Classic Maple Series

Preferred by professionals for its full, open tonality and warm sustain, Ludwig Classic Maple drums are the ideal choice for any performance application. Hand-crafted at Ludwig USA in Monroe, NC, every Classic Maple drum is a custom drum. No matter the playing style or preference, Classic Maple incorporates the myriad of LCG options straight from the player and brings them to life with premium North American Maple.

The process begins with each ply being precision cut and cross-laminated into individual two and three-ply panels. This process assures a more secure bond between each layer, as the grain of each ply is laminated 90-degrees in relation to the adjacent ply. Outer and Inner two-ply panels [laminated in a horizontal/vertical grain bond to a 1.8mm thickness] are cut to size using CNC machinery for accuracy, and laid up in the shell mold with the outer/inner grain running circumferencial with the shell.

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Classic Maple Shell Construction

The center three-ply core panel [laminated in a horizontal/vertical/ horizontal grain bond to a 2.4mm thickness] is inserted into the mold between the inner and outer panels. Rather than standard compression shell molds which overheat and cause instability, Ludwig's traditional bladder press molds utilize Radio Frequency TechnologyTM, curing each shell in less time for increased strength.

This process starts with select North American maple. The maple is cut into panels. The outside panel is 1.8mm thick, two ply, cross laminated maple. Cross lamination is the process in which the panels are made of two glued plies of wood, with the grain direction of one ply at 90 degrees in relation to the grain direction of the adjacent ply. The outside grain runs circumferential with the shell.

Classic Maple's standard 7-ply, 6mm shell is formulated for optimum resonance and tonality. Each drum's bearing edge is cut to a 45-degree angle within 1/16" from the outside edge. This sharp edge is hand-sanded to the craftsman's touch to assure a smooth, even, flat surface for easy head seating; the final touch that completes the unmistakable Ludwig Sound.

Snare Drums

Classic Maple Snare Drums

Related Literature

Classic Maple Configuration Guide [DOWNLOAD]

Ludwig 2011 Drum & Hardware Catalog (AV8147) [DOWNLOAD]

Available Finishes

Choose from 34 eye-catching finishes varying from Vintage Pearl and Sparkle Wraps, Broken Glass Glitters, Gloss Lacquers and exclusive Exotic Veneers, all of which demand attention.