Why does the Ludwig Acrolite sound so good?

[@NickCostaMusic]

The 🚨 giveaway 🚨 is LIVE to win a 6.5x14 Chrome over Brass LB402B 🥁 at shop.nickcostamusic.com !

[@andthensome512]

That medium low with the muffler on was a perfect 70s disco funk snare sound.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thought the same listening back while editing - no need for tea towels!

[@timothystockton3700]

First drum ever... it the big plastic clam shell case, stand, practice pad, and an old old old practice book. Still my fav snare of all time :) Love the legacy kit too.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Mine too (late 90s black galaxy version) with the same black plastic UFO case, stand, and pad. Appreciate it @timothystockton3700 - this legacy kit is really growing on me. Love the warmth!

[@georgeguest397]

Can we take a moment to admire Nick's nice playing? Yep, I remember the guys that I was in elementary school band with starting with this drum....that plastic case, the Gladstone pad, sticks. A hidden gem.

[@cb66db03]

I still have my very first drum- a Ludwig Acrolite that was purchased new in 1976 when i began school band.

[@NickCostaMusic]

What a great drum to start with! Same here - except it’s a black galaxy acrolite from the late 90s

[@markcamacho3808]

Was able to purchase a 60’s Sonor BDP kit at a garage sale for $75. 5 piece kit that came with a 1966 acrolite/ baseball bat muffler, and a pair of 50’s/60’s Zildjian hi-hats. Deal of a lifetime, and I still have the snare and hi-hats. Also put cob tube lugs, S-hoops, a P-86 strainer on the drum, and I have increased attack and volume. One of my favorite snares!!! 👍😎

[@NickCostaMusic]

What a great find! More attack AND volume?! Now there’s a video idea, comparing what a difference the tube lugs and hoops make!

[@DomingoAquino-vq5uy]

That’s exactly the one I have the outdoor light chrome snare. It’s awesome I love it. True tradition.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Right on!

[@impulse_xs]

I've played a vintage late 70s Acrolite one of my best friends gave me for free when we were in a band together, since she never used it. That thing travelled everywhere with us when we were teenagers. She passed away last year and I still have it to this day.

[@philtravers5552]

Friend of mine had one years ago. Awesome drum. You can use it for anything. So many people tried to buy that drum from him. He wouldn't come off it though. Can't blame him. Things awesome.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally agree! There's a reason why they're so expensive now

[@stevenrich1819]

I still have my ‘64 Ludwig maple blue sparkle snare. What great memories I have.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That’s a great era for Ludwig, too (for that vintage sound of course). What size?

[@jharrington53]

I bought an Acrolyte about six months ago and it came with an Evans HD dry head on it. I leave it tuned low for everything and I really love it. It’s also good for playing country music because you can get that low resonant quality that sounds so good with country music. I found mine on eBay for $185 plus shipping.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That's a decent price @jharrington53 ! I've seen a few on some websites for over $300 which is WILD! Seems like the Evans HD dry head is a popular one for this drum, a few others commented the same. Even see them on used marketplaces too

[@JohnBarousse]

My 3rd grade Acrolite from 1975 came with a P85 which constantly broke. Still one of the best snare drums I own. Various heads and tunings and this thing can be whatever you want it to be!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally! You can put a new P88 on it if you're still dealing with the throw off

[@bohdaaanek]

medium and high tuning without muffler sounds great!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Cuts through anything in that tuning!

[@TheNielCodex]

I found a '76 Acrolite at a thrift store for $40. Had to clean it up, replace the lugs and the throw-off. But when it was done I couldn't believe how amazing it sounds. I ended up putting my DW BNOB in the closet and it's been on my kit since.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That was a great find! It's crazy how these drums still work for any style all these years later. What kind of throw off did you put on it?

[@TheNielCodex]

@@NickCostaMusic I ended up just getting a new P85 from Sweetwater.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Excellent choice! I use the same one when any Ludwig snare needs a more durable throw off

[@tobyvattilano7846]

Remo Ambassador X is actually 12 mil where your standard is 10mil. The X14 is the single ply thickness equivalent of an Emperor. I find the coated Emperor surprisingly brighter than a coated X14 which prefer on my metal drums

[@NickCostaMusic]

Yeah, that was 100% my bad. Appreciate the correction, though!

[@drumsNstuff79]

I have one and I did get mine on Reverb for $170! I wanted a more controlled, less powerful snare than my trusty brass Pearl Sensitone. But it was in player's grade condition which is maybe why the price was so nice. When I took it apart to shine it up, it had black marks under the lugs from the rubber gaskets. Also the internal muffler bolt was cross threaded and the muffler only did so much. I used a tap and a die to re cut the threads on both the bolt and cylinder nut. Of course then the muffler would come apart inside the drum! But I never use it anyways so I removed it and saved it in my parts bin. The strainer feels low tech but hey, i'll take it, it works and gets the job done. And the previous owner put Puresound snares on it, so that was a nice bonus. I like its controlled sound. When I got it I was doing a regular coffee house open mic night gig with multi rods and such, and it has a great sound in a medium high tuning. For a student drum it's still Ludalloy goodness with classic lugs and the center bead, so it was not cheapie like many garbage foreign made student model metal snares are today.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That's a great find, @drumsnstuff79 ! Sounds like you did some great work to get it up to a decent condition. I agree about the throw off, I'm happy Ludwig made the new P88 throwoffs to fit in place of the old ones. They're much more durable!

[@golfnut033]

I liked the High tuning with damper off. My first drum was an Acrolite inside stamp has Sep 1970. I got it in 1974, I still have it but I don't gig with it. After watching this video I think I may start playing it out on some gigs. Thanks for the video. I am going to try the Ambassador X. I have it in the shopping cart of my favorite online store.

[@6400ab]

I've had my 79 Acrolite for 15 years. I got it on ebay as just the shell and lugs for $30 back in 2009. I restored it fully and it's been my go-to drum since. Last year someone walked off with it at a gig. I was super bummed out. I went on ebay to get another and was stunned at how much they cost now. Like $300-400. But I did manage to find another late 70's Acro in dirty but decent condition for $175. I got it cleaned up with new hoops, heads, strainer and snares, and it's just as good as my original. Then my original came back. Now I've got two of them which is awesome because I've got one for both my home studio kit and one for my gigging kit.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Woah - sorry that happened, but awesome that you got the drum back! It's unreal how expensive they're getting now - some modern snares cost less and have more durability because of better hardware! Great to see you were able to make cheaper options work with a little restoration, too. It's always a great thing to be able to do

[@newguy6935]

Excellent vid. I remember playing my friend's drums when I was a kid. He had an Acrolite snare and I remember really liking the sound of it.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate the kind words, @newguy6935 ! It was a fun vid to make while showing love for the "cheap snare." Doesn't matter what era, they just sound great. Do you still play and do you have one in your collection?

[@silentskystudios]

Great video! I've got an Acrolite that my Mom and step-dad bought for me at an auction over 20 yrs ago for 20 bucks! Just like you said, it came with a carrying case and stand like you would expect for a school snare kit. It's still one of my favorite snares, and I play it all the time!

[@NickCostaMusic]

How cool! That was a great find

[@PatrickWitherow]

I've got a '65 Acro and love it. I got mine off ebay - a family member was selling it after it was found in an attic. Pretty much mint. It came with original heads, wires, baseball bat tone-control, etc. The hoops are even chrome over brass! It never sounds bad honestly. To experiment, I put an Emperor-X CS head on just to see...it REALLY beefed it up. I've since gone back to an Ambassador - but these snares can do a LOT for a great price if you can find one.

[@NickCostaMusic]

What a cool story and find! I'm with you - I think a single ply head works wonders, especially since the drum has an internal muffler.

[@dillroastington]

I have a 1968 Ludwig supraphonic and it is by far my favorite of all my snares. I put some die cast hoops on it and its still the most versatile drum I own. It really makes me think all snares should have mufflers.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Can't go wrong with a supraphonic ! I bet the die-cast hoops help make the drum nice and direct, too. I was just talking to another drummer about how all drums should have internal mufflers again! Maybe companies don't do it because of the cost? Sure beats having to carry around moon gels, or tea towels

[@drumjedi5301]

I have a '65 Supra, and like you it's my favorite snare by a long shot. I have a handful of other snares set up for specific sounds (from super deep/fat to Alex Van Halen thick and woody to cranked to the sky cracking), but that Supra is far and above the most versatile drum in my collection. That thing just makes me smile, man!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice! You can’t go wrong with a Supra - there’s a reason they’re recorded so much.

[@normnashtynash8815]

What is your Top and Bottom tuning on your Supra? Bottom Table-top tight? @@drumjedi5301

[@hiblitdrummer]

Very good job demonstrating the features and range of this fine instrument! My first drum is still my favorite, a used '72 Acrolite with the big plastic case that I got when I started beginner band in 1975. I have a few of them now plus a few SupraPhonic snares in chrome and Vistalite; one chrome Super-Sensitive model. They're all very versatile drums! The lowest price I've paid for an Acrolite was $25.00 a few years ago.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Glad you liked it, @hiblitdrummer ! I'm like you - 1st snare was an acrolite with the same big bulky plastic case, though it was a black galaxy from the late 90s. They're just great drums, and I'm glad others feel the same. Sounds like you got a great snare collection there - what are the specs of your Vistalite? Love acrylic drums!

[@jeffsr8300]

The practice pad is a Billy Gladstone, still have mine from my 1968 olive badge Acrolite.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Good to know - appreciate the info!

[@terryweiss6069]

I used to have a 1976 acro but sold it because it was just to dry sounding to me nick.Now my 1974 supraphonic that i played in hi school is my baby! It remains my secret weapon today.I love the pitting an i keep it in perfect working order.Yes sounds brighter,open,med high.I call it my diamond snare,pitting reminds me of little diamonds.What more can i say,take care nick!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally understand, and you hit the nail on the head. Want a drier sound - go acolite, but if you want more sustain go supraphonic. That pitting just gives the drum some mojo!

[@FreeRPGer]

I have 8 snares, 2 of which are custom, and I'll say that my 1981 Acrolite is my favorite of them all. I love its dryness, especially with an Evans HD Dry head on it. I got mine for $200, but I'd say it's totally worth it. I threw an INDe throw & butt on it, with Puresound Equalizer wires, and I get the exact sound I've been looking for.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Nice! That thing has to have quite the bite and attack with that setup. Can’t go wrong with INDe throw off either (heard they helped with the new p88 throw 😉)

[@oldowl4290]

I had one in high school in the 1980's...keystone badge exactly like the video. At some point I sold it because I wasn't really into shallow depth metal shell snares. I wish I had it back now lol.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Just like cars, sometimes you look back and wish you kept them...especially when you see the current prices😳🤣

[@Msmith-yd7bz]

This guys good,he could be playing anything allmost,he doesnt overload the listner with the lastest athletic endevours,nice range of beats and feel,and volume.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate that, @Msmith-yd7bz !

[@footnotedrummer]

I grabbed a 74-76 (no date stamp) with sharp corner blue/olive badge from a guy off of FB Marketplace. It was 100% original from when he played snare in High School. Everything about the drum was perfect. No tiny pitting imperfections in chrome on the hoops or the lugs. I got it for $150 and I put new heads as well as Puresound snare wires on it. It sounds fabulous, and completely unique to all other drums in my collection.

[@NickCostaMusic]

What a great find! Is it a smooth shell, or the textured that looks like an orange peel?

[@footnotedrummer]

@@NickCostaMusic ... smooth

[@stanfordkoch1271]

Im happy i still have mine , i got it with my first kit when i was 8, so 47 years ago. I got the one with the puck damper, i think same as your or a few year earlier. Great snare and still ue it

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh awesome, @stanfordkoch1271 ! What was your first kit?

[@stanfordkoch1271]

@@NickCostaMusic , on my 8th birthday my parents gave me a secondhand red sparkle ludwig kit, it had the acrolite with it. I still have that kit on my native island of curacao. I would never sell it, the snare i have with me in the netherlands where im currently living

[@NickCostaMusic]

That’s pretty awesome, and what a great kit to still have!

[@stanfordkoch1271]

@@NickCostaMusic has sentimental value to me as it was a gift from my parents and my first kit

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally understand, that’s why I still have my 1st drum too!

[@johnplaysdrums]

I like the damper on the low and medium tunings, but in the higher tunings i definitely think it sounds better when it rings out and sings a bit. Another cool video Nick.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally - almost like in the lower tunings you get the tea towel vibe

[@brockbeckstedt6483]

I have a 1969 dlb virgin with a chrome plated 10 tuned lugs Ludwig kit and the metal or Aluminum cast shell sounds like all the music made back then, Im a second hand owner of this kit the original owner had it from the time of new and my Dad bought it from him in july 1980 and its the set or kit that I patrice with, loving it.

[@NickCostaMusic]

How cool! Sounds like you have a supraphonic snare. What’s the finish of the kit?

[@brockbeckstedt6483]

@NickCostaMusic chrome plated I ran gold keystone and it was 68' or 69' MFG can't really recall, but all wood shells have reinforced wood rings on ends all drums stamped 05 1969 and they wonderful! Just trying to keep time straight, enjoying the art medium I'm to a student of the arts

[@NickCostaMusic]

That’s a great kit! I have a ‘68 downbeat that still sounds fantastic to this day. Keep playing, and have fun! 🥁

[@thechuckster1971]

I found one on the side of the road. In the trash. With a set of pearl power Tom exports. It was spray painted red to match the pearls. It’s a 1965 acrolite with the red baseball bat muffle. It’s my favorite drum. Has been since it found me.

[@NickCostaMusic]

No way - that's a great find! Did you leave it as is, or try and remove the paint?

[@thechuckster1971]

@@NickCostaMusic sorry I didn’t see your reply until today. I completely disassembled it cleaned it and put it back together and fell in love with it. Then I have a room on the back of my house where I have a studio and rehearsal / practice room. And an impaired driver crashed into it. It is mind boggling how he managed to get a full size truck that far from the road with out hitting a bunch of stuff. But he pretty much landed on top of my drums at the time. And this snare was involved. But the good news is that this drum is a survivor and somehow I got the small dent out of the shell and the snare side hoop has a bad dent in the cut out for the snare wire but it doesn’t touch the snare so I just left it and it still has pride of place on my new Tama kit that I got with the insurance money. It kind of helped me to get back into it after the accident I was in a dark place for a while but when I finally picked it up and really looked at if it was salvageable it sparked the desire to keep playing when I realized it was down but not out. So I saved this drum from the garbage truck and it kind of repaid me I guess. And it still has that beautiful crack that the vintage Acrolites have. Sorry for the long reply but it had to be said.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Awesome, great to hear you were able to bring it back to life. Sounds like you got a great setup there!

[@handidrummer]

I love this drum. And absolute must-have in the studio for me.

[@NickCostaMusic]

For real! Can’t go wrong with one

[@soulproprietor]

About 15 years ago, I was driving home (I lived in Portand, OR at the time) and there was an Acrolite with everything but hoops and heads in a cardboard box marked "FREE" at the curb in front of someone's house. I immediately scooped it, expecting it to be out of round or otherwise messed up, but it was in great and functional condition. Speaking of great snare drums, have you ever wondered how many brand new snare drums are manufactured in the world every day??? With so many drummers hunting for classic vintage drums - AND so many boutique and custom builders - AND so many large, respected and established drum companies - AND so many modern recordings made WITHOUT acoustic drums, where the heck do all these new drums go??? I can't figure it out!!!

[@camerondean6804]

Great question. I don't understand either, but may be like me: I am an old dude. Used to drool over drum catalogs, but couldn't afford anything. I'm far from rich and don't typically--have only four times spent up to $850 on a snare--spend a lot of money on a snare. But, I love finding and buying drums that hit well above their price point. I've built a sizeable collection (which gives me lots of sonic options). You might say this is sort of like a hobby, just as playing is. I have a limit, though... There are just three more snares I'd like to have, then I really don't see any snare purchases in my future. Maybe therr are a lot of "collectors" like me??

[@NickCostaMusic]

What a great find! Do you still have the drum? Oh man - I’m sure there are warehouses all over the world with them in boxes. I’ve never seen a delay for a snare order due to low inventory or because of build times.

[@JackNiles]

Well some people do have children, so the population grows. People collect drums..

[@soulproprietor]

I know what you mean, of course. But even with a world population over 8 billion, it still sometimes seems they are making too many snare drums! @@JackNiles

[@PrinceAsmodeus]

​@camerondean6804 this is the way to go.

[@MrRLRRLL]

I absolutely love all my Ludwig snare drums…..but my main go to snare is my limited edition Ludwig 61/2x14 snare drum….it sounds great with any and all different tunings !!

[@NickCostaMusic]

You can’t go wrong with Ludwig! What kind of snare is it? Curious if it’s the pewter copperphonic

[@NelsonMontana1234]

I thought it odd that Clive Bunker of Jethro Tull used one. But it sounded great! As for your demo, it seemed like the medium tuning allowed the drum breathe best.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That's exactly it - marketed as a "student model" cause it was affordable, but had a sound that was awesome! Did you prefer the medium tuning with or without the internal dampener?

[@NelsonMontana1234]

@@NickCostaMusic The internal muffler wasn't bad but I think there's a reason they fell out of favor. If some dampening was necessary, I'd just use a 4" crescent shaped slice of an old drumhead taped to the edge of the head.

[@hotlanta35]

I have a 1970 Acrolite, I bought it used back in 1995

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice! Probably got it for a steal compared to prices today

[@DomingoAquino-vq5uy]

Wishing you luck in all your innovation, and in the education you’ve studied plus your performance factors and all the renaissance identity. Very good keep up the good work.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Really appreciate the kind words, thank you!

[@drummztones4373]

Nice demo! Whole kit sounds marvelous indeed!

[@NickCostaMusic]

I appreciate that, thank you @drummztones4373 ! Can't go wrong with @ludwigdrumshq

[@JohnnyQ714]

Cool video bro! Thanks! I have two 60’s & one 70’s. I modded the 70’s drum. I’m seriously thinking of getting one of the brand new Acro’s! These come in several different metals and measure 6.5X14”, with ten lugs!!!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Much appreciated @johnnyquesada104 ! What did you do to modify the 70s drum? I highly recommend one of the. new acros - I originally was looking to get an acro copper, but played the new acro bronze at PASIC and it's unreal! Couldn't recommend it enough

[@Euthymia]

My desert island snare. I also have a late 50's WFL Barrett Deems (later called the Ludwig Jazz Festival), Silngerland COB Krupa Sound King, early 60's Ludwig Jazz Combo 13" and Ludwig Rocker II 6.5. Great drums, classic drums, but the Acrolite absolutely knocks them all into the creek. The smaller and fewer lugs make it sing better than the Supraphonic. I also have a (sleeper) Ludwig Standard aluminum, basically an Acrolite without the center bead and Standard lugs and it's similarly amazing.

[@NickCostaMusic]

You have a great collection of snares - some highly sought after too! I'm a big fan of the ludwig standard aluminum too. For the longest time you could get them cheaper, though people realized they're very similar in tone

[@benbarletta2927]

Great stuff!! I have to pull mine out and check the date... Haven't really used it in a while, but the odd thing is when I first got it, the top rim was damaged, and I had an old 14" Slingerland rim, and had been using that! Love the drum!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thank you @benbarletta2927 ! Appreciate you checking out the vid. Is the slingerland hoop also thinner like vintage Ludwig’s?

[@benbarletta2927]

@@NickCostaMusic Not really, it's a pretty hefty hoop, I'm guessing 60's/70's vintage? I think I found it in a locker at my high school.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Well that's rad - at least it won't bend from rim shots!

[@kurtpatterson1296]

I got an Acrolite rental snare in 1968 as a 6th grade band student. Back then kids thought these drums were trash compared to the Ludwig Supraphonic supersensitive snare drums that almost all school bands were buying.🤣

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally! By the time I was in school, it was the black galaxy. The band room was lined with them in the back, and a super old wood snare everyone HATED - lol

[@jorymil]

What people _think_ is trash is very different than something that has been measured and shown to be that way.

[@kurtpatterson1296]

@jorymil You just explained why most younger people don't make better decisions that older people,lol...

[@davepounds8924]

I own 2 Acrolites and love them both!! They can be used in any genre of music Easily tuned, sound quality is great and you can get them used for 200-300 dollar range They are a underrated snare that sounds better than more expensive drums

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice - what era snares? I remember prices hitting $125-$150 and having conversations with friends how that was too expensive 🤦🏻‍♂️. Oh, how times have changed

[@spudflap]

Great video. High tuning for me, without muffler, brings out the true character of the drum i think. I have two Acro's, one being a repudedly rare ten lug one in black. The other one is a late 70's (I think) which I bought from the US via Ebay. Even with the postage and import duty it was cheaper than buying one here in GB. It was 6 or 7 years ago and cost the equivalent of £126, not including postage etc. Thing is, when I received it, although the heads and snares were trashed, the shell, chrome, original P85 black faced strainer were all immaculate. With new heads etc the drum looks like new, and it sounds gorgeous. I have a Supra also, but the Acro's sound is way superior imo, it makes the Supra sound thin and twangy. There, I've said it, now I'll wait for the flak...

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate it, @spudflap ! I completely agree with your observation on the high tuning bringing out the real characteristics of the acrolite. Appreciate you watching and leaving a comment, and totally get where you're coming from with the supraphonic - that chrome really makes the shell bright (even though I like that sound, too)

[@theScienceLabLive]

Great video. Sounds buttery. Especially with that damper on... so good. Medium + damper was my favorite.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thanks, @thesciencelablive ! Looks like medium, medium high are the favorites - with the damper it gives that instant funk vibe

[@theScienceLabLive]

@@NickCostaMusic I don't know if you get anything for it, but I just bought a 1968 from reverb because of this video. Lol. It was made on my birthday, so I had to get it.

[@NickCostaMusic]

I wish I did, but nope - I don't get any compensation. Also, how cool you got one made on your birthday!!

[@dugjay]

Great video Nick! I remember seeing these in high school band practice in the mid 70's and totally forgot about the practice pad. I didn't have one but one of the other drummers did.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Many thanks, @dugjay ! I think I still have my practice pad - I just remember everyone trying to pull it off from the center section since it would vacuum seal to the head🤣

[@Braddockmanne]

It's a fantastic and versatile snare drum. However, I prefer black beauty and jazz festival, which are less dry and have more body. My favorite combination on acrolite is aquarian texture coated or remo encore ambassador coated on top, reso 3 mil thick and range tuning medium/low betwenn 172 and 178 hz, 261hz lug pitch on top and 308hz on snare side, and puresound custom pro brass 20 wires. That's my experience!

[@NickCostaMusic]

I agree @braddockmanne - the acrolite is surprisingly versatile for being a "student model." I do love a black beauty - the overtones from brass are my favorite for a metal drum. The jazz festival being a wood drum is a great option too, especially if you're looking for less overtones compared to the black beauty. Sounds like you have a solid config for your acrolite!

[@Toastrodamus]

That 'medium-low' tuning sounded really tasteful.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Has some body to it, and still a little bite. Did you prefer it with or without the internal damper?

[@organicgroove23]

I have an early 60s Acrolite. Never sell these as they are superb.!! I have a few gems and one is Prairie Prince's Dynastic Rogers 6.5" deep snare drum from 1972 that I played for years. Then just recently, I fell in love with this fairly inexpensive snare from Orange County 6x14 Natural Maple Black Burst with 8 air holes. OMG. A super raw sound I use with no muffling. Total bomb imo. I probably deserve a Ludwig Black Beauty but Oh well.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Couldn't agree more - the acrolite just works, IMO. That sounds like a great collection of snares! I recently picked up a USA made orange county snare with the 4 large vents in it - it was the sound of my youth. As for a black beauty, check out the Ludwig Universal Black Brass - it's a great alternative that's a bit more affordable.

[@johnleblanc7573]

Excellent video on the Versatility of the Killer Acrolite!!!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Many thanks, @johnleblanc7573 ! Do you have one yourself?

[@jerrymckenzie1858]

I recently paid $250 for a near-mint late 70's Acrolite and it was well worth it IMO.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice, @jerrymckenzie1858 ! Did it come with any additional items (like case, snare stand, sticks?)

[@jerrymckenzie1858]

@@NickCostaMusic Nothing extra, just a super clean, classic drum. I could have paid less for one in lesser condition, but I would rather have the pristine drum.

[@NickCostaMusic]

I don’t blame ya - I would have done the same!

[@sniluzi]

Absolutely love your tom tunings in this one! also this made me finally decide on buying the K light hats rather than K custom darks so thanks for that as well :)

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thanks @ilijahalonen7440! Can you believe these are the stock heads from the factory, too?! The k lights are amazing, especially the 15" model like in this vid. They're pretty versatile

[@12groney]

I love the way you tune your toms, nice and low, old school. Is the rest of your kit Slingerland? The lugs kinda look it.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thanks, @12groney ! It’s a @ludwigdrumshq legacy mahogany kit. Modern day 3 ply mahogany,poplar,mahogany with a roundover bearing edge. Kit in this vid is a 110 anniversary edition

[@boomerguy9935]

This is an excellent video and I agree with your choice of drum head. However, I would also like to have heard it played in all tunings WITHOUT the snares engaged. This is more important to me than having the muffler engaged, which I never used. Back in the 60's, I actually removed the mufflers from my snare drums. My jazz instructor said this was a crutch for weak drummers.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Great suggestion! Might do that in future videos. As for the muffler, I use to think the same and never used them. Now I’m a littler older, I see why they’re useful - especially in specific styles. I don’t think Clyde Stubblefield is a weak drummer, and most definitely used some kind of damper on his snares…

[@BillRayDrums]

I have a "fleet" of Oriollo "Acro-like" drums; all aluminum thin shelled snares with the center bead in 6.5x14, 5.5x14, 5.75x13, and 5.5x12. I've never met an aluminum snare I didn't like!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Yo @BillRayDrums ! Oriollo makes some beautiful snares, though I haven't seen or played one in person. Are they 8 lug, 10 lug, combo of the 2?

[@BillRayDrums]

@@NickCostaMusic Most of mine are 8 lugs, all the aluminums are. You can specify what you want through special order. I think my bell bronze drum is 10 lugs.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Nice! Might have to look into getting one, one day

[@jemmace2586]

Good video, very accurate information here, I started drumming in my late twenties, around 96', people I spoke to advised me, and highly recommended buying a Acrolite, here in the UK... I owned a few before I bought a 60's keystone (all decade versions sound great though to be clear) badge version, which I loved, the tuning range and the body of sound that comes from Acrolites is really unique, very warm and wooden sounding, definitely a studio and recording preference as is well documented. I later bought a Ludwig Supra phonic because it mainly means two more lugs bring more accurate and longer tuning stability. So again great video and advice for any drummers looking to improve their sound and confidence, I must say, I found that the likes of a good snare sound will boost confidence and makes you feel more stable in the sound mix overall, basically a amazing snare sound, becoming much more difficult to acquire these days.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Many thanks @jemmace2586 ! Did each era have a different sound? I’m curious to see if that’s the case. Thank you for taking the time to watch the vid, and leaving a great comment! 🙏🏼 🥁

[@jemmace2586]

You're welcome! Yes, I found that the olde keystone badged Acrolites sounded slightly better in terms of warmth and clarity, if that makes sense, but we're talking slightly, so the younger blue and olive badge with spiky corners then the younger again same badge with rounded corners, for me were/are a little less pure in sound, honesty though what an amazing snare choice of any era. I've noticed a few of your videos are of high quality with the best advice so subbed and 👍

[@jemmace2586]

I now own a 1962 Supra phonic, four number serial, so definitely 62'. It sounds unbelievable, but as is usual, the chrome to the shell exterior has flaked badly. Still sounds amazing though, which is the whole point of the amazing sounds that the famous Ludwig Aluminium shells boom out.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate the insight! I think maybe a video comparing acrolites might be in order 🤔 Really appreciate the kind words, and the sub! 🙏🏼 🥁

[@NickCostaMusic]

Totally - I think it’s hard to find a chrome over aluminum shell that isn’t pitting. Either way, they still sound amazing (like you said)

[@motodrummer]

High tuning with muffler off was the best imo. I wonder why more snares so not come with internal mufflers, they cannot be that expensive to add and can add a wider tuning range to each snare.

[@NickCostaMusic]

I agree - it's so much easier than carrying dampeners around. I like how the new Benny Greb brass snare has 2 different internal dampeners just for this exact reason

[@jeffschultz6813]

High tuning for me - that's how it sings. How about some love for the red headed stepchild of the Ludwig aluminum snares - the Standard? Love my August 1970 with an Evans ST Dry batter, and the best thing is it weighs maybe 5 pounds, so gigging with it is effortless!

[@NickCostaMusic]

I might be able to get my hands on a standard, and would love to add that to the series! Have you ever had an issue with lugs popping?

[@jeffschultz6813]

I've had mine now for about a year and nothing like that has happened for me. I will say the drum seems all original (dated August 12, 1970), lugs, hoops, snare, and if you can believe it, the Ludwig reso head that has a piece of packing tape covering a slash in it! All I've done is replace the batter head with an Evans ST Dry and cleaned it up and it is simply remarkable. Would love to see you do a video on one!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice - seems like a lot of folks prefer the drum with an Evans dry head. Even the 70s acrolite I picked up had one installed.

[@jeffschultz6813]

@@NickCostaMusic yes, it is perfect for an aluminum shell!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Gives that direct bite only aluminum can create

[@steverichdrummr]

Nice job again Nick. Yeah, I enjoy these series, even if you borrowed snare drums to video them. I'll volunteer mine if you live anywhere near Rhode Island, lol. That one surprises me, that it sounds good with the plastic end wires. Medium-ish tunigs were great.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Really appreciate the offer @steverichdrummer, though I’m in Philly. Did you prefer the medium ish tunings with or without the damper?

[@steverichdrummr]

@@NickCostaMusic Oh, I actually hate the muffled tunings on any and all videos. I love the sound of the drums open, or a little dampening is OK. I am old, and old school. The sound of this drum was really nice at every tuning actually, I just thought it great at medium and medium high. Thanks for the personal response back, you are a celebrity you know. I own a few Supras, and one blackrolite. When it comes to acro's, I prefer the blacro because I play out with it, and it has the improved stainer slide so no struggling with square knots, the 2.3 hoops for strength ( I'm a rim shot guy), really good wires, and the in and out coating, all combine to sound the best in a club. At least for me, I never recorded it though, but truthfully, recording drums takes very nice sounding drums, and makes them sound incredible. Again, thank you so much for listening!

[@NickCostaMusic]

I’m with you - I prefer an open snare over muffled, though I didn’t mind it with the low tuning on this drum. You brought up a valid improvement - thicker triple flanged hoops on “modern” drums. That 2.3 makes a difference, both durability and tone!

[@DaxRushlow]

Please continue everything.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Noted! Appreciate the response, @DaxRushlow ! 🙏🏼 🥁

[@crystallake6198]

good thing I have 2 of them.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice! Both from the same era?

[@fess04]

all of the supraphonics sound great regardless of shell material. medium depth wide tuning. just get one and hold out for a good price. if you get one you cant miss.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Couldn’t agree more - they’re great drums!

[@MrJaydev1]

Hey Nick, great video! Did you read the interview where Bill Cardwell of C &C Drums says “The Ludwig Acrolite shell made between 1966 and 1968. These are different for a reason told to me by Wm Ludwig Jr. He was right. They are the best.” Do you know why this is ? From my experience my 1968 Acrolite does sound better than any of the 70’s or 80’s acrolites I’ve owned.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thanks, @mrjaydev1 ! I’m not too sure, maybe Ludwig used a different supplier for shells during that era?

[@8mcdrummer]

Love my Acro, what a versitile snare 🙌 Do any of you guys use the Acrolite for rock drumming?

[@NickCostaMusic]

This one in the video I keep with one of my kits packed up for any call I could get. Mainly musicals and a few fill in gigs with cover bands - but yeah, definitely played in a "rock" setting

[@rhythmista7707]

Immediately this one sounds much rounder, fuller, and warmer than than the 70s versions. Although the 70s ones are awesome sounding as well..

[@NickCostaMusic]

That’s what a few others said, too. Wonder if it’s a different shell? 🤔

[@1thess523]

Medium to high tuning is where it's at for me 👍

[@NickCostaMusic]

Nice! Those are the most popular so far. Do you prefer it with or without the internal damper?

[@1thess523]

@@NickCostaMusic I have the muffler slightly on but it comes loose after an bit

[@alsdrumhang]

Does the Acro sound so good in part because it's the first snare drum many of us heard as kids in band class? Kind of like how the Supra sounds so good because Hal Blaine played it on, like, ALL the records? 🤔 I have many regrets in not picking up an Acro back when you could find them at garage sales for $75 or whatever. Now it feels like you're lucky to land one in decent shape under $250.

[@camerondean6804]

Good question.

[@handidrummer]

I'll tell you this. So I'm a 90s kid. And everything that I remember hearing by way of recordings was always the Tama Bell brass because you know, the grunge era LOL but I have both of the Supra and the acro, and there's just something about aluminum that just works. So I can't say that I like either one of those drums because of what anybody else has done but I love them both because of the aluminum and because they're set up completely different from each other. That and when you put them under a microphone they just absolutely Excel. You do drive home a good point though, but in my perspective there's just something about aluminum being a great tone material for drums.

[@camerondean6804]

@@handidrummer Amen.

[@NickCostaMusic]

That’s a great question! Maybe, but if that was the case would we say the same for the CB700 snare?

[@alsdrumhang]

@@NickCostaMusic hmmmm... mayyyybe not 🤣

[@12groney]

I wish I knew about the Acrolite before buying my Supraphonic years ago. It's a totally articulate drum, every note comes out clean. I have a 70's Supraphonic 14x5 , not as good as the 14x6.5.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Pretty wild how much a different chrome plating and 2 extra lugs can do. Can’t go wrong with both an acrolite and supraphonic in the collection though!

[@frank.l181]

I trade in mine for new hammered 6.5 ×14 10 lug. Replaced batter with control sound X. Sounds great with loads of volume!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Nice! Did you get a hammered aluminum, brass, or something else?

[@frank.l181]

@@NickCostaMusic Aluminum, it's technically called Ludalloy.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh right, totally forgot. Appreciate that!

[@williammccormick966]

WOW ❤ BRINGS BACK MEMORIES THANKS FOR SHARING.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Glad you enjoyed it - appreciate you checking out the vid!

[@MultiMikey81]

When cranked this is very similar to the pearl ian paice 6.5 snare Both great drums

[@MM-ig1iv]

I think it sounds REALLY good actually! for a couple hundred bucks I just might have to get it. I'm a snare fanatic though.. I love all of em.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Definitely a good idea - they work in any style IMO! Which tuning stuck out to you the most?

[@badtripmoses]

Ive got 2 of these snares & yes, very good & versatile recording snare!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Awesome, @badtripmoses5826 ! Are they from the same era?

[@Kinger1625]

I want one of these really badly, and will search one out. What if any is the difference between an older one and a newer model? Is this not the same one Alex Van Halen used? Love that tone. Sorry for those who don’t lol.

[@NickCostaMusic]

There are a few differences - older acrolites (and older drums in general) had a thinner triple flanged hoop at 1.6mm, where modern day triple flanged hoops are usually 2.3mm. Older acrolites are 8 lug and were 5X14, where modern day are 10 lug and 6.5X14. The 2 extra lugs will make the drum more direct sounding, and the deeper shell will provide more overtones. Finally, newer acrolites do not have an internal damper like the vintage ones do. From what I've read, AVH used an LM402 - which is a 6.5X14 Supraphonic (same shell, chrome plated with 10 lugs)

[@Oddzilla51]

I miss my Acrolite. Wish I would have kept that snare.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Always a great one to have in the collection. There’s plenty out there if you wanted another!

[@Oddzilla51]

@NickCostaMusic sadly, the rest of my drum set went with it. :) maybe someday I'll get back into playing and look for another.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Never too late to get back on the horse, especially with drums

[@ronniek7748]

Medium high, tuning muffler off would be my favorite!

[@NickCostaMusic]

That's a pretty popular one (my favorite too) - just brings a good amount of pop without being overbearing!

[@Uzziel_lay_drums]

One of the best snare ... Love the 60 , matter fact i have one pre serial with crimped beds and a 71 acrolite 6.5x14 . These snare are so versatile, great video and execution. Would be good to make some video of vintage 20+30's black beauty , 60's chrome over brass ludwig, ludwig nickel over brass 20-30's maybe bronze 80's . Amazing thanknyou for shared

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate it, @uzziel_lay_drums ! I'm sure there's a difference between your 60 and 71 because of the shell size. All great recommendations - would love to get my hands on some of them (especially a 2 piece from the 20s).

[@Uzziel_lay_drums]

​@@NickCostaMusic I have a 1920's Ludwig nickel over brass 2 piece heavy brass shell 5x14 and sound insane

[@NickCostaMusic]

I bet! How many lugs?

[@Uzziel_lay_drums]

@@NickCostaMusic mine 1920 nickel over brass 2 piece is have 8 lugs 5x14 a real beast

[@NickCostaMusic]

Nice! Probably has a ton of body and warmth being 8 lugs, too.

[@Nagroddy]

excellent vid. Can't help but notice that the higher the tuning the faster the groove tempo was. Interesting.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Others have noticed that with earlier videos too - guess the higher pitch has me think of faster tempos

[@Nagroddy]

@@NickCostaMusic Makes sense!

[@NickCostaMusic]

I think I should try some faster tempos in lower tunings and see what happens 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@manuelflick7212]

Sounds great bro

[@NickCostaMusic]

Much appreciated, thank you @manuelflick7212 ! What was your preferred tuning?

[@timm1139]

Hi Nick, thanks for another vid. Please keep them coming. I'm partial to restoration & snare vids. Could you check out Kerf drums? Also, I think the black galaxy Acrolite is a powder coated finish. I enjoy mine at a medium-low tuning.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Thank you for watching, following along, and feedback! I’ll look into Keef, I haven’t heard of them. That makes sense with the black galaxy acro - always thought they looked cool.

[@NiclasCiriacy]

I thought you were joking when you said that 150$ was a lot for a vintage Acrolite. In Germany they usually go for 500-800€ or more

[@NickCostaMusic]

We use to pass on them all the time in college when they were priced that high…oh how the times have changed

[@Claes_Isacson]

It sounds great in most of the tunings, but I think Low-Mid is my favorite here - both with and without the muffling. Thx for sharing. I still have my original 1978 Acrolite, and also a 1966 that I bought at a later date. Both sound great. 🙂🥁 As a drummer/collector I would of course love for you to keep the snare series going.

[@NickCostaMusic]

The magic of Ludwig, and the acrolite. Do you hear a difference between the 2 you have? Appreciate the support, and love the feedback (especially saying I should continue 😉)

[@Claes_Isacson]

@@NickCostaMusic The 78 and the 66 are very similar in feel, but if there is a difference I would say that the 66 is a little more open without muffling than the 78. Maybe has to do with the different finish on the 78?

[@NickCostaMusic]

Maybe - the 78 isn’t a smooth shell, it’s that orange peel finish I think?

[@Claes_Isacson]

@@NickCostaMusic Yes!

[@jimflys2]

They are very bright. Back jn the day we thought they were a good back up snare, but a little bright. But never shunned.

[@NickCostaMusic]

The beauty of aluminum!

[@NickCostaMusic]

Stan rules! Appreciate the info, too - thanks!

[@boomerguy9935]

What is the angle of the bearing edge? I think all - if not most - used 45 degrees and Gretsch used 33 degrees.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Not sure what Ludwig did for metal, though it’s not cut like a wood drum

[@sam-drums]

Thanks for the video clips Nick. They are very informative and please continue.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Really appreciate it @Sam-drums ! Thank you for the continued support 🙏🏼 🥁

[@jharrington53]

This is the first time I’ve caught you on KZbin and I thought the info on the acolyte was spot on. I subscribed, so I’m looking forward dear future videos

[@Funkybassuk]

High tuning with the damper on ❤

[@NickCostaMusic]

Brings that ideal funk snare sound!

[@Funkybassuk]

@@NickCostaMusic Exactly! Love it.

[@beatstreetbandboston]

Great stuff. How did you tune the various tunings? You wouldn’t happen to have tune-bot settings, would you?

[@NickCostaMusic]

Appreciate that, thank you @beatstreetbandboston ! For snare tuning I always make the bottom head tabletop tight, then tune the top to have all tension points the same pitch. No specific note in mind. I don't use a tune bot or drum dial as in my experience I've found they not only take longer, but are inaccurate. I've tried both, had them show equal tension at two different points, yet the pitches would be off from one another.

[@aoldatabase]

what does it mean for a snare to have a "direct sound"?

[@JFKDrummer]

I picked up one for $40 at Goodwill a few years ago!😅

[@NickCostaMusic]

That's an AMAZING find! Was it a late 60s as well?

[@kicksnarehats11]

So...what's the big secret then? I mean I agree they sound great ... I have a Ludwig Standard S-102, which is basically an Acrolite but with different hardware and an un-beaded shell and it's my favorite drum so far. But what IS the secret?! ;-)

[@NickCostaMusic]

That they sound great, @kicksnarehats11 . Everyone use to disregard them because of their "student model" status, when really they were a great drum.

[@Dogdrum]

Clive Bunker from Jethro Tull used it and got a fantastic sound.

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice, never knew he used one!

[@nealixd.3011]

These Acrolites became famous, mainly because the legendary Hal Blaine used these on his studio sessions for their dry sound.

[@NickCostaMusic]

And now you're lucky if you find one for under $200 - it's wild!

[@derekwood6705]

I have a 67 acrolite

[@NickCostaMusic]

Oh nice! Does it have the baseball bat muffler?

[@robertobrown7880]

Sounds great 😊

[@NickCostaMusic]

Couldn't agree more! Which tuning was your favorite?

[@NickyCapozzi]

Do all acrolites sound the same . Some say the 60s are the best sounding is that true? Also which acrolites have the most bottom end or fatness. I heard all LUDWIGS reissues are tinny sounding thanks Nikki.

[@NickCostaMusic]

I had the same thought, which is why I made a video comparing acrolite’s from the 60s, 70s, and black galaxy Acrolite. I think there are differences between them, though you can hear them back to back here - Comparing Ludwig Acrolites! Does the era really matter? kzbin.info/www/bejne/enazZoqqmtqgo6M

[@NickyCapozzi]

@@NickCostaMusic thanks for replying very difficult to hear bottom and through a small Android phone so I was hoping for a reply from a human ear who heard them alI was hoping since you tested them already you could save me some trouble and I wouldn't have to go buy three of them cuz they're not really stocked in stores I trust your opinion would like to know if they had any significant difference from each other or low end. And if the new ones are tin like in general like everyone says thank s Nikki.

[@tskolits]

Great video Thanks!

[@NickCostaMusic]

You're very welcome! Was there a specific tuning you liked the most?

[@mikeevangelista1177]

Sounds awesome!!!!! Still don’t have one though and not sure why 🔥🥁

[@NickCostaMusic]

Couldn't agree more - both sound and that you should get one!😉

[@liz4rdg3ck0]

The ambassador x is 12mils and the regular ambassador is 10mil

[@NickCostaMusic]

Yeah - I had it mixed up with ambassador and diplomat (thinking diplomat was 7mil). Appreciate the correction!