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.