DW Drums (Drum Workshop, Inc.) is a highly respected, U.S.-based manufacturer of professional-grade drum kits, snare drums, and drum hardware, often referred to as « The Drummer’s Choice. »
Key aspects of the company:
- Founding and History: Founded in 1972 by Don Lombardi as a teaching studio in Santa Monica, California. It quickly evolved into a manufacturing company with co-founder John Good, initially focusing on innovative drum hardware like the highly popular DW 5000 pedal. They expanded into making complete drum sets in 1990.
- Products: DW is renowned for its premium, high-end drum sets, particularly the Collector’s Series, as well as mid-range lines like the Performance and Design Series. They are equally famous for their durable, innovative pedals and hardware, which are considered an industry standard.
- Innovation and Customization: DW is distinguished by its meticulous craftsmanship and groundbreaking shell technology, led by John Good. Key innovations include:
- Timbre Matching: Hand-selecting and tuning each shell in a kit to ensure purposeful intervallic relationships, creating a drum set that works as a complete instrument.
- Specialized Shell Configuration (SSC): A patented methodology of arranging plies of wood with different grain orientations (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) to precisely control the shell’s pitch, resonance, and low-end response.
- High-Quality Hardware: Known for its sturdy and reliable hardware, including the True-Pitch® Tuning system and innovative bass drum pedals and hi-hat stands.
- Acquisition: In late 2022, DW Drums was acquired by the Japanese electronic musical instrument company, Roland Corporation.
- Brands: DW also oversees the lower-priced brand Pacific Drums and Percussion (PDP).
