20’s Ludwig NOB: super Ludwig vs universal

[Classicdrummer]

What’s the difference between these drums? Have an opportunity to buy a universal and I’ve always wanted a 20s super Ludwig. I notice there is a significant difference in how much they both go for. What separates the two in sound and construction?

 

[Bijan]

A Super has a parallel mechanism. If the universal has a heavy brass shell and at least 8 lugs- that’s a winner, IMO.

 

[kdgrissom]

As a Concert/Orchestral drum, the Super (w/two piece shell) is one of the most sensitive drums ever made when dialed in correctly.
The option to individually tension each snare strand with option combinations of wound wire, cable or gut makes it one of the most versatile snares ever made....not bad for 1924.

 

[Powertone]

What’s the difference between these drums? Have an opportunity to buy a universal and I’ve always wanted a 20s super Ludwig. I notice there is a significant difference in how much they both go for. What separates the two in sound and construction?

As mentioned previously, the Super is a heavy brass two piece shell with Super parallel mechanism.

The Universal is a much lighter shell and is more of an entry level snare.

I think what you may be thinking about is the heavy brass two piece shell Professional separate tension drum. Same shell as the Super but with the standard strainer. They are wonderful drums, but do command a premium price.

 

[nomsgmusic]

Some Universals have 2 piece shells. Look at the bearing edges, if they have closed chamber type edges (on top and bottom) where the shell wraps around and is soldered to itself forming a closed chamber, buy it no matter of 6-8-10 lugs. GREAT shells, and great drums!!! Nothing beats 1920's NOB 2 piece shells!!!!
MSG

 

[Classicdrummer]

When folks say 2 piece- what are the two pieces?

 

[JimmyM]

When folks say 2 piece- what are the two pieces?

Two piece shell with a bead in the middle to hold it together. Back then they couldn’t get strips of brass wide enough to do a single piece so that’s what they did instead.

 

[KCJazz]

Two piece shell with a bead in the middle to hold it together. Back then they couldn’t get strips of brass wide enough to do a single piece so that’s what they did instead.

Wouldn't the bead be for reinforcement?

 

[JimmyM]

Wouldn't the bead be for reinforcement?

It actually holds the two pieces together, so I'd say yes.

 

[Bijan]

The two pieces are soldered. The bead may, in fact, be there to also hide the seam. The bead is two layers, as the pieces are overlapped.

 

[JimmyM]

The two pieces are soldered. The bead may, in fact, be there to also hide the seam. The bead is two layers, as the pieces are overlapped. View attachment 595830

Ah, ok. I was thinking the bead held it together but that makes more sense.