Gretsch Catalina Club (New Version) Improved and Upgraded : Bearded Drums (Season 2, Episode 2)

[@darleneknight1]

Well this is my second comment here . I am 71 years old now and still play and you can spend more but will not get more. For someone older they are easy to set up look great and sound great. I have owned classic ludwig rogers slingerland premier and these sound great for the price and ease of travel.

[@MurPhy8886]

Been using this kit for 7 years- absolutely love it. Have fyberskin heads all around and use a single felt strip for bass muffling. Upgraded snare to a Brooklyn chrome over brass

[@BeardedDrums]

Killer set up 👊💯my really good drum buddy just put together a similar set and loves it.

[@boomerguy9935]

Remo Ambassador Renaissance batter and snare heads are another choice for lower volume jazz playing with brushes.

[@scooter_rick54]

I had been looking for a small 4 piece kit to just play around the house in my retirement so I chose the Classic Catalina Club configuration. Man what a surprise! I wasn't expecting a kit in this price range to sound this good. Tuned up easy. I would have had no problems pro gigging with these back in the day. Love them. Thanks for the video.

[@heinzpo]

Quick question: i am pretty much in the same equation here, now what do you usually play? If you not only stick to Jazz, what about some rock or latin into it? Will it also do the job?

[@ramencurry6672]

I use it for my studio along with 2 extra Tom Tom drums from the Gretsch Renown series. It’s perfect. It sounds so good and professional that there is no need to buy the more expensive drums. As always, tuning the drums correctly is crucial.

[@johnsayre2038]

Really appreciate this video. Bought a Catalina Elite about 15 yrs ago...the thing has paid for itself many times over. Very interested in picking up 1bof these in 24 13 16. These kits are great for those of us grinding it out in clubs and wedding bands. Great drums, but I can also smile when the groom or best man 6 beers deep wants to play my kit and not panic. Great video, love your channel

[@marciefree]

In December 2019, I bought this kit in the Gloss Crimson Burst from Sweetwater for $599.00. It serves as my second kit and it’s so dang pretty it’s in my living room. I’ve never played or owned a Gretsch kit before. I’m totally blown away by it. To me it is as good sounding and playing as any kit out there. I’m a Gretsch believer. 😍😍😍

[@ramencurry6672]

I own the kit too. Not a fan of the stock snare but everything else blew me away and it still immensely impresses me every day. It’s like i married a beautiful wife who just keeps getting more beautiful

[@marciefree]

@@ramencurry6672 hahahahaha!!! You know what I did with the snare? is I bought the Gibraltar after market die cast hoops, and a forty-two strand snare wire and that thing has become one of my favorite very versatile snares now. Great clear natural tone with extra crunch. 🥰

[@ramencurry6672]

@@marciefree That sounds good. I probably should hav done the same. 42 snare wires can be interesting in a fun way

[@pablogodi1392]

I bought mine just same color and at exactly same time, just before the COVID, and I'm everyday more happy. Tuned very high, only mods a Puresound 24 wires and a Genera snare head.

[@DeadtreeFilms1]

One of the best mid level kits I’ve ever heard. I have mine in the rock set up with an additional 18” floor Tom. The sound is huge, the toms have a perfect range from low to high. I paired my set with a Pork Pie Big Black, and it was amazing.

[@BeardedDrums]

Agreed, there really are some great affordable options these days 👊💯

[@robmag5150]

Pork Pie makes some of the best snare drums….I’m sure your set sounds awesome

[@zadtrax]

There wasn’t enough footage of how the two toms sound in this video. We got plenty of time hearing the snare and ride cymbal for sure but it would’ve been really helpful and nice to have more time hearing how the toms sound.

[@farshimelt]

Eliminate the 5 minutes of talking and that would have given enough time to hear the set at different tunings. Most people talk too much. They all should watch Nick DiVirgilio & see and hear how it should be done.

[@dxfordummies]

Mine always sound dead

[@dxfordummies]

The drums aren't the right size they cut them too small so the head just kind of has a lot of extra play hanging over the side

[@dxfordummies]

Look Pretty nice but at the end of the day they're cheap Chinese drums

[@pcgkjrn]

I got my Cat. club Dec 2018 in Walnut Satin and I love them even though I get aggravated with the eye bolt clamps on the tom mounts/legs. I changed the ride tom rim mount to the Ludwig Atlas lug system because I couldn’t stand the tom swinging. Wide tuning range. I’m still undecided about using the lift. Enjoyed the vid.

[@Drumma75]

I just picked up a used 2017 model yesterday for $350 in excellent condition. 20, 14, 12...I'm doing a bunch of gigs down south the next month and one of the band members lives down there, so I perused Craigslist, saw the Gretsch, had him pick it up and we'll store at his place. Way cheaper than backline and it's a decent little kit. Total score. Looking forward to putting it through the paces!

[@BeardedDrums]

Very nice 👊💯

[@DrummerDanVa]

I bought the version with the 20" bass drum in the yellow satin flame wrap almost 4 years ago and it is a nice sounding kit. I had a Gretsch kit from 1979 with the same sizes and honestly think the Catalina is easier to tune. I have my eye on the new Rogers champagne sparkle kit that is beautiful but since I just play at home I am not sure it is worth the extra money. Inexpensive kits are so good today and although the more expensive kits are better I am not sure they sound 3 or 4 times better.

[@thumpdrum]

I picked up the Blue Satin Flame. I have owned two of these in the past, you are right. They just keep getting better!

[@jermss_]

that finish is beautiful. wish I had it on my renown

[@kmcca08]

Me too, should be delivered this week. I’ve been without drums for a good few years now but I finally have the room and can’t wait to get back at it.

[@davidsuprenant893]

One of the best bang for the buck.I absolutely love the BEBOP configuration in this series. Beautiful lacquer finishes,(especially the gold sparkle).mahogany schells.$699.00 !!! UNBELIEVABLE. But true.

[@BeardedDrums]

Yes sir, right with ya 👊💯

[@brianw.359]

the bebop set is what I am interested in also

[@rolandedrummer9723]

I have a set of the catalina club rock from 10 yrs ago. Really like them. Hope I gig them again some day.

[@roybeckerman9253]

Best value kits around...would also like to hear lower tuning, for versatility. Love the tom holder..I don’t like toms attached to the cymbal stand.

[@jkf9167]

They tune low great. Check out Gretsch's demos. I played various kinds of rock/punk/doom with a drummer who had one of these sets (18" bass) and it sounded great.

[@jonathanbormann5077]

Thinking of getting my first bop kit. Torn between these amd the Sonor AQ2

[@BeardedDrums]

There are so many good options nowadays. I own the pearl Midtown, I have owned many of the Catalina clubs, and I have always wanted to try out the Sonor. So you definitely have a bunch of great options to choose from.

[@jonathanbormann5077]

@@BeardedDrums I have a Crush Drums Sublime kit. 20, 16, 12, 13x7 snare. It's a good kit (got it on closeout of like $600) but I need the space. A bop kit would work great amd I'm getting more and more into styles that justify it. Plus I really am not a fan of my 18" deep kick.

[@robertdobbins5333]

One of the best drum sets for the money. Got mine in 07, natural satin finish.

[@themole2024]

Ive had this kit for about 6 months. Love the way the toms tune so easily. The snare is a little weak but I don't need a big snare anyway.

[@thomasmoje5926]

the drumming community is indeed a tight fraternity. I play snare drum in two pipe bands along with playing set in two church praise bands and some other side projects. I've never met a drummer yet who does not enthusiastically share their craft with other drummers. Gretsch Catalina Club mahogany kit in 'bop' sizes is on the horizon for my next kit purchase.

[@scooter_rick54]

Hienzpo, I don't play old time jazz at all. Some fusion but mostly 1960s & 70s rock and these drums do the job. Idid add the 14 x 16 floor tom. I put some Evan's G2 coated on Tom's An emad on the base drum tuned them low and I'm happy.

[@jamesdennett196]

Our band plays old rockabilly, rock'n'roll, country type stuff and I had been playing a Tama Silverstar, but just ordered a Catalina in 20, 12, 14 and planning to put an EMAD on the bass and Emperor Vintage on the toms. Also good to know you're happy with them tuned low. I'll be looking into the cost of additional drums. The 13 rack and 16 floor in particular.

[@michaeleuefueno3517]

Hi Stephan. These Catalinas sound Awesome. The snare is killer. the thinner hoops really open up the tone. Thank You for the video. Happy Percussioning.👍🥁🎉

[@BeardedDrums]

Thanks Michael, I appreciate it buddy 👊💯

[@darleneknight1]

I am seventh years old and bought two of these sets. I have owned every top line out there and this little set is great for giving with great tone for rock country and jazz. You will not find a better drum for the money.

[@BeardedDrums]

Totally agree 👊💯

[@Mari000]

Nice video 👍 I have a Catalina Maple from 2009. Still sounds great!

[@BeardedDrums]

Gotta love that “great Gretsch sound” 👊💯

[@boomerguy9935]

When you say, "new", are you referring to the "new round badge" series vs. the older "stop sign badge" series? Or has the "new round badge" series had a renovation? I have a "new round badge" Catalina Club Jazz kit that I bought well over 10 years ago that is amazing! It was already great and I just changed a few things to make them even better. Love "That Great Gretsch Sound"!

[@donaldnelson8347]

They're gonna have to give that tom arm a lower profile and a more retro feel to compete with the current trends

[@drumdots]

i've the first generation or second.... the white marine pearl wrap well i got it second hand from a friend that bought it new in 2012 ish,....i take good care of it but, it seems that the wrap from the bass drums starting to warp :/ it has some small dents on the shell but you have to get closer to look for them lol i just love it .... i dont know if i can part ways....im in the work of buying a new one ! by the way great video dude !

[@Mudge07]

Appreciated the demo with straightforward batter heads rather than gel/pad/tape/ring damping, gave me a better idea of the kit’s “voices”.

[@BeardedDrums]

Thanks, glad it helped and thanks for commenting 👊💯

[@roybeckerman9253]

Snare sounds fine, but should have had a lot more tom and bass drum playing.

[@BeardedDrums]

Agreed, I tried to get as much as I could in the short time I had. Hopefully one day soon I can do a full review with more time.

[@farshimelt]

@@BeardedDrums Talk less, play more.

[@SCDrummer]

Loved the info! Thanks!

[@BeardedDrums]

👊💯

[@MrHavok9]

I have a 7 piece Catalina Maple, love it. I’m planning on buying my son one of these Catalina Club Kit soon

[@BeardedDrums]

I think you’ll be very happy 👊💯 a great addition for sure

[@sjwonenewoeijf]

I have this same exact kit and I'm wondering what the finish is. I bought it used and never asked.

[@imthelaw74]

I got a 24 club rock 12 16 24 and for the price caint go wrong sound just as good as mid level kits ...

[@ceilingphan8575]

How updated are these? I found the same set but a 2014 model. Is the video talking about a newer version than 2014?

[@roybeckerman9253]

If the quality of the fittings has improved, these are probably the best value drums around. Miked up, it would hard to tell the difference between these and the more expensive kits.

[@BeardedDrums]

So what do you think of the new upgraded Gretsch Catalina club jazz? Leave me a comment below. I know that the sound examples are very short but I had very limited time to spend with this kit and hopefully will be able to do a full review sometime here in the near future.

[@nielsemilbechnaumann]

Cataline Club is not only the kit with a 18" bass drum. Catalina Club is a series, just like Catalina Maple, and Catalina Ash. This kit is called "Catalina Club Jazz"

[@nl.mattiegames4972]

You must make a review of it!!

[@BeardedDrums]

I’m on it my friend 👊💯

[@nl.mattiegames4972]

@@BeardedDrums great i think about buying a Catalina club (now i have a pearl forum series Fx from 2005 have it since 2010)

[@nl.mattiegames4972]

@@BeardedDrums does the gretsch Catalina club antique fade also with the new mounts?

[@DirtyJobsGuy1]

Asking because I don’t know, but with an 18” bass drum, do you use a “riser” to make the pedal operate properly?

[@BeardedDrums]

Yes, exactly. The riser lifts an 18” or smaller bass drum to the proper height so the beater lines up with the center of the head.

[@DirtyJobsGuy1]

Ok cool! I assume that the kit comes with the riser? I couldn’t tell from the video

[@BeardedDrums]

Every Catalina Club I’ve purchased has come with the riser. It’s pretty standard for the small kits, I believe Gretsch just ships them out with the standard Gibraltar riser.

[@geoffnelson4777]

Sure you can upgrade, for $200. I bought my Gretsch Catalina Club Jazz in '07, Silver Sparkle (which was discontinued after one year), new from Sam Ash, for $514 including tax and license. I'm totally happy with my kit which sounds just as good as this upgrade. So, $200 extra for just what now?

[@BeardedDrums]

Oh I agree the older ones sound great as well. Keep in mind some people might have always been on the fence about buying one or some might even collect these kits so there is always a reason the get an upgraded version even it’s only slight upgrades in quality or finish options. If your happy with yours then you are in a good spot and don’t really have to worry about it.

[@docdunlop42]

Thinking of one of these at present. Any thoughts on cymbals that might work well with and match its affordability and versatility? Someone mentioned paiste pst7s.

[@BeardedDrums]

My friend that has the kit swears by the wuhan traditional series ( not the s series) the original traditional series. It’s the same series you see the wuhan China cymbals come in. As far as the rest of the lower price cymbals it comes down to brand preference.

[@docdunlop42]

Thankyou. It arrives on wednesday (20 inch bass version). First ever accoustic kit so very excited. Fingers crossed it lives up to all the positive reviews ive seen.

[@jamesdennett196]

@@docdunlop42 I've just ordered one with the 20 bass. I have PST7s, med hats, 16 med crash and 18 thin crash. Fantastic cymbals. The 18 thin in particular. Wasn't too keen on the rides though. Got a good deal on a 20 med 2002 instead. PST7s are very close to 2002s. Same alloy, made in the Swiss factory (PST5s and 3s are made in Germany).

[@farshimelt]

Saluda and Dream. Saluda will make a cymbal to your specs and you'll pay less than 1/2 of the majors and have the sound you want.

[@DrummerGrrrl]

They jacked up the prices too, though.

[@cecillands4097]

I have the Catalina maple 7pcs kit. On the tom mount. What is extra hole for? Thanks for your time

[@BeardedDrums]

If the extra hole your talking about is what I’m thinking then it’s usually for adding a boom arm or some attachment arm.

[@EverythingisFire]

Nice video! When you say this in an improvement, what year is it an improvement over? I'll probably end up getting these but maybe I should get one new from a shop instead of older used ones?

[@BeardedDrums]

From what I understand it’s been a while that these improvements have been in place (more than a year if not two). So if you get a brand new one from a dealer your more than likely getting the upgraded version. Whatever you purchase it will be obvious if it is the newer version because the finishes should be different as well as the upgraded tom mount being the biggest and most notable difference.

[@brendankohlheim7372]

will be getting one soon

[@thumpdrum]

I love that Gretsch painting in that back. Anyone know the artist?

[@BeardedDrums]

Those are all done by Hugh, my friend in the video who owns the kit. He is a really good painter in addition to being a great drummer.

[@thumpdrum]

Well, if he ever wanted to sell a print or poster of it, he’d have an interested party! :-). Thanks!

[@BeardedDrums]

I’ll let him know the next time I speak to him. I know he has sold some seascapes before but I’m not sure about any of the drum related paintings. I’ll find out though.

[@thumpdrum]

@@BeardedDrums Sorry, I don't mean to bug you but any work on the print from Hugh?

[@ciaradonnelly4627]

These sound old school!

[@ramencurry6672]

It’s designed to be like that and that’s a good thing

[@elilambert5457]

What’s the real difference in sound between these and the Catalina maples?

[@BeardedDrums]

I have always considered Mahogany to be a very round and warm sounding tone wood. On the other hand, maple although having warmth and sounding full-bodied has much more attack than the mahogany does.

[@roybeckerman9253]

I’d rather gig with these, than an expensive USA Custom. Good sound and won’t scare the hell out of you, regarding damage.

[@jwaugaman3491]

Where do you get the cymbal arm for the tom mount? I'm having trouble finding it online.

[@BeardedDrums]

He used the top part of a Gibraltar cymbal stand. Something he just had around the house.

[@jwaugaman3491]

Great, thanks!

[@BeardedDrums]

Your not the first to ask. The next time I’m over at his house I’ll try and measure the tube to get the diameter.

[@ronaldzeoli7528]

I have owned the previous Gretsch Catalina Jazz set in silver Sparkle. Sold it . I like the colors of the new version . But I purchased a pdp wood hooped bebop kit that's maple, like it a whole lot better. Also there is the tama superstar bebop kit in maple. Both kits are priced the same.check them out. Perhaps gretsch could produce a bebop kit in catalina maple instead.

[@matthijsbeute8258]

Where do you have the cymbal arm from? And which cymbal arms else work on the gretsch Catalina club?

[@BeardedDrums]

That kit was filmed at my friend Hugh’s house. I will contact him today and ask what specific boom arm he was using. It’s more than likely just a Gibraltar brand boom arm but I will find out specifically.

[@matthijsbeute8258]

@@BeardedDrums ok and do you know which cymbal arm it is?

[@matthijsbeute8258]

Do you know It already?

[@BeardedDrums]

Yes, he said it was just some random Gibraltar cymbal stand top section. Probably medium size tubing. I saw the mount and you should have no problem with just about anything fitting.

[@BeardedDrums]

Yes, he said it was just some random Gibraltar cymbal stand top section. Probably medium size tubing. I saw the mount and you should have no problem with just about anything fitting.

[@the6ig6adwolf]

I wish I had some drummer friends, I only know stupid guitar players 🤮

[@BeardedDrums]

Geez, I really feel sorry for ya 😂😂😂

[@jimsteele2072]

You should get out of the house more often. Start checking out local bands gigs...... Start talkin music at the bar, You will meet a drummer

[@charliefarran9603]

Chris L we are all here for you man...or join drummers kd all ages on Facebook drummer groups.

[@davidsuprenant893]

I want the pic on the wall.Thats beautiful.

[@BeardedDrums]

David, I have been trying to get in touch with him so I can put you two together for possibly getting a print from him but with the hurricane that just hit it makes things even harder. I will try to get you in touch with him though at some point.

[@thumpdrum]

Do you know where that kit was purchased?

[@BeardedDrums]

I know it was an online purchase. The next time I talk to him I’ll ask.

[@thumpdrum]

I've had two Catalina kits in the past. One in the Copper Sparkle and the other in Ocean Twilight. Both I sold at various times. This was a mistake. I am on the fence between the finishes. I've never been a fan of the satin flame finishes but that blue is stunning. The finish in this video is also very classic!

[@tomk7131]

they should make a 16" bass drum option

[@jimsteele2072]

Howz about a 32x20 ?

[@DrummerGrrrl]

Just convert a 16" Floor tom.

[@farshimelt]

That's called a floor tom.

[@gretschdrumsusa]

😄

[@BeardedDrums]

Yes sir! “That great Gretsch sound” 👊💯

[@christiandaelemans]

what finish is this kit?

[@BeardedDrums]

I believe it is called antique walnut.

[@Slimpickins03]

This is Harry miree just more gear related

[@BeardedDrums]

I love Harry’s channel, really great content and a super nice guy. 👊💯

[@davidhuckstep9703]

Hugh is a bad ass

[@BeardedDrums]

I count myself very lucky to have met and made a friend out of him in my life for sure.

[@ickysticky3672]

I have a question. I’ve been told that these drums are the closest Gretsch makes that are representative of the original “Great Gretsch Sound.” If I bought these drums and upgraded the hoops to Gretsch die cast hoops like the originals had, would that be the closest approximation of getting that sound without dropping thrice the amount of money on a new set of Broadkasters?

[@BeardedDrums]

I’ll say this, Hugh (the owner of the Catalina club in the video) since recording the video has added die cast to the toms and put single flanged on the snare. Also, he widened the snare bed to accommodate wider snares and adding an internal snare muffler. The kit now has so much more character and focused tone. The kit with all its upgrades definitely can hang with the higher end Gretsch kits at a lower price point. So yes, your train of thought definitely is possible.

[@ickysticky3672]

Bearded Drums I thought so. Seems like this will be the move. Thanks for the response!

[@thumpdrum]

What finish is that? Is that the antique burst gloss or is that the crimson gloss? Hugh's drumming was insane! Loved it!

[@BeardedDrums]

That’s is the antique burst in a gloss. As of right now the Gretsch website is showing antique burst in a satin so I don’t know if the gloss is still available. He is great player, you right 👊💯

[@matthijsbeute8258]

Where did your friend buy the new gretsch Catalina club in the Color antique gloss?

[@deaterk]

Not picking a fight, raining on anyone's parade, or trolling...These upgrades to the Catalina line are a couple years old though...

[@BeardedDrums]

Yeah totally aware now. I wasn’t aware until a drummer buddy showed me his so not only was it new to me and I really enjoyed the improvements. I just wanted to make a video in case some weren’t aware especially any of my subscribers.

[@deaterk]

Bearded Drums - I appreciate the kind reply, and that you took my comment in the spirit that I meant it!

[@BeardedDrums]

I’m with ya, my friend 👊💯

[@mrshiney2]

Yeah I had the old version....what a piece of junk. Sold it and got a MAPEX and never looked back. Hope they made this version right

[@joosuahollman9605]

Cymbals??

[@hombreenojado]

Ooo the Gloss Crimson. Very sexy.

[@DrummerGrrrl]

So, it'll be a HUGH deal?! Hahaha!

[@NEALBABBITT]

Mahogany? What kind? Certainly not African (true mahogany).

[@farshimelt]

Philippine.

[@dixonstreetdrummer1846]

Mahogany, maple, 3 degree bearing edges, Cedric, hitting hard, tuning medium high, high, low, wtf? Will it be loud enough to play comfortably within a band of idiots who play amplified bass and guitar instruments ? That is the real question ... It’s a hard life being a drummer 🙃

[@farshimelt]

With the proper heads and tuning, the right sticks for the gig, you can play any style of music. I've played them with Jazz, Blues, Reggae, and Rock bands.