Yamaha DTXpress/DTXplorer/DTXtreme

--- Ratzo wrote:

> I tried them and was unimpressed.  I couldn't tell a
> difference between them and my promarks.

Well, we'll have to agree to disagree there. I think the Promark 
(5A) is a very... how can I put this? ... "unsophisticated" stick. 
The finish is poor.

> The finish of the VF sticks is
> superior to that of the Promarks, Zildjians and others.

Here I do agree. I have some Firth 7ANs that I don't use because of 
the nylon heads and the 7 is not quite long enough for me, but they 
are definitely a superior finish. If these anti-vibes don't work out 
long term, I will be looking at Vic Firth sticks again.

As for the anti-vibes, I'm sticking with my original analysis for 
now. To me, they do feel better "in play" but I'm unconvined of any 
overall beneficial effect. I've just played for about 30min (Steely 
Dan stuff, so not exactly thrashing) and I still have the "buzzy 
numbness" after-sensation. However, long-term experimentation is 
required.

Stewart