I agree that Ludwig's QC was less than today's general manufacturing standards. Computers have really enabled far greater accuracy and consistency when it comes to mass manufacturing.
However, I feel that modern raw materials and designs are often inferior and made-to-break. There are plastics that are engineered to "oxidize" (for lack of a better term). It's very apparent when you consider that some plastics are virtually indestructible (take for example the blue plastic used in making those huge water bottles used in office water coolers). While the little plastic tabs that are used to hold your dashboard together, will break down when exposed to too much sun. Can you imagine? Of all places to use a photo-sensitive plastic, huh? -the dashboard of a car!
Beyond all the imperfections of Ludwig in the old days, I still believe they are better drums. They look cooler. The way the lugs, throwoffs, badges all integrate and echo the style of that particular company in all the "little" details, goes beyond what occasionally went wrong on the old production line. Ludwig produced more drums than any other company during that period of time. They certainly produced more truly American drums than any other company.
But, yes, in the mid-1970's, the game changed. There were undoubtedly pressures placed upon the "old ways" of building drums. Eventually, the old ways faded out and were replaced with new ways. The Japanese had their efficiency-thing going on. America took awhile to re-learn how to compete that way. That game was a foreign game -like ping pong. There is a learning curve. But America learned how to play ping pong so-to-speak. And now, because of the nature of the game, companies like Pearl are at the top.
When I see a set of Pearl drums on stage, it doesn't do anything to me. When I see an authentic old vintage kit (lumps and all), it does something. It makes me listen closer or something. I know. I know..."nostalgia". But nostalgia is real, too.
I, myself, am kind of "lumpy" myself, these days, too. I have had a few extra holes drilled into me over the years, too. You dig? :Santa:
But, yes, I hear what you're saying, jazzbo. In many ways, you are right on.