A common maple-shell-pack decision: step toward DW's higher-end brand feel, or choose the popular Gretsch Catalina Maple for a warmer, value-forward setup.
| DW Design Series 4-Piece Kit | Gretsch Catalina Maple | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,699 | $1,199 |
| DrumReviewer score | 9.1 / 10 | 9.0 / 10 |
| Configuration | 4-piece shell pack | 5-piece shell pack with snare, with 7-piece options |
| Shell material | Maple | Maple |
| Plies / edge | 8-ply HVLT North American maple | 7-ply maple construction |
| Finish | Satin Black, Cherry Stain, Tobacco Burst, Slate Blue, Gloss White, Steel Grey | Seafoam Green, Walnut Glaze, Lemon Sparkle, Black Stardust, Purple Gloss, Deep Cherry Burst, and more |
| Bass drum | 22 x 18 in | 22 x 18 in, with other variants |
| Snare | Not included | 14 x 5.5 in or 14 x 6.5 in depending on pack |
| Rack toms | Rack tom 1: 10 x 8 in Rack tom 2: 12 x 9 in | Rack tom 1: 10 x 7 in Rack tom 2: 12 x 8 in |
| Floor toms | Floor tom: 16 x 14 in | Floor tom: 14 x 14 or 16 x 16 in |
| Made in | Taiwan | China |
Pick the DW Design Series 4-Piece if you want DW hardware DNA, a cleaner premium look, and a compact pro-leaning shell pack. Pick the Gretsch Catalina Maple if value and a warm, open maple tone matter more. The DW feels more premium; the Gretsch is easier to justify on value.