Question:Octabons

I want to make a set of octabons out of acrylic tubing. Could somwone tell me how long they are, and what diameter is it (either 6 or 8' I think). has anyone done this... do they sound good? Thanks Rob

I am by far not an expert, but if I remember correctly from some octaban discussions.. I should be able to help you out a bit. Someone can correct any mistakes that may be in this message.

The thing you have to do for the octabans is make sure that the pipe/tubing you are using has an OUTSIDE diameter of 6, 8, 10 etc.. inches. Most pipes are measures from the inside diameter, and the tube will be off as much as the thickness of the 'shell'.

For octabans length.. I really have no idea.. I would assume somewhere between the 15 - 25' mark depending on the tone you want and the diameter of the drum.

Hope I've helped somewhat

Octa is latin for 8.....

Wow... you're in for some work buddy... If you can get a hold of some some old octabon pics, I believe Tama made them, this will give you an idea. As I recall they were the same length... pitch was determined by head tension, I could be wrong. I know that there were some spin-offs and these (probably to stay away from certain patents) did come in different lengths. I don't recall the diameter... 8' would probably give you more tone potential. These things, though trendy, in a real live un-miked situation, had all the tonal qualities of a fart in a coffee can... In some cases, (due somewhat to length of shell and head diameter, not to mention the acoustic qualities of acrylic) had a flatter response than roto-toms. You want to make sure of your shell diameter (outide dimension) seats correctly in the hoop... you're also going to have to create a bearing edge. Like I said, you're in for some work... Good

Pearl made these for a while to didn't they. didn't Jeff Porcaro use One? If anybody has one Pearl octoban I'd like to buy one.

Hey George, darling I used to use the Pearl Octobans, I believe they called them Rocket Toms, sadly I foolishly sold mine years ago, and have been looking for some ever since. They were aluminum shell drums, and sounded fantastic. To all others: Hi! My name's Kris, and those who frequent r.m.m.p. will know me as the resident bitch Fuller intro to follow as soon as I've responded to the diaper alert sirens going off in my living room

The OD (outside diameter) must be LESS than 6' for the heads will not seat! Measure your drums people! You will find the diameter is about 1/8' less than the namesake.