Hi Jim, Ludwig has a great name I think that Ringo Starr playing them with the Beatles is where things really took off for them. They also have a fabulous history. Steinway and Ludwig are separate entities.
I feel however, that Ludwig has not fundamentally changed for some 15 years now. I say this because I always wanted Ludwig drums. However, when I bought the new line of Power Tom Drums they introduced around that time, I was so disappointed with the lack of quality, sound and big, clunky hardware, I immediately returned them! This line has not changed much since its introduction.
While Ludwig has the goodwill name that carries them a long way, I don't think they offer anything close to the high end market like Ayotte, Yamaha or Sonor has.
For the most part I would compare them to Ayotte drumSmith and at that level Ludwig does most of their business in plastic covered shells and do not offer custom finishes, drumSmith is lacquer finished no covers. The idea being better resonance with uncovered, natural wood of course. And the fact that higher quality shells have to be used since they are not being covered over to hide imperfections.
According to Music Trades magazine April '98 publication, the total drums market for 1997 was $312,000,000 US. The total for individual drums and kits was $110,000,000 US. A rise of 17% year over year. (I put out a news release that is archived at this thread regarding music industry census numbers). The U.S. market represents approx. 50% of the Global market for musical instruments.
The realistic market share for Ayotte is immeasurable since drumsmith was only introduced this year and has so far been a success with who knows how much upside. Also, we want to introduce a student line of drums, hardware etc. etc. At this point Jim we are more concerned with properly managing our growth than market saturation.
Sorry, I don't have an answer as to your market share question, Ray is out of town until a week monday and I will ask him. If I find out sooner from someone else I'll let you know.
I hope that I have covered the bases. Let me know if I can be of further help.
Regards,
Mayo,
Ayotte Music Inc.
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