Paul Bostaph vs Jon Dette — Drum Gear Comparison | MetalForge
Side-by-side gear: Paul Bostaph (Slayer) vs Jon Dette (Slayer). Kits, cymbals, pedals, sticks — compare specs and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What drum kit does Paul Bostaph use?
Paul Bostaph uses Pearl Masters Maple Complete (MCX) with Sabian AAX Series (14" AAX Stage Hi-Hats, 17" & 19" AAX X-Plosion Crashes, 21" AAX Stage Ride, 18" AAXtreme China). Paul Bostaph's final Slayer setup used Pearl Masters Maple Complete (MCX) drums with Sabian AAX Series cymbals, Pearl Eliminator double pedal, and Vater Power 5B sticks — a powerful, punchy configuration designed for arena-scale thrash. Jon Dette has played Ludwig Classic Maple drums since 1996, with Sabian or Zildjian cymbals and DW 9000 or Tama Iron Cobra double pedals — a versatile rig suited to rapid deployment across multiple bands' requirements.
What drum kit does Jon Dette use?
Jon Dette uses Ludwig Classic Maple with Sabian AAX / Zildjian A Series (14" Hi-Hats, 16" & 18" Crash, 20" Ride, 18" China). Paul Bostaph's final Slayer setup used Pearl Masters Maple Complete (MCX) drums with Sabian AAX Series cymbals, Pearl Eliminator double pedal, and Vater Power 5B sticks — a powerful, punchy configuration designed for arena-scale thrash. Jon Dette has played Ludwig Classic Maple drums since 1996, with Sabian or Zildjian cymbals and DW 9000 or Tama Iron Cobra double pedals — a versatile rig suited to rapid deployment across multiple bands' requirements.
Which is better, Paul Bostaph or Jon Dette?
Paul Bostaph and Jon Dette are united by their shared role in one of metal's greatest succession stories — both filled the massive void left by Dave Lombardo in Slayer while carving out respected careers in their own right. Bostaph was the long-term anchor who carried Slayer through two full eras. Dette was the consummate professional fill-in who elevated to genuine Testament membership. Together they answer the most common Slayer trivia question: who played drums for Slayer besides Dave Lombardo?