Mike Mangini is one of the most technically gifted players to ever exist, and I believe part of that is because he spends so much time thinking about the mechanics of everything he does. My percussion professor (who actually played a gig with Mike in the 90's back in his roto-tom drum set days) always tells me to think of techniques in terms of how I would explain them to others. I can tell that Mike understands everything about his setup and gear and has used it to perfect his playing. That's why he uses 4 sets of hi hats on his kit and why he has drums positioned around him and going everywhere- he's thought about what he can get out of using certain things. With these sticks, it's not just "I thought they felt good so here they are," he's giving an 8 and a half minute demonstration on every little aspect that he's thought out to show why the stick is the way that it is. I really admire that about his playing and persona.
I worked at Vater for over 10 years, the process definitely reflects the of true quality of why these sticks hold up well. From the moisture content of the wood to the back lathes shaping the models, to tip design, weights, wood types, sanding, quality control etc. They really do pay attention to detail. 🥁
Anyways, I just bought a pair of these, AND BOY DO THESE FEEL GREAT. I used to be a hard-hitter on the drums, but holding these sticks I'm much more efficient on my drum kit and even relaxed my playing style a lot more. I don't have to swing my whole arm and lose it to punch anything. And yup, snare drum is snappier than ever. MOST RECOMMENDED. And guys, if you still think Mangini's a machine, I suggest you try buy a pair of these for yourselves, you'll understand exactly why his drums sound like so. Sticks that help with a drummer's consistency and stamina are so useful.
I've been playing Vater drumsticks since 1994, never touched another one (I swear by the 8A, 5B and Phat Ride models!!!) - can't wait to try these!!! Great work guys!
Yeah, I've got the Vater effect too. Once I tried Vater, never switching back to any brand, gotta love those sticks! Bought a dozen pairs of Gospel 5B a year and a half back and still using them :)
I play Vater Pro Rock nylons in part because they're longer than some other models. I like extra reach. I might have to try these if there is a nylon tip version.
Why ill always play vater- quality, longevity, consistency. great people willing to go the extra mile to provide an artist with the tools he dreams up no matter how unique it is.
I mean, Vater is amazing, when I was getting to frustrated when I started to play drums, Vater saved the day when I found out the LA 5A models, and from there, testing the Power 5B, and now currently loving the 1A's, I can't wait to get these on my hands, all of Mike's signature products are amazing, and combined with Vater quality, this can only be a top product.
I've been playing Vater 2B Nylons since forever. Vater makes the most balanced, effortless sticks. I've tried all brands, Vater is hands down the best.
I used the David Silveria model many years ago they were my first Vater sticks. I used the rock model too, but I do love the power 5As which I'm using right now. The studio model is quite nice too. I should even try these too I think. Vater all the way.
i would only expect wicked piston.michael your still a funny & great guy!i miss ya buddy.vinnie r.boston
8 лет назад
i am going to buy these ASAP. I always choke down on the stick to get more top heaviness but then i lose pretty much any means of good technique. I am constantly moving up and down on the stick to get what i need. I wish there was a stick that felt like how i wanted it to feel
Hello at Vater, thank you for your quick response!! I'm totally speechless that you did! I've been a fan of Vater drumsticks, my favorite stick being the Manhattan 7A model, and lately the 8A. I have a few others as well,, like the Fatback 3A and the Ball and the Phat Ride.. I've been using the Sugar Maple sticks lately too, because I wanted to try lighter sticks. The quality of your sticks is awesome! I'd really like to try this Mike Mangini model. Thank you once again Vater! It's amazing because other companies I've reached out to about their products have never taken the time to respond, as if to say that they are too busy to respond to their customers and their concerns or suggestions, etc... this is much appreciated!👍I feel now like I want to continue using Vater drumsticks from now on.
According to Vinnie Appice a flipped stick is for the boys.😄 No, seriously, Mr. Mangini, you are absolute right. If you want the feel and weight get a stick that is designed for this purpose.
great stuff. my vaters of choice are the sugar maple sweet ride, and the LA 5a model. the 5a is what I've been giving all the kids I teach. it's a perfect starting point I think. ^ I'll have to give these I try.
I've played Vater sticks for 20+ years. Over that period of time Virgil Donati's 'Assault' model stick came out. I've never played another stick since. Whether in a teaching session, solo session, clinic session or playing live - Vater VD's 'Assault' is the perfect stick for me personally. Props to Vater! I should mention that I've played a number of Vater models over the years while testing / checking them out during practice sessions or just fooling around with them trying to find a stick model that fits my personal taste. Solid lineup they have. Vater's quality & selection pulled me away from Vic Firth. Vater makes the best sticks in the world. Period. Being from Boston myself, I'm going to give MM's 'Wicked Pissah Piston' weapons a test drive.
The same kind of concept Alex Van Halens sig sticks were on the way to accomplishing, but didnt quite. They were a bit too much. Im anxious to try these.
+Dan Anderson It actually wasn't as difficult as you would expect. We have been close friends with Mike for many years now, so we knew exactly what he would be looking for when we went into this. That on top of Vater making drumsticks in their family since the 1950's, we were on top of it! Thanks for checking out the video and for the comment. All the best to you.
Interesting fact- both Vater and Vic Firth are Massachusetts based companies, just a couple of towns apart. And Mike is not from Boston, pretty sure he's from Framingham which is 25 min West on the Mass Pike (outside of Boston).
I love how sports balls (aka deflate-gate) got dropped into the video! HAHA Love this guy! Congrats on being a stick and cymbal nut endorser!!! I will have to try a pair.
The air comes out of the ball seams, a nod to Brady and deflate gate there I guarantee that is what he did there as a Bostonian. Brady is the greatest ever so as a huuuge fan I love that little tidbit here!
I'm gonna try a pair out. I used Vic 5b's for years. Very good sticks. Then like 2 years ago went back to using Pro-Mark, and been quite content with the feel and weight. They got the thicker, more durable necks. But WTH ya know? Mangini's talking a good game w/ these. I did use 2 pairs of his old Zildjian sticks? Too long, too heavy Soo, I'm skeptical but; check 'em out.
The acorn tip pitting less means it doesn't dig too deep into the head? So it translates directly into better rebound? Am I comprehending this logic correctly?
6:19 I have the same problem! From Mike's previous Zildjian Sticks to my first pair of sticks ever (Vater 5A's actually, I think... I was nine, so it's a bit blurry :P), one stick always felt heavier, even when brand new!
+Ben M That has more to do with the tolerances they set for stick weights. Wood, being a natural material, cannot be made consistent as say, carbon fiber. So, you have to have a tolerance. For some companies, it's a maximum of 2 grams difference between each pair. Others may vary.
You guys need to bring more Vater sticks to Brazil. We only have the "P" brand here, and of course, is no match to your quality, durability and awesome design. I can only find 3 models here : the Rock Model, Nightstick and power 5b. Seriously, Brazil is a expensive market in the drum gear world, but with Vater kicking the door and taking the spot for drumstick company here, the other brands will be no match to u guys. Please, consider this mensage, and talk to your dealers here. We need to level up the game. Thank you, and I can't wait for the Wicked Piston to be available world wyde. Valeu. VATER 4 LIFE!!!!!!
I've been playing Vater 2B Nylons for a long time now. Are these lighter or heavier than 2Bs? BTW Mike, I always play with the left stick inverted and I don't feel the imbalance at all - and the different sound "on metal" is a plus in my book.
IVE BEEN TRYING FOR YEARS TO GET THESE FELLOW METAL GUYS ON VATERS. most are so brand specific or have to play what their friends are playing, no one gives it a chance, i hit hard live playing hardcore and metal for years and a girl drummer mentioned a 3a vater and i never looked back. this i am interested in. just worried about the massive length. i litterally have had endoresments over the last 6plus years and played the vater 3a live cause i trust it. i BUY vaters instead of the endorsement deal i let go and thats unheard of. thanks for building a tank though vater.
I used to play bobby Christian model sticks from promark and they were discontinued. These sticks are the closest to the feel of those. I wish they had picked a different name for them.
That's why i use mike mangini's custom sticks because it is light and easy to play with along with stick stricks and even changing back and front when i hit crossed sticks CAn this sticks be shipped?
As with anything Mike does, I'm curious. Does this stick have any rebound qualities or is it basically a sledgehammer? There's confusing information in the video. He says it's balanced; he also says it's front weighted. I wouldn't put those two characteristics in the same sentence.
+CR We were very careful in the design process to make it front weighted BUT have it have a great rebound and balance as well. All of this was very important to Mike and we achieved all those needs by having those specs on the stick precisely where they are. When you give them a try, please feel free to write us at info@vater.com and let us know what you think. All the best to you and thanks for checking out the video.
+dzarren Mike's model is available for purchase now and will be available world wide. We had many stores pre-order them when we announced that he was now a Vater Drumstick Artist. Please ask your local store to get some in stock for you.
+Vater Drumsticks My local store cannot get in the sticks. The reason for this is because when they search up mike mangini in the system, only the older zildjian model is available for order. I tried another store, and they said i needed to order a brick of 12 in order to get any in. Shame!
***** The stick itself is made of hickory. I was offering the question of "Why not use a heavy wood for a heavier feel?" For Mike's former sticks were made to be heavy, but not explicitly top heavy.
+Ben M Because, while Oak is a much harder wood than Hickory, it's very brittle and flexes less, which makes it more prone to breaking. Even though Hickory may not be as soft as, say, Maple, it still has more give than Oak.
![Eminem - Like My Shit [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vx_IMvFkrfA/mqdefault.jpg)
![Best of Mike Mangini LIVE [DRUMCAM ONLY]](/img/1.gif)
Mike Mangini is one of the most technically gifted players to ever exist, and I believe part of that is because he spends so much time thinking about the mechanics of everything he does. My percussion professor (who actually played a gig with Mike in the 90's back in his roto-tom drum set days) always tells me to think of techniques in terms of how I would explain them to others. I can tell that Mike understands everything about his setup and gear and has used it to perfect his playing. That's why he uses 4 sets of hi hats on his kit and why he has drums positioned around him and going everywhere- he's thought about what he can get out of using certain things. With these sticks, it's not just "I thought they felt good so here they are," he's giving an 8 and a half minute demonstration on every little aspect that he's thought out to show why the stick is the way that it is. I really admire that about his playing and persona.
While the others are drinking, Mike's always thinking. Very cool innovative thought and design. That a boy Mikey!
I worked at Vater for over 10 years, the process definitely reflects the of true quality of why these sticks hold up well. From the moisture content of the wood to the back lathes shaping the models, to tip design, weights, wood types, sanding, quality control etc. They really do pay attention to detail. 🥁
Mangini is the goat! His thought process is so educated and passionate.
Of course Mike would come up with something like this, really cool!
Anyways, I just bought a pair of these, AND BOY DO THESE FEEL GREAT. I used to be a hard-hitter on the drums, but holding these sticks I'm much more efficient on my drum kit and even relaxed my playing style a lot more. I don't have to swing my whole arm and lose it to punch anything. And yup, snare drum is snappier than ever. MOST RECOMMENDED.
And guys, if you still think Mangini's a machine, I suggest you try buy a pair of these for yourselves, you'll understand exactly why his drums sound like so. Sticks that help with a drummer's consistency and stamina are so useful.
I've been playing Vater drumsticks since 1994, never touched another one (I swear by the 8A, 5B and Phat Ride models!!!) - can't wait to try these!!! Great work guys!
+Stelios Pavlou WOW! Thank you for your amazing loyalty! Glad to hear that you have been very happy with our sticks.
Damn. Him hitting the the single stroke around the kit with such perfection, is so satisfying to watch.
God I respect this man freaking genius on drums
So many things mike said that I have been thinking/wanted for a long time. I'm excited to try these
+drummachine5787 Great! Let us know how you like them once you get to use them yourself
after watching this I want to have them, and i dont even play drums
Quester91 same here, I'm a guitarist
Who else better to vouch for the quality of a drum gear other than the great Mike Mangini himself!
Dude I could listen to this guy all day long
FINALLY, with a stick that long I can fulfill my dream of playing an extra drum in an other room down a hallway.....
.....it SAYS 16 3/4 bit it LOOKS 19....
+Thibault Flahaut I used to play with massive sticks when I was little, because I couldn't keep up a lot of power and speed for long.
Van Halens sticks were like 17 1/4"
What Mike says about one stick feeling heavier than the other - 100% accurate - happens to me all of the time!
Just ordered some. Don't let me down, Mike!
Yeah, I've got the Vater effect too. Once I tried Vater, never switching back to any brand, gotta love those sticks!
Bought a dozen pairs of Gospel 5B a year and a half back and still using them :)
Congrats from a fellow Mass guy (I grew up in Natick.) I'll see you out at the Guitar Center thing next Saturday!
This is absolutely genius... I'm so looking forward to these...
These are truly amazing sticks.
I use Vater drumsticks. The feel i got from the very first touch was something I've never experienced before. rock on Vater!!!
These are the best sticks I’ve ever played with. I love the ability to change the fulcrum and still get power.
Really interesting design! Will definitely have to play around with these.
I play Vater Pro Rock nylons in part because they're longer than some other models. I like extra reach. I might have to try these if there is a nylon tip version.
I am not a drummer...but i will buy those...great advertsiment...awesome drummer and seller.
Very informative video from such an inspirational musician!
Really went out there with that sports analogy. Somehow brought it back. What can’t this man do?
Picked up a pair of these last week. Very unique stick indeed!
Awesome much respect for Mike Mangini! Looking forward to try this drumsticks
Great stick, I've used this model and it does all they say it does. Vater does it again!
I`ll love to try this sticks!
Why ill always play vater- quality, longevity, consistency. great people willing to go the extra mile to provide an artist with the tools he dreams up no matter how unique it is.
+Oh Yeah!!! Thank you! We appreciate the support!
I mean, Vater is amazing, when I was getting to frustrated when I started to play drums, Vater saved the day when I found out the LA 5A models, and from there, testing the Power 5B, and now currently loving the 1A's, I can't wait to get these on my hands, all of Mike's signature products are amazing, and combined with Vater quality, this can only be a top product.
I like how you hear his cymbals vibrating with his voice.
Wasn't he a teacher at Berklee? Seems like such a nice guy.
I've been playing Vater 2B Nylons since forever. Vater makes the most balanced, effortless sticks. I've tried all brands, Vater is hands down the best.
Not a drummer here. Walking into this video I was like "it's just a stick", but as an engineer, very interesting points.
What a personable guy...i’m sold!
I used the David Silveria model many years ago they were my first Vater sticks. I used the rock model too, but I do love the power 5As which I'm using right now. The studio model is quite nice too. I should even try these too I think. Vater all the way.
Waiting to try these out, compared to his zildjian model which had more front weight.
I've been using Vater drum stick's for the past 3 or 4 years for I've been playing drum part's for my own song's and playing with other musicians
This video convinced me to go out and buy a pink Dora The Explorer soccer ball from Stop n' Shop.
To excited for that ! I really love using Vater . I have a pair of 5Bs and are great ! BTW that small tom can be a cowbell
i would only expect wicked piston.michael your still a funny & great guy!i miss ya buddy.vinnie r.boston
i am going to buy these ASAP. I always choke down on the stick to get more top heaviness but then i lose pretty much any means of good technique. I am constantly moving up and down on the stick to get what i need. I wish there was a stick that felt like how i wanted it to feel
Man, I dunno if I'll wanna try these sticks, I'm already happy with the Vater sticks I already have, haha.
I'd like to try this! I wonder though if Vater makes this in the Sugar Maple wood and not just Hickory wood...
We don't offer the Mangini Wicked Piston in Sugar Maple, hickory only as that is exactly what he uses.
Hello at Vater, thank you for your quick response!! I'm totally speechless that you did! I've been a fan of Vater drumsticks, my favorite stick being the Manhattan 7A model, and lately the 8A. I have a few others as well,, like the Fatback 3A and the Ball and the Phat Ride.. I've been using the Sugar Maple sticks lately too, because I wanted to try lighter sticks. The quality of your sticks is awesome! I'd really like to try this Mike Mangini model. Thank you once again Vater! It's amazing because other companies I've reached out to about their products have never taken the time to respond, as if to say that they are too busy to respond to their customers and their concerns or suggestions, etc... this is much appreciated!👍I feel now like I want to continue using Vater drumsticks from now on.
Mangini is so flamboyant and sway, needs no script
Mike you rock you really know your shit rock on
I hope these sticks are around locally to try. Then I can play his signature sticks on his signature snare! :D
+Michael Maier Ask your local store to get some in for you. His snare was a great as well!
According to Vinnie Appice a flipped stick is for the boys.😄 No, seriously, Mr. Mangini, you are absolute right. If you want the feel and weight get a stick that is designed for this purpose.
Talk about an endorsement this is a slam dunk.
great stuff. my vaters of choice are the sugar maple sweet ride, and the LA 5a model. the 5a is what I've been giving all the kids I teach. it's a perfect starting point I think. ^ I'll have to give these I try.
just bought two pairs gonna try these tonight at rehearsal
Awesome, looks like I have a backup plan for when the local resellers can't stock Pro Mark 747B Super Rock anymore due to the change in distributors!
I've played Vater sticks for 20+ years. Over that period of time Virgil Donati's 'Assault' model stick came out. I've never played another stick since. Whether in a teaching session, solo session, clinic session or playing live - Vater VD's 'Assault' is the perfect stick for me personally. Props to Vater! I should mention that I've played a number of Vater models over the years while testing / checking them out during practice sessions or just fooling around with them trying to find a stick model that fits my personal taste. Solid lineup they have. Vater's quality & selection pulled me away from Vic Firth. Vater makes the best sticks in the world. Period. Being from Boston myself, I'm going to give MM's 'Wicked Pissah Piston' weapons a test drive.
The same kind of concept Alex Van Halens sig sticks were on the way to accomplishing, but didnt quite. They were a bit too much. Im anxious to try these.
Cannot imagine how many back knives you guys went through to find this for him. Man whata nightmare ;) great video though and Congrats
+Dan Anderson It actually wasn't as difficult as you would expect. We have been close friends with Mike for many years now, so we knew exactly what he would be looking for when we went into this. That on top of Vater making drumsticks in their family since the 1950's, we were on top of it! Thanks for checking out the video and for the comment. All the best to you.
Also, being it he's from boston, was the football thing at 7:15 a weird jab at the nfl for blaming the pats for deflategate?? Haha
I don't know if that's the case why Mangini said that, BUT he is a huge Patriots fan. So I wouldn't rule it out.
Interesting fact- both Vater and Vic Firth are Massachusetts based companies, just a couple of towns apart.
And Mike is not from Boston, pretty sure he's from Framingham which is 25 min West on the Mass Pike (outside of Boston).
Awesome Sticks iyou have to get some!
3:47 So true!
That's crazy. I have a pair of sticks where the right one feels heavier and I switch hands... nice to know I'm in good company.
I love how sports balls (aka deflate-gate) got dropped into the video! HAHA Love this guy! Congrats on being a stick and cymbal nut endorser!!! I will have to try a pair.
The air comes out of the ball seams, a nod to Brady and deflate gate there I guarantee that is what he did there as a Bostonian. Brady is the greatest ever so as a huuuge fan I love that little tidbit here!
Want them now
I'm gonna try a pair out. I used Vic 5b's for years. Very good sticks. Then like 2 years ago went back to using Pro-Mark, and been quite content with the feel and weight. They got the thicker, more durable necks. But WTH ya know? Mangini's talking a good game w/ these. I did use 2 pairs of his old Zildjian sticks? Too long, too heavy Soo, I'm skeptical but; check 'em out.
At first I read water sticks. Are they made out of water? Anyway crazy player. Mangini the coolest guy in drumming probably
The acorn tip pitting less means it doesn't dig too deep into the head? So it translates directly into better rebound? Am I comprehending this logic correctly?
6:19 I have the same problem! From Mike's previous Zildjian Sticks to my first pair of sticks ever (Vater 5A's actually, I think... I was nine, so it's a bit blurry :P), one stick always felt heavier, even when brand new!
+Ben M That has more to do with the tolerances they set for stick weights. Wood, being a natural material, cannot be made consistent as say, carbon fiber. So, you have to have a tolerance. For some companies, it's a maximum of 2 grams difference between each pair. Others may vary.
Here we go, switching gear again!
I would use the hell out of this for funk.
You guys need to bring more Vater sticks to Brazil. We only have the "P" brand here, and of course, is no match to your quality, durability and awesome design. I can only find 3 models here : the Rock Model, Nightstick and power 5b. Seriously, Brazil is a expensive market in the drum gear world, but with Vater kicking the door and taking the spot for drumstick company here, the other brands will be no match to u guys. Please, consider this mensage, and talk to your dealers here. We need to level up the game. Thank you, and I can't wait for the Wicked Piston to be available world wyde. Valeu. VATER 4 LIFE!!!!!!
ok just order these and the Mike W from disturbed cant wait
I've been playing Vater 2B Nylons for a long time now. Are these lighter or heavier than 2Bs? BTW Mike, I always play with the left stick inverted and I don't feel the imbalance at all - and the different sound "on metal" is a plus in my book.
i need this!
IVE BEEN TRYING FOR YEARS TO GET THESE FELLOW METAL GUYS ON VATERS. most are so brand specific or have to play what their friends are playing, no one gives it a chance, i hit hard live playing hardcore and metal for years and a girl drummer mentioned a 3a vater and i never looked back. this i am interested in. just worried about the massive length. i litterally have had endoresments over the last 6plus years and played the vater 3a live cause i trust it. i BUY vaters instead of the endorsement deal i let go and thats unheard of. thanks for building a tank though vater.
Nice!
Yeah!
Hey, Vater... when can we get that stick in Mexico City? I'm looking forward for trying them.
When will these be in stock on online retailers? I'm DYING to get a pair of these!
I used to play bobby Christian model sticks from promark and they were discontinued. These sticks are the closest to the feel of those. I wish they had picked a different name for them.
That's why i use mike mangini's custom sticks because it is light and easy to play with along with stick stricks and even changing back and front when i hit crossed sticks
CAn this sticks be shipped?
NICE!!!
I have a feeling that if I had those sticks I still couldn't play as good as Mike.
What about cross-stick strokes?
These seem very similar to Danny Carey sticks, and that can't be by coincidence. Both are drummers on a level far above the other current greats.
Why does Mike Mangini sound like Christopher Walken?
i had one on my drumsticks bag
Being from Boston Wicked is the perfect modifier for the stick as well!
So did Mike play with these sticks on the new album for Dream Theater? Not sure if you would know this but just curious.
Does anyone know in terms of weight how these drum sticks compare to Vic Firth 7B drum sticks?
As with anything Mike does, I'm curious. Does this stick have any rebound qualities or is it basically a sledgehammer? There's confusing information in the video. He says it's balanced; he also says it's front weighted. I wouldn't put those two characteristics in the same sentence.
+CR We were very careful in the design process to make it front weighted BUT have it have a great rebound and balance as well. All of this was very important to Mike and we achieved all those needs by having those specs on the stick precisely where they are. When you give them a try, please feel free to write us at info@vater.com and let us know what you think. All the best to you and thanks for checking out the video.
Are there Similar Stick than them? Because in Germany is no Store which sell These Sticks and i want To Test them :/
THE VIDEO IS OUT!!!
When will the sticks be out?
+dzarren Mike's model is available for purchase now and will be available world wide. We had many stores pre-order them when we announced that he was now a Vater Drumstick Artist. Please ask your local store to get some in stock for you.
+Vater Drumsticks My local store cannot get in the sticks. The reason for this is because when they search up mike mangini in the system, only the older zildjian model is available for order. I tried another store, and they said i needed to order a brick of 12 in order to get any in. Shame!
Just curious, but if Mike wanted a top-heavy stick, why not combine this design with oak, which I believe is heavier or denser than hickory?
***** The stick itself is made of hickory. I was offering the question of "Why not use a heavy wood for a heavier feel?" For Mike's former sticks were made to be heavy, but not explicitly top heavy.
+Ben M Because, while Oak is a much harder wood than Hickory, it's very brittle and flexes less, which makes it more prone to breaking. Even though Hickory may not be as soft as, say, Maple, it still has more give than Oak.
Crimson Sunrise Thanks so much! Should I ever design a stick, I'll keep this in mind haha!
BRAVO
Can someone please tell me the length of the longest Vater stick?
What is that stick spin at 3:20?
Anyone on durability? I hit very hard, used to use fatback 3a's but they didn't really hold up well for me, this stick really interests me tho