Tama MDH14-8 14" Die Cast Hoop 8H

These are up there with the best. I use these on my Ludwig 14x14 floor tom to get a more focused sound Gretsch type sound. The quality is outstanding. If I switch between these and a triple flange hoop the sound completely changes from a ringy open sound to a dry and focus and very controlled sound even with the same heads. I don't look at cast hoops as an upgrade, more of a sound changing device. Since I bought these I have used them nearly every day in a studio environment, due to the quality of the chrome they has stood the test of mic stands being banged into them as well as gaffa tape residue. I would recommend these to any one.

For the past year i've been updating hardware and features on a Mapex Saturn Jazz kit and decided to invest in some Die Cast Hoops to improve its solidness and more importantly, its sound. After unpacking the Tama hoops the first thing i noticed was the exceptional quality, they were weighty, thicker and more consistent in shape compared to the thin, light, triple flanged hoops i took off.
I use single headed toms (10" + 14" floor tom) and when i put these Die Cast Hoops on Evans G-plus heads the increase in volume from the drums was amazing, about 35-40% louder! Tuning the tension rods was also a lot smoother and easier with these hoops and allowed greater pitch control from the heads. The heads clearly changed in attack, crispness and resonance for the better and has improved the overall sound of the kit. I use to own a Tama Granstar kit years ago where i was impressed with the density and build of the kit, so i had no problems ordering the Die Cast Hoops, confident i'd be getting great quality from 'the strongest name in drums' - TAMA...