Slingerland Radio King Snare Drum
Brief History of Slingerland
Slingerland is a legendary name in the drum-making industry. The Slingerland Radio King snare drums are the company’s flagship drum. Production began in the 1930’s, and was halted. The early 1960’s saw production begin again. This lasted until Slingerland was acquired by Gibson in 1994. These Gibson/Slingerland drums are considered the finest Slingerland has ever made. Unfortunately, the Gibson Chapter 11 filing puts the Slingerland brand in limbo.
When You want to Own a Legend
These collector-quality drums produce fantastic sound. The single ply Maple shell, reinforced with Maple rings, delivers exceptionally bright tone. It is both warm and crisp. Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich used Radio Kings. They are a favorite choice among drummers of all skill levels. Eventually, steel and brass snare drums were added to the lineup.
Likes
The sound quality of the Gibson made Slingerland Radio King are as good as the original. Drummers love the traditional tone that was an important part of the rise of Jazz. These snares also are good for playing pop, classic rock and country music. Radio Kings come in a variety of sizes. Each one giving unique sound quality to the drum.
Dislikes
The traditional sound is not for everyone or every style. Newer musical styles will not use the Slingerland Radio King snare drum to best advantage.
Overall Rating – 4 Stars
This classic name is back on track under Gibson’s ownership. The traditional maple is finding a new generation of admirers. The product line available new and used is somewhat inconsistent in quality. Therefore, we give them just a 4 Star rating.
i have owned Slingerland set for 50 years now . I recently purchased a 14 x 6. 5 Gibson/Slingerland radio king snare made late 1990,s excellent condition , 600.00 dollars. love it ,sounds amazing. I can”t afford to spend 2,000.00 on a new DW radio king . I prefer buying the affordable vintage true Slingerland radio kings . I own a 1930″s restored king, A 1940,s restored king , A 1960 excellent condition king, A early 60,s king and the late 1990-2000,gibson/Slingerland king, all purchased for a fraction of a new DW/Slingerland king. And as the wood ages it sounds better over time. Just my opinion.!!!!
I buy true vintage Slingerland radio kings from the 30;s 40;s 50;s 60;s 90;s for a fraction of new DW price.
Hey Mark,
Thanks for stopping by and weighing in on the Slingerlands! What an incredible collection you have. I have also heard others mention how the sound improves as the wood ages.
Jeff
Yeah, I’m glad DW drums. Are making Slingerlands and bringing that good name back but it’s way out of my price range but I can still buy vintage Slingerlands still at reasonable prices. Of course they might go up because of the new Slingerlands coming out..
I get you, Mark. It’s great to see the name return but not everybody is in the market for a DW product. Even if they wish they were-LOL!