Except for the Standard lugs/hardware/wrap, the drums are exactly the same as the Classics. The sound will be the same. They will have the Ludwig sound. If that's what you're after, then the $400 is a great deal. Most new snare drums cost that much!
The wrap ("Astro", I believe), is an aquired taste for some. Others hate it right away! ;) But seriously, that's a great price if there are no hidden surprises. I would say that, as a prediction, the Astro wraps could become quite collectible. The reason I predict it is because ANY wrap that is hated or loved to the extreme will always be collectible. There is already a sect of people who specifically just collect the "ugly" or "wild" looking wraps/colors. One caveat about the Astro wraps and other similar wraps is that, they are not very durable. They tend to tear and crack and scratch quite easily. because of this, they wouldn't be my first choice for a gigging kit that gets moved a lot....BUT...as a home kit for practicing, they would be the centerpiece of ANY room!
I want to someday build a "rumpus room" (hahahaha -remember that term?) and finish off the entire interior surfaces with drum wraps. Mind Blowi Red sparkle wallpaper, anyone!?Mister TMind Blowi
All the choices you have listed, sound like very good deals (depending on condition, of course). I like gold sparkle a lot right now. And you can NEVER go wrong with RED sparkle! WMP is not a personal favorite, but, hey, if the price is right.....
Hey, if you don't get the Standards, then give Rob G or mcjnic the tip and let him buy them. You can get the one you want and then let the other cats, here know how to get hooked up!
