Archive of the former Yahoo!Groups mailing list: Vintage Simmons Drums (UK) Users Group

I've read posts where guys/girls are still gigging their old gear. I commend you all in doing this. One bit of advise - please make sure you have the brains in well built, "supported" type cases. The old gear (some of it like the 3,4 and 5's) are well into their 30's and become rather "fragile". Unlike what you may believe or have been told, electronic components DO age as do the solder connections to them. Excessive vibration, rough handling etc will simply cause them to fail.

It's no good either sticking them in a roadcase wedged in with foam to absorb the knocks. The foam will simply cause the unit to be un-ventilated, cook and die. You need to get road cases built by people experienced in this area, something knocked together in the shed simply wont do. Not cheap, I know but owning classic gear like this is very similar to keeping a classic or vintage car on the road - tender love and care. Oh and deep pockets...=)