The Performance Kit is extremely versatile, offering sound capabilities to cover virtually any style of drumming. When tuned low-medium, these shells are ideal for rock, pop and a wide range of other musical genres. When tuned up tighter, the HVX shells provide a sharp jazz sound with ease.
The DW Performance drums feature a unique shell technology handcrafted and finished by the DW Custom Shell Shop in Oxnard, California. These shells, constructed from North American hard rock maple, use the latest grain orientation technology to produce HVX shells to deliver a deep, powerful and fundamental tone. This innovative hybrid provides the perfect level of projection and resonance – perfect for live applications.
The shells also undergo a heat forming and cool tempering process in order to maximise the shell strength, roundness and resonance. This greatly improves the tuning stability, durability and consistency of each shell.
Unique to the Performance Series is DW’s reduced-size quarter turret lugs offering a more modern appearance. These lugs are a scaled-down version of the famous round DW lug.
In order to give even more sound control to the drummer, DW created its patented True-Pitch® rod system. These rods feature 5mm threads rather than the standard 12/24 on most other drums. This results in an easier and more precise tuning process.
DW’s patented STM™ (suspension tom mount) system allows the drums to vibrate freely for maximum resonance, while securely holding the drum in place. These mounts do not have washers or grommets inhibiting the lug rod receiver, reducing choking and making tuning as easy as ever.
The steel triple flange hoops are tailored to each shell diameter in order to unlock a dynamic balance of attack and sustain. These hoops provide an extremely versatile sound that suits all types of players from jazz and funk to rock and hip-hop.
The DW Performance kit features back-cut bearing edges for maximum versatility and playability. The toms come crowned with pinpoint 45-degree back-cut bearing edges which enhances the attack and increases head responses. The kick drum features 60-degree edges for richer depth and effortless playability.
Performance Series floor toms also feature chrome plated steel 21'' legs for stability and strength. The 21'' floor tom legs accommodate a range of playing heights - providing exceptional versatility and playability.
The DW Performance Series drums come standard with a set of heads made specifically for DW by Remo USA. The bass drum features a coated/clear batter head with an inlay ring and a vented ebony resonant logo head. The toms are fitted with coated/clear batter heads and clear resonant tom heads. The coated/clear heads incorporate a coated tone ring for the perfect amount of muffling, with plenty of resonance.
''Taking a premium brand into a lower pricepoint can be tricky, but DW seems to have got the Performance Series spot on.'' Rhythm Magazine
''The bass drum has a really warm tone and can be tuned quite low for rock applications, but also retains its timbre, warmth and fullness of sound at high tensions. The drum has a definite note, rather than a thud, which just seemed to blend in with whatever style of music was being played''. Drumscene Magazine
''Combining horizontal, vertical and cross-laminated plies in these shells has created a rich, low-mid timbre drum with added strength and projection. You're getting the best of many worlds with the Performance series drums. This kit is well-balanced, focused, dynamic and versatile in live or recording environments. I can see them flying out of the door''. Drummer Magazine