Gretsch has been building world-class drums ever since the company opened its doors in Brooklyn, New York in 1883. Known for their distinctive sound, the list of renowned drummers who have played Gretsch drum kits includes such luminaries as Max Roach, Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, Charlie Watts, Phil Collins—and more recently—Steve Ferrone, Keith Carlock, Stanton Moore, and Taylor Hawkins.
Gretsch Drums pioneered many industry firsts, including the multi-ply laminate drum shell, cast metal parts, retractable spurs, 18”- and 20”- sized bass drums, and double bass drum kits.
The current lineup of Gretsch drums runs the gamut from highly affordable drum sets aimed at the beginning drummer to top-of-the-line USA Custom sets embraced by Grammy award-winning artists.
USA Custom—the epitome of “That Great Gretsch Sound”
These drums are finely handcrafted in the Ridgeland, South Carolina Gretsch Custom Shop. Shells are are made of 6-ply North American maple with 30-degree bearing edges and Silver Sealer shell interiors, then finished in nitrocellulose lacquer, which allows shell to naturally age over time. Hardware includes die-cast hoops, classic Gretsch lugs, hinged tom brackets, an ultra low-mass tom suspension system, and telescopic bass drum spurs. Built for the most exacting drummers, USA Custom sets are configured to the buyer’s specifications. You can have your dream kit built to order by selecting your drum sizes and finishes, hardware finish, and other custom options. Customized hardware options for example include T-rods and snap-in drum key holders.
Sonic profile: Balanced/punchy/warm/clean/versatile.
You can order the drum set of your dreams by calling a friendly and knowledgeable Musician’s Friend Gear Head at (800) 449-9128.
Each hand-built Gretsch USA Custom drum kit is configured to the buyer’s unique specifications and incorporates the highest levels of craftsmanship.
Brooklyn—USA crafted for the discriminating drummer
Handcrafted by seasoned builders in Ridgeland, South Carolina, the Brooklyn series features a Gretsch 6-ply North American maple/poplar shell with 30-degree bearing edges, and Silver Sealer shell interiors. Hardware includes “302” 3.0mm double flanged hoops, classic Gretsch lugs, hinged tom brackets, a low-mass tom suspension system, and telescopic bass drum spurs. Shells are finished in nitrocellulose lacquer, which allows shell to gracefully age. Kits are available in a range of configurations and finishes.
Sonic profile: Balanced/open/punchy/warm/full.
The handcrafted Gretsch USA Brooklyn 4-Piece Shell Pack merges premium quality materials with old-school workmanship that’s signified by retro Brooklyn round badges.
Renown—Rock-solid construction, classic Gretsch styling, and saturating acoustics
The 7-ply shells are built with the Gretsch maple formula that combines North American maple with a slightly softer maple species. They have 30-degree bearing edges and Silver Sealer interiors. Hardware includes die-cast hoops, classic Gretsch lugs, hinged brackets, an ultra low-mass tom suspension system, and telescopic bass drum spurs.
Sonic profile: Penetrating/lively/warm
The Gretsch Renown 4-Piece Shell Pack features plies of Rock Maple and a softer maple species that result in explosive attack with rounded, low-end timbres.
Catalina Maple—The warm sound of maple combined with modern performance
The 7-ply maple shells have 30-degree bearing edges with natural shell interiors and produce lots of volume with a pronounced attack that mixes in the balanced warmth of maple. Hardware includes 2.3mm triple flanged hoops, mini Gretsch lugs, ultra low-mass tom suspension system, telescopic bass drum spurs with redesigned bass drum mount plate, tom holders, and smaller brackets.
Sonic profile: Warm/balanced
The Catalina Maple 6-Piece Shell Pack delivers a lot of bang for the buck and features new hardware components.
Catalina Club—Classic configurations, warm tones, and modern features
The Catalina Club is a compact set that’s designed for fast setups and load outs. Equipped with 8-ply Gretsch formula mahogany shells with 30-degree bearing edges and natural shell interiors, it has lots of warmth and punch. Hardware includes 1.6mm triple flanged hoops, mini Gretsch lugs, an ultra low-profile tom suspension system, telescopic bass drum spurs, a newly designed bass drum mount plate, tom holders, and smaller brackets.
Sonic profile: Deep/warm/round
With its compact configuration and easy setup, the Catalina Club Classic Shell Pack is a great choice for weekend warriors who play venues with tight stages and drum risers.
Gretsch Snare Drums—great drums for every style and player
Gretsch offers a wide selection of individual snare drums to match your individual playing and music styles. Choose from metal or wood shells with various diameters, depths, hoop styles, and throw-offs. No matter whether you’re a jazz cat, rock drummer, or cover band timekeeper, there’s a Gretsch snare that will enhance your sound.
Sonic profile: Diverse
The Taylor Hawkins Signature Snare reflects the Foo Fighters’ drummer’s personal playing style and has a glossy black nickel-coated steel shell and custom “Hawk” badge.
Explore the complete Musician’s Friend selection of Gretsch drum sets, shell packs, snare drums, and hardware here.