DW (Drum Workshop) Drums — Metal Drummers Who Use DW (Drum Workshop) | MetalForge

About DW (Drum Workshop)

Drum Workshop (DW) represents the pinnacle of American drum manufacturing. Founded in 1972, DW has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and a dedication to quality that has made them the choice of discerning metal drummers.

Why Metal Drummers Choose DW:
- Collector's Series – Handcrafted drums with premium shells
- Performance Series – Professional quality at accessible prices
- 9000 Series Hardware – Industry-standard heavy-duty stands and pedals
- Custom Shop – Unlimited customization possibilities

Craftsmanship Philosophy:
DW's "Drum Workshop" origins show in their attention to detail. Each drum is built with precision, from their proprietary Timbre Matching process to their hand-rubbed lacquer finishes.

Metal Applications:
While DW is often associated with studio drummers, many metal artists choose DW for their exceptional tuning range and ability to cut through dense mixes. The attack and projection of DW drums make them ideal for both studio recording and live performance.

DW (Drum Workshop) History

Drum Workshop began in 1972, not as a manufacturer but as a drum-lesson studio: 26-year-old Don Lombardi opened a small teaching space called "Drum Workshop" in Santa Monica, California, offering private lessons and monthly workshops.

John Good, one of Lombardi's students, became his business partner, and the two began developing drum hardware out of necessity. In 1977, they purchased the machinery, dies, and molds of the defunct Camco Drum Co., giving DW its first manufacturing capability.

In 1979, DW released the DW 5000 bass drum pedal, an improved version of the old Camco 5000 design, which quickly became an industry-standard piece of hardware still referenced by pedal makers today.

DW didn't produce its own acoustic drum kits until 1989, when it debuted a full drum line at the NAMM trade show and took orders for 60 kits on the first day alone. From there the company built out its Collector's Series and California custom shop, expanding its Oxnard facility in 1998.

What began as a lesson studio grew into one of the most respected premium drum manufacturers in the world, prized for meticulous, small-batch craftsmanship rather than mass production.

DW (Drum Workshop) Milestones

• 1972: Don Lombardi opens the Drum Workshop teaching studio in Santa Monica, California.
• 1977: DW purchases the machinery, dies, and molds of Camco Drum Co., gaining its first manufacturing capability.
• 1979: The DW 5000 bass drum pedal launches and becomes an industry benchmark for hardware.
• 1989: DW debuts its first full acoustic drum line at the NAMM trade show.
• 1998: DW expands its Oxnard, California facility, establishing the California Custom Shop.

DW (Drum Workshop) in Metal

While DW is often associated with studio and session drummers, its Collector's Series shells and 9000 Series hardware give metal drummers the tuning range and heavy-duty durability needed for aggressive touring and recording, and the DW pedal lineage remains a common choice among metal drummers who want fast, adjustable, road-tested hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are DW drums good for metal?

Yes, DW drums excel in metal with their exceptional projection, attack, and tuning range. The Collector's Series offers premium sound quality, while the Performance Series provides pro-level features at a more accessible price.

Why are DW drums so expensive?

DW drums are handcrafted in California with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. Their Timbre Matching process, hand-rubbed finishes, and quality hardware justify the premium price for serious drummers.

DW vs Tama for metal?

Both are excellent for metal. DW offers more customization and a warmer, more nuanced tone. Tama provides excellent value with a more aggressive, focused sound. Many drummers prefer Tama for extreme metal and DW for progressive or studio work.