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Description

Renowned for its versatility and time-tested quality, the Pearl Export Series from the late 80s remains a staple in the drumming world. A favorite among both budding percussionists and seasoned players, this drum set bridges the gap between affordability and professional-grade performance. Its high-quality shells deliver a resonant tone that’s perfect for a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pop to jazz and blues. Crafted with precision, the Export Series boasts a robust construction that withstands the rigors of regular use, whether in practice sessions or live performances.

The set includes a full complement of drums that provide a rich, balanced sound. The toms and bass drum are designed to offer deep, punchy tones, while the snare delivers crisp, articulate hits. With its durable hardware and reliable components, the Export Series ensures consistent performance, allowing you to focus on honing your craft.

The Pearl Export Series is also known for its ease of setup and tuning, making it an ideal choice for musicians who need a dependable kit that adapts to their evolving skills and styles. Its classic design maintains a timeless appeal, proving that quality and craftsmanship never go out of style.

Key Features:

  • High-quality shells for resonant tone
  • Versatile sound suitable for various music genres
  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance
  • Full complement of drums for a complete setup
  • Easy setup and tuning for convenience
Ne'er-do-well

Ne'er-do-well

1990 Pearl Export drum review

Video thumbnail for 1990 Pearl Export drum review by Ne'er-do-well

1990 Pearl Export drum review

Ne'er-do-well

Ne'er-do-well

Video thumbnail for Original 1990 Pearl Exports by Power Tom Kyle

Original 1990 Pearl Exports

Power Tom Kyle

Power Tom Kyle

Video thumbnail for Tour of my 1987 Pearl Export Drum Set by dannypattersonmusic

Tour of my 1987 Pearl Export Drum Set

dannypattersonmusic

dannypattersonmusic

Video thumbnail for 1990 Pearl Export for sale walk thru by Power Tom Kyle

1990 Pearl Export for sale walk thru

Power Tom Kyle

Power Tom Kyle

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pearl Export Series (Late 80's).

Setup and maintenance

  • Positioning large toms over the bass drum can be challenging; some recommend using foam or rubber pads to prevent damage.

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  • Adjusting throne height is crucial for comfortable playing; sitting higher may help orient large toms better.

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  • Using a double-braced cymbal stand with a mount for tom arms can help position large toms more effectively.

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Features and functionality

  • Power toms from the 80s Pearl Export series offer thick, punchy sounds and are known for their deep resonance.

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  • The long lugs used on Export kits were first introduced in 1988, the same year higher-end models adopted one-piece hi-tension lugs.

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User experience

  • Owners report that the weight of large toms can overwhelm hardware, necessitating frequent tightening of wing nuts.

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  • It's suggested to keep the original wrap as it contributes to the drum's sound and aesthetic, maintaining its vintage character.

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  • Some owners have noted that these kits often lack badges and grommets, likely due to wraps being removed during refinishing.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Some users recommend using longer L brackets or mounting toms on separate stands to avoid contact with the bass drum.

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  • Attempting to remove the wrap and stain can lead to uneven results; aftermarket wraps are recommended for a cleaner appearance.

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  • Aftermarket drum parts for vintage kits are notoriously expensive, which can make restoration projects costly.

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Build quality

  • The outer ply of the late 80s Pearl Export series isn't finish grade, making it unsuitable for staining due to patchy and discolored wood.

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  • The 3-piece lugs on the late 80s Pearl Export are known for their unique design with a fake connector, distinct from the single lugs of earlier models.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners have acquired these kits for as low as $150, considering them great deals for the quality and durability offered.

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Comparisons

  • The Export Pro series, with its lacquer finishes and immaculate wood grain, is often confused with standard Exports but remains rare and hard to find.

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Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 11 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
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1 star
charliedotexe

Charlie.EXE's mother's drumset, yet still holds for years of drumming

Susan Mayfield, Charlie.EXE's mother, has always wanted to start a band since she was young, but then after going through years of taking care of children and dealing with terrible relationships with Charlie.EXE's father and her ex-boyfriend, she had finally found her chance. She started her own band in 2014, calling themselves 'Hormonal Imbalance'. The band is a comedy punk rock band and their songs are comedy gold. Susan is the drummer of Hormonal Imbalance while the rest of the members are Ivy McLemore on vocals and guitar and Adam Richards on bass guitar. They had grown popularity as quick as Charlie.EXE gets popular over the years.

rockyoctane

MY FIRST INSTRUMENT

I received a red 5 piece Pearl Export Series drum set with Sabian Ride, Crash and Hi-Hat cymbals for either my 9th birthday or Christmas (1989). I still have and play this very drum set today.

rumpujamppa

A big kit.

A great kit for playing some metal! I have a black kit.

berfadrummer

Really Good

Great Sounding if tuned well and new skins

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Knox uses Pearl Export Series (Late 80's)

Jon Knox

Guitarist, Bassist

White Heart

...
Verified via Photo

Jon Knox can be seen playing a Pearl Export kit in this photo.

Genre Usage

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

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