Vic Firth Develops New Tips

Vic Firth Signature and American Concept® drumsticks

January 29, 1998 -- Dedham, MA, January 1998 -- Vic Firth Inc., the world's leading drumstick manufacturer, announces major changes in the coloration process of its Signature drumsticks and a change of tips in the American Classic(R) nylon tip drumstick line.

Vic Firth is listening to its customers. While sales of the popular Signature series sticks have been great, the customer has asked for these sticks with clear tips to minimize marking of the drumhead and cymbal. In response, Vic Firth has developed a new finishing process that produces a very attractive stain finish while leaving the stick tips with a clear wood finish. Artists using these improved models include Dave Weckl, Steve Gadd, Harvey Mason, Jack DeJohnette, Alex Acuna, Ralph Hardimon, and Buddy Rich.

Vic Firth Inc. has redesigned several models of the American Classic(R) nylon tip series. The nylon tips are now a size and shape similar to their wood tip counterpart - another industry first from Vic Firth. These new tips will provide enhanced performance and a feel closer to their original wood tip models, while retaining the unique durability and sound characteristics of a nylon tip stick. This redesign affects the following models 2BN, 5AN, 5BN, 7AN, 8DN, and ROCK N.

For more information, visit their web site at www.vicfirth.com.