LUDWIG CS Custom Elite

This kit has the best combination of full, punchy birch sound & looks for under $600. The included hardware kit is unmatched in a low-priced drum set - very heavy, nicely chromed and extremely durable. The value quotient of this kit is simply tops. My only beef is the tom mount system takes patience to set up and could be more stable. It is built to last and the sound is terrific even with stock single ply Remo heads. Upgrade the heads and it will sound like a thousand dollars.

I have owned this China Series (CS) 100 % Birch kit for three years Gigging with a couple of bands. Compared to my USA Ludwig's I owned previously, these are simply better sounding and the construction, fit, and finish is flawless. I'm still amazed at the price point and the overall value this kit has. This series came out in 2004 at the time Ludwig had a USA 100% birch kit that was twice the price and had inferior options such as 16 lug uninsulated bass drum claw hooks, etc. The accent line was confusing to the consumer because the Elites were made in China in the BasiX Drum factory under Ludwig's supervision. The Accent 100 and 200 Combo Series (black and Sliver badges) with made in Taiwan. These were top rated beginner kits. Ludwig hit a home run with the CS 300 series, in fact, it was so successful(due to quality and Sub $1000 price) they canceled the USA Birch series. As of mid 2009, the CS Elites were canceled and now replaced with the Epic, Centennial, and Element Series. These are all made in Taiwan. I get stop and star compliments on the finish (gloss Amber) and the Drum tune well for any style of playing. The Bass is deep and the snare sound like the USA LM400 on steroids. The hardware is heavy--overkill. Looks cool on stage, but weighs a lot. A boom cymbal stand is 13 lbs. I have not one issue or complaint with this kit except they stop producing it. Also- I play other kits in Jams and I have to say that nothing sounds like my Ludwig's. They are in a class of their own.