Buying my first SERIOUS drumset

I am getting ready to purchase my first SERIOUS drumset, and I need advice. I have always played Premier drums, currently have a 7 piece genista all birch set. I love them, always get great compliments (especially on the bass drum). Both live and recording, they have sounded great and served their purpose. The problem is, they are getting old, and I'm ready to move up to a top of the line kit. My question is, what's the difference? I want maple shells, I want a 5 piece, I want a booming bass, and a snap snare. When I get to paying for the high end drums, what do I look for in the difference between a DW, Gretsch, Premier, Tama, etc.? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I don't want to throw down a lot of money for something I won't be satisfied with. I am currently leaning towards a Premier series set, and absolutely love the sparkle finishes they do, but should I look elsewhere? Also, anyone play on Spaun drums? They look amazing, but again, are they worth the extra dough?

Thank you for your help!

why not custom drums, most drum makers will work with you on what soumd you get.

^ what he said

but also, go with premier. If you already like their sets, you'll feel very comfortable right away behind another. I always feel right at home on a sonor or ludwig kit, because that's the sound I like.

Serious drumsets are no fun. Besides, what do you play like?

What are you going to do with the Genista's?

When's the last time you changed heads?

I had the pleasure of playing on some Gennies a while back. IMO, you aren't gonna do much better than that kit for an all around sound ! If you are looking for a SPECIFIC tone, I can understand the desire to change.

I will most likely keep the Genistas. I change the heads every 4 - 6 months. I play out a lot, and have done everything with them from country to punk rock. The problem I'm having is that they are just getting worn out. The bolts inside the RIMS system keep falling out of place and I have to jam a key in there to get them on the mounts. The tension rods are coming loose throughout the shows (and I'm not a heavy hitter). Also, I HATE having a 14" and 16" as a rack tom. I really want a REAL floor tom. Again, I've been very happy with the drums, they are just worn out. I'm ready for something new. I think I'm leaning towards another Premier, this time, maple shells. Either that or a Gretsch.

Thanks for everyone's input.

So you want serious drums you can wear out? Yamaha maybe?

I have a set of Gennie's. Yea, keep 'em and just give 'em some TLC. There are ways to turn your mounts into floors without drilling the shell I believe.

There are so many great sets out there if your hell bent for leather, take your time and really look around. I honestly haven't seen or heard any reports on the Premiers produced today. Don't base the quality of your Gennie's on the product they have today. JMO.

I also own a Mapex Saturn kit. The Gennie's stand right next to them in tone and quality.