How to Sound Like Paul Bostaph — Drum Gear & Setup Guide | MetalForge
Replicate Paul Bostaph's Slayer drum sound. Gear list, settings, and technique tips to get that signature tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drum kit does Paul Bostaph play?
Paul Bostaph played a Pearl Masters Maple Complete (MCX) — Pearl's all-maple, double-bass professional line. His setup included double 22" x 18" kick drums, 10" and 12" rack toms, 14" and 16" floor toms, and a 14" x 6.5" Pearl Masters Steel snare. He recorded Repentless (2015) on this kit and played it throughout Slayer's Final World Tour.
How does Paul Bostaph's drumming differ from Dave Lombardo's?
The key difference is feel: Lombardo's playing is pure attack-forward aggression where every hit is an assault. Bostaph brings a groove-based approach where the double-bass and blast beats are locked into a pocket, serving the rhythm guitar's feel rather than overwhelming it. Lombardo's genius is chaos and energy; Bostaph's genius is precision and groove. Both approaches serve their respective Slayer eras effectively — Divine Intervention and God Hates Us All sound intentionally different from Reign in Blood and South of Heaven.
What cymbals does Paul Bostaph use?
Paul Bostaph plays Sabian AAX Series cymbals. His Repentless-era setup includes 14" AAX Stage hi-hats, 17" and 19" AAX X-Plosion crashes, a 21" AAX Stage Ride, and an 18" AAXtreme China. The AAX series' bright finish and cutting tone projects clearly through Slayer's dense guitar arrangements.
Did Paul Bostaph play on God Hates Us All?
Yes — Paul Bostaph played on God Hates Us All (2001), which won the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for the track 'Disciple'. He recorded the entire album during his first stint with Slayer, demonstrating his groove-thrash approach at its most developed. He also recorded Repentless (2015) during his second stint with the band.
What pedals does Paul Bostaph use?
Paul Bostaph uses a Pearl Eliminator double pedal — a professional pedal paired with his Pearl Masters kit that provides the smooth, groove-oriented feel that characterizes his double-bass approach. Its responsiveness complements his pocket-oriented style.