WTS Drum

The 2022 NAMM Show’s drum and the percussion section were filled with, naturally, SOUND!  A cacophony of drumming and the crash of cymbals greeted us as we entered one of the more lively areas in the event space.  Here are two of the highlights:

WTS Drums

Welch Tuning System drums are a unique invention from Samuel Welch, who, along with his wife Laura, presented at the 2022 NAMM Show.  They are an engaging couple, and full of information about their innovative product.  They happily provided me with details and described the development of their company.

In 2015, Samuel Welch, Patrick Auell, and John Montana, all musicians, got together and created the Welch System of one-key tuning.  Founder and CEO Sam Welch was tired of the traditional drum tension rods for tuning and knew there had to be a better way.  Three years later, WTS was launched.  The company holds six U.S. patents in drum tuning technology.  Laura Welch is the Website Content and Graphic Designer and all-around Executive Assistant.  Based in Colorado, they are excited about their new line and eager to share their system, which was voted Best in Show at the 2019 NAMM Show.

WTS Drum

This single-point tuning system provides versatility for the drummer.  The ability to use one key to tune between or even during songs.  This allows for tuning adjustments to make sure your sound and pitch are at their optimal level.

Their products include:

The WTS Epiphany Series 7-ply maple shell/45-degree bearing edges give you just the right balance.  This system features die-cast, machined tuning components, stainless aircraft cable, Delmar wrap finishes, 2.3 mm triple-flanged hoops, 10.5 mm floor tom legs, and keyless bass drum spurs.

The WTS Artistry Series, which is the Welch flagship line of drums, was created with the professional musician in mind. This is the ultimate form of musical freedom with uncompromised quality and style. Premium lacquer finishes are available in Gloss Maple, Satin Black, Gloss Cherry, and Gloss White.

With up to 90% less shell-mounted hardware than any other system, these drums resonate to their total quality and potential.

The Welch Tuning System is an innovative system of pulleys and cable that tune both heads with a single turn of a handle, much like tuning a guitar string.  It is ideal for anytime you play, whether recording, practicing or performing.

For more information about this innovative system, see wtsdrums.com or welchtuningsystems.com.

EF Note electronic drum kit

EF Note

Also at the show this year the EF Note Drum company. I talked to their representative at the Media Preview.  His enthusiasm for the latest line of cymbals was infectious.  He encouraged me to slip on the headphones and hear the super clear sound and resonance that these realistic cymbals will bring to your performance.

Established in 2018, these skilled engineers were based in Japan and had 20 years of experience. They longed to design a product not limited to manufacturing costs and mass production product development, so they created the EF Note instruments.

This company is part of the Artesia Pro Company.  The EF Note line is perfect for drummers to hone their skills.  They are great for looping complex drum fills, lessons, recording sessions, or performing at smaller venues.

The company philosophy is simple:  Beauty, Quality, and Originality.  Quality over quantity.  Original creations which will live and endure the test of time. Each instrument is carefully crafted to resonate with perfect sound and richness.

Finally, electronic stackables are available!  Featured is the company’s 7X model, which has the only 20” ride cymbal.  This and the 17” cymbal are suspendable and stackable.  The STAK mount is ideal for acoustic music, while the 8” splash cymbal fits perfectly over the 17” FX.  These electronic cymbals emulate the real thing’s vibration, feel and wobble.   Contact EF Note at Artesia-pro.com for more information.

Carol Mazetti / BackStage360