Far Beyond Driven Drum Setup: Vinnie Paul's Heaviest Era Gear Breakdown | MetalForge
Complete breakdown of Vinnie Paul's drum gear on Pantera's Far Beyond Driven. The Pearl Reference Pure kit, Steel Cobra pedals, and Zildjian Z Custom setup b...
Frequently Asked Questions
What drums did Vinnie Paul use on Far Beyond Driven?
Vinnie Paul recorded Far Beyond Driven in 1994 on a Pearl Reference Pure kit. The configuration included dual 24x18 inch bass drums, four rack toms spanning 8 to 13 inches, and floor toms at 16 and 18 inches. The maple/mahogany hybrid shells produced a warmer, darker tone than his previous ddrum setup on Vulgar Display of Power, while maintaining the massive attack and low-end presence that defined Pantera's sound. All drums were triggered for consistency, blending acoustic shell character with electronic attack reinforcement.
What pedals did Vinnie Paul use on Far Beyond Driven in 1994?
Far Beyond Driven (1994) was a transitional era for Vinnie Paul's pedal setup. He used DW 9000 series pedals alongside the Tama Steel Cobra — one per bass drum in his dual-kick configuration. This hybrid approach let him work with both the DW 9000's direct-drive mechanism and the Steel Cobra's spring-loaded feel simultaneously. The DW 9000 became his dominant system in the years that followed, but the 1994 sessions captured this transitional combination at its peak creative output.
What cymbals did Vinnie Paul use on Far Beyond Driven?
Vinnie Paul switched from Sabian to Zildjian Z Custom cymbals for Far Beyond Driven in 1994. His setup included Zildjian Z Custom 14 inch hi-hats, 16 and 18 inch crashes, a 19 inch crash, a 22 inch ride, and a 20 inch China cymbal. The Z Custom series, known for its brilliant finish and aggressive attack, was significantly louder and brighter than the Sabian AA/AAX setup of Cowboys from Hell and Vulgar Display of Power — a deliberate choice to match the increased heaviness of Far Beyond Driven's production.