Preferred by professionals for superior tone and versatility Ludwig Classic Maple drums are the ideal choice for any performance application. A perfect blend of high sensitivity wide dynamic tuning range and sharp attack make Classic Maple the ideal choice for live performance. Classic Maple s 7-ply shell is crafted to respond to the player and environment quickly making it adaptable to any playing style or preference. Ludwig s “Downbeat” Outfit has long been a standard among drummers for both live and studio applications due to its versatility and solid punchy tone. It s able to cover anything from jazz to pop to country—both new and old. Shell The Classic Maple s shells are constructed of a 7-ply cross-laminated North American maple. Its high sensitivity wide dynamic tuning range and sharp attack make it the ideal choice for live performance. Yet classic maple s 7-ply shell is crafted to respond to the player and environment quickly making it adaptable to any playing style or preference. Bearing Edge 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 to complete the unmistakable Ludwig Sound. RFST Molding Classic Maple s standard 7-ply 6 mm shell is formulated for optimum resonance and tonality. Its center three-ply core panel (laminated in a horizontal/vertical/horizontal grain bond to a 2.4 mm thickness ) is inserted between inner and outer two-ply panels through Ludwig s proprietary RFST molding process. To increase stability through out the drum all Ludwig USA shells are produced using Radio Frequency Shell Technology. Using a process involving their original bladder molds R.F.S.T. s unique bonding system—combined with a specialized time-tested adhesive—cures each shell evenly over the entire surface of the shell. This process is truly a principal ingredient in creating the Ludwig Sound in every shell Ludwig makes.