Pearl takes Hybrid Drum Concept to new heights with Reference One

By leveraging specific woods, shell thicknesses, and bearing edges exactly where they are most sonically beneficial within a drum set, Pearl originated the modern hybrid drum concept in 2005 with the introduction of Reference Series (Reference Pure, a thinner-shelled sibling, was introduced in 2011.) Building upon this legacy and adding revolutionary mounting and shell hardware enhancements, Pearl takes the hybrid drum concept to unprecedented heights with Reference One.

Reference One’s custom-curated shell and hardware blend represents the best of both Reference and Reference Pure in a singular kit. With North American Maple, Birch, and African Mahogany from our Masterworks veneer vault, each drum in the complete kit hosts its own ply, edge, and thickness combination to best suit its sonic place.

“I have a Reference Pure kit I use in my home studio, and I love their tone for sessions,” says Ray Luzier, Pearl Artist and drummer for Korn. “I use the Reference Series in my touring rig. Reference One is like a perfect combination of the two.”

“When I’m playing them, I can hear the tonality difference going from the smaller toms all the way to the big toms,” states Grammy-Winning Engineer/Producer Nick Raskulinecz. “The smaller toms have a brighter and spittier sound, and then as you get around across the lower toms, the bottom note is really nice and warm.”

The combination of thinner EvenPly hybrid shells, Mastercast Die-Cast hoops, and Pearl’s self-aligning STL Single Swivel Lugs deliver enhanced tone, increased near-field sustain, and adds a broader tuning range. Included with Reference One, Pearl’s new R2 Air Tom Suspension System provides perfectly balanced, weightless tom suspension for high-yield tonal clarity. Finally, a dazzling array of Premium and Custom finishes is available to bring inspiration and define your drumming identity.

• RF1P924XSPL/C – Reference One 4-pc. Shell Pack w/Premium Lacquer Finish
  • SSP 4999 €

For more information on Reference One Series Drums, please visit www.pearldrum.com.

Pearl Music Europe is a division of Pearl Musical Instruments, a world-wide leading manufacturer of drums, percussion instruments and flutes.  Pearl Music Europe is based in Belfeld, Netherlands.

See Pearl Drums at The UK Drum Show 2023.