Celebrating 50 years of the stunning Vistalite series, first introduced in 1972. Notorious for their attack and stunning transparent aesthetics, the Vistalite acrylic drums are a statement both sonically and visually. Since their introduction, Vistalite drums have been performed on and coveted by some of the world’s top drummers – including John Bonham of Led Zeppelin.
The original Vistalites are a collectors item, available in clear, blue, green, red, amber, and yellow. These kits were famously played by Karen Carpenter, Keith Moon from the Who, Nick Mason from Pink Floyd, Ron Bushy from Iron Butterfly, John Bonham from Led Zeppelin, and Jay Osmond from The Osmonds. In 1976, Ludwig broadened the line with the addition of the Rainbow vistalites. This kit featured multicoloured shells. Tequila Sunrise was the most popular release at this time, with a combination of red, orange and yellow stripes. The multi-coloured acrylic shells were co-invented by Elvis Presley's drummer Ronn Tutt.
In 1978, Ludwig introduced the Tivoli Vistalite by inserting small light bulbs into the shells. This series, however, proved unpopular due to electrical and shell problems – caused by the pressure of overtightened lugs and exposure to freezing temperatures.
Early 2001 saw a reintroduction of the Vistalite series, with the top seller being a replica of the amber five piece kit – famously played by John Bonham. This re-issue provided drummers with a nostalgic feeling, whilst offering an enhanced sound-quality. The shells were slightly thicker which helped provide a warmer sound that was more resonant than the original kits. Another key improvement was the bearing edges. The original kits were fitted with a noncontinuous bearing edge, while the re-issues had a continuous 45-degree edge – making a fuller, cleaner tone.
Popular with rockers and jazz players alike, the Visalite kits boast a wide tuning range, with a dry yet punchy and projecting sound. Vistalite drum kits were even seen in the electronic music scene, making an appearance in the award-winning Daft Punk music video Robot Rock.
The Vistalite kits are renowned for their impressive volume. They provide a slightly louder sound than traditional drums, and with fewer overtones. This has made the Vistalite kits extremely popular with rock drummers and other drummers seeking to feel the punch of their kick drum.
The Ludwig Vistalite Shell Pack features reinforced seam moulded acrylic shells which excel at producing a strong attack with clear, balanced sounds which are well suited to a range of genres. The shells are fully stabilised and feature dual reinforced seams for exceptional strength to accompany the extremely eye-catching crystalline looks. The shells are also equipped with durable chrome hardware which adds to the strength of the kit without compromising the stunning design.
The Ludwig Vistalite 50th Anniversary Shell Pack offers a foundation setup that can be finished with the hardware and cymbals of your choice and expanded with add-on drums and holders if you choose. When paired with high-quality cymbals and hardware, the Ludwig Vistalite Kit offers great drumming experience for even the most advanced drummers and musicians.
Established in 1909 by William F. & Theobald Ludwig, the Ludwig Drum Company has since progressed to become one of the world's leading drum manufacturers. William had been a professional drummer, performing and touring with circuses and shows along with occasional gigs. The brothers decided to open a drum shop in Chicago, and called it Ludwig & Ludwig. The company began with a concept for the design and manufacture of a bass drum pedal, but quickly progressed, adding new products to the catalogue including snare drums and timpani.
After Theobald Ludwig died in 1918, William continued by himself, and by 1923, Ludwig had become one of the largest drum manufacturers in the world, employing 240 workers. In the late 20's, Ludwig & Ludwig was sold to C.G. Conn instrument company, and despite staying on to run the company which now belonged to Conn, William Ludwig eventually left to start a new company which he named after his initials: the WFL Drum Company, in 1937. During WWII, the company was producing drums on a small scale but soon grew in size to become one of the main competitors for Ludwig & Ludwig. In the following years, Ludwig & Ludwig stopped producing drums altogether, meaning William and his son Bill Jr. were able to buy the Ludwig trademark back from Conn.
During the 1960's, Ludwig began to receive huge amounts of publicity and their products started to become much more widely recognised throughout the drumming industry. Ludwig started to introduce more and more products to their ranges, with key artists such as John Bonham from Led Zeppelin performing on Ludwig drums and gaining yet more publicity and recognition.
Since the 1960's and 1970's, Ludwig has maintained its status as one of the most popular drum manufacturers in the world. The manufacturing facility remains in Monroe, NC, offering huge ranges of drums and accessories, including full drum kits, snares, percussion, hardware, accessories, and even merchandise. The company also celebrated its 100th anniversary, releasing yet more flagship drumming equipment. Ludwig's snares are often considered some of the best in the business, holding the title of the world's most toured and recorded snares ever. Offering sounds which are often imitated but never duplicated, the snares are available in a huge variety of materials, sizes, finishes, and with different components. Every snare offers unique qualities, but they all share one property. A truly unbeatable sound.
With over one hundred years in the profession of percussion, Ludwig have provided high-quality drums to an extensive list of renowned drummers the world over. Follow in the footsteps of the greats and pave your path to percussion glory through a vast selection of tones, styles and sizes designed to get the best out of your playing.
