Build Your Dream DW Kit with Sims Music

When it comes to building the ultimate custom drum set, few names mean as much to drummers as DW. Every DW Collector’s Series kit is handcrafted in Oxnard, California, with the same imagination and craftsmanship that helped define modern custom drums.

At Sims Music, we love helping players bring their dream kits to life. Whether you’re a touring drummer, studio player, or just someone who wants something truly unique, our team can walk you through every step of the process. From tonewoods and shell types to finishes, hardware, and sizing, we’ll help you design a kit that’s perfectly you.

Handcrafted in Oxnard, California

Every DW Collector’s Series drum starts with a vision. The DW team transforms that idea into a world-class instrument using the best tonewoods, precision shell construction, and beautiful, hand-applied finishes. The result is an instrument that looks and sounds unlike anything else.

Step 1: Customize Your Sound

The heart of every DW kit is the shell. You can choose from a wide range of tonewoods to get the sound you’ve always wanted.

Pure wood shells use a single species for classic tone:

• Pure Maple – balanced and versatile

• Pure Birch – bright and punchy

• Pure Cherry – warm and focused

• Pure Oak – powerful projection

• Pure Purpleheart – rich and cutting

DW also offers hybrid shell options that mix materials for a signature sound, like Maple/Mahogany or SonicPly with aluminum reinforcement.

To fine-tune your tone even more, DW’s Specialized Shell Configurations (SSC) allow different grain orientations and thicknesses to control resonance and projection. Options include VLT, HVLT, X-Shell, VLX, and more.

Step 2: Customize Your Look

A DW kit is as much a visual statement as it is a sonic one. There are hundreds of finishes to choose from, ranging from exotic natural veneers to brilliant lacquers and wraps.

You can go for rare woods like Bird’s Eye Maple, Mapa Burl, or Santos Rosewood, or choose a stunning FinishPly wrap for classic durability. DW also offers bold graphic designs, sparkles, satin oils, and deep lacquer finishes. No matter your style, there’s a way to make your kit truly your own.

Step 3: Choose Your Shell Sizes

Every drummer has a different sound in their head, and DW gives you total freedom to match it. Choose your toms, snares, and bass drums in the exact sizes that fit your playing style. From compact jazz setups to big rock configurations, every dimension is built just for you.

Step 4: Hardware Options That Inspire Confidence

DW hardware is known for its precision, reliability, and look. You can choose from several hardware finishes including chrome, nickel, gold, satin chrome, or black nickel.

Each kit includes DW’s True-Pitch tuning rods for precise control, True Hoops for enhanced shell contact, and the smooth MAG throw-off snare system. Features like the STM suspension mounts and Fine-Tune floor tom legs help your drums sing freely, while keeping everything rock solid on stage or in the studio.

Step 5: Explore Curated Configurations

If you’re not sure where to begin, DW offers a few signature shell recipes that are a great starting point.

The SonicPly combines maple and aluminum for a crisp, articulate voice. The Classics series brings that vintage big-band warmth into the modern world. The Contemporary Classic offers a balanced, focused tone, while the Jazz and Santa Monica shells deliver smooth, expressive sounds with timeless DW character.

Start Your Journey at Sims Music

Your perfect drum kit is waiting to be created, and we’d love to help make it happen. At Sims Music, our team will guide you through the entire process, helping you choose woods, finishes, and hardware to build the drums you’ve always imagined.

Reach out to us today to start your custom DW journey. Let’s build something amazing together.