LOMBARDO: Probably about five weeks.
Into The Groove: How do they compare to your previous stands?
LOMBARDO: They're lighter, yet still as sturdy as the previous models which makes it really convenient for setting up and tearing down, or transporting, which is good. Those new little round knobs on top to hold the cymbals in, they're really convenient because with the old Cymbal Mates, it took a little bit longer to take the cymbals off, now it's really quick, with the washer and with the plastic sleeve that holds the cymbal together. That's a really convenient and clever innovation.
Into The Groove: What do you think of the thicker, 8mm cymbal rod compared to the 6mm rod that was previously used?
LOMBARDO: There hasn't been any wear and tear on these so far. The others used to snap. Now, I don't see even any little motion.
Into The Groove: Do you like having the ability of using either side of the cymbal mate for crash or ride cymbals?
LOMBARDO: Yes, absolutely. It's a great addition to the Tama hardware line.
Into The Groove: What do you think of the reversible cymbal sleeve for a quick change when one side wears out?
LOMBARDO: Oh, it's reversible? Wow! I don't know that. I thought it was just one way. Interesting! I think that's great. It seems like every innovation TAMA does is always a step in the right direction. It's never a negative step. It's always a positive step forward.
Into The Groove: A threaded steel insert has been placed inside the tripod base instead of cutting the threads directly into the die-cast section in order to prevent stripping. Any thoughts on this?
LOMBARDO: I'm only going to know for sure after touring with it for a while. Although, I've only been using it for 5 weeks on this U.S. tour with Slayer, so far, I haven't seen any motion out of the bottom of the stands. Everything is still, if not sturdier than before.
Into The Groove: Over the years, Tama has received requests to make a cymbal tilter with more adjustable positions. How do you like the new fine gear tilter with adjustments as little as six-degree increments?
LOMBARDO: It's great. Because I've been one of those guys that have been praying for smaller increments. Sometimes, when I'm adjusting something, it's just out by just one tooth. One tooth will take me too far away, while going to the other tooth makes it too close. In situations where you have to go on stage, and you have only a certain amount of time to put things together or adjust things; it makes it a lot easier for the musician.
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