Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $4,337

High-end/Boutique

$999

$2500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Gretsch Broadkaster". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set is a modern marvel that pays homage to its vintage roots, offering drummers a timeless sound with contemporary enhancements. Celebrated for its 3-ply maple/poplar/maple shells, this set delivers a warm, resonant tone that is both rich and responsive. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or captivating an audience on stage, the Broadkaster's classic sound and superior craftsmanship shine through.

This drum set is a nod to Gretsch's storied history, seamlessly blending the iconic tones of yesteryear with subtle modern upgrades. The 30-degree bearing edges enhance the drum's attack and responsiveness, ensuring every beat is crisp and articulate. With 302 hoops inspired by the early '50s, the Broadkaster offers an open, ambient tone that is gentle on sticks yet full of character.

Designed for the discerning drummer, the Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set is not just an instrument; it's a legacy of American music history. Experience the blend of vintage charm and modern precision that only Gretsch can deliver.

Key Features:

  • 4-piece configuration: 14" snare, 12" rack tom, 16" floor tom, and 22" bass drum
  • 3-ply maple/poplar/maple shells for a warm, resonant tone
  • Enhanced attack and responsiveness with 30-degree bearing edges
  • 3mm double-flanged metal hoops for open and ambient sound
  • Durable, high-quality hardware including heavy-duty Gretsch lugs and GTS tom suspension

Product specs

Configuration Shell Pack with Snare Drum
Number of Drums 4
Snare (Depth x Diameter) 6.5" x 14"
Mounted Toms (Depth x Diameter) 8" x 12"
Floor Toms (Depth x Diameter) 16" x 16"
Bass Drums (Depth x Diameter) 14" x 22"
Shell Material Maple/Poplar Hybrid
Tom Holders Included

FAQs

What materials are the Gretsch Broadkaster drum shells made from?

The Gretsch Broadkaster drum shells are crafted from a maple/poplar hybrid, offering a classic warm tone with the enhanced projection and resonance that maple provides.

How many pieces are included in the Gretsch Broadkaster drum set?

The Gretsch Broadkaster drum set includes four pieces: a 14" x 22" bass drum, a 12" x 8" mounted tom, a 16" x 16" floor tom, and a 6.5" x 14" snare drum.

What type of bearing edge is featured on the Gretsch Broadkaster drums?

The Gretsch Broadkaster drums feature a 30-degree bearing edge, which contributes to their warm, vintage sound by enhancing the shell's natural resonance.

Are the tom holders included with the Gretsch Broadkaster drum set?

Yes, tom holders are included with the Gretsch Broadkaster drum set, ensuring secure mounting and optimal positioning of the mounted tom.

Where are the Gretsch Broadkaster drums manufactured?

The Gretsch Broadkaster drums are manufactured in the Gretsch Drum Factory located in Ridgeland, South Carolina, USA, maintaining the brand's tradition of high-quality craftsmanship.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Gretsch Drums Broadkaster 4-piece Drum Set Review by Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Gretsch Drums Broadkaster 4-piece Drum Set Review by Sweetwater by Sweetwater

Gretsch Drums Broadkaster 4-piece Drum Set Review by Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Gretsch Broadkaster Series: The Timeless Classic’s Return In Detail by gretschdrumsusa

Gretsch Broadkaster Series: The Timeless Classic’s Return In Detail

gretschdrumsusa

gretschdrumsusa

Video thumbnail for Explore that Great Gretsch Broadkaster Sound with Jason McGerr by gretschdrumsusa

Explore that Great Gretsch Broadkaster Sound with Jason McGerr

gretschdrumsusa

gretschdrumsusa

Video thumbnail for Gretsch Broadkaster demo by Justin A Scott

Gretsch Broadkaster demo

Justin A Scott

Justin A Scott

Video thumbnail for Gretsch Broadkaster 13/16/24 Drum Set by West Coast Drum Shop

Gretsch Broadkaster 13/16/24 Drum Set

West Coast Drum Shop

West Coast Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for GORGEOUS Gretsch BroadKaster Drum Kit - White Glass by Steve Maxwell Drums

GORGEOUS Gretsch BroadKaster Drum Kit - White Glass

Steve Maxwell Drums

Steve Maxwell Drums

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch Broadkaster.

Features and functionality

  • The kit sizes mentioned include a 20x14 bass drum, 12x8 and 14x14 toms, with a 14x6.5 snare, plus an additional 16x16 tom in Mardi Gras finish.

    Source
  • The 301 single flange hoops on toms are praised for their seamless integration with modern snare technology, offering a unique blend of vintage and contemporary sounds.

    Source
  • The Broadkaster kit in 20/12/14 sizes is noted for its versatility, performing well both at low and high tunings, fitting a bop-ish range.

    Source
  • Meinl 15” jazz thin hats and 22” Benny Greb crash-ride with rivets are part of a preferred cymbal setup by experienced users for their unique sound characteristics.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the unique sound of the round badge, often described as warm and reminiscent of classic drum tones.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the ease of tuning the Broadkaster snare, noting the game-changing ability to find the perfect tuning quickly without moving microphones.

    Source
  • Stock resonant heads on the kick drum are appreciated for their aesthetic appeal and sound quality, enhancing the overall visual and auditory experience.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A user who transitioned from a Catalina Maple kit notes a significant improvement in sound quality with the Broadkaster.

    Source
  • The Monophonic Ride 22” pairs well with higher-tuned, open drums for a melodic sound but struggles with muffled drums, unlike the more versatile Foundry rides.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 24" Agop Signature ride cymbal is highly favored by owners for its versatile and captivating sound.

    Source
  • Recording sessions benefit from the Broadkaster's flexible tuning capabilities, allowing drummers to quickly adjust and find the best snare tone for a song.

    Source
  • Broadkaster drums with Meinl Byzance cymbals create an appealing contrast when switching from a taped-up Rogers kit to a more resonant setup.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gretsch Broadkaster - Mike Dolbear

mikedolbear.com

The Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set delivers a delightful blend of vintage charm and modern reliability, offering a full sound and easy tuning. Its Satin Copper finish is visually striking, although divisive. While the kit is well-made, the rail mount disappoints, feeling awkward and less secure. Not suited for heavy genres, it excels in capturing a vintage vibe with modern sturdiness, justifying its high price for those seeking a classic feel.

positive

Gretsch Broadkaster Vintage Series review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Gretsch Broadkaster Vintage Series is a beautifully crafted homage to its classic predecessors, marrying vintage aesthetics with modern practicality. Its three-ply shell construction offers a warm, resonant sound that appeals to traditionalists and modern players alike. The option to choose between period-correct and updated hardware adds versatility, but the high price may deter some buyers. Vintage hardware, while authentic, isn't the most user-friendly, with tricky bass drum spurs and potentially unstable snare throw-offs. Despite these quirks, the kit delivers a rich and satisfying playing experience, making it a worthy investment for serious drummers.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Zac Farro uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Zac Farro

Singer, Drummer

Paramore

...
Verified via YouTube

Farro is visible in the background with a Gretsch Broadkaster pearl pink

See how Ben Thatcher uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Ben Thatcher

Drummer

Royal Blood

...
Verified via YouTube

In the description of this YouTube video that was posted by Gretsch Drums, it says “Broadkaster Stain Gold Duco” with a link to the same kit that Ben at the bottom of the description. He also can be seen clearly playing this kit on almost every live show since 2021.

See how Ilan Rubin uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Ilan Rubin

Guitarist, Drummer

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via Photo

Ilan Rubin uses a Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set, as evidenced by his Instagram post where he stated, "Had a fun session yesterday at East West studio 3! It was fun to finally record in the 'Pet Sounds' room. Every other session I’ve done there has been in studio 2. This is the 24, 13, 16, 18 version of this @gretschdrums broadkaster kit which I generally use for sessions. I have a 26, 14, 16, 18 version for my own playing/recordings."

See how Matt Sorum uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Matt Sorum

Drummer

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video above, Sorum teaches the technique and demonstrates how to impart that certain swing.

He also shows off his brand-new drum kit: a custom, round badge Gretsch Broadkaster kit Gretsch made for him specifically for his tour with Billy. "Mr. Billy Gibbons likes silver sparkle. He requested silver sparkle," he says. A Gretsch USA Bell Brass Snare and a collection of large Zildjian Sweet K cymbals, 16" hats, and a Constantinople crash round out the set.

See how Micky Dolenz uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Micky Dolenz

Singer, Drummer

The Monkees

...
Verified via Photo

Micky Dolenz is known for using the Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Monkeeslivealmanac.

See how Eddie Fisher uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Eddie Fisher

Drummer

OneRepublic

...
Verified via Gretschdrums

As mentioned on Gretsch Drums' official website.

See how Audrey Tait uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Audrey Tait

Drummer

Franz Ferdinand

...
Verified

The official Gretsch drum site lists Audrey Tait as an artist and displays photographs of her using the Gretsch Broadkaster Drum Set.

See how Richard Jupp uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Richard Jupp

Drummer

Elbow

...
Verified via Gretschdrums

Listed on Jupp’s official Gretsch artist page.

See how Bill Burr uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Bill Burr

Drummer

...
Verified via Photo

Bill Burr has tweeted photos of his drum kit and named it in one of his podcast's episodes.

See how Sonny Payne uses Gretsch Broadkaster

Sonny Payne

Drummer

The Count Basie Orchestra

...
Verified via Photo

In this 1956 Gretsch ad, it is advertised the Payne uses a Broadkaster kit.

[...] owner of Gretsch Broadkaster Drums finished in "starlight sparkle". [...] Calls his Gretsch Broadkasters "greatest in sound . . . finest drums in looks too."

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gretsch Broadkaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
papajamajoe

papajamajoe

Gear IQ 100

More Gretsch Drum Sets

Gretsch Catalina Maple

$1,099.00 - $1,699.00

# 6

Rank

Alex Melton Jarrod Alexander Joe Bradley
4 artists using
Gretsch Catalina Club Rock

$683.00 - $1,099.00

# 11

Rank

Ollie Judge Ethan Sgarbossa Andrew Wetzel
7 artists using
Gretsch Renown Maple Drumset

$1,453.00 - $1,899.00

# 21

Rank

Ben Thatcher Kristina Schiano Tim Molloy
7 artists using
Gretsch USA Custom Drumkit

$4,361.00 - $7,599.00

# 26

Rank

Taylor Hawkins Tré Cool Phil Collins
27 artists using
Gretsch Renown Maple

$1,633.00 - $1,799.00

# 69

Rank

Dominic Howard Connor Denis Thom Green
5 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    maximef
    maximef

    Gear IQ 113