So I put the new 2.3mm stick saver hoops on my Norma Kit and I noticed a difference immediately!
Just picking up one of these new hoops and one of my older thinner triple flange hoops, I could tell a pretty substantial difference in weight. Also, the stick saver hoop is much more rigid and solid, not to mention it has a pretty finish on it. It really makes the kit look better and more like a genuine Slingerland. I even saw an improvement in tuning, which was a little sketchy with the old hoops. Even tuning high, which never sounded quite right before, was a snap and sounded great. Sound wise, it makes a pretty big difference as well. Definitely a more focused, solid sound and less resonant in a good way. The toms give a beautiful warm thud, and with the Evans Calftone heads, they have that perfect warm vintage tone.
Overall, this change was worth the money. For about $110, my kit sounds better, looks better, tunes better and it even feels better under the sticks. It feels solid and substantial now, more like a decent vintage American kit. I highly recommend new hoops for your old MIJ kit!