch designed the new Custom Plus snare series that is 25 percent thicker than the standard Gretsch snare shell. Although this snare incorporates a new thicker design, it is made with the traditional shell construction features of the standard Gretsch wood shell.

Knowing that this thicker shell, a full 3/8" thick, would appeal to drummers around the world, Gretsch decided to make this special snare requested by Vinnie available to drummers everywhere. Not only is this drum hand-crafted in the USA, but 99 percent of its parts are made in the USA as well, including the lugs, hoops, heads, and throwoffs.

The Nickel Drumworks throw off comes standard on the 4" deep models and is available as an option on other sizes. The new Custom Plus snare specially made for Vinnie features the Vinnie Colaiuta custom badge. Vinnie prefers a 5" x 14", 8-lug snare with Gretsch die cast hoops and Gretsch lightning throw off and butt plate. The Custom Plus is also available in 4", 5.5", 6.5" and 8" depths.

Also new, 13" diameter snares with the Custom Plus shell are available for the first time in 4", 5" and 6" depths. These drums feature the Gretsch 6-lug die cast hoop with either 6 double or 12 single lugs.

Gretsch will also make a few pieces of the Custom Plus snare with an eye-catching Birdseye Maple outer veneer ply and stunning gold hardware offered as special custom options. These gorgeous drums are sure to be prized by players and collectors alike.