Vintage and Classic Drum Kits
In Stock items may be either at the shop or the warehouse.
To view before purchasing, please check the product details to confirm it's in-store.
Vintage Drum Kits in Fareham, Hampshire
Vintage and Classic Drum Kits from Gretsch, Sonor, Yamaha and More
Browse used vintage drum kits and classic drum kits from Gretsch, Ludwig, Rogers, Sonor and Yamaha. Every used kit is checked and serviced before sale. Stock changes often, so check back regularly or tell us what you are looking for and we will watch for it.
Looking for the Sonor Vintage Series?
That is a current Sonor line inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, not an old kit. See Sonor Vintage Series Drum Kits.
Vintage Drum Kits by Brand
Two makers have their own guide to eras, identification and what to check.
Japanese built birch
Vintage Yamaha 9000
The Recording Custom 9000 and RA era kits: the studio standard of the 1970s and 1980s, with a guide to the eras and what to inspect.
Five lines, one maker
Vintage and Used Sonor
Phonic, Signature, SONORLITE, Hilite and Designer, with a guide to telling them apart.
American classics
Gretsch, Ludwig and Rogers
Kits from these makers turn up regularly, alongside other used kits.
What to Check Before You Buy a Vintage Drum Kit
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Check the bearing edges are clean and even, because they decide how well a drum tunes.
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Check the shells are still round and free of cracks or lifting plies.
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Look for complete original hardware, including lugs, mounts and badges.
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Find out whether the drums were sold as one kit or have been assembled from several.
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Ask about refinishes and re-wraps, which affect both value and originality.
Sell or Part Exchange Your Vintage Drum Kit
Got an old kit to sell?
We buy and part exchange vintage and used kits. Send us a few photographs and we will tell you what you have.
If you want the sound without the age
Vintage Drum Kit FAQs
What is a vintage drum kit?
An older kit from a past era, made by makers such as Gretsch, Ludwig, Rogers, Sonor and Yamaha.
Is the Sonor Vintage Series a vintage drum kit?
No. The Sonor Vintage Series is a current Sonor line inspired by the 1950s and 1960s. For old Sonor kits, see Vintage and Used Sonor.
How do I identify a vintage Sonor?
Start with the badge, the lugs and the bearing edges. Our Vintage and Used Sonor page walks through each line.
Do you buy vintage drum kits?
Yes, we buy and part exchange vintage and used kits. Start on the Part Exchange and Buy-ins page.
Are your vintage drum kits checked before sale?
Every used kit is checked and serviced before sale. Ask us about any kit before you buy.
Can I try a vintage drum kit before I buy?
Yes, in our Fareham showroom. In-stock items can be at the store or the warehouse, so check the product page before you travel.
