Only Yamaha comes to mind when I think about real desirable drums from that decade. The Recording Customs, etc. The early/Monroe, NC Ludwig Rockers are a step down but still somewhat sought after.

I'd gladly put my 1980's Tama Superstars and Imperialstars in the mix of vintage at this point. Past 30 years old.

I think not, at least not generally. In the 1980s, the manufacturing processes were already quite similar to what we have now. Different dimensions are just a matter of fashion. Age is just one of the things that make -anything- vintage.

Our vintageness has entered a time frame when the Japanese dominated the market. Also REMO Accousticon kits where coming out. Roto-toms!!!

Sandwich ply kits had disappeared from the market, we have all maple v all birch. Power toms, sharp bearing edges and modern sounding accurately built drum shells.

Actually I believe the Sonor Phonics had really come into their own during this period.

I agree, if the 80's are considered vintage, then Tama will dominate that conversation.

I hope not.

We're a niche market, boys. When drummers talk about vintage, they're more often than not referring to a 'period' (20's to 70's) of -US manufactured- drums.

You can pull my teeth without Novocaine, but I'll never consider -any- kits from the 80's to be 'vintage.' Although their age may justify the literal use of the term, they ain't 'vintage drums' to me. As a drummer, when I say 'vintage drums' I'm referring to an era and more specifically, drums made in the US during that period.

John

I'm so glad the vintage world doesn't recognize 80's phonics... Please help keep the prices down on these superior drums!

Thank you, Gary

I've said it many times. While they may not be the drums that we consider vintage, it would be short sighted not to consider drums from the 80's vintage. Many of the Japaneese drum manufacturers from the 80's no longer manufacture them in Japan. Most of them are outsourced just like what happened to the U.S. Manufacturers.

A Japaneese Tama Granstar, Yamaha Recording Custom, or Pearl GLX kit is a quality drumset. Years ago nobody wanted anything to do with B/O badged Ludwig,( not even Ludwig) now it's considered cool again.

There is not large supply of Leedy, WFL, slingerland, camco, gretsch and Rogers to sustain a community of vintage enthusiasts forever.

With younger hobbyists joining our ranks and the hard fact of older ones passing on, the bubble will shift and newer kits will be considered collect able and vintage.

Quality drums will always maintain a fan base.

And by the way, Sonor kicks ass no matter the decade!