Mike Mangini vs Matt Garstka — Drum Gear Comparison | MetalForge
Side-by-side gear: Mike Mangini (Godsmack (2026-present); Dream Theater (2010-2023)) vs Matt Garstka (Animals as Leaders). Kits, cymbals, pedals, sticks — compare specs and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drum kit does Mike Mangini use?
Mike Mangini uses Pearl Reference Series with Sabian HHX & AAX Series (14" HHX Evolution Hi-Hats, 17", 18", 19" HHX Evolution Crashes, 21" HHX Raw Bell Dry Ride). Mangini plays Pearl Masters MCX drums with Sabian HHX / AAX cymbals — a powerful, projection-focused setup suited to Dream Theater's arena-scale progressive metal. Garstka plays DW Collector's Series drums with Meinl Byzance cymbals and electronic pads, a combination that balances acoustic power with the electronic integration Animals as Leaders' modern sound requires.
What drum kit does Matt Garstka use?
Matt Garstka uses DW Collector's Series with Meinl Byzance Series (15" Dual Hi-Hats, 18" & 20" Extra Dry Medium Crashes, 22" Dual Ride). Mangini plays Pearl Masters MCX drums with Sabian HHX / AAX cymbals — a powerful, projection-focused setup suited to Dream Theater's arena-scale progressive metal. Garstka plays DW Collector's Series drums with Meinl Byzance cymbals and electronic pads, a combination that balances acoustic power with the electronic integration Animals as Leaders' modern sound requires.
Which is better, Mike Mangini or Matt Garstka?
Mike Mangini and Matt Garstka define two different expressions of modern progressive metal drumming excellence. Mangini brings historical speed records and compositional mastery to Dream Theater's demanding catalog. Garstka brings creative technique innovation and ghost-note sophistication to Animals as Leaders' groove-centric framework. Both operate at the technical frontier of what's possible behind a drum kit.