Virtual XI Drum Setup: Nicko McBrain's Gear on Iron Maiden's Blaze Bailey-Era Final Album (1998) | MetalForge

Frequently Asked Questions

What kit did Nicko McBrain use on Virtual XI?

Nicko McBrain recorded Virtual XI (1998) on a Premier Artist drum kit — his professional setup during the mid-to-late 1990s. The configuration included a single 22"x18" bass drum (no double bass), three rack toms (10", 12", 13"), and two floor toms (16" and 18"). His snare was a Premier Nicko McBrain Signature, 14"x6.5" — deeper than the Ludwig Supraphonics of his 1980s recordings, providing more body and authority. The Premier Artist's punchy character suited Barnyard Studios' controlled recording environment. See the [Nicko McBrain drummer profile](/drummer/nicko-mcbrain) for his complete career gear history.

Who played drums on Virtual XI?

Nicko McBrain played drums on Virtual XI (1998) — as he has on every Iron Maiden studio album since Piece of Mind (1983). While vocalist Bruce Dickinson had departed after Fear of the Dark (1992) and was replaced by Blaze Bailey for two albums (The X Factor in 1995 and Virtual XI in 1998), Nicko remained the constant. He is the only Iron Maiden member to have played on every studio album from 1983 onward. Bruce Dickinson returned for Brave New World (2000), but Nicko never left.

What cymbals did Nicko McBrain use on Virtual XI?

On Virtual XI, Nicko McBrain used Paiste Signature series cymbals — having transitioned from the Paiste 2002 series that defined his 1980s recordings. His setup included Paiste Signature 14" Medium Hi-Hats, 16" and 18" Medium Crashes, a 20" Medium Ride, and an 18" Thin China. The Signature series offered a warmer, darker character than the 2002s — better suited to the more controlled, studio-defined production at Barnyard Studios. The 20" ride was particularly important on 'The Angel and the Gambler' and 'The Clansman,' both exceeding nine minutes, where Nicko used ride patterns extensively to drive progressive mid-sections.

Why did Bruce Dickinson leave Iron Maiden before Virtual XI?

Bruce Dickinson left Iron Maiden in January 1993 to pursue a solo career, citing creative differences and a desire to develop projects outside the band. He was replaced by Blaze Bailey, who recorded The X Factor (1995) and Virtual XI (1998) before reuniting with Iron Maiden in 1999. Nicko McBrain remained with the band throughout Dickinson's absence, playing both Blaze-era albums. Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith (who had also previously departed) both returned for Brave New World (2000), beginning Iron Maiden's celebrated 21st-century resurgence. See the [Brave New World drum setup article](/articles/brave-new-world-drum-setup) for the reunion-era gear context.