I know this conversation/question has probably been raised before, but does anyone have good evidence as to why Mapex Saturn kits are (a) not as expensive as DW Collectors, Gretsch USA Customs, Ludwig Classic Maple, Sonor Pro-Lite, Yamaha RCs or Absolutes, etc., and (b) not thought of as equal quality of these same kits?
Saturns are considered pro-level drums, and I know that manufacturing in China helps to lower production costs, which leads to more affordable street prices. So, is the reason why the Saturns still suffer in reputation when compared to a Grestch USA or Yamaha high-end down solely to reputation and/or locale of production/costs?
Is there a solid, legitimate, or even factual reason for why a Mapex Saturn kit would not be universally accepted as on par in terms of quality with a Gretsch USA or Yamaha RC/Absolute, etc.? If this were the 1990s, then I know there would be a factual reason: Mapex kits back then had numerous quality problems. For the past several years, though, Mapex has left that era behind and even has the ISO 9000 facility certification.
Just trying to look beyond the reputation issue to see if there are legitimate factors for why some in the drum community--both players and drum shop dealers--consider a Saturn kit to not be of good enough value when compared to other contemporary high-end kits.
Thanks for any input!
Saturns are considered pro-level drums, and I know that manufacturing in China helps to lower production costs, which leads to more affordable street prices. So, is the reason why the Saturns still suffer in reputation when compared to a Grestch USA or Yamaha high-end down solely to reputation and/or locale of production/costs?
Is there a solid, legitimate, or even factual reason for why a Mapex Saturn kit would not be universally accepted as on par in terms of quality with a Gretsch USA or Yamaha RC/Absolute, etc.? If this were the 1990s, then I know there would be a factual reason: Mapex kits back then had numerous quality problems. For the past several years, though, Mapex has left that era behind and even has the ISO 9000 facility certification.
Just trying to look beyond the reputation issue to see if there are legitimate factors for why some in the drum community--both players and drum shop dealers--consider a Saturn kit to not be of good enough value when compared to other contemporary high-end kits.
Thanks for any input!