# Number of the Beast Drum Setup: The Gear Behind Clive Burr's Performance (& Nicko's Legacy)

> The complete gear breakdown for Iron Maiden's Number of the Beast. Originally recorded by Clive Burr, this article covers both the original sessions and how Nicko McBrain has interpreted these songs live.

**Type:** Album Drum Setup
**Drummer(s):** [Nicko McBrain](/llms/drummers/nicko-mcbrain.md)
**Band / Album:** Iron Maiden — *The Number of the Beast* (1982)
**Genre:** Heavy Metal / NWOBHM

## Overview

Released on March 22, 1982, "The Number of the Beast" catapulted Iron Maiden from NWOBHM hopefuls to global metal superstars. The album features some of the most iconic drumming in heavy metal, recorded by Clive Burr during his final sessions with the band.

Though this article is filed under Nicko McBrain (who has performed these songs live for over 40 years), we must acknowledge Clive Burr's exceptional performance on the original recording. Burr's drumming combined jazz-influenced finesse with hard rock power, creating a template that Nicko would later interpret through his own distinctive style.

Produced by Martin Birch at Battery Studios in London, the album showcased Burr's versatility across songs like the epic "Hallowed Be Thy Name," the galloping "Run to the Hills," and the complex title track. His ability to maintain groove while executing intricate patterns was revolutionary for heavy metal.

This article examines the gear used on the original recording and how Nicko has adapted these songs over four decades of touring.

## Gear Breakdown

- **Drums:** Ludwig Ludwig Classic Maple (Natural Maple finish)
- **Snare:** Ludwig Ludwig Supraphonic LM400, 14" x 5"
- **Cymbals:** Paiste — Paiste 2002
- **Hardware / Pedals:** Ludwig Speed King; Ludwig Atlas; Ludwig Standard; Pro-Mark 5B
- **Heads:** Remo Ambassador Coated (batter), Remo Ambassador Snare Side
- **Snare tuning:** Medium-high tension for clarity and cut

### Clive Burr's Recording Setup

Clive Burr recorded The Number of the Beast on a Ludwig Classic Maple kit — a traditional choice that reflected his jazz and rock influences. The warm, musical tone of Ludwig maple shells perfectly suited Iron Maiden's melodic approach to heavy metal.

The single bass drum setup was crucial to the album's sound. Unlike thrash metal's relentless double bass, Iron Maiden's signature "gallop" rhythm was achieved with a single pedal, requiring exceptional foot technique and stamina.

The relatively compact configuration (compared to modern metal kits) focused the sound and prevented clutter. Burr's playing was about precision and groove rather than flash, and the kit reflected that philosophy.

The maple shells provided warmth and sustain that blended well with Iron Maiden's triple guitar attack. Unlike the aggressive, dry sounds of thrash metal, these drums sang with the music.

### The Crack of British Steel

Like so many classic rock and metal albums, The Number of the Beast featured a Ludwig Supraphonic snare. The LM400 (14" x 5") provided the bright, cutting sound that helped Burr's snare penetrate the wall of guitars.

The Supraphonic's aluminum shell offered sensitivity and projection that complemented Burr's dynamic playing. His ghost notes and accent patterns came through clearly, while hard backbeats cut through without harshness.

Producer Martin Birch positioned the snare prominently in the mix, understanding its importance to Iron Maiden's groove. The combination of Burr's precise technique and the Supraphonic's articulate response created snare hits that popped without overwhelming.

The 5" depth (compared to the common 6.5") gave a tighter, more focused sound that suited the intricate rhythms. Less shell meant less overtone, keeping the snare response crisp and controlled.

### Paiste Precision

Clive Burr's cymbal setup was built around Paiste 2002 series cymbals, known for their bright, articulate sound. The 2002 series was the professional standard of the era, offering consistency and musicality that suited Iron Maiden's complex arrangements.

The 14" Medium hi-hats were essential to Burr's playing, providing the clear "tick" needed for fast sixteenth-note patterns. The hi-hat work on songs like "Run to the Hills" is a masterclass in precision and dynamics.

The combination of 16" and 18" crashes gave options for different intensity levels. Burr used crashes musically rather than just hitting them at every opportunity — each crash served the song.

The 20" ride was crucial for the many sections where Burr played on the ride rather than hi-hats. The Paiste 2002's clear, defined stick sound projected through the mix without washing out.

## Key Facts

- Recorded by Clive Burr in his final sessions with Iron Maiden
- Producer Martin Birch achieved a powerful yet clear drum sound
- Nicko McBrain joined immediately after and has performed these songs since
- The "gallop" rhythm became Iron Maiden's signature
- Single bass drum for the signature gallop rhythm
- Maple shells for warmth and musicality
- Compact setup focused on precision
- Ludwig quality matched Burr's sophisticated approach
- Estimated kit value: $2,500-3,500 (1982)
- Estimated snare value: $300-400 (1982)

**Source:** https://metalforge.io/articles/number-of-the-beast-drum-setup

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*Last updated: 2026-06-16 · Source: [MetalForge.io](https://metalforge.io)*