I really appreciate your time to explain everything to me, and I respect your advice regarding keeping used as an option. However, I am in a position where I don't want to risk my health to buy used, and the time I would spend looking for a deal of a few hundred bucks maybe isn't worth it to me (but am open to having my mind changed, ofc.)
I opted to go with the gretsch kit from a store near me (i chose the 20 inch bass). I also bought a 399 dollar yamaha bundle kit for the gear.
I am a big fan of amazon and their return policy, so I am thinking about buying the cymbals from them
Istanbul Agop 22 Inch Signature Agop Ride Cymbal
Istanbul Agop 15" 30th Anniversary Hi-Hat Pair
for 555 and 638 respectively. They just sounded the best to me on the demos, and I figure if I go all out right away I don't lose as much in used depreciation over time.
However, I think the cymbals are negotiable. This said, I haven't looked into them too much. Are these good choices for the price in your personal opinion? do you have any other thoughts?
Speaking JUST about the cymbals, do you think I am overpaying? Would I save a lot going used?
Thanks again.