*HEY Y'ALL! I'm going to be completely transparent here and say that I've considered changing the name of the video, just because I don't want to disrespect VF sticks in any way. But after flip-floppin back and forth, I decided to just leave it. Y'all know me anyways! The straight truth is that I DID think they were great sticks when I was using them, and STILL think they make great sticks! It was just time for a change for me. So...check out the video for the straight scoop on why I decided to switch and to see what I'm hittin' with now!* 🤓🥁🔥
Rob, I have been following you for years, and although I do not personally know you I feel that seeing you through your videos I can tell you have a lot of integrity. Although it was not easy for you to come to that decision, I appreciate your honesty and openness. I am also a Vic guy, but now I have to try these sticks! Thanks Bro!
I am a drummer of 49 years and I landed with those exact sticks as well. Promark sent me prototypes of the forward and rebound sticks when they were in pretesting stage and I instantly fell in love the rebound model. But the prototypes were a 5A which is too small for me. When I tried the 5B everything felt perfect. I really love em.
One of the coolest and most consistent drum related channels out there. Thanks, Rob for this one. Love your candor and your delivery. Drumming is first rate too!
I used all brands Vic, Promark, now Vater, and man.....Vater rules. I used three pairs of promark, felt like those were the ones, but then I tried Vater.
Same here. I started with Vic and I always thought all sticks were pretty much the same. I was always trying new models because nothing ever felt quite right for my hands. I ended up trying a pair of Vaters (my first) that I fell absolutely in love with feel-wise and they ended up outlasting all of the Vics I ever tried. That was 10 years ago and I haven’t looked back.
I started using promark in the 80s and never changed. They have a certain feel, and the way their lacquer gives a better grip the longer you play, from the heat of your hand. They just feel more solid or dense, and the firth always felt like pine or a dry wood. The fire grain are harder than normal sticks. So you don't need nylon tip for harder tip like on the bells, rides ping, etc.
As a HUGE fan of Promark I can honestly say that their oak stick is the only stick I have ever used for the past 25 years that split through the entire length of the stick within 5 min rehearsal with the big band, Needless to say, I will never buy oak sticks again.
I've used ProMark since 1993. I started using their black color coated 5b then I went to the 727 ball tip. Then eventually I was turned on to the Neil Peart 747 signature model and have used them till just recently when they discontinued it. And I loved those sticks, Shira Kashi oak is the greatest. I hammer the shit out of them and they last for months. Now I'm using the 747b SKO in nylon tip. Half an inch longer slightly thicker but awesome
Over the past few years, Promark and Evans has really upped their games with drumming product and as such I have found myself switching to their side. I am currently loving the 5B Shiri Oak sticks or the Thomas Pridgen signatures. I've tried the black ActiveGrip Portnoy model and that was cool, I'm interested in grabbing/trying a pair of the newer "clearer" ActiveGrip they just came out with. Good luck on your journey Rob, what a great YT channel.
I knew it was promark before you said it. I've been using pro mark for years now . I love them. I'm a hard hitter and can break sticks . They last so long .
Promark is the shit. I love my active grip sticks. They get even grippier when they heat up from your hands. But at the same time they don’t feel sticky.
I'm gonna be THAT guy and say, "when I played Pro Mark, they broke after playing a single set on stage" but the truth is that I actually really like Pro Mark but why the hell are they so expensive??
Just ordered a set of firegrain 5b rebounds... as a traditional grip drummer, I'm always looking to find the stick that lets me grip it further back for more power without sacrificing the balance. Hoping the weight being shifted towards the back end to be just the thing. You're my favorite YT drummer, man - keep up what you're doing. I dig it!
Yeah I love the Kashi Oaks... Not only are they super comfortable to play, but their durability blows me away! Best sticks out there in my personal opinion :)
I used to use Vic Firth sticks. I tried all kinds of sticks from all kinds of companies. I even tried all kinds of Pro Mark sticks(but not the firegrain ones). I hated all the Pro Mark sticks I tried. This made me go back to the Vic Firth sticks since those were the best I have found. One day it all changed. I was at the store I buy sticks at and I saw this reddish brown looking stick in the size I like(7A). I picked them up and they felt great in my hands. I tapped around on the demo pad they had and liked the sticks. I then looked over the sticks and was surprised to realized I had picked out a Pro Mark stick. The sticks were the firegrain series sticks. I bought them and brought them to my drumset. Now I mostly only use the Pro Mark firegrain sticks. I found after testing dozens of sticks from all kinds of companies, even other Pro Mark sticks, that the firegrain series sticks feel terrific to play and seem to be more durable than any other wood stick I have tried. For me and it sounds like you as well the Pro Mark Firegrain sticks are phenomenal and all the other Pro Mark sticks are just garbage.
Just a note from an old drummer. I played Promark Oak sticks when I was a full time musician 40+ years ago. The main reason was my pal had a music related business that could get the sticks at a discount. It was great but it took me many years to learn that the main reason our sticks wear is the metal rims on our drums, essentially the snare. Duh, right. Anyway, my epiphany came when I purchase a used Yamaha Steve Jordan signature snare. It came with wooden rims. The seller also sent the stock metal rims as well. I had never played a snare with wood rims. It took some getting used to because of the width as opposed to the metal rim. However, once I got used to the rim size, I loved it. The sound is very cool and I don't eat drum sticks like in the past. The sticks will wear but its more of a case of dents than chewing up. My cymbals do more damage than the rims, by far. The snare sounds great. So, try using wood rims on your snare. You play it many times more than you other drums and you usually don't do rim shots on the toms. It will be worth the added cost because you will not be replacing sticks as often as before. Also, if you want good sticks for low cost, check out Drum Bum. They sell "Sticks" brand. Yes, they are made in China, but they are good quality and currently sell for $25/12 pair. There is high demand due to the price, but it's a great deal and with wood rims on your snare. you will be way ahead of the game. Good luck and rock on!!
What’s funny is I recently switched from Pro Mark to Vic Firth and then eventually discovered Vater which I’m using currently. If a particular stick inspires your playing than that’s your stick. If that changes over time that’s fine. Always keep experimenting and improving. Pro Mark still makes great stuff, just gotta trust your gut. I think the Vater LA.5A and 5B have great balance and high moisture content which makes them more durable IMHO. Again this is just my preference after playing Pro Mark for 20+ years and then checking out the other brands. They all make great sticks.
I use only Vater. I absolutely LOVE their sticks. They just feel so quality to me. I'm not endorsed and can/will play other sticks when the need is there. But my money goes to Vater ALWAYS.
I just recently went the other way. I played Pro Mark for many years. Personally, the quality was far better years ago. I bought a pair of Vic Firth at Guitar Center because their selection was poor for Pro Mark, and I LOVE THEM! I'll be sticking with these 5Bs...
Agreed. Quality,grip and price were better years ago with Promarks. Seems like every Promark stick I've tried over the last couple of years I have to use grip tape. I moved on to VF and Vater
Brother Rob - thank you! I moved over to Promark! I bought 5A and 5B - firegrain and the active grip Rebound! I have always played VF 5As and did some stick “strength training” with 2Bs! But that active grip Rebound 5b from Promark gives me that meaty feel with the light feel and speed of the old 5a VF. Sweet sticks! I also love that clean tacky feel that makes the sticks just stick to your hands - they don’t slip like the old VF sticks. Thank you for the review and recommendation! I have already turned my young drum friends to the new Promark line and they love them as well!
I use the Firegrains also. I jump between the 7a and the 5a. Absolutely love them. I was trying every stick out there until I decided on Promark. Glad I did.
When I was younger, I was using Promark white oak, 5a. This was back in the brown logo days! Used them for years. Then I found Vic's 8A--a 7A diameter with a 5A length. That was my stick for years. Recently, I took on a new band; a louder band. I needed a heavier stick for more power, but I didn't want something to "club" like. Went into a drum shop, put some sticks in the hands, and came home with Promark 5A Rebounds! It's amazing what that little bit of taper change does to a stick.
Was playing Vic Firth for awhile and then I tried some Promark sticks and I really liked them!! I went from Vic Firth 5B Extremes to Promark Forward 5B Firegrain sticks and I LOVE them Never going back!!
Can't lie; Due to this video I had to try out the Select Balance line. I ordered the two different 5a sizes in rebound and forward balance, although they made a mistake and sent me a pair of 5b rebounds. The best happy accident to happen to me in years. I love the 5b rebound.
I've recently switched from Vic First 5AN Extreme to Vater VH5AS. While they're not quite as good in terms of rebound, they just feel that little bit better in the hand. I also really like the ProMarks, they're just way out of my price range here in South Africa.
I used to think Vic Firth is the only drum stick brand I didn't care about the others. But once I needed a pair I went into a drum shop that had just ran out of Vic firths.. so I bought a pair of Vater Fusion stick... And that's what I've been using since then!
"It was love at first stick" lol I've been a Vic Firth guy for many years. My only complaint is that the wood tips tend to chip pretty quickly, which gives me a mushy sound and feel on my cymbals. I have lots of Vic Firth sticks that are in great shape but I don't use anymore because the tips are chipped. I should try these fire grain sticks to see if they hold up any better.
I'm seriously not into gimmicks, man. But the claim was that the process makes the wood a little stronger, and so far, no lies. But Yea, I've also had sticks wearing down to pencils.
I was with VF for 12 years. Incredible consistency, but never totally comfortable. Was with Vater for a couple of years. Same deal. Pro-Mark classic 5B's were the first sticks I purchased as a kid. When I picked up a pair of those out of curiosity last year I was blown away by how familiar and comfortable they felt. Switched right then. It's funny how sometimes we're introduced to industry reps and offered endorsements, while we should really follow the path of using what we truly prefer. The rebound and forward 5B are both great and truly different variations of the same stick, rather than completely different sticks. The classic 5B sits right in between them and works just great for me. The thing that makes the Firegrain sticks so durable is not only the flame treatment, but mostly the fact that they select the heaviest dowels for those so the wood is heavier and denser, which adds to durability. A Firegrain stick is about 15% heavier than its regular counterpart. But man... In the 5B selection alone, Promark offers the classic 5B in regular, Firegrain and then two variations of ActiveGrip. Then the same with the two select balance models. That's 12 variations of a 5B right there. Then there are variations with different tips, as well as without lacquer. I think there are about 20 variations of the 5B alone. Other companies have maybe 2 or 3 variations of the 5B and none of them worked for me. Ironically, Promark's Classic 5B is my stick of choice, despite all the variations. I will use the transparent Activegrip sometimes when the venue is a bit chilly and/or my hands are dry. If you can't find your perfect stick with Promark, you might as well give up. They somehow were the "underdog" for many years, but they are the absolute leaders today. And apart from the incredible product, D'Addario sets the world's standard for how to treat their artists and musicians in general. Incredible company. Proud fellow endorser here! Keep up the great work and let me know if you're ever in LA.
Haha, man just for the heck of it I guessed "Promark Rebounds", since that's what I've been using for the past year and was surprised to hear your answer! They really are well balanced. I've mostly used Vic firth 5a and 5b, but I'm really liking the 5a Rebounds.
Hey Rob...I always thought that Vic Firth sticks were okay. However, I did like my Pro Mark sticks even better, especially the burnt sticks that came out a couple of years ago. I was even one of their beta testers. However, then I discovered the best stick I ever use...the Diamondback Drumsticks. Whether you are an endorsee or not, just give them a try. I don't think I will ever use another stick...they are very durable, well balanced and they really do help prevent the stick from ever slipping without using sticky rubber dipped technology which I never really thought felt good in my hands. I use their 5a and 7a sticks...you should at least try them.
Hey Rob, love your videos and back in the day ProMark was all I used to use. Kind of hard to find here in SC at the Music Stores, but plan to go online to buy. Thanks for the info! Keep it coming.
I knew it was promark before you said it. I love the way their sticks feel but they always broke on me too easy so I stopped using them. I will try the ones you got and see how it goes.
Promark's classic forward line has the old school Promark dimensions with the oval tip, but their Rebound line (which Rob uses) has the same dimensions as Vic Firth and a similar tip shape. For me, the only difference I feel is that sometimes, Vic Firth sticks feel like the lacquer is a bit more noticeable. Vater also has a stick line called the classic series with the Vic Firth dimensions and tip shapes as well which I'm looking to try.
Best choice you ever made Rob mate!! Best sticks in the world, have used them since I was 10, first set of sticks I ever picked up, ONLY sticks I will use...sorry but VF break easily, feel horrible....never liked them...been preachin' on PM for years since I started..so glad you made the change, you won't regret it and so glad to see more and more people discovering these amazing sticks! Welcome to the family, welcome home!
exact stick I am using..(not that it matters to anyone but me). I find them extremely comfortable. The rebound was the missing ingredient vs. my old sticks and the firegrain wood tip has a slightly more defined "ping" on ride cymbals. I did an open jam a few months ago and I asked the host drummer to us a pair and they ended up being used all evening by every drummer that came up. I noticed instantly that the ride was more defined and focused with the firegrain stick than his normal 747 stick. (wood tip as well). Also..inspecting the pair at the end of a three plus hour jam..they looked incredible. They are clearly more durable than the non firegrain counterpart.
The right stick is a very subjective and personal thing. I used to play ProMark 5A's for 10-12 years, but as I got older and my style changed to being less heavy and more dynamic, I felt I needed something lighter. After years of searching, I found the VF AJ4 was the perfect stick for me. Good for you for being honest about it and not fake sponsoring something you no longer use, although you are still featured on VF's web site. :)
I’be been drumming for about 7 years now, but I’ve only recently joined a band. I’ve got my first gig coming up at a local bar opening for another band. Any tips for my first gig?
Don’t suck. lol Seriously, tho, just relax, man. Take the gig seriously and give it 100%, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. And remember the most important thing about bar gigs. Hot chics make you play better. Unexplainable fact 😉
I'll give them a try but I've been playing with Vic Firth since 1981 (5-A wood tip) and love the Steve Gadd sticks for the last 15 years now. Old habits, ya know...Thanks for the advice!
I switched the Pro-Mark fire grains as well. They provide a beautiful sound on the drums(although it’s all relative). For me it makes the drums sound darker.
I am definitely buying these sticks! I tried them when i was at the Norwegian Mastership in brass music in Bergen, im buying them. Looking forward to new videos man, keep it going👍
I’m a guitarist and the first thing I notice about a guitar is the feel of the neck in my hands. I played a Gretsch Electromatic the other day and the neck just didn’t feel right, so I quickly lost interest. I love the feel of Jackson, Gibson and PRS necks.
Nice!!! I just recently switched to the Vic Firth Steve Gadd natural finish stick. The sonic change is remarkable and had my bandmates wondering, "what'd he do"??? I was digging the way you "saw" or "chop" on the stick. My issue is tip chipping (I use wood and don't really care for the nylon tips). At any rate, nice video!!
Nice! Amazing what new sticks can do for inspiration. I'm a Vic guy but I might have to check these out. Also, those Pro-Mark TB5 brushes are my go to brush so I hope you like them too!
This video just blew my mind... the EXACT same experience for me a couple weeks back with the Forward 5B Acorn!!! Played and would bulk buy the VF "Vinnie" model, he's bailed so ordered a couple pair of these on a lark. Changed my life! Instantly 20% better in all areas, and so much fun to play!!! i can't believe it!
Not at the moment. I had a great phone conversation with Paul Pearl, the chief percussion product specialist at D’Addario Co in NY and he mentioned that right now there’s no immediate plans to add any other sticks to what’s currently offered. I don’t think it’s completely off the table for the future, though.
My first pair of sticks were ProMark nylon tips. I remember them well from the 80’s. The logo would rub off in time. Unlike today’s sticks. ProMark is always my go to. I’ve played with and have Vic Firth and Vater sticks also. Played with Zildjian sticks also but don’t really care for them. I have have some Firegrains also. I’m partial to nylon tips, but I’ll play wood tips.
aren’t the Vic Firth American Jazz sticks comparable to the rebound balance? the AJ1 seems like a really comparable stick to what you were looking for originally
A novice drummer but I like Vic Firth sticks and Promark. I would be happy to have only Promarks for the rest of my days. Every player has his own feel and touch. There isn’t a wrong or right is there?
I just started drumming and am using VF 5As and have one of their practice pads. How do I go about getting on their roster? Should I make some videos or something like that? I'd like one of their tshirts. Also, a serious question... do those foam pads on the wall help with sound reduction outside the room or more for just internal dampening? I play in a shed (insulated) that has a hardwood maple floor and drywall on the walls and ceiling and my ears hurt after playing a little. Any tips?
I used to be a Pro-Mark fan for years, but after a while, I just encountered too many sticks that felt terribly balanced, split after minimal use, and were clearly NOT pitch matched. I really love all of the stuff that Rob is talking about here as far as the Pro-Mark features (select balance, their innovation with the firegrain, etc.), but I just never felt like they really delivered. Anyone else feel the same??
The Promarks of the past broke too easy. I can't speak for the present. I'm more of an assortment of Vic Firth and Regal Tip sticks myself. I've been using Aquarian composite 5b's on electronics.
The fact that you can have two distinctly different feels offered in the same stick as you said, depending on the gig, is awesome. I don’t know who else is doin that right now 🏆
big ups bro! respect for your honesty and transparency! see im a vic guy since i can think and what i really like is the aj-series since theyre kinda between 7a and 5a. is there something similiar from pro mark? how does the forward active feel for very low and fast ghostnotes? thanks man
Forward has a heavier feel towards the tip, so power players and harder hitters tend to favour that balance. If you’re more technical, that’s who Rebound balance, which has a longer taper, was created for. 7A & 5A Rebound would be similar to the Vic AJ sticks. The stick is just a tool, tho. The “very low and fast ghostnotes” thing has a lot more to do with proper technique.
I used to use only Remo and Vic Firth, but over time I switched to Evans and Promark. I still prefer using VF brushes but as of about 3 or 4 years ago, when I became a beta tester for Promark, I switched companies. I tested the Rebound Active Grip and a pair of Firegrains. I still have the original pair of Activegrip 5As, primarily used for practice now, but that lasted pretty long
The blue flame sticks look like a cigar. The promark sticks Rock, I had these sticks in the line up with other brands they outlasted all other's by far. These are some tough sticks good luck with the change
Vics have some great sticks just like Promark do. I use the 747 oaks great sticks but I still pick the VF 5a nylon grip and the American classic sticks and 5ab ones and they last me longer than the Promark oaks which tells me Vics use strong hickory and better lacquer. And are cheaper in price than Promark but you cant go wrong with either brand
First pair of sticks I ever bought was pro-mark. I tried vater and Vic Firth but they didn’t feel as good. Twenty years later, still still beating with pro-mark. ❤️❤️❤️
Great video! We all go through playing changes and our preferences change as well. You handled the transition very professional and real classy. I mean c'mon we can argue who's better for days! I known you know they both make great stuff. For sticks I use Vic. They are made right here in my state and I love the company. I play 5A and Pro Mark 5A's are little too skinny for me. But for bundle rods I use Hot Rods all the way. Also my new stick bag is Pro Mark. They really came up with a good new one with great pockets and a handy key ring on it. Very drummer friendly. And for plastic bristle rods I use Vater Whips. Not every company offers the same thing so I choose my sticks by type and feel, not brand, although most of my stuff is Vic if they make that style of stick/brush/mallet.
I like how when Promark released the select balance line they made their 5A's the same diameter as Vic Firth and Vater 5A's and turned their old 5A into the classic series 5A. I have a variety of Vic Firth, Promark and Vater sticks and I like that the diameter is now pretty much constant between them. I like the Rebound 5A because it feels to me almost exactly like a Vic 5A. If I ever want something a little bit thinner I'll go for Vic's 85A or the Promark Classic 5A.
Vater Fatback 3As are hands down the worst sticks I've ever used. They hurt my hands, feel like logs and just don't bounce well on the heads. No rebound, no finesse. I used to use Promarks but switched to mainly Vic Firth 5As and 5Bs depending on what I'm playing about 10 years ago. I may switch back to Promarks as Vic Firths while feeling great are not durable.
Yup, I switched from Vic Firth Hickory American Classic Rock to Vater Sugar Maple Concert Sticks and haven't looked back! Those Fire Grain sticks look pretty cool!
There's also one way you can control the stick feel without having a "special" stick: where your fulcrum is on the stick. The further back your fulcrum is, you trade volume for bounce. The further forwards, you have more bounce, but less volume. When you get to the middle of the stick you get as much volume as the stick weighs. The Vater Wicked Piston still hold the crown for being top heavy no matter where your fulcrum is.
Just curious, why did you do the "transition to a full-time trad. grip"? For me drumming is just some kinda exercise to balance the hemispheres of my brains, or a "rude" form of meditation, as opposed to Transcendental Meditation. I'd love to be able to play a (for me) fast double or triple stroke roll or buzz roll with matched grip, but am only able to do that with the trad. -- (British) cheers from Finland.
Other way round for me with select balance my man, always played rock but wanted to use a 5a and always felt small, so stuck with 5b and 2b bit they are too big for my hands... so for me its FORWARD 5A FIREGRAIN!!!! LotsI of power from a smaller stick, Im with you bro 👌
You had me at bathed in fire!! It seems like other stick companies are giving Vic Firth a run for their money. Maybe VF is resting on their age, but Promark and other brands are coming up with unique offerings. Dig it!
Vic makes good sticks, man. But their weight from pair to pair is pretty inconsistent. I really dig Promark. The select balance concept is brilliant and the sticks feel fantastic
@@RobBeatdownBrown I will agree about Vic Firth and have noticed some quality control issues myself. It may be time to test the waters and try out Promark select balance. I've been hearing about them more and more. The concept makes A LOT of sense, and I would utilize the different balances when on different gigs. Thanks for the video!
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*HEY Y'ALL! I'm going to be completely transparent here and say that I've considered changing the name of the video, just because I don't want to disrespect VF sticks in any way. But after flip-floppin back and forth, I decided to just leave it. Y'all know me anyways! The straight truth is that I DID think they were great sticks when I was using them, and STILL think they make great sticks! It was just time for a change for me. So...check out the video for the straight scoop on why I decided to switch and to see what I'm hittin' with now!* 🤓🥁🔥
@rob very inspiring!!
Right on. I'm with pro mark.
Interesting. I made the same switch about a week ago to the Promark Active Grip rebou d 7A's. Absolutely love 'em.
Might consider the fire sticks. I'm using Benny Grebs sticks I really rate them.
I've had these sticks going on 3 weeks and they're sick and everything you said was spot on I'm back playing promark.
Rob, I have been following you for years, and although I do not personally know you I feel that seeing you through your videos I can tell you have a lot of integrity. Although it was not easy for you to come to that decision, I appreciate your honesty and openness. I am also a Vic guy, but now I have to try these sticks! Thanks Bro!
Thanks, man 🙂👊🏽
I am a drummer of 49 years and I landed with those exact sticks as well. Promark sent me prototypes of the forward and rebound sticks when they were in pretesting stage and I instantly fell in love the rebound model. But the prototypes were a 5A which is too small for me. When I tried the 5B everything felt perfect. I really love em.
One of the coolest and most consistent drum related channels out there. Thanks, Rob for this one. Love your candor and your delivery. Drumming is first rate too!
Thanks man 🙂👊🏽
I use to play with Vic Firth, then the Vater sticks attacked.
Vater stick are very durable. I had a mix match pair I have been using for a couple years
Vater sticks suck in my opinion there cheap.
Mine end up breaking after 2 or 3 weeks of usage.
I used all brands Vic, Promark, now Vater, and man.....Vater rules. I used three pairs of promark, felt like those were the ones, but then I tried Vater.
Same here. I started with Vic and I always thought all sticks were pretty much the same. I was always trying new models because nothing ever felt quite right for my hands. I ended up trying a pair of Vaters (my first) that I fell absolutely in love with feel-wise and they ended up outlasting all of the Vics I ever tried. That was 10 years ago and I haven’t looked back.
I started using promark in the 80s and never changed. They have a certain feel, and the way their lacquer gives a better grip the longer you play, from the heat of your hand.
They just feel more solid or dense, and the firth always felt like pine or a dry wood.
The fire grain are harder than normal sticks. So you don't need nylon tip for harder tip like on the bells, rides ping, etc.
As a HUGE fan of Promark I can honestly say that the Japanese white oak 747s have never let me down! Gotta love the length and durability of em’
As a HUGE fan of Promark I can honestly say that their oak stick is the only stick I have ever used for the past 25 years that split through the entire length of the stick within 5 min rehearsal with the big band, Needless to say, I will never buy oak sticks again.
Promark sticks are freaking 15 dollars. The Japanese oak are like 20. Idk how anyone not endorsed can keep using promark.
I've used ProMark since 1993.
I started using their black color coated 5b then I went to the 727 ball tip.
Then eventually I was turned on to the Neil Peart 747 signature model and have used them till just recently when they discontinued it. And I loved those sticks, Shira Kashi oak is the greatest.
I hammer the shit out of them and they last for months. Now I'm using the 747b SKO in nylon tip. Half an inch longer slightly thicker but awesome
Over the past few years, Promark and Evans has really upped their games with drumming product and as such I have found myself switching to their side. I am currently loving the 5B Shiri Oak sticks or the Thomas Pridgen signatures. I've tried the black ActiveGrip Portnoy model and that was cool, I'm interested in grabbing/trying a pair of the newer "clearer" ActiveGrip they just came out with. Good luck on your journey Rob, what a great YT channel.
Thanks a lot, man 🙂✌🏽
I knew it was promark before you said it. I've been using pro mark for years now . I love them. I'm a hard hitter and can break sticks . They last so long .
Promark is the shit. I love my active grip sticks. They get even grippier when they heat up from your hands. But at the same time they don’t feel sticky.
I've been using Vic Firths for a while now and I'm tired of replacing sticks. They feel great but they just don't last. I'm gonna go back to Promarks.
I'm gonna be THAT guy and say, "when I played Pro Mark, they broke after playing a single set on stage" but the truth is that I actually really like Pro Mark but why the hell are they so expensive??
Just ordered a set of firegrain 5b rebounds... as a traditional grip drummer, I'm always looking to find the stick that lets me grip it further back for more power without sacrificing the balance. Hoping the weight being shifted towards the back end to be just the thing. You're my favorite YT drummer, man - keep up what you're doing. I dig it!
Big fan of the Kashi Oak ProMarks. Try em out. Even more durable than the FireGrain's believe it or not...
Yeah I love the Kashi Oaks... Not only are they super comfortable to play, but their durability blows me away! Best sticks out there in my personal opinion :)
Those are the only sticks i use 5Aand 5B wood. Love my oaks
Just picked up a pair to try myself a few weeks ago. Love them already
I'm not a drummer but love to play. I also recently discovered the Kashi Oaks and love them.
They were my first ones actually
This is a stand-up display of integrity! I'm proud to subscribe to you channel, Rob! Take care.
Thanks for that comment, man 🙂👊🏽
You are always welcome and thank you for making me a better drummer.
Rob found something better. I've never taken the word of an endorser. I gotta see for myself.
I played Vic Firth for a while, but once I switched to Promark I never looked back...
Wadsmitter - I love my Larks shirt. Good for any occasion!
At 3:20 ...LOVE AT FIRST STICKS ! Haha 😂
I used to use Vic Firth sticks. I tried all kinds of sticks from all kinds of companies. I even tried all kinds of Pro Mark sticks(but not the firegrain ones). I hated all the Pro Mark sticks I tried. This made me go back to the Vic Firth sticks since those were the best I have found. One day it all changed. I was at the store I buy sticks at and I saw this reddish brown looking stick in the size I like(7A). I picked them up and they felt great in my hands. I tapped around on the demo pad they had and liked the sticks. I then looked over the sticks and was surprised to realized I had picked out a Pro Mark stick. The sticks were the firegrain series sticks. I bought them and brought them to my drumset. Now I mostly only use the Pro Mark firegrain sticks. I found after testing dozens of sticks from all kinds of companies, even other Pro Mark sticks, that the firegrain series sticks feel terrific to play and seem to be more durable than any other wood stick I have tried. For me and it sounds like you as well the Pro Mark Firegrain sticks are phenomenal and all the other Pro Mark sticks are just garbage.
This video was very transparent and that is refreshing. I'm so glad that you made this video. Thank you so much!
Just a note from an old drummer. I played Promark Oak sticks when I was a full time musician 40+ years ago. The main reason was my pal had a music related business that could get the sticks at a discount. It was great but it took me many years to learn that the main reason our sticks wear is the metal rims on our drums, essentially the snare. Duh, right. Anyway, my epiphany came when I purchase a used Yamaha Steve Jordan signature snare. It came with wooden rims. The seller also sent the stock metal rims as well. I had never played a snare with wood rims. It took some getting used to because of the width as opposed to the metal rim. However, once I got used to the rim size, I loved it. The sound is very cool and I don't eat drum sticks like in the past. The sticks will wear but its more of a case of dents than chewing up. My cymbals do more damage than the rims, by far. The snare sounds great. So, try using wood rims on your snare. You play it many times more than you other drums and you usually don't do rim shots on the toms. It will be worth the added cost because you will not be replacing sticks as often as before. Also, if you want good sticks for low cost, check out Drum Bum. They sell "Sticks" brand. Yes, they are made in China, but they are good quality and currently sell for $25/12 pair. There is high demand due to the price, but it's a great deal and with wood rims on your snare. you will be way ahead of the game. Good luck and rock on!!
I support ya dude! I personally don’t enjoy promark, but ya know music is all about what you like so I hope you enjoy the change!
What’s funny is I recently switched from Pro Mark to Vic Firth and then eventually discovered Vater which I’m using currently.
If a particular stick inspires your playing than that’s your stick. If that changes over time that’s fine. Always keep experimenting and improving.
Pro Mark still makes great stuff, just gotta trust your gut. I think the Vater LA.5A and 5B have great balance and high moisture content which makes them more durable IMHO. Again this is just my preference after playing Pro Mark for 20+ years and then checking out the other brands. They all make great sticks.
I use only Vater. I absolutely LOVE their sticks. They just feel so quality to me. I'm not endorsed and can/will play other sticks when the need is there. But my money goes to Vater ALWAYS.
I just recently went the other way. I played Pro Mark for many years. Personally, the quality was far better years ago. I bought a pair of Vic Firth at Guitar Center because their selection was poor for Pro Mark, and I LOVE THEM! I'll be sticking with these 5Bs...
Agreed. Quality,grip and price were better years ago with Promarks. Seems like every Promark stick I've tried over the last couple of years I have to use grip tape. I moved on to VF and Vater
Brother Rob - thank you! I moved over to Promark! I bought 5A and 5B - firegrain and the active grip Rebound! I have always played VF 5As and did some stick “strength training” with 2Bs! But that active grip Rebound 5b from Promark gives me that meaty feel with the light feel and speed of the old 5a VF. Sweet sticks! I also love that clean tacky feel that makes the sticks just stick to your hands - they don’t slip like the old VF sticks. Thank you for the review and recommendation! I have already turned my young drum friends to the new Promark line and they love them as well!
I use the Firegrains also. I jump between the 7a and the 5a. Absolutely love them. I was trying every stick out there until I decided on Promark. Glad I did.
When I was younger, I was using Promark white oak, 5a. This was back in the brown logo days! Used them for years. Then I found Vic's 8A--a 7A diameter with a 5A length. That was my stick for years. Recently, I took on a new band; a louder band. I needed a heavier stick for more power, but I didn't want something to "club" like. Went into a drum shop, put some sticks in the hands, and came home with Promark 5A Rebounds! It's amazing what that little bit of taper change does to a stick.
Ain’t it?! 👌🏽
The Danny Carey sticks the best I've tried. Weighted in the front. Very powerful and much better for rudiments.
I was thinking about getting them.
Vice firth makes the best sticks for me. Feel better then all competition in the same sizes.
I just switched to ProMark 2b and 5b firegrain. The Vic Firth were feeling like balsa wood for maple. Didn’t waste them, turned them into wood chimes.
Yes I switched as well. Promark Firegrain sticks for me. Can't pick up another pair.
I changed to the ProMark LA series. All the drummers at my church really dig them. For me, it's a great stick and I enjoy using them!
Was playing Vic Firth for awhile and then I tried some Promark sticks and I really liked them!! I went from Vic Firth 5B Extremes to Promark Forward 5B Firegrain sticks and I LOVE them
Never going back!!
Can't lie; Due to this video I had to try out the Select Balance line. I ordered the two different 5a sizes in rebound and forward balance, although they made a mistake and sent me a pair of 5b rebounds. The best happy accident to happen to me in years. I love the 5b rebound.
Congrats! My first drumsticks when I was 10 years old in 1980 were Promark. I like them a lot!
I've recently switched from Vic First 5AN Extreme to Vater VH5AS. While they're not quite as good in terms of rebound, they just feel that little bit better in the hand.
I also really like the ProMarks, they're just way out of my price range here in South Africa.
Do you think these sticks would be good for metal drumming?
I used to think Vic Firth is the only drum stick brand I didn't care about the others. But once I needed a pair I went into a drum shop that had just ran out of Vic firths.. so I bought a pair of Vater Fusion stick... And that's what I've been using since then!
"It was love at first stick" lol
I've been a Vic Firth guy for many years. My only complaint is that the wood tips tend to chip pretty quickly, which gives me a mushy sound and feel on my cymbals. I have lots of Vic Firth sticks that are in great shape but I don't use anymore because the tips are chipped. I should try these fire grain sticks to see if they hold up any better.
I'm seriously not into gimmicks, man. But the claim was that the process makes the wood a little stronger, and so far, no lies. But Yea, I've also had sticks wearing down to pencils.
I was with VF for 12 years. Incredible consistency, but never totally comfortable. Was with Vater for a couple of years. Same deal. Pro-Mark classic 5B's were the first sticks I purchased as a kid. When I picked up a pair of those out of curiosity last year I was blown away by how familiar and comfortable they felt. Switched right then. It's funny how sometimes we're introduced to industry reps and offered endorsements, while we should really follow the path of using what we truly prefer. The rebound and forward 5B are both great and truly different variations of the same stick, rather than completely different sticks. The classic 5B sits right in between them and works just great for me. The thing that makes the Firegrain sticks so durable is not only the flame treatment, but mostly the fact that they select the heaviest dowels for those so the wood is heavier and denser, which adds to durability. A Firegrain stick is about 15% heavier than its regular counterpart. But man... In the 5B selection alone, Promark offers the classic 5B in regular, Firegrain and then two variations of ActiveGrip. Then the same with the two select balance models. That's 12 variations of a 5B right there. Then there are variations with different tips, as well as without lacquer. I think there are about 20 variations of the 5B alone. Other companies have maybe 2 or 3 variations of the 5B and none of them worked for me. Ironically, Promark's Classic 5B is my stick of choice, despite all the variations. I will use the transparent Activegrip sometimes when the venue is a bit chilly and/or my hands are dry. If you can't find your perfect stick with Promark, you might as well give up. They somehow were the "underdog" for many years, but they are the absolute leaders today. And apart from the incredible product, D'Addario sets the world's standard for how to treat their artists and musicians in general. Incredible company. Proud fellow endorser here! Keep up the great work and let me know if you're ever in LA.
Haha, man just for the heck of it I guessed "Promark Rebounds", since that's what I've been using for the past year and was surprised to hear your answer! They really are well balanced. I've mostly used Vic firth 5a and 5b, but I'm really liking the 5a Rebounds.
Where did you go during the blank screen? To get some Regal and Pro-Marks.
It's a good feeling when you find the sticks that match you personally. Happy for you!
Hey Rob...I always thought that Vic Firth sticks were okay. However, I did like my Pro Mark sticks even better, especially the burnt sticks that came out a couple of years ago. I was even one of their beta testers. However, then I discovered the best stick I ever use...the Diamondback Drumsticks. Whether you are an endorsee or not, just give them a try. I don't think I will ever use another stick...they are very durable, well balanced and they really do help prevent the stick from ever slipping without using sticky rubber dipped technology which I never really thought felt good in my hands. I use their 5a and 7a sticks...you should at least try them.
Hey Rob, love your videos and back in the day ProMark was all I used to use. Kind of hard to find here in SC at the Music Stores, but plan to go online to buy. Thanks for the info! Keep it coming.
I knew it was promark before you said it. I love the way their sticks feel but they always broke on me too easy so I stopped using them. I will try the ones you got and see how it goes.
There's something weird about Promark to me, like the density is off. They never feel heavy enough to me and I'm a light player
Good Luck with the change !! Looking forward to your reviews of their products . Change is good . 8-)
I like the design of the ProMark sticks, but I love the Vic tips- nice round (5A). Not oval shaped. Does ProMark have something with similar?
Promark's classic forward line has the old school Promark dimensions with the oval tip, but their Rebound line (which Rob uses) has the same dimensions as Vic Firth and a similar tip shape. For me, the only difference I feel is that sometimes, Vic Firth sticks feel like the lacquer is a bit more noticeable. Vater also has a stick line called the classic series with the Vic Firth dimensions and tip shapes as well which I'm looking to try.
Best choice you ever made Rob mate!! Best sticks in the world, have used them since I was 10, first set of sticks I ever picked up, ONLY sticks I will use...sorry but VF break easily, feel horrible....never liked them...been preachin' on PM for years since I started..so glad you made the change, you won't regret it and so glad to see more and more people discovering these amazing sticks! Welcome to the family, welcome home!
Why did you switch from Vic firth drumstick to Promark drumstick?
Really?! 🤨
exact stick I am using..(not that it matters to anyone but me). I find them extremely comfortable. The rebound was the missing ingredient vs. my old sticks and the firegrain wood tip has a slightly more defined "ping" on ride cymbals. I did an open jam a few months ago and I asked the host drummer to us a pair and they ended up being used all evening by every drummer that came up. I noticed instantly that the ride was more defined and focused with the firegrain stick than his normal 747 stick. (wood tip as well). Also..inspecting the pair at the end of a three plus hour jam..they looked incredible. They are clearly more durable than the non firegrain counterpart.
The right stick is a very subjective and personal thing. I used to play ProMark 5A's for 10-12 years, but as I got older and my style changed to being less heavy and more dynamic, I felt I needed something lighter. After years of searching, I found the VF AJ4 was the perfect stick for me.
Good for you for being honest about it and not fake sponsoring something you no longer use, although you are still featured on VF's web site. :)
I’be been drumming for about 7 years now, but I’ve only recently joined a band. I’ve got my first gig coming up at a local bar opening for another band. Any tips for my first gig?
Don’t suck. lol Seriously, tho, just relax, man. Take the gig seriously and give it 100%, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. And remember the most important thing about bar gigs. Hot chics make you play better. Unexplainable fact 😉
I'll give them a try but I've been playing with Vic Firth since 1981 (5-A wood tip) and love the Steve Gadd sticks for the last 15 years now. Old habits, ya know...Thanks for the advice!
Stick to what’s working for ya, man. The 5A FireGrain might impress you, tho
Great to see you found a good stick to match your style and needs. I prefer Pro-Mark and Vater Sticks personally.
I switched the Pro-Mark fire grains as well. They provide a beautiful sound on the drums(although it’s all relative). For me it makes the drums sound darker.
I am definitely buying these sticks! I tried them when i was at the Norwegian Mastership in brass music in Bergen, im buying them. Looking forward to new videos man, keep it going👍
Please send me your old Vic Firth Sticks 🙏
I’m a guitarist and the first thing I notice about a guitar is the feel of the neck in my hands.
I played a Gretsch Electromatic the other day and the neck just didn’t feel right, so I quickly lost interest.
I love the feel of Jackson, Gibson and PRS necks.
Congratulations. A Change is good
Ultimately and always ✌🏽
Nice!!! I just recently switched to the Vic Firth Steve Gadd natural finish stick. The sonic change is remarkable and had my bandmates wondering, "what'd he do"??? I was digging the way you "saw" or "chop" on the stick. My issue is tip chipping (I use wood and don't really care for the nylon tips). At any rate, nice video!!
I dig the Mike portnoy sticks . Perfect balance and the active grip is nice. Try them if you a chance.
Can we see some of your giging sets and congrats on new stick deal
Beautiful Sticks! Good Stuff Rob!
Nice! Amazing what new sticks can do for inspiration. I'm a Vic guy but I might have to check these out. Also, those Pro-Mark TB5 brushes are my go to brush so I hope you like them too!
I really like the Vic Firth AJ-6. It has all that rebound. I will check these out!
I've been using pro mark for 30 years,size 2B,I've tried many different sticks but couldn't get the same touch.Good choice.
What do you think about the shira kashi (japanese oak) pro mark sticks?
Congrats Rob! Both companies make great sticks. You can't go wrong either way!
This video just blew my mind... the EXACT same experience for me a couple weeks back with the Forward 5B Acorn!!! Played and would bulk buy the VF "Vinnie" model, he's bailed so ordered a couple pair of these on a lark. Changed my life! Instantly 20% better in all areas, and so much fun to play!!! i can't believe it!
Hey Rob, do you know if there are any plans to release nylon tipped fire grain drumsticks?
Not at the moment. I had a great phone conversation with Paul Pearl, the chief percussion product specialist at D’Addario Co in NY and he mentioned that right now there’s no immediate plans to add any other sticks to what’s currently offered. I don’t think it’s completely off the table for the future, though.
@@RobBeatdownBrown Thanks dude. Great video, I'm currently loving my Firegrain forward balance 5a's.
@@RobBeatdownBrown Thanks dude. Great video, I'm currently loving my Firegrain forward balance 5a's.
I may need to take a closer look. Need a more comfortable sticks to choose from when giging.
Thanks
I ordered sticks yesterday can't wait to try them out !
I use Promark too for years ! Very good choice Bro !
My first pair of sticks were ProMark nylon tips. I remember them well from the 80’s. The logo would rub off in time. Unlike today’s sticks. ProMark is always my go to. I’ve played with and have Vic Firth and Vater sticks also. Played with Zildjian sticks also but don’t really care for them. I have have some Firegrains also. I’m partial to nylon tips, but I’ll play wood tips.
aren’t the Vic Firth American Jazz sticks comparable to the rebound balance? the AJ1 seems like a really comparable stick to what you were looking for originally
A novice drummer but I like Vic Firth sticks and Promark. I would be happy to have only Promarks for the rest of my days.
Every player has his own feel and touch. There isn’t a wrong or right is there?
I just started drumming and am using VF 5As and have one of their practice pads. How do I go about getting on their roster? Should I make some videos or something like that? I'd like one of their tshirts. Also, a serious question... do those foam pads on the wall help with sound reduction outside the room or more for just internal dampening? I play in a shed (insulated) that has a hardwood maple floor and drywall on the walls and ceiling and my ears hurt after playing a little. Any tips?
I used to be a Pro-Mark fan for years, but after a while, I just encountered too many sticks that felt terribly balanced, split after minimal use, and were clearly NOT pitch matched. I really love all of the stuff that Rob is talking about here as far as the Pro-Mark features (select balance, their innovation with the firegrain, etc.), but I just never felt like they really delivered. Anyone else feel the same??
The Promarks of the past broke too easy. I can't speak for the present. I'm more of an assortment of Vic Firth and Regal Tip sticks myself. I've been using Aquarian composite 5b's on electronics.
Im curious what yamaha style set is that. Looks good
It’s a PHX in textured amber burst👌🏽
I recently switched to Pro Mark 5A's...rebound and forward dependig on the gig. Quality and consistency from pair to pair is insane.
The fact that you can have two distinctly different feels offered in the same stick as you said, depending on the gig, is awesome. I don’t know who else is doin that right now 🏆
I love the Buddy Rich sticks from Vic Firth. My all-time favorite!
ProMark 727 oak wood tip. Down from NP 747. Love for me. Try them all. God Bless Rob.
I started using the Mike Portnoy activegrip 420X last year and have not played anything else since. Great company to change to.
is that a russ miller side stick on your snare?
It is
Glad you found something that works for you! I am still looking :)
big ups bro! respect for your honesty and transparency! see im a vic guy since i can think and what i really like is the aj-series since theyre kinda between 7a and 5a. is there something similiar from pro mark? how does the forward active feel for very low and fast ghostnotes? thanks man
Forward has a heavier feel towards the tip, so power players and harder hitters tend to favour that balance. If you’re more technical, that’s who Rebound balance, which has a longer taper, was created for. 7A & 5A Rebound would be similar to the Vic AJ sticks. The stick is just a tool, tho. The “very low and fast ghostnotes” thing has a lot more to do with proper technique.
I used to use only Remo and Vic Firth, but over time I switched to Evans and Promark. I still prefer using VF brushes but as of about 3 or 4 years ago, when I became a beta tester for Promark, I switched companies. I tested the Rebound Active Grip and a pair of Firegrains. I still have the original pair of Activegrip 5As, primarily used for practice now, but that lasted pretty long
Promark and Vater sticks are in my arsenal for all drumming needs. I can just get around the drums solid and be versatile with my playing.
The blue flame sticks look like a cigar. The promark sticks Rock, I had these sticks in the line up with other brands they outlasted all other's by far. These are some tough sticks good luck with the change
Vics have some great sticks just like Promark do. I use the 747 oaks great sticks but I still pick the VF 5a nylon grip and the American classic sticks and 5ab ones and they last me longer than the Promark oaks which tells me Vics use strong hickory and better lacquer. And are cheaper in price than Promark but you cant go wrong with either brand
It was love at first grip for me when I held my first pair of promarks man...
First pair of sticks I ever bought was pro-mark. I tried vater and Vic Firth but they didn’t feel as good. Twenty years later, still still beating with pro-mark. ❤️❤️❤️
I made the same jump recently. Picked up some 7A Forward Fire Grains....different balance than I’m used to, but man! Love these things!
Great video! We all go through playing changes and our preferences change as well. You handled the transition very professional and real classy. I mean c'mon we can argue who's better for days! I known you know they both make great stuff. For sticks I use Vic. They are made right here in my state and I love the company. I play 5A and Pro Mark 5A's are little too skinny for me. But for bundle rods I use Hot Rods all the way. Also my new stick bag is Pro Mark. They really came up with a good new one with great pockets and a handy key ring on it. Very drummer friendly. And for plastic bristle rods I use Vater Whips. Not every company offers the same thing so I choose my sticks by type and feel, not brand, although most of my stuff is Vic if they make that style of stick/brush/mallet.
I like how when Promark released the select balance line they made their 5A's the same diameter as Vic Firth and Vater 5A's and turned their old 5A into the classic series 5A. I have a variety of Vic Firth, Promark and Vater sticks and I like that the diameter is now pretty much constant between them. I like the Rebound 5A because it feels to me almost exactly like a Vic 5A. If I ever want something a little bit thinner I'll go for Vic's 85A or the Promark Classic 5A.
Vater Fatback 3As are hands down the worst sticks I've ever used. They hurt my hands, feel like logs and just don't bounce well on the heads. No rebound, no finesse. I used to use Promarks but switched to mainly Vic Firth 5As and 5Bs depending on what I'm playing about 10 years ago. I may switch back to Promarks as Vic Firths while feeling great are not durable.
Yup, I switched from Vic Firth Hickory American Classic Rock to Vater Sugar Maple Concert Sticks and haven't looked back! Those Fire Grain sticks look pretty cool!
Vater has always made great sticks. I used to love the 7A Manhattans
There's also one way you can control the stick feel without having a "special" stick: where your fulcrum is on the stick. The further back your fulcrum is, you trade volume for bounce. The further forwards, you have more bounce, but less volume. When you get to the middle of the stick you get as much volume as the stick weighs.
The Vater Wicked Piston still hold the crown for being top heavy no matter where your fulcrum is.
For me, since 3 years, it’s the Zildjian Anti-Vibes 7 … I had some pain in the wrists before, I’m nearly 70, but since then … it’s absolutely fine !
Just curious, why did you do the "transition to a full-time trad. grip"? For me drumming is just some kinda exercise to balance the hemispheres of my brains, or a "rude" form of meditation, as opposed to Transcendental Meditation. I'd love to be able to play a (for me) fast double or triple stroke roll or buzz roll with matched grip, but am only able to do that with the trad. -- (British) cheers from Finland.
Other way round for me with select balance my man, always played rock but wanted to use a 5a and always felt small, so stuck with 5b and 2b bit they are too big for my hands... so for me its FORWARD 5A FIREGRAIN!!!! LotsI of power from a smaller stick, Im with you bro 👌
I will give promark a try too. I play vic's mostly. 🤘
You had me at bathed in fire!!
It seems like other stick companies are giving Vic Firth a run for their money. Maybe VF is resting on their age, but Promark and other brands are coming up with unique offerings. Dig it!
Vic makes good sticks, man. But their weight from pair to pair is pretty inconsistent. I really dig Promark. The select balance concept is brilliant and the sticks feel fantastic
@@RobBeatdownBrown I will agree about Vic Firth and have noticed some quality control issues myself. It may be time to test the waters and try out Promark select balance. I've been hearing about them more and more. The concept makes A LOT of sense, and I would utilize the different balances when on different gigs. Thanks for the video!