Whether you're seeking a beginner's kit or have a pro set or digital drum kit, this essential manual offers hard-won professional advice on how to get the best from your drum set, hardware, and cymbals, whatever its make or vintage.  Step-by-step guidance and color photographs show you how to choose your drum kit, recommendations on tensioning lugs and springs, controlling harmonics and resonance, bass-drum porting, details of head types, shell construction, bearing edges, lug casings, finish options, and rewrapping a vintage drum.  In-depth case studies examine a wide range of gear from vintage 1930s beginnings to 1960s Ludwig Downbeats to 21st century pro kits from DW, Yamaha, Premier, and Gretsch, in addition to mid-price kits from Pearl and Tama, beginner's kits, and Roland Digital kits. Packed with over 500 color photographs, here are the expert tricks and tips of the pro techs that you need to make your drum kit play like a dream!   Hardcover book, 201 p.