A true hidden gem from the Ray Ayotte era, this late-1980s Ayotte kit was handmade in Vancouver, Canada, during the brand’s most respected period. Finished in a gorgeous Blue Transparent lacquer, the maple grain glows beautifully under light and gives the kit a premium boutique look that’s every bit as striking in person as it is in photos. The shells themselves are beautiful, some of the smoothest, most perfectly cut maple shells you’ll ever feel, complete with crisp reinforcement rings and exceptional build quality throughout.
Ayotte isn’t a name everyone knows, but those who do, understand just how special these drums are. Their balance of warmth, punch, and sensitivity makes them every bit as capable today as when they were first built. The bass drum is fitted with Pearl spurs, which appear original to the kit. Ayotte often sourced quality hardware from other manufacturers during this period. This particular setup features RIMS mounts fitted with Yamaha brackets, and includes 3x Yamaha tom holders and 3x two-way multi clamps, so it’s ready to mount and play. It’s an ideal player’s kit with collector-worthy pedigree.
Condition:
This kit is in very good condition overall, especially considering it’s now around 35 years old. It shows some expected cosmetic wear, mainly on the bass drum, including a few chips, light lacquer checking, and surface marks. The hoops have some minor chipping, typical for its age, and the most noticeable wear is on the right-hand side of the bass drum. There’s also a small area on the bottom hoop of the 10" tom where a bit of chrome has flaked. Fortunately, all of this is purely cosmetic, the shells themselves are absolutely solid and structurally perfect.
7.5/10
Drum Heads:
Toms:
The toms are all fitted with Remo Weatherking Vintage Coated heads which are all in great condition, showing some wear but with plenty of life left in them. The resonant sides are fitted with Remo Diplomat Clear's on the 10" & 12" and with a Remo Emperor Clear on the 14".
Kick:
The kick drum is fitted with an Evans EMAD Clear batter head which is in excellent condition showing few signs of use. The resonant side is fitted with the Ayotte branded head.
What's Included:
This kit includes the following drums;
1x 10"x8" Rack Tom
1x 12"x9" Rack tom
1x 14"x12" Floor Tom
1x 20"x16" Kick Drum
And the following hardware:
3x Yamaha Tom Holders
3x 2-way multi clamps
Shipping Info:
I'm offering free next day UK delivery. Upon purchase I'll be in touch to make sure I can get it to you on a day that suits you best (weekends are possible but I will have to charge)
This kit will be packed "Russian Doll" style so it will require some assembly once you receive it. If you need any assistance with this please don't hesitate to get in touch and I can talk you through the process.
