"Tell me about vintage drums, what do they sound like?"

Just like new drums, 'cept older! Just kidding, I couldn't resist the set-up there. I own a 1968 Maple Classic Ludwig set (9x12”, 9x13”, 16x16”, & 16x22”). I also have a 1961 Ludwig Maple Classic snare drum (5x14"). The set and the snare were purchased together as they match in looks. They are both Gold Sparkle wrap finish. I use them together most of the time for playing live but will sometimes pair the snare with other drums in the studio and the reverse.

These vintage drums sound a lot like the 1960s classic recordings you've heard. A bit boxy sounding and not a ton of sustain but the tones you can get are great. They are a bit finicky to maintain and tune. Plus the overall volume output is a bit lower than newer drums (mostly due to the way the old drums' bearing edges differ from today's models I think.) Therefore I don't use them for everyday live shows or touring. I break them out for special occasions, low volume indoor gigs, and studio recording.

The whole concept of new or vintage is such an opinion based thing. There are some drummers who will only play vintage gear and others who won't touch 'em. I like having the best of both worlds. If I am playing a big outdoor stage and really need to be able to lay into the drums and get a booming and loud sound then I go for one of my newer kits.

On the other hand, if I have a gig that is in a small room, at a low volume, jazz or kinda jazzy then I go for the vintage stuff right away. There tends to be something rattling or funky about the bass drum from time to time but that is also the charm. I think it is the same charm that is present on some old James Brown recordings or Led Zeppelin songs where you can hear the bass drum pedal squeaking. Sometimes random imperfection is just what you need. (That’s also leaving the topic of the unbelievable drumming performances on those records for another discussion.)

Another note, I mix in vintage with new cymbals almost all of the time. I have a couple of late 60's and 70's Zildjian high hats and ride cymbals. So I use them mixed in with newer K's and such. The sound I typically go for is a mixture of vintage and modern anyway so this works well.

Ultimately, I think the best answer is (as always) to use your ears! What drum or cymbal sound(s) seem appropriate for the music you are playing are the right ones to use! All drums have a variety of tuning possibilities and cymbals generally can create dozens of sounds each depending upon the technique or implements used to play them. So experiment and use the best weapon in any musician’s arsenal...

EARS!