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In 2009, I saw an ad for a 1930’s Ludwig Standard 5 x 14 snare drum re-issue. Adrian Kirchler, owner of AK Drums in Valdaora di Sotto Italy, was making 60 replicas of this 2-piece shell snare. Even though I heard about it late, I was able to get on the list to purchase one through Long & McQuade, a musical instrument store in Toronto.
Read moreThese three drums were ordered at the 2007 Chicago Vintage Drum Show. Master drum craftsman Johnny Craviotto (Craviotto Drums) teamed up with master drum craftsman Adrian Kirchler (AK Drums) to create the Craviotto Drums/AK Drums Diamond Series snare drums.
Read moreIt's constructed of brass in the old school 1920s Ludwig style soldered at the center bead. The bearing edges are also soldered back to the shell as in the 1920s Ludwigs. It's plated in 24k gold.
Read moreI’d like to share some of our conversations in order for you to get to know Mike as I did, describe a few examples of his work, and also explain how his approach differs from that of other gifted hand engravers, like John Aldridge and Adrian Kirchler.
Read moremy Rogers Mardi Gras 3ply set c.1960 in 20, 12, 14 and [not shown] 5x14 snare drum. NO cracked lugs. The snare drum shown is by Adrian Kirchler [AK Drums and is the 7x14, 2 piece brass 24k gold plated Bob Meyer model made in 2012.I have Gretsch RB and Camco sets in the coveted jazz sizes, but this is my very favorite kit to play. the toms are so pure in tone. the bass drum so deep and warm. and of course looking at it is pure joy!
Read moreGeorge, A few years ago I was at [Steve] Maxwell's in NYC and tried AK's [Adrian Kirchler's] Damian Reed model with the same snare arrangement. Steve let me take it home for a week and I dug it except for 2 things. It was too dry for my taste and you couldn't separately adjust the inner parallel wires and the outer splayed wires for tension. Adrian designed his take on an old Dresdner throw off, changed the shell from copper to brass and plated it all with 24k gold for more warmth... voila! The Bob Meyer Model 7 x 14 - 2 piece shell (like a 20's BB) snare drum.
I often use wood shelled drums (8" 30s Radio kings, Leedy B'way Parallels, etc) but when I want a powerful drum with great dynamic range and sensitivity, this is it!
Best, Bob Meyer
